Toronto Foundation is a public community foundation dedicated to improving quality of life in the city of Toronto. It manages a broad portfolio of endowed and donor-advised funds, including family foundations such as the Green Sanderson Family Foundation, and channels these resources into grants for registered charities and community organizations across the city.
Role of Toronto Foundation in the funding ecosystem
The foundation acts as an intermediary between donors and local organizations, helping individuals, families, and institutions create permanent funds whose investment income is granted out each year. Through these funds, Toronto Foundation supports a wide range of charitable activities, from poverty reduction and housing to arts and culture, environment, health, and youth initiatives.
Funding programs and grant streams
Toronto Foundation operates several structured granting streams that invite applications from eligible organizations. These may include community grants, collaborative funds focused on specific priorities such as equity, inclusion, or neighbourhood vitality, and special initiatives developed in partnership with donors. In addition to open calls for proposals, many donor-advised and family funds recommend grants on a discretionary basis to support causes aligned with their philanthropic goals.
Supported organizations and impact
The foundation primarily funds registered charities and qualified donees working within the City of Toronto. Grants typically help organizations strengthen programs, pilot innovative projects, and scale effective community solutions. Toronto Foundation also uses research and tools such as city-wide “vital signs” reports to guide funding priorities and encourage strategic, evidence-informed philanthropy among its donors.
Governance and transparency
As a registered charity and public foundation, Toronto Foundation is governed by a volunteer board and operates under Canada Revenue Agency regulations. It publishes information about its funds, grantmaking, and community impact, and often highlights stories of funded organizations and initiatives, providing visibility and accountability to both donors and the broader community.