The amazing team at RTOERO (Retired Teachers of Ontario) District 25 Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry, had a vision to advocate for older adults to create a more secure and compassionate future for everyone. When they heard about the work being done at the WDMH Foundation to support health care and long-term care, they were all in. They turned to the RTOERO Community Grants program to help.
“RTOERO Districts are eligible to receive grants of up to $2,500 for community projects that align with strategic goals,” explains Rich Prophet, RTOERO Board Chair.
“We submitted an application and are thrilled with the grant,” says Delores Biddy, President, District 25 Stormont Dundas Glengarry. “We care about the health of our local communities and are excited to support the work of the WDMH Foundation.”
But the local team didn’t stop there. District 25 then matched the $2,500 grant, bringing the total to $5,000 overall!
For the Community Grants program, districts apply for individual projects (education-related or other community initiatives) that support local programs. Each year, a committee of RTOERO members assesses the merits of each grant submission. For 2021, RTOERO funded 31 projects for a total of $79,885. Since the inception of the Community Grants program 21 years ago, RTOERO has donated $1.85 million to more than 525 programs and projects.
“RTOERO members care about their communities and serve them every day,” adds Rich Prophet. “The Community Grants program encourages all of our districts to support and partner with outside organizations, and to give back.”
District 25 Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry plays a key role in helping members stay active and connected, with each other and the community. There are more than 700 local members.
Since 1968, RTOERO has been a voice for those who work in and retire from the education sector. Its mission is to improve the lives of members and seniors. RTOERO is a bilingual trusted voice on healthy, active living in the retirement journey for the broader education community. With 82,000+ members in 51 districts across Canada, it is the largest national provider of non-profit group health benefits for education retirees.
