Our Journey
The Ingersoll Community Foundation was established in 1991 to serve as a lasting source of support for the people and organizations of Ingersoll, Ontario. Built on the belief that strong communities are shaped by generosity and collaboration, the Foundation exists to connect local donors with causes that matter—now and for future generations.
The Foundation operates as a private charitable foundation, governed by a volunteer board of trustees and supported through donations, bequests, and endowments. Its mission is to improve the quality of life in the Ingersoll area by funding programs and projects that serve local needs, from health care and education to the arts, environment, youth, and social services.
Since its founding, the Foundation has granted hundreds of thousands of dollars to a wide range of initiatives that strengthen the community. Early funding supported groups like the Ingersoll Creative Arts Centre, the Kiwanis Club, the Rotary Club, PlayRight Playgrounds, Ingersoll & District Inter-Church, and social service organizations. Over time, the Foundation has expanded both its reach and resources, ensuring that it remains a vital source of local support.
The vision for the Foundation was brought to life in part through the leadership of J.C. Herbert, a longtime educator and legendary community champion. While Herbert was instrumental in its formation, the Foundation’s success is built on the generosity of many individuals and families who believe in giving back to Ingersoll.
As a trusted local institution, the Ingersoll Community Foundation continues to serve as a steward of community well-being—helping build a stronger, more vibrant Ingersoll for all.
Board of Directors
Dr. Stephen Tait
Born and educated in Oxford County, Stephen Tait later attended the University of Waterloo, where he completed his optometry training. He went on to practice optometry in Ingersoll for 45 years.During his career, Steve also contributed to the profession through education, serving for many years as a part-time Clinical Supervisor at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science. He mentored students and hosted numerous externships for optometrists who now practice throughout the region.Steve has long been active in community service and governance. He has served on several local boards, including the Kiwanis Club of Ingersoll, Alexandra Hospital Ingersoll, the Oxford County Community Health Centre, and the Alexandra Hospital Foundation. Earlier community involvement included founding roles with Grassroots Ingersoll and the Town Environmental Committee, as well as participation on Oxford County’s Zero Waste Committee.He has also supported the Canadian Food Grains Bank through the local Ugali Growing Project and currently serves as Secretary of the FOOD Project, a coalition operating under the governance of STICH.Steve married Deb in 1979, and together they have three children and three grandchildren. He is a long-time director of the Ingersoll Community Foundation, having served as Secretary and now as Chair of the Board. |
Ian Robertson
Born in Toronto and raised in Cobourg, Ontario, Ian graduated from Bishop’s University in 1971 with a BBA. After a year travelling through Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and overland to India and Nepal, he began his career with the Royal Bank of Canada in 1972, later serving as a Commercial Account Manager.Ian married Paulette in 1974. In 1985, the couple left Toronto intending to travel the world but instead settled in Ingersoll, which has been home ever since.Ian earned his Realtor Broker’s licence in 1988 and worked in real estate until retiring in 2025. A dedicated volunteer, he has served with the Ingersoll Creative Arts Centre, Kiwanis Club of Ingersoll, and the Ingersoll Community Foundation, and was named Ingersoll’s Citizen of the Year in 2022. |
Diana Alves
Diana Alves has been a dedicated stay-at-home mother for over 32 years, caring for her two non-verbal adult sons with autism. She is married and also supports a bonus adult son with disabilities, helping him live his best possible life. Diana is also the proud mother of a daughter and a devoted grandmother to her baby grandson. Diana brings extensive leadership and advocacy experience to her work. She has previously served as a board member for Autism Dog Services and Ingersoll Support Services, including three years as President of the Board. For the past 20 years, she has facilitated a support group for families of children with disabilities, providing guidance, connection, and advocacy rooted in both compassion and lived experience. Diana is deeply passionate about supporting families navigating disability and is committed to improving the lives of individuals with diverse needs and those who care for them. |
Dr. Cody Groat
Cody Groat has deep roots in Ingersoll and is a band member of Six Nations of the Grand River. He is a professor of History and Indigenous Studies at Western University, where his work focuses on Indigenous history, heritage, and public memory in Canada. In addition to his academic career, Cody has been actively involved in community and governance roles. His board experience includes service with Alexandra Hospital, Stevenson Children’s Camp, Wilfrid Laurier University, and several positions with the Canadian Commission for UNESCO.In recognition of his contributions to Canadian heritage and public service, Cody was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2025. |
Brad Hammond
Brad Hammond is a dedicated economic development professional of 25 years, serving as the Development Commissioner for the City of Woodstock, Ontario. Brad is born and raised in Ingersoll and continues to make the community home with his family. Past volunteer board experience includes Community Futures Oxford, United Way Oxford, the Oxford Community Health Centre, the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, and Community Employment Services. Brad’s work and volunteer experience reflects a passion for building capacity and creating opportunities for all members of the community. |
Adam Funnell
Adam Funnell was born and raised in Ingersoll, Ontario. He has worked in the Insurance and Financial Planning industry for more than 25 years, building a career focused on helping individuals, families, farmers and businesses protect and grow their financial futures. Adam has long been actively involved in community leadership and volunteer work. He is a two-time Past President of the Rotary Club of Ingersoll and a Past President of the Ingersoll District Chamber of Commerce. He is also a co-founder of PlayRight Playgrounds Inc., a charitable organization dedicated to building inclusive playgrounds in local communities.In addition to these roles, Adam currently serves as a director with the Alexandra Hospital Foundation. Adam is married and the father of two daughters. He has spent many years committed to improving the lives of those in the Ingersoll community through volunteer leadership and community initiatives. |
Drew Williamson
Drew Williamson brings nearly 30 years of experience in financial management to his role as a Director. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and holder of an MBA, Drew currently serves as Chief Financial Officer for construction company. His extensive expertise in strategic planning and fiscal leadership has been instrumental in driving organizational success throughout his career. A proud resident of Ingersoll for the past 25 years, Drew lives with his wife, two children, and two dogs. He is deeply passionate about making Ingersoll a vibrant and welcoming community for everyone. His commitment to local initiatives reflects his belief that strong communities are built through collaboration and care. |
Honouring Our Legacy
Our organization is built on the dedication of many who came before us. We remember with gratitude the board members who are no longer with us, but whose passion and service remain part of our story.
- J.C. Herbert **
- Murray Borndahl **
- Mark Warnick **
- Bonnie Mott
- Rev. Roger McCombe
- Rev. James Carr
- Ted Hunt
- King Newell
- Michael Hennessy
** – Founding Member