Welcome to a Fundholder Story

A timeless gift to young Burlingtonians

The name Munro has its own unique legacy in the city of Burlington. From 1977-1978, Mary Munro was Burlington’s first and only female Mayor. Mary is also well-known as a community leader, child advocate, environmental commissioner, volunteer extraordinaire and mentor. Her husband, Donald (Don) Munro was a successful entrepreneur; a generous donor to Queen’s and McMaster University; and a contributor and fundraiser for community capital projects.

In 2009, Mary and Don created a fund with Burlington Community Foundation to establish and honour a very personal family legacy. The Sarah and Donald Munro Memorial Fund is named for their beloved children, Sarah Anne and Donald James, who were both lost suddenly in accidents. Through this fund, Mary and Don envisioned positive outcomes for local individuals, families and society.

“We hope to continue celebrating the joy that Sarah and Donald brought to us and all who knew them.” shares Mary. “A memorial fund is a way to keep their spirits alive by helping children and youth in our community for years to come.”

This Field of Interest Fund is targeted towards intervention in the early years of a child’s life. Fund earnings are distributed to assist with programs for early child development, children and youth at risk, as well as promising students who are in need of financial assistance to further their education. “The Munro family has turned personal tragedy into a legacy of hope for Burlington children and youth,” shares Colleen Mulholland, Executive Director, Burlington Community Foundation.

Don Munro passed away in 2011. To further grow and nurture the fund, memorial gifts were donated to the Sarah and Donald Munro Memorial Fund. Many members of the Munro family, friends and colleagues made contributions to a legacy that keeps growing. Inspired by the work of Burlington Community Foundation, Don also left a bequest in his will to support the Foundation’s ongoing operations in the community.

Two local students from Assumption Secondary School have recently benefited from this memorial fund. “On behalf of the Munro family, I am so happy that we’ve been able to help these promising Burlington students with post-secondary scholarships,” says Mary. “Knowing that more kids will benefit in the future is both personally rewarding and deeply meaningful.”