Tag: community

Oxford Community Foundation Announces New Executive Director

WOODSTOCK, ON – Thursday, July 3, 2026.

The Board of Directors of the Oxford Community Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Salem as the Foundation’s new Executive Director, effective June 22, 2026.

Following a comprehensive recruitment process, the Board unanimously selected Michael to lead the Foundation into its next chapter of growth, impact, and community leadership.

Michael brings nearly 20 years of experience within the community foundation movement, where he played pivotal roles in developing organizational assets, building sustainable philanthropic partnerships, and engaging fundholders through high-impact opportunities. His experience spans philanthropic engagement, organizational scaling and board governance, all grounded in a deep and enduring passion for community-building.

“We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the Oxford Community Foundation,” said Kim Parker, Chair of the Board of Directors. “His leadership experience, vision, and commitment to community make him an outstanding choice to lead the Foundation as we continue to grow our impact across Oxford County. We are excited for the future and confident that Michael will build upon the strong foundation that has been established over the past decade.”

Michael is eager to connect with the people, organizations, and communities that make Oxford County unique.

“I am excited to take on the role of Executive Director at the Oxford Community Foundation and to be part of this incredible community,” said Salem. “I look forward to working alongside our board, donors, and partners to help create a lasting impact for communities across Oxford County.”

About Oxford Community Foundation
The Oxford Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter. We help people leave a lasting legacy in Oxford County — investing and granting funds wisely and providing donors with the opportunity to direct their giving toward the areas they care about most. Through endowment funds, grants, and community leadership, OCF supports all aspects of community life, including arts, culture and heritage, education, the environment, recreation, health and wellness, and social services. To date, OCF has granted more than $2.5 million to 115 charitable organizations across Oxford County — and as one of 208 community foundations in Canada, we are proud to be the only foundation dedicated exclusively to strengthening all of Oxford County.

For more information, please contact:
Kim Parker, Chair
Oxford Community Foundation
Phone: (519) 857-2707
Email: ka.parker@live.ca

Oxford Community Foundation announces the retirement of Louise Wardrop, Executive Director

It is with both gratitude and warm wishes that we share the news that Louise Wardrop will be retiring as Executive Director of the Oxford Community Foundation in June 2026.

Since joining the Foundation in November 2016, Louise has led with heart, integrity, and a deep belief in the power of community. Under her leadership, the Foundation has experienced strong and responsible growth — with total funds increasing by $3.5 million, and grants from local legacy and community funds rising from $26,000 in 2016 to more than $240,000 in 2025. Louise also helped bring external grant programs to Oxford County totalling more than $740,000. Altogether, the Foundation’s work has resulted in more than $2.2 million in grants reinvested back into our community, supporting local organizations and initiatives across Oxford County. Through her thoughtful stewardship, Louise has strengthened the Foundation’s ability to respond to evolving community needs while building long-term sustainability and trust.

Equally important has been the spirit Louise brought to the role — building relationships, supporting volunteers and partners, and championing collaboration in everything she did. Her leadership has touched countless people and organizations, and her legacy will continue to shape the Foundation’s work for years to come.

Louise remains deeply committed to the Foundation’s mission and will continue to contribute in meaningful ways throughout the transition. She will be sharing critical institutional knowledge, supporting and mentoring new leadership, and remaining actively involved as a volunteer through the Foundation’s Vital Signs research and community partnerships — helping ensure continuity, stability, and momentum as the organization moves forward.

“Louise’s integrity, compassion, and commitment to Oxford County have set the tone for the Foundation’s next chapter. We are deeply grateful for her leadership,” said Kim Parker, Chair of the Board of Directors.

The Board is actively planning a smooth leadership transition and will share more information as next steps are confirmed.

“It’s been an incredible privilege to serve this community. I’ve witnessed the generosity and vision that make Oxford County so special, and I look forward to continuing that work in new ways,” said Louise Wardrop.

Please join us in celebrating Louise’s contributions and in wishing her a fulfilling and joyful retirement.

Contact:  Kim Parker, Board Chair, Oxford Community Foundation, info@oxfordcommunityfoundation.org, 226-667-6404
www.oxfordcommunityfoundation.org

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