The Alva Foundation
The Alva Foundation is a Canadian private foundation established in 1965 and registered as a charity under business number 890915978RR0001. It focuses on funding organizations that address risk factors in early childhood development (prenatal to age four) in Ontario, Canada, while also supporting broader initiatives for children, youth, and environmental causes[1][5].

Mission and Activities

The foundation envisions a world where all children are healthy, happy, and environmentally connected. It provides financial support to Canadian registered charities engaged in early childhood development research, service delivery, and environmental programs[1][2][5]. Historically, its work emphasized early childhood interventions, though its current focus includes youth well-being and environmental stewardship[1][5].

Governance

The Alva Foundation operates as a volunteer-run organization with no full-time staff. Its board of directors includes Alison Vilaca (Chair), Matthew Holden (Treasurer), Andrew McMartin (Secretary), and directors Breanne Mathers, Matthew Foy, Rebecca Mathers, and Tim McMartin[1][5]. As a private foundation, it receives funds without public solicitation and redistributes them to qualified donees[3][5].

Funding and Scope

Designated as a "foundation advancing education" by Canada Revenue Agency, the foundation prioritizes grants for educational and developmental programs. Its mandate includes funding research, services, and initiatives addressing systemic challenges faced by children and ecosystems[2][5]. While originally centered on Ontario's early childhood sector, recent activities reflect a broader geographic and thematic reach[1][5].