COMMUNITY ONE BLOG

Getting to Know You! Michelle Doyle, Community One Foundation Board Member

Our interview series returns to help you get to know the very special people who make up our Community One Foundation board! Over the next few weeks, be sure to check this space to learn more about our newest members and how they’re contributing to the many missions of Community One Foundation. First up, the incredible Michelle Doyle!

1. How did you first learn of Community One?
Although volunteering has been part of my life for over a decade, I was looking to take a more active role within my own community. When I saw the work Community One was doing, I knew I wanted to be part of it. 

2. What is your role and for long have you been involved?
I am on the Board of Directors and have been since July 2022

3. Why is Community One important to you? Community One is important to me because it’s people supporting people. I love how grants are awarded to proactive and passionate members of our diverse LGBTQ+ community whose initiatives build confidence, strengthen ties, and improve lives.

4. Do you have a favourite memory/initiative with Community One? Feel free to elaborate! 
The Rainbow Grants Presentation Ceremony. It was a wonderful evening filled with joy, celebration, and a palpable sense of community. To be part of that was such a gift.

5. As Community One is a volunteer board, what other roles do you take on in your time?
I’m a writer and speaker, so it’s fair to say that my work and hobbies revolve around the power of language. Prior to the pandemic, I taught a weekly yoga class at Amnesty International’s Toronto office. They do incredible human rights work, and the staff there are some of the greatest people I have ever met. Hockey Helps the Homeless and 360 Kids are other organizations close to my heart.

6. What do you want people to know about Community One Foundation?

Many organizations talk about diversity and inclusion, however the Community One Foundation practices it by directly investing in projects that build and strengthen the many subcommunities within Toronto’s larger LGBTQ+ family. This is essential, and one of the many reasons I’m grateful Community One exists.