FP Canada and the Institute of Financial Planning launch a charity to improve financial resilience
FP Canada and the Institute of Financial Planning have jointly created the Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning, a new charity focused on improving financial resilience for vulnerable groups.
The Foundation aims to provide access to financial planning through programs for low-income earners, youth, Indigenous Peoples, newcomers, seniors, and people with disabilities.
The Foundation plans to deliver its mission by leveraging volunteer financial planners to offer services such as free financial planning seminars and webinars in collaboration with community-based organisations.
A pro bono program will connect eligible Canadians with professional financial planners, complemented by online tools and resources.
Carolyn Fallis, chair of the Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning, highlighted the need for the initiative, stating, “Many Canadians are struggling financially and are unsure where to turn for help.”
She added, “We know that financial planning can play a significant role in helping Canadians achieve financial resilience. The Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning will help break down the barriers that prevent people from accessing the professional advice they need.”
The Foundation aims to operate at a national level, ensuring that its programs are accessible and culturally relevant for diverse communities across Canada.
Collaborations with community partners and professional financial planners will allow it to tailor its resources to meet the unique needs of different groups.
Chantal Lamoureux, president and CEO of the Institute of Financial Planning and a Foundation Board Member, emphasized that financial planning is a powerful tool for building financial resilience.
She stated, “Thanks to the Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning, those benefits will become accessible to more Canadians – and particularly those who need it most.”
FP Canada’s president and CEO, Tashia Batstone, who also serves as the Foundation’s Treasurer, underscored the alignment of the Foundation’s mission with FP Canada’s broader vision.
“The Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning will play a critical role in making financial planning accessible to all Canadians. This is a goal we're deeply committed to at FP Canada as part of our IMAGINE 2030 vision of financial wellness for all Canadians,” she said.
RBC Foundation has joined as a Founding Partner, offering significant support to the initiative.
Andrea Barrack, SVP, Sustainability and Impact at RBC, highlighted RBC’s commitment to fostering equitable opportunities and supporting financial well-being in communities.
She stated, “RBC Foundation is proud to support the Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning, which aims to help reduce barriers for those in our communities who are most financially vulnerable.”
The Foundation plans to begin rolling out its programs in 2025 and continues to seek additional support to expand its reach and impact.
Leading this initiative is a volunteer Board of Directors, which includes professionals with a range of expertise:
-
Chair: Carolyn Fallis
-
Treasurer: Tashia Batstone
-
Board Members: Shawn Brayman, Jennifer Curpen, Caroline Dabu, Nola Joorisity, Annick Kwetcheu Gamo, Chantal Lamoureux, Doretta Thompson, and Sylvain Tremblay
