Edmonton Interfaith Centre for Education & Action

Last Updated (Wednesday, 28 September 2011 17:35) Written by Andrew Paul Wednesday, 28 September 2011 17:14

nettaECF-stories__00044-CMYK success stories

The two posters are adorned with doves and contain the names of many of the world's faith traditions and the expressions of peace that each holds.  The posters were produced by the Edmonton Interfaith Centre for Education & Action to promote peace, harmony and understanding -the work they've been doing since being founded in 1995.

The Centre is an example of a small organization that established an endowment fund at the Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF).  That experience led to another success, a second endowment fund that made the poster project possible.

"We decided to start the fund after learning about the ECF at one of our lunch and learn sessions," says Netta Phillet, the Centre's coordinator and sole staff member. "We felt the fund would be good way to ensure the Centre's future financial stability."

Netta, along with other committed Centre volunteers, attended the Endowment Sustainability Program workshops facilitated by ECF staff and was pleased with information provided.  "The workshops were not just about how to set up a fund, but offered helpful information on who to approach to support the fund, and practical tips on the ways of giving such as will intentions and bequests."

The Centre's message of harmony, diversity and inclusion is one they continually promote through programs and activities such as lectures, prayer services and interfaith dialogues.  A partnership with the City of Edmonton sees the Centre maintain a rotating display at city hall called Celebrating Our Faiths.  They also participate in International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination and the Parliaments of the World's Religions.

"Diversity is a strength," Netta says.  A sentiment that the Centre wants to continue to foster.

Endowment Sustainability Program

Through the Endowment Sustainability Program, ECF helps connect charities with the information they need to successfully grow their endowment funds.  The program consists of five half day workshops for the many charities that do not have the capacity to dedicate a full time staff member to endowment building.  The program takes them through the fundamentals of endowments plus training and coaching to build permanent ongoing support.

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