Poverty in Canada Poverty in Your Community Your Current Role in Poverty Local Organizations Working on Poverty Going Deeper

Understanding Your Context

In this section, we set out some facts about poverty in Canada and help you research and understand poverty and the players already working on poverty in your own community.

Why?

Poverty is different in different communities. And there are lots of other organizations already working on poverty. Your foundation can play an important role that suits your particular community. But to create the most effective strategy, you need to know:

• Poverty in Canada
• Poverty in Your Community
• Your Current Role in Poverty
• Local Organizations Working on Poverty

Top 3 Lessons Learned about Context

1. There is a link between success and the amount of research and preparation about the local context the foundation undertakes prior to introducing an initiative.
2.  Relationships: Getting to know the players (both professionals and people living with poverty), establishing trust, learning about what organizations and individuals are doing, and creating transparent processes is essential. And it takes time.
3. Document why you are taking the position you are. Be explicit about your theory of change.

More Lessons Learned about Context