GUELPH – After 11 years at the helm and a fantastic contribution to children and youth in the community, Glenna Banda, executive director at the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington, is saying goodbye.
Banda is leaving at the end of April to pursue a new opportunity at a provincial charity.
“Glenna has led the organization to becoming a gold standard in the community,” said board chair Ray Stultz.
“Her influence has been exceptional and while she will be missed, we are thrilled that Glenna is growing and sharing her talents with others. We couldn’t be more proud.”
Stultz has confidence and optimism for the future.
“With the foundation on strong footing including a solid staff and volunteer team, dedicated board, along with the business continuity measures and outstanding community support, we will continue to support families in need. We are focused on a bright and sustainable future.”
During Banda’s time as executive director, the organization reached some amazing milestones, officials say.
Over 11 years, the foundation has tripled its program investments with over $2.3 million supporting local children in 2018.
This increase in community support has been possible through strengthened donor relationships and launching innovative fundraisers including Trees for Tots and the Help Kids Live Free From Hunger campaign, which is now a regional fundraiser for student nutrition programs.
In 2016, the foundation was named one of “23 Top Children’s Charities Worth Your Money in Canada” by the Financial Post Magazine in recognition of the impact the organization was making, and its transparency and accountability of its operations.
More recently, as part of their new Breaking Cycles & Creating Hope strategic plan, the foundation has expanded its Free to Play Program into Free to Grow, to expand financial assistance to include life-skill training opportunities such as tutoring and driver’s training.
“I don’t think anyone on the original search committee that hired Glenna could have foreseen just how significant and rapid the growth of the Children’s Foundation would be on her watch,” said Peter Barrow, past board member and chair at the time Banda was hired in 2008.
“Our goal was always to make the foundation top-of-mind in the community for support of children and Glenna has accomplished this and so much more in her years with us.”
“I have the deepest gratitude for the many opportunities this extraordinary community has given me to learn and grow, personally and professionally,” Banda said.
“I have been mentored by and worked collaboratively with an exceptional board, staff team and committed group of donors and volunteers. It has been an honour to be part of an organization that makes such an incredible impact. I know the future of the foundation is in wonderful hands and I continue to support their great work personally.”
The Board of Directors has appointed Karyn Kirkwood, current program director, as interim executive director.
Kirkwood has been a strong member of the team and the board has confidence in her ability to oversee operations during the hiring process. The board search committee is aiming to fill the executive director position within the next six months.
