Role of the West Island College Foundation in the funding ecosystem
The West Island College Foundation is the philanthropic arm of West Island College, an independent bilingual secondary school in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Québec. As a registered charitable, non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors, the Foundation channels donations from alumni, parents, staff, corporate partners and friends of the school to enhance the student experience beyond what tuition alone can provide.
Funds raised through annual giving, directed gifts and major campaigns support several priority areas. A flexible “Greatest Needs” fund gives the Head of School resources to address the most pressing requirements of the community, such as accessibility equipment and campus upgrades. The Foundation also sustains bursaries and scholarships, enabling well-rounded, community‑minded students to attend WIC regardless of financial means, and has historically helped hundreds of families over several decades.
Funding themes and typical beneficiaries
Foundation support focuses on three broad themes: financial accessibility for students, investment in learning environments, and long‑term campus development. Bursaries, scholarships and tuition assistance are directed to individual students and families, while capital projects and learning tools benefit the wider school community. Past campaigns, such as the Pathways and Inspire initiatives, have financed new outdoor facilities, recreational infrastructure, fields, study spaces and other improvements that promote wellness, experiential education and student engagement.
Governance, stewardship and donor services
The Foundation’s Board of Directors provides strategic leadership, policy direction and financial oversight to ensure that donor contributions are used responsibly and aligned with the school’s mission. Day‑to‑day operations are managed by the Advancement Team, including an Executive Director of Advancement and staff dedicated to donor relations and community engagement. The organization issues Canadian charitable tax receipts, facilitates gifts of securities and bequests, and offers cross‑border giving options for U.S. residents through partners like FRISBE.