Meeting inspiring, dedicated people working for social change. Discovering how small amounts of money can have a meaningful impact on a group of people. Being part of a welcoming community of philanthropists dedicated to making a difference in the world.
These are just some of the results that participants of The Funding Network-Toronto (TFN Toronto) have cited about their experience in this unique model for charitable giving; and it’s a distinctive experience that has been part of the decade-long success of this charity that brings people together to crowdfund social change projects, making philanthropy accessible to everyone in a fun and engaging way.
“I wanted to feel more connected and involved in charitable giving rather than simply writing a cheque to a faceless charity and having no idea how that money was actually spent.” That’s the sentiment expressed by TFN Toronto founder, Janis Rukavina (at right), on what prompted her to bring this unique giving model to Toronto from the United Kingdom, where it was first conceptualized.
Known as the “Dragons’ Den of Giving,” TFN Toronto holds two funding events each year, bringing charities and potential donors together. The events serve as a marketplace—invited charities showcase projects that work toward a fairer, healthier, and more sustainable world and make a pitch for support. Attendees learn about—and hopefully give to— some exceptional social change projects that have potential to have great impact on society.
“It is so appealing because attendees learn so much from their exposure to so many charitable organizations carrying out innovative and important work and have the opportunity to join together with other potential donors and work as a community to make the projects a reality,” says Janis. “Individually we can give a little; together we can give a lot!”
The participating charities also benefit from their interaction within the network. For Rod Cohen, Executive Director of the Blake Boultbee Youth Outreach Service, a pitch presentation for his organization resulted in double the support he had expected, and secured his steadfast connection to the network. “I am not exaggerating when I say that being part of that TFN event was perhaps the most special single fundraising activity in our 20 year history,” he says. “I have since become a member of the TFN community and enthusiastically share the possibilities with friends and colleagues.”
Since 2005, TFN Toronto has raised nearly $1 million in support of social change projects in Canada and around the world. Projects have ranged from building a rainwater harvesting system in the village of Kanyamahene, Uganda, to supporting an addictions counselling program for youth and adults in downtown Toronto.
TFN Toronto’s upcoming funding event on October 21 will mark their 10th anniversary. The event is open to the public and will be held at the Assante Wealth Management office at Maple Leaf Square. Janis is hoping for record numbers to celebrate TFN Toronto’s momentous milestone and to bring additional exposure to the presenting charities.
Since pioneering TFN in Toronto, Janis has seen great things happen through the network. “The most rewarding aspect has been discovering how little money it actually takes to have a profound impact in the world; and from that how direct and immediate the impact can be through projects that are so thoughtfully planned and executed.”
At Tides Canada, we have been privileged to work with Janis and TFN Toronto from the very beginning. When exploring how to bring The Funding Network to Toronto, Janis opted to establish a donor advised fund at Tides Canada instead of starting a stand-alone foundation. “It just made sense. Tides Canada was a national foundation with the infrastructure and experience to help make our launch—and beyond—a smooth entry into the charitable arena. We would highly recommend Tides Canada to any organization, individual, or family wanting administrative convenience and flexibility for their charitable giving,” Janis says.
TFN Toronto has accomplished a great deal for individual charities and the wider charitable sector. We look forward to seeing what they will do in the next decade and beyond.
To register for TFN Toronto’s 10th anniversary event or learn more, visit: http://tfntoronto.com/.
