Barbara's Legacy

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About Barb
A Visionary in Philanthropy

Barbara McInnes’s work in philanthropy speaks volumes about the impact one life can have. Barb stands as a beacon of inspiration. Her work in philanthropy has touched countless lives, creating ripples of change that continue to grow. 

About the Book
Barbara McInnes, a board member with The Match International Women’s Fund, with Grete Hale at a reception the McInnes hosted at their home for The Match International Women's Fund to honour the organization's patron, Shirley Greenberg's. Ottawa Citizen, October 29, 2015 Photo by Caroline Phillips.
Jess Tomlin, executive director of The Match International Women's Fund, with the organization's patron, Shirley Greenberg, at a private event held by Barbara McInnes Wednesday, October 28, 2015, to celebrate Greenberg's contributions. The Ottawa Citizen October 29, 2015 Photo by Caroline Phillips.
Photo of Barb Nov 11, 2015 South Africa – Barb insisted we stop and pick up hitchhikers.
Photo of Barb with Scott Florence January 7, 2014 of the Company of Fools, one of the most unique Shakespearean companies in Canada.
   Founding Ottawa Art Gallery Board Chair Glenn McInnes and Barbara McInnes at the opening gala for the new Ottawa Art Gallery April 30, 2018. Photo by Caroline Phillips.
Barb McInnes on Fogo Island.

Barb served as president of the
Ottawa Community Foundation for 27 years.

Barbara McInnes dedicated her life to enhancing the culture of philanthropy in Ottawa, across Canada, & internationally. 

For 27 years, as President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Ottawa, Barb was at the forefront of transformative work, creating new avenues for individuals to invest in their communities and foster lasting change. 

Her leadership went far beyond her role at the Foundation. Barb played a pivotal part in shaping the Community Foundations of Canada and the International Transatlantic Community Foundation Network, and she was instrumental in the development of numerous local foundations across the country.

Her ability to create change continues to echo through the lives of those she inspired.

As a mentor, a supporter, and a source of inspiration, Barb shaped the lives of many who walked alongside her in their philanthropic journeys.

Her guidance, generosity, and unwavering belief in the power of people to create positive change continue to echo through the lives of those she inspired.

Glenn McInnes and his wife, Barbara McInnes, with Chamberfest board member Adam Moscoe and Catherine Bélanger at the Chamberfest Reception hosted by the Embassy of France on July 25, 2018. Photo by Caroline Phillips.
Photo of Barb McInnes on Aug 8, 2015 at the Almonte puppet festival.
Barb with Telus executive Michael Sangster, Janet Yale, a former executive with Telus, and Shirley Westeinde at the AFP Ottawa Philanthropy Awards Dinner, held Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2014, at the Shaw Centre. Photo by Caroline Phillips /Ottawa Citizen.
Barb at the Order of Canada 50th Anniversary Gathering at Rideau Hall on August 26, 2017. This celebration marked both the 50th anniversary of the creation of Canada’s most prestigious honour and the 150th anniversary of Confederation.
“I think of Barb so very often, of her many accomplishments but far more, her enjoyment of life and people. She had such an awareness of and interest in both people and community in all its levels.  And a wonderful sense of humour. It's tempting to think of her on just one level - someone who used her powers for good - but she was so much more than that, complex and human.”
Pam Martin, High School Friend
"Barb understood how to build community. She was special and unusual. She was a comrade more than an ally. She was straightforward. She was principled. She was brave. She was an institution in this town. She was universally respected across all lines of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation. That is not common. She was a remarkable person."
Adrian Harewood, Associate Professor Carleton University
“Barb understands the importance of empowering leaders in the sector. I will always remember the great advice she gave me over the years as I was building the Ottawa Riverkeeper. Generous and wise."
Meredith Brown
Meredith Brown, Riverkeeper Emeritus