| A Brand New Partnership to Build Community Connections ![[A picture of the Community Connections Logo]](commconn.gif) |
In the true spirit of Trillium's commitment to collaboration and innovation, the Foundation has entered into a new partnership with the Ministry of Citizenship, Culture and Recreation. By pooling Trillium's effectiveness and expertise in community-based decision making and the knowledge and economic resources of the Ministry, we believe that, once again, we're making the best possible use of available resources. This $2.25 million program has been developed to strengthen linkages and networks of those groups which enable vulnerable seniors and adults with disabilities to express and act on their wishes. Priority will be given to initiatives that increase the ability of individuals to become equals in determining the circumstances and services that affect their lives. Under this program the Foundation is also seeking proposals for activities which will create a more easily accessible, knowledgeable, and responsive system of support. To help us in the design of this program we not only spent many hours reading documents, conference proceedings, and discussion papers but we asked advice from those who have an interest in, and experience with, the issues affecting older adults and adults with disabilities. We spoke with more than 100 individuals - as well as 60 organizations in communities across the province - who helped us shape the program. We would like to thank everyone who participated in the design of Community Connections; we believe the guidelines reflect what we heard. Community Connections, through a special Request for Proposals, is designed to supplement and enhance Trillium's core program by focusing on supports for a community that we felt was under-represented in our grantmaking. As with all our programs, applications for a Community Connections grant will undergo rigorous evaluation by volunteers and staff. However, the process is somewhat different, in that we have established a separate advisory review committee which will make recommendations directly to the Trillium Board of Directors. This review committee is co-chaired by Trillium Board member Verna Shackleton, and community member Richard Ruston. Other community members include Marthe Dallaire, Laurie Hall, Rafia Haniff, Amanda Kröger, Bea Levis, Ali Mohamed-Ali, Evelyn Murialdo, Joanne Nother, Grace Teskey and Trillium Board member Jean-Serge Lauzon. The committee will also be reviewing applications under the Access Fund. Community Connections maintains Trillium's promises - to ensure community participation in decisions, to strive for lasting impact, and to encourage individuals, organizations, and communities to achieve their highest goals. If you have further questions, please don't hesitate to call Gisela Shivanath at (416)961-0194 ext. 206 or e-mail at gshivana@trilliumfoundation.org. To request the guidelines please call 1-800-263-2887. |