Walking Together: Truth, Reconciliation, and Generosity

As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, we’re reminded that healing is a journey — one that invites us to learn, listen, and act with purpose. At GiveWise, we believe generosity can be part of that journey. 

This year, we’re honoured to launch the Truth & Reconciliation Community Fund — a simple, collective way to support Indigenous-led programs across Canada. 

Why It Matters 

The legacy of residential schools and systemic injustice has left deep wounds in Indigenous communities — wounds that many are still healing from today. While awareness is growing, so is the need for action. Truth and Reconciliation isn’t just a government mandate or a history lesson. It’s a shared responsibility. 

Whether it’s education, healing initiatives, or community development, Indigenous-led organizations are doing powerful work to restore dignity, culture, and opportunity. These programs are creating real, lasting change — and they need ongoing support. 

While September 30 marks an important moment of reflection, our commitment to reconciliation doesn’t start or stop with this day. The Truth & Reconciliation Community Fund is a year-round opportunity to walk in solidarity — by supporting Indigenous-led healing, education, and cultural renewal in tangible ways. 

How the GiveWise Truth & Reconciliation Community Fund Works 

When you give to the GiveWise Truth & Reconciliation Community Fund, your donation is pooled with others who have given to the fund and distributed to Indigenous-led organizations and programs advancing reconciliation, healing, and empowerment. GiveWise handles the allocation and receipting — making it simple to contribute to a meaningful cause with confidence and transparency. 

This is generosity, simplified. 

Programs Your Gift Could Support 

Your donation to the Truth & Reconciliation Community Fund supports a variety of impactful programs, including: 

• Education and mentorship programs for Indigenous youth 
• Community-based trauma recovery and counselling services 
• Leadership development for Indigenous women and youth 
• Organizations like: One Day’s Pay, the Downie Wenjack Fund, The Moose Hide Campaign, the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society (home of the Spirit Bear Initiative), and other Indigenous-led initiatives 

Whether your gift is large or small, it becomes part of something bigger — supporting hope, healing, and the rebuilding of trust. 

A Leadership Moment That Stopped Us in Our Tracks 

This past spring, our Executive Director Tammy Kyte attended the Western Canada Fundraising Conference, where she heard Dr. Cindy Blackstock speak. 

It didn’t feel like a keynote. 

It felt like a call. 

Cindy’s message — delivered with honesty, conviction, and the voice of Spirit Bear — challenged us to rethink how we lead, who we listen to, and what kind of “peace” we’re truly pursuing. She told stories of injustice and resilience, calling us toward the hard, slow work of justice: listening instead of leading, choosing humility over hierarchy, and making space for voices we might overlook. 

Tammy wrote about the experience in this LinkedIn post, reflecting on how it shaped her leadership and deepened her own reconciliation journey. 

We’re sharing it here because we believe reconciliation starts with reflection. With honest questions. And with choosing to live — and give — differently. 

An Invitation to Learn and Reflect 

Generosity is just one way to participate in reconciliation. We also invite you to: 

• Listen to Indigenous voices — try podcasts like This Place or Telling Our Twisted Histories 

• Learn from history — explore free courses like Indigenous Canada or 4 Seasons of Reconciliation 

• Show up — attend local events, read books by Indigenous authors, or share survivor stories 

• Reflect with your team or family — what does reconciliation mean to you? 

• Lean in and take action — How can you contribute to healing and justice in intentional ways? Consider engaging with groups like One Day’s Pay and The Circle on Philanthropy, who are already leading meaningful efforts in truth, reconciliation, and community-driven giving. 

At GiveWise, our team will be taking time to reflect, listen, and learn. We hope you’ll join us. 

Support Indigenous-led change. Walk the path of reconciliation through generosity.