In recent interview with one of the trustees of the Invest in Our Future Foundation (IIOFF), James Sedgwick (1976F), we explore how this dedicated charitable trust has been quietly supporting young ODs  as they embark on their professional journeys. From financial assistance to mentorship opportunities, IIOFF is deeply committed to empowering the next generation. Here's what James had to share about their journey, current initiatives, and how the public can help.

Q: Can you share a bit about how the IIOFF came to be and its core mission?

The IIOFF was established as a standalone registered charitable trust, separate from the ODU, with the specific goal of supporting young ODs. Many of these newly graduated individuals are starting out and face significant challenges. We aim to assist them financially and through mentorship to help them find their feet and build their futures. A recent example of our mentorship work is the inaugural Bishop’s Scholars Evening, where younger ODs had the chance to hear firsthand experiences from recent graduates. It’s about giving back to the community and supporting each other.

Q: How does the IIOFF identify candidates for assistance?

We maintain a close relationship with the Bishop's Support Unit, which is instrumental in identifying students in need of financial support or mentorship. This collaborative approach allows us to connect with candidates who might not otherwise reach out and ensures that our resources are directed toward those who will benefit most.

Q: How has the foundation funded its initiatives so far?

Initially, we secured funding through a corporate partner, which provided a foundation for our efforts. Since then, we’ve relied on the generosity of our community, hosting various fundraising events. We’ve held everything from small gatherings to larger events like our most recent Bishop’s and OD art exhibition and wine tasting, which took place at the new cultural center on the College campus. These events have not only raised funds but also helped to foster a sense of community and shared purpose among supporters.

Q: The art exhibition and wine tasting event sounds like it was a great event. How has it helped your fundraising efforts?

It has been incredibly positive but we would have loved to have double the amount of people attend and even more participate in the online charitable auction! The event allowed us to contribute a significant amount to our reserves but we  have decided to extend the art auction and raffle until November 30. This gives more people the opportunity to support local artists and OD winemakers, and, ultimately, contribute to the foundation’s mission.

Q: What challenges does the IIOFF currently face in supporting young ODs?

One of our greatest challenges is having to turn away some applicants simply because we lack the funds to assist them. It’s heartbreaking to see bright, motivated individuals who need a hand up, and to know we can't always provide that due to financial constraints. We rely entirely on contributions and fundraising events to operate, so every bit of support makes a tangible difference.

Q: What does the future look like for IIOFF, especially as you await PBO status?

Securing Public Benefit Organization (PBO) status will be a game-changer for us. Once it’s in place, we plan to expand our outreach and engage more actively with the OD community, parents, and alumni. This status will allow us to approach fundraising more ambitiously, and we hope to grow the foundation’s impact significantly. In the meantime, we’re doing everything we can to maximize current support through events like the ongoing art auction and raffle.

Q: Finally, how can others support the IIOFF’s mission today?

We encourage everyone to consider participating in our current art auction and raffle, both of which run until November 30. And if art or raffles aren’t of interest, donations of any size at any time make a real difference and enable us to reach more young people in need.

Q: Any last thoughts?

We just want to say a HUGE thank you to the amazing OD winemakers and OD artists who were part of the Bishops 175 Wine Tasting and Art Exhibition.  Many of these ODs regularly sow into the lives of others through their participation and support.  We applaud you!

Heres how to Support the IIOFF:

Whether you’re bidding on art, buying a raffle ticket (see the details below), or making a direct donation, every contribution counts. Support the Invest in Our Future Foundation’s efforts by scanning the QR code at the end of this article to donate or get involved.

CLICK HERE to bid on the art and wine in the auction and watch the video below to see what is on offer.

Auction 2024 by Bishops ODU

The raffle prize is pictured below with the QR code to scan.

Should you simply want to donate to the IIOFF, the details are below.

Without your involvement we can't make an impact, thank you!