enp Alberta in Calgary Herald Article

Profits and Purpose: New Face of Fundraising

Charities and non-profits embrace social enterprise

by Cindy Stephen

Calgary Herald (Sept. 8, 2011)

"With major cutbacks in government funding and major donors expecting their charitable dollars to make maximum impact, today's non-profit organizations are looking for creative ways to generate new streams of revenue.

They're looking for something to sell.

Social enterprise is a new movement based on the tradition of social economy. Following a business plan, profits generated are used to further mission and serve the community.

It's an idea that really appealed to Trico Homes founder Wayne Chiu, who has developed a charitable foundation to help promote, educate and fund social entrepreneurship.

Michele Fugiel Gartner, program manager for Enterprising Non-Profits through the Trico Foundation, says with changing government funding, fluctuation of donors' interests of giving, charities and nonprofits are looking for ways to be sustainable.

"This is a time when philanthropists want to be investors," she explains.

In the first round of grant making Aug. 4, funds were awarded to the Kids Cancer Care to help market its camp facility, purchased two years ago, as a rental.

"Making Camp Kindle sustainable is totally doable," says foundation CEO Christine McIver.

While camp for children with cancer and their siblings is finished for the year, the camp west of Water Valley, which includes dorms, dining hall and auditorium, is ideal for retreats and conferences. ..."

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