By Alison Faulknor, Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, National Trust for Canada
This week my thoughts are with the many staff and volunteers caring for Canada’s special places. For many historic sites, this pandemic means closures and cancelled events, which could lead to lost entry fees, gift shops sales, event revenues and more. These are challenging times indeed. But, what about those supporters who sustain us – long-time donors, sponsors, funders and members? What is the right approach to navigating these relationships during such uncertain times?
The challenges facing historic places of faith are daunting, yet across the country congregations and communities are finding creative new uses and partnerships to revitalize these important landmarks.
On the occasion of June 24, Quebec’s fête nationale, we asked Dinu Bumbaru, Policy Director at Heritage Montreal for his thoughts on heritage in Quebec.
When the National Trust comes to town for a Main Street Boost, expect the unexpected. Prior to visiting Virden, I mapped out a schedule with our Manitoban contacts. It’s similar to the schedule I follow in other cities and towns.
On an unseasonably warm (22 degrees!) November evening, myself and my partners from ArtsBuild Ontario and Toronto Arts Council set out on a walk across Philadelphia to Christ Church Neighbourhood House. This was the first of two trips to explore the ways in which arts groups are thriving within faith buildings and often in collaboration with faith communities.