About us

Community First is dedicated to reducing poverty in Saskatoon; to helping people in our community build better lives.

The Community First Development Fund provides financing for long-term local community economic development projects. Projects that address the causes, rather than the symptoms, of poverty.

Community First creates opportunities. Opportunities for marginalized people to create employment and become self-sufficient. Opportunities for people to become productive contributing members of our community.

We are a registered charity and are funded through donations as well as the sale of Community First Investment Certificates.

Our Mission

To reduce poverty in Saskatoon and surrounding regions by fostering community economic development through financing opportunities.

Our Vision

Community First is a local community-based charitable organization focused on working cooperatively with other organizations to stimulate and empower community economic development by supporting the development and financing of of sound, innovative projects that balance economic and social benefits.

Our Goals

  • Mobilize ethical capital to create a community investment pool

  • finance community economic development initiatives not serviced by existing financial institutions, preferentially in close cooperation with community anti-poverty organizations

  • identify common needs and interests in Saskatoon and facilitate development of community economic development solutions

  • manage Community First effectively and efficiently

Our Values

Community First Development Fund of Saskatoon is built on the belief that vibrant, healthy communities are built by everyone’s efforts. We subscribe to CED values:

  • incorporation of both economic and social goals

  • inclusion of marginalized groups and individuals, those who are often excluded from participating fully in society

  • socio-economic and cultural understanding

  • development of an “enterprising culture”, based upon a philosophy of self-reliance, creativity and innovation

  • cooperation, equity and equal opportunity


Community First investments benefit us all; donate today