Our interviews continue with the members of our fantastic volunteer board. This week: get to know our Rainbow Grants Chair and Board Member, Karen Arthurton, who has been a valued part of Community One Foundation since 2018!
How did you first learn of Community One?
I first learned about Community One from a dear friend and colleague – Dr. Steven Solomon who was on the Board at that time. I was asked to participate in the Rainbow Grants Allocations Committee which I loved and continued on with this participation until joining the Board in 2018.
Why is Community One important to you?
Community One is important to me in connection to supporting 2SLGBTQ+ communities with a particular focus on BIPOCQT community members. This year’s focus was placed on first-time applicants and those within the BIPOCQT community. Recognizing the intersections of queerness, race, mental health, ability as a few examples is a key passion of mine.
Do you have a favourite memory/initiative with Community One?
Yes, my favourite time of year is Rainbow Grants. Bringing together 10+ community members to review incredible initiatives committed to providing programming for the 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Especially during this time, coming together to support our community members and providing funding showcases our passion, and commitment to our community members.
As Community One is a volunteer board, what other roles do you take on in your time?
I am a full-time Contract Lecturer with a University in the School of Social Work. I teach second, third and fourth-year students. I am also a Consultant providing training in the areas of AOP and ABR.
What do you want people to know about Community One Foundation?
Community One has a 41 year history/herstory/theirstory in supporting 2SLGBTQ+ community members. As a voluntary working board the commitment to our community members is unwavering and moving forward we make a commitment to supporting the TRC’s Calls to Action in thoughtful ways. We continue to acknowledge ‘issues’ in line with our community and the ways to move beyond performative ‘allyship’ toward substantive engagement.