Foundation Leadership
The people of The United Church of Canada Foundation
As an independent charitable organization, The United Church of Canada Foundation is managed and advised by a diverse team of faithful financial and social justice experts from across Canada. Meet our staff, our Board of Directors, as well as the members of our Audit, Investment, and Joint Grants Committees.
Foundation Staff
Sarah Charters
President
Toronto ON
Sarah began her work in the charitable sector as a fundraiser and has worked for various health charities. Since 2007, she has worked at the Foundation and enjoys the interaction with individuals and congregations passionate about the work of the church. Sarah is a member and chorister at Kingston Road United Church.
Call Sarah: (toll free) 1-866-340-8223 or email
Erik Lo Forte
Foundation Lead
Toronto ON
Erik began his career with The United Church of Canada Foundation in 2014 after graduating with a BA in Geography and Environmental Studies from York University. His previous experience as a Community Manager for a local environmental not-for-profit organization has given him the passion to help those that fundraise for a deserving cause. Erik enjoys that he can see firsthand the positive impact donations have on individuals, organizations, and congregations.
Call Erik: (toll free) 1-866-340-8223 or email
Jessica Smith
Foundation Communications & Campaign Associate
Toronto ON
Jessica has been with The United Church of Canada since 2013. Working first in the Office of the Moderator and General Secretary, Jessica then began a role with Philanthropy and worked closely with the Foundation before joining the team in 2018. Jessica enjoys working with donors; facilitating their gifts to the people and projects they love and learning about why they give. She has a background in communications and marketing and especially enjoys reporting on the impact of donor generosity.
Call Jessica: (toll free) 1-866-340-8223 or email
Jenna Yango Leonard
Foundation Coordinator
Toronto ON
Jenna joined The United Church of Canada Foundation in 2022. She has previously worked in administration and finance with various other Canadian charities and enjoys using her skills to further the good work the Foundation does.
Call Jenna: (toll free) 1-866-340-8223 or email
Kate Porter
Assistant
Toronto ON
Kate joined The United Church of Canada Foundation in 2021. She has lived and worked in Brazil, Korea, and China and loves to meet new people, build relationships and try new things. She enjoys working in a team to achieve common goals that positively impact communities.
Call Kate: (toll free) 1-866-340-8223 or email
Board of Directors
Boyde Clarke
Treasurer
Conception Bay South NL
Boyde is a partner at BDO Canada LLP in St. John’s and has provided his small business clients with financial statement audit services for over 30 years. He is an active member of Topsail United Church in Conception Bay South
Lance Howard
Bocabec NB
Lance is originally from the Montreal area and, after earning both an engineering degree at Queen’s and an MBA in Manitoba, he worked as an engineer and senior executive for a major Canadian engineering and construction company. There, Lance had the opportunity to plan and build energy projects, both across Canada and in several developing countries. He has various community interests and has served on the boards of Passamaquoddy Lodge, Fundy Community Foundation, and Wesley United Church. Lance loves to work in the woods, write about local history, and go boating on beautiful Passamaquoddy Bay.
Jordana Wright
Midland ON
Jordana Wright leads
a venture-backed software company that helps thousands of neighbourhoods
worldwide connect with their local churches. She began working in ministry in
2014 with the Yonge Street Mission, she launched the United Church Community
Walking Challenge, the Coffee Hour Network and had a live UCW Cooking
Show. Jordana looks forward to the opportunity to contribute the unique
perspective and skill sets she’s developed over the years to the United Church
of Canada Foundation as a member of the Board.
Craig Bater
Vice Chair
Ottawa, ON
Craig is semi-retired after more than 40 years engaged in the private practice of law in Ottawa, Ontario. He has been an active director on the boards of local Chambers of Commerce for many years and has also been involved in numerous other leadership positions for local non-profit community, charitable and economic development organizations, including the Ottawa International Airport, Habitat for Humanity, Junior Diabetes and 100 MenWhoCare Ottawa.
Craig and his family have been life-long members of the United Church of Canada. He has served as Chair of Council, Chair of Stewards, Chair of Trustees, Chair of M & P, Youth leader and Sunday School Teacher at Orleans United Church.
Ryan Baxter
London ON
Ryan Baxter is music director and organist at Rowntree Memorial United Church in London ON, and previously held the same positions at Trillium United Church in St. Catharines ON. He is currently a candidate in the Doctor of Musical Arts program at Western University, studying solo piano performance. Ryan is active as a pianist, organist, and educator, and enjoys giving occasional recitals in support of the Foundation’s work.
The Rev. Michael Blair
Toronto ON
Michael Blair is the current General Secretary of the General Council of The United Church of Canada. He served for 8 years as the Executive Minister, Church in Mission Unit, where he maintained relationships with overseas partners, developed faith formation resources for the church, and initiated advocacy campaigns for the denomination. Born in Jamaica, he came to Canada as a young adult with his family and was ordained in the Convention Baptist Church, and in 2010 was admitted to The United Church’s order of ministry.
Edith Dietlind Gardell
Ottawa ON
Since 1980, Edith has served in rural and urban congregations of the United Church in Ontario and for more than 30 years as Licensed Lay Worship Leader and as a presbyter in the Seaway Valley and Ottawa. Her focus on Indigenous, environmental, and social justice issues is based on her professional medical background and her science and policy work in the federal government. As a member of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment she advocates for respect for creation, minority rights, and against environmental racism.
She actively supports the UCC Foundation’s engagement in the Reconciliation and Responsible Investment Initiative.
The Very Rev. Dr. Richard Bott
Burlington, ON
Richard was orgained in 1994 by the United Church’s Conference of Manitoba and North Western Ontario and has served with congregations across the country. He was the 43rd Moderator of The United Church of Canada, holding the position from 2018-2022. He has facilitated workshops on alternate conflict resolution, church amalgamation, worship, adult Christian nurture, leadership, leadership, stewardship – and just about anything else that people have asked him to take part in. He is also a liturgical writer, publishing articles, prayers and liturgy in a variety of Christian publications. Richard is currently the lead minister with Grace United Church in Burlington, ON.
Jim Simpson
Chair
Stratford ON
Jim is a retired CPA and CFO. He has been a life-long member of local communities of faith and over the last decade has become more involved at the regional level. In June of this year and in conjunction with moving to Ontario, he completed his terms as Chair of the Region’s Community of Faith Support Council, Chair of Three Point Housing Society and as a director of the Naramata Centre Society. He also currently serves as Treasurer of Findhorn Foundation, a spiritual retreat centre in Scotland that focuses on the alignment of soul, nature and spirit.
Jane Harding
Secretary
Salmon Arm BC
Jane retired in 2021 from the position of Stewardship & Gifts for the United Church of Canada, serving British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and parts of Manitoba for more than 16 years.
She is seen as an expert on revenue generation and stewardship. She is a key resource to charities embarking on capital campaigns.
She is an active member of Pacific Mountain Region’s Finance Council, Ministry Support Team and the Nominations Committee. She is the chair of the Leadership Team and sings and worships at First United Church in Salmon Arm, BC.
The Rev. Dr. Alan Lai
Burnaby BC
Alan has guided the formation of ministry personnel with his teaching at both Waterloo Lutheran Seminary and Vancouver School of Theology and was recently in leadership at South Arm United Church in Richmond, BC. He is the former Principal of the Centre for Christian Studies. Alan has a keen interest in interfaith dialogue and global citizenship. He is currently serving as minister at Tai Kong United Church and is also an enthusiastic photographer.
Catherine Glover
London ON
A profound love of the United Church of Canada and a deep passion for social outreach, right relations, and climate justice, Catherine brings years of dedicated leadership experience both in the health care sector and in the Church and the wider community. She is an occupational therapist by training with a master’s degree in Public Administration, is a member of Siloam United Church in London, and is a member of GCE.
Audit Committee
Lance Howard
Chair
Bocabec NB
Lance is originally from the Montreal area and, after earning both an engineering degree at Queen’s and an MBA in Manitoba, he worked as an engineer and senior executive for a major Canadian engineering and construction company. There, Lance had the opportunity to plan and build energy projects, both across Canada and in several developing countries. He has various community interests and has served on the boards of Passamaquoddy Lodge, Fundy Community Foundation, and Wesley United Church. Lance loves to work in the woods, write about local history, and go boating on beautiful Passamaquoddy Bay.
Robin Pilkey
Toronto ON
With over 30 years of experience in finance, accounting, and public service, Robin brings a strong background of fiscal responsibility along with a passion for community. Formerly the Chair of the Toronto District School Board, she currently serves on a number of boards including the Audit Committee for the Accounts of the General Council and the United Church Pension Plan. Robin holds a Graduate Diploma and Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University. She is also a graduate of the Directors Education Program at the Institute of Corporate Directors.
Layne McFarlane
Moosomin SK
Layne grew up in south east Saskatchewan and joined the Carievale United Church in his youth. He is a Fellow Chartered Professional Accountant and a Fellow Chartered Accountant. He is currently Vice Chair of the Moosomin & District Regional Park, Treasurer of Bethel United Church and President of the Rocanville Cross Country Ski Club. He and his wife Holly have five children, six grandchildren and one great grandchild in a blended family. He owns a small farm where he spends much of his time in the summer and enjoys cross country skiing, golfing and playing pickle ball.
Hannah Lei
Toronto ON
Hannah is a designated accounting professional with more than 15 years of experience providing accounting and assurance services for public and private companies. She has worked as an auditor for more than a decade, currently works as controller at a private company, enjoys working with other accounting professionals and is eager to brainstorm and share ideas. In her free time, she likes to hike, read, watch TV and exercise. She also spends a lot of time playing games and reading with her son.
Ken Fanning
Parksville BC
Ken was born in Vancouver but as a military ‘kid’ moved around the country, returning to Vancouver to complete a Commerce degree at UBC. He joined CIBC and held progressively senior roles in branch management, administration, human resources and technology, residing in Winnipeg, Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary. Upon retirement he and his wife Phyllis settled in Parksville on Vancouver Island. Ken has been a member of The United Church virtually all his life, providing leadership in several congregations, the former Presbytery and the Conference (now Region). He is presently completing his term as Treasurer at Knox United in Parksville and is Chair of the Finance Advisory Council for the Pacific Mountain Region. They have one daughter (both she and her husband are United Church Ministers) and two grandchildren.
Investment Committee
Constance Lo
Chair
Toronto ON
Constance has her MBA from Rotman School of Management (University of Toronto) and is a capital markets professional with 15 years experience. She has worked at both smaller boutique firms and at a big five Canadian bank. Her experience includes working as a trader for retail investors as well as for portfolio managers and wealth managers with millions under management. Currently, she is part of the Trade team at Wealthsimple looking to change the Canadian landscape of retail trading and investing. She used to volunteer weekly at York Central Hospital and her goal has always been to positively benefit the community she lives in and beyond.
Jim Simpson
Stratford ON
Jim is a retired CPA and CFO. He has been a life-long member of local communities of faith and over the last decade has become more involved at the regional level. In June of this year and in conjunction with moving to Ontario, he completed his terms as Chair of the Region’s Community of Faith Support Council, Chair of Three Point Housing Society and as a director of the Naramata Centre Society. He also currently serves as Treasurer of Findhorn Foundation, a spiritual retreat centre in Scotland that focuses on the alignment of soul, nature and spirit.
Michelle de Cordova
Bowen Island, BC
Michelle has over 25 years’ experience in sustainability and responsible investment and holds an MSc in integrated conservation and social development management. She currently works with companies and institutional investors as a sustainability strategy and responsible investment consultant. Her previous experience includes environmental, social and governance roles in boutique consulting, asset management, and not-for-profits in Canada and internationally. She also serves on the United Church of Canada Treasury Investment Committee and the BC Securities Commission Corporate Finance Stakeholder Forum.
David Martin
Halifax NS
David was born in Ireland, but has lived in Halifax since 1987. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Canadian Bankers and has his Executive MBA from the University of Toronto. He has 40 years of banking service and has worked in London, England, Bermuda, Toronto and Halifax. He retired in 2006. He has held Board positions with numerous organizations including the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, Nova Scotia Agricultural College Foundation, University of King’s College, Autism Nova Scotia and Rockingham United Church. David was awarded the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002 for Community Service.
Tim Bradshaw
Toronto ON
Tim received his Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University, earned his MBA at London Business School and is also a CFA charterholder. He is currently a Vice President at Scheer Rowlett & Associates Investment Management (part of the Connor, Clark & Lunn Financial Group) where his responsibilities include client service and portfolio strategy. He has also served on the United Church of Canada Treasury Investment Committee where he was Chair for the last three years of his six year term. Tim currently serves as Co-Chair of the M&P Committee at Lawrence Park Community Church.
Joint Grants Committee
The Very Rev. Dr. Marion Pardy
St. John’s NL
Marion, the 37th Moderator of The United Church, has served the Church in both urban and rural settings. She was Conference Minister in Program and Leadership Development in the then Conference of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario and in Newfoundland and Labrador Conference. As well, she was Program Consultant, Ministry with Children, in the General Council Division of Mission in Canada. Dr. Pardy served as minister to Gower Street United Church in St. John’s, Newfoundland, from 1990 until her election to Moderator in August 2000.
Nia Bentayen
Surrey BC
The Very Rev. Dr. Richard Bott
Chair
Burlington ON
Richard was orgained in 1994 by the United Church’s Conference of Manitoba and North Western Ontario and has served with congregations across the country. He was the 43rd Moderator of The United Church of Canada, holding the position from 2018-2022. He has facilitated workshops on alternate conflict resolution, church amalgamation, worship, adult Christian nurture, leadership, leadership, stewardship – and just about anything else that people have asked him to take part in. He is also a liturgical writer, publishing articles, prayers and liturgy in a variety of Christian publications. Richard is currently the lead minister with Grace United Church in Burlington, ON.
Jane McDonald
Greenwich NS
Leeann Shimoda RSSW
Ottawa, ON
Leeann is a mother of 3, grandmother of 8, and great-grandmother of 5. She is a member of Saugeen First Nation and belongs to the Eagle Clan. She works for Independent First Nations of Ontario as a Jordan’s Principle Navigator/Coordinator. Prior to that she worked for Saugeen First Nation in Child and Youth Mental Health and has worked in the Friendship Centre movement as Executive Director for several years. She is a registered Social Service Worker and has earned diplomas in Social Work, Business Administration, Accounting, Nursing, and Addictions.
Leeann’s volunteer work includes 6 years on the Bruce-Grey Child and Family Services Board, 12 years as Vice Chair of the Grey Bruce Legal Clinic, and 5 years on the National Indigenous Council of the United Church of Canada. In her spare time she speak to community groups, churches, and colleges about her life as an Indigenous 60’s scoop child, mental health, residential schools, and Doctrine of Discovery. She is passionate about reconciliation, youth, and sharing her life’s journey with others.
Governance & Nominations Committee
Edith Dietlind Gardell
Chair
Ottawa ON
Since 1980, Edith has served in rural and urban congregations of the United Church in Ontario and for more than 30 years as Licensed Lay Worship Leader and as a presbyter in the Seaway Valley and Ottawa. Her focus on Indigenous, environmental, and social justice issues is based on her professional medical background and her science and policy work in the federal government. As a member of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment she advocates for respect for creation, minority rights, and against environmental racism.
She actively supports the UCC Foundation’s engagement in the Reconciliation and Responsible Investment Initiative.
Martha Martin
Halifax NS
Martha Martin is a retired Diaconal Minister doing supply ministry at Bethany United Church in Halifax. She retired in 2023 from the position of Minister of Word and Sacrament at Kingston Road United Church in Toronto. Over the past 30 years she has had experience in worship leadership, program planning, implementation and leadership development within churches and non-government organizations. She was also a university chaplain at two universities for 16 years and has experience building ecumenical and interfaith relationships, as well as working with young adults.
Jane Harding
Salmon Arm BC
Jane retired in 2021 from the position of Stewardship & Gifts for the United Church of Canada, serving British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and parts of Manitoba for more than 16 years.
She is seen as an expert on revenue generation and stewardship. She is a key resource to charities embarking on capital campaigns.
She is an active member of Pacific Mountain Region’s Finance Council, Ministry Support Team and the Nominations Committee. She is the chair of the Leadership Team and sings and worships at First United Church in Salmon Arm, BC.
Craig Bater
Ottawa ON
Craig is semi-retired after more than 40 years engaged in the private practice of law in Ottawa, Ontario. He has been an active director on the boards of local Chambers of Commerce for many years and has also been involved in numerous other leadership positions for local non-profit community, charitable and economic development organizations, including the Ottawa International Airport, Habitat for Humanity, Junior Diabetes and 100 MenWhoCare Ottawa.
Craig and his family have been life-long members of the United Church of Canada. He has served as Chair of Council, Chair of Stewards, Chair of Trustees, Chair of M & P, Youth leader and Sunday School Teacher at Orleans United Church.
