Each issue Foundation Magazine provides a mini-profile of five people whose work and commitment make Canada a more livable country. We thank them for their service.

Debbi Cosic is Founder & CEO of In2ition Realty, which held their 3rd Annual Holiday Wishes campaign which resulted in $27,430 being raised for the Peel Region Children’s Aid Foundation. In addition, as in past years, Debbie Cosic, Founder and CEO of In2ition, and Ralph Del Duca, Broker of Record of Orion Realty matched the donations collected for a grand total of $54,860 to help support vulnerable children in Peel Region. Her real estate career began in the 1980s, eventually leading to founding a brokerage and she became a self-made business woman in a highly competitive industry. Cosic is known for her generous spirit and her mentoring of new professionals in the industry and successfully managing multiple roles, from broker, to marketing dynamo, to mentor and philanthropist.

John Hassell is the Director of Communications and Engagement at Ontario Nature. The charity represents more than 30,000 members and supporters, and more than 150 groups across the province. Ontario Nature’s mission is to protect wild species and wild spaces through conservation, education and public engagement. He’s also the Editor of the organization’s quarterly magazine, ON Nature. Ontario Nature protects wild species and wild spaces through conservation, education and public engagement and is an award-winning quarterly that brings readers closer to nature by exploring Ontario’s natural areas and wildlife and providing insight into pressing environmental issues. The magazine features in-depth articles by nature specialists and stunning colour photography. Separately, JGH Consulting provides essential services for nonprofit organizations to maximize impact in a climate of growing needs and shrinking resources, helping organizations meet their mandates through effective communications and outreach.

Ron Smith is the volunteer treasurer of the AFP Calgary Chapter. From the tender age of twelve Ron has been raising money for causes he believes in. He regularly offers his time and expertise to boards and fundraising committees who require his help. This willingness to serve has provided him with many opportunities to help create and manage capital campaigns, annual giving campaigns, donor cultivation events, and soliciting for major gifts. Smith has held several senior positions over the past seven years with an emphasis on education, ministry and healthcare. Today Ron spends his days as a Major Gifts Officer with the Calgary Health Trust, a role he has been in since 2019. In his spare time, Ron enjoys being active with his family, reading, and serving others when able. He is currently completing a degree in Leadership from Trinity Western University and is working towards his CFRE designation as time permits.

The way Mohamed Hage approached his business of food has transitioned to include a charitable support initiative over recent years. The founder of Lufa Farms was a pioneer behind the world’s first commercial rooftop greenhouse. The company began by offering customizable weekly baskets with the season’s freshest offerings, with clients picking them up at their gym, local coffee shop or other locations. Lufa Farms founded their registered Charity in order to grow their Direct Giving Program. This vital step toward improving access to fresh food for Quebec families in need is accompanied by a new long-term partnership with the Fondation Lucie et André Chagnon through their mission-oriented investment of $7 million made in the form of a loan. With the launch of the Lufa Farms Foundation, the company will be supporting twice as many families without any administrative costs thanks to their automated online platform. The Lufa Farms Foundation is fully independent with dedicated governance, making it possible to collect external donations and meet the basic needs of families in vulnerable situations.

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The Editor

The Editor