In the vibrant city of Victoria, nestled on the picturesque south Vancouver Island, Tim Cormode stands as a beacon of inspiration and transformation. For the past 24 years, Tim’s journey has been one of passion, vision and unwavering dedication to empowering individuals and communities through the power of nature.
Tim’s remarkable journey began with the founding of Power To Be, a visionary organization born from his love for the outdoors and his background in social work. With a single government grant and boundless determination, Tim set out to break down barriers and provide life-changing outdoor experiences for youth and families facing challenges. Over the past 23 years, Power To Be has touched the lives of over 11,000 individuals, offering adapted outdoor activities that empower people to surpass their potential and embrace the beauty of the natural world.
But Tim’s impact extends far beyond the confines of Power To Be. Recognizing the complex relationship between social impact organizations and philanthropy, Tim founded the Power To Give Foundation six years ago. Dedicated to igniting visionary possibilities in the social impact sector, the foundation fosters collaboration between philanthropists, change-makers, and communities to embark on bold endeavors collectively. To date, Power To Give has led the deployment of $60 million in philanthropic capital to various charitable organizations, catalyzing positive change on a global scale.
From climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro to supporting Haiti relief efforts, Tim’s commitment to both local and global causes has left an indelible mark on communities near and far. His contributions have been recognized with a B.C. Community Award in 2015 and an induction into the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame in 2020, cementing his legacy as a true champion for change.
Tim’s leadership is characterized by his unwavering dedication to fostering collaboration and maximizing impact. Under his guidance, Power To Be has become a leader in fundraising and revenue generation, ranking in the top 20% of charities for its exemplary fundraising efforts. Tim’s leadership was especially crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, as he redirected resources to support food security charities and address pressing community needs.
But perhaps Tim’s greatest contribution lies in his willingness to give back and support others on their journey. Whether mentoring social entrepreneurs or connecting philanthropists with causes that truly matter, Tim embodies the spirit of generosity and community leadership, inspiring others to join him in making a positive difference in the world.
In the heart of Victoria, Tim Cormode’s legacy continues to ignite and transform lives, leaving an enduring impact on individuals, communities, and the world at large. As a recipient of the 2023 Medal of Good Citizenship, Tim stands as a shining example of the power of vision, compassion, and collaboration to create a brighter future for all.
Source: Government of Ontario, The Globe and Mail
