Community Foundation welcomes new executive director on board

The Community Foundation of Portage and District (CFPD) announced the appointment of a familiar face to the Portage area as their new executive director.

As of Monday, August 29th. Kimberly Lavallee, formerly the executive director at Prairie Harbour for the past two years, will be stepping into this role with the community foundation.

Born and raised in Portage la Prairie, Lavallee moved away in 1985 to pursue careers with the Manitoba Metis Federation and then Campus Director of both Robertson College and the Scientific Marvel College before returning to her hometown in 2014.

Lavallee shares that her transition from Prairie Harbour to the Community Foundation is due to needing a less demanding job.

"Although I love the mission and vision of the shelter, for personal reasons, I needed something less demanding. I love the work the foundation does, and I am excited for the opportunity to work with the board and staff to enrich the quality of life for the people of Portage and the District. I also look forward to meeting donors, grant seekers as well as working closely with community groups."

Lavallee shares that her last day at Prairie Harbour was August 19th, although she still is helping them until they find a new executive director of their own.

The newest member of CFPD says she has no significant changes in the works.

"The foundation is running very efficiently from what I've been able to tell in three days. I'll be, of course, taking my direction from the board of directors and from the chair, who is Ken Brennan, for any changes that they want to see come about, but other than that, I don't see very many major changes."

Lavallee adds she is very excited about her new role.

"Making the community a better place is very inspiring. So, I am settling in well, there is a bit of a learning curve. A lot of reading of policies and procedures and things like that, but I'm excited as in September, things seem to start up again. So, there's a lot of events planned that I'll be attending with some of the board members. I am excited to get out there and meet more of the community."

Lavallee notes that if anybody is interested in learning more information on creating a fund or donating, they're welcome to call the foundation.

The CFPD's deadline for fall grants is October 15th.