Townshippers Research & Cultural Foundation (Townshippers Foundation for short) has been part of the Eastern Townships story since 1986. We began as an offshoot of Townshippers’ Association, a long-standing community group dedicated to the well-being of English-speaking residents. While we still share space and collaborate with the Association, we are an independent non-profit charitable foundation led by a volunteer board.

From day one, our mission has been simple: connect the generosity of donors with the needs of our community. Over the years, we’ve awarded more than $1 million in grants, helping 65+ grassroots projects take root and grow — from youth programs and cultural festivals to senior services and heritage preservation.

We’re here for the helpers:
the small local organizations making a big impact.

By managing and distributing charitable gifts and bequests, we make sure your support goes straight to where it’s needed most.

What We Do

There’s something special about the Eastern Townships. We have a strong sense of community and a long tradition of taking care of our neighbours. Across the region, people are working hard to preserve our heritage, care for our elders, support youth, and build more inclusive communities.

We believe in their efforts. That’s why we award grants to grassroots groups and nonprofit organizations whose work aligns with three core focus areas:

• Community Care: Health, social services, seniors’ wellbeing
• Belonging & Culture: The arts, heritage, cultural development
• Empowerment & Success: Education, youth, and research

Where We Are

Our reach spans the historic Eastern Townships, covering the Estrie region and parts of Centre-du-Québec, Chaudière-Appalaches, and Montérégie. From small towns to rural villages, it’s a diverse and vibrant area, rich in history and culture.

French and English-speaking communities have lived side-by-side here for generations, creating a region known for its dual heritage and mutual support. While our population is shrinking, passionate people continue to create meaningful change. When you support the Foundation, you help amplify their work.

Our Team

We keep administration lean so more funds go directly to the community. The Foundation is run by a small staff and a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors who guides our mission and keeps us grounded in community values.

Board of Directors:  Jane Loiselle (President), Brenda Hartwell (Secretary-Vice President), James Kanner (Treasurer), Heather Bowman, Bev Taber-Smith, Wendy Patrick, Jo-Ann Öberg-Müller, Mary Gunter. Administrative Support: Matt Clairmont, Accounting Clerk