A version of this article was originally published in the spring 2025 issue of FP Standard Magazine. You can download it or read the full issue online.
Laura Boudreau is Interim Executive Director at the Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning. She’s had a distinguished career in the non-profit sector, and most recently served as Director of Development for the Image Centre and Public Realm at Toronto Metropolitan University. Laura’s also an active volunteer and esteemed author. We caught up with her to discuss her new role.
What excites you most about your role at the Foundation?
It’s a privilege to lead the Foundation at this exciting stage of its evolution. I’m energized by the work we’re undertaking to shift from pilot mode to sustained, ongoing programming, and to grow our reach and impact across the country. There’s a real appetite within the profession to tackle issues of access and equity, and the Foundation offers a meaningful platform to do that.
What have you learned about education in past roles that you want to apply here?
I’ve seen how vital it is to co-create programs with participants and community partners—listening closely to community members’ lived experiences, understanding the goals of like-minded organizations, and building trust.
I want our work to reflect the realities of people’s lives, and for the Foundation to be listening and learning as we go. One of the things we’ve learned so far is that it’s of huge value to deliver programming in multiple languages. So far, we’ve been able to serve newcomers to Canada by offering workshops in Farsi, Dari, and Arabic.
Why should Canadians care about financial resilience for all?
For many Canadians, especially those facing systemic barriers, gaining confidence and clarity around money can be life changing. But financial resilience isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a public one. Too often, people who could benefit most from financial education and information face barriers—including cost, lack of trust, or simply not knowing where to turn. When everyone can navigate financial challenges and plan for the future, we will all benefit. A financially resilient society builds a healthier, more inclusive, and more equitable Canada.
What do you most hope to achieve during your time at the Foundation?
My goal is for the Foundation to grow into a force for lasting change, from coast to coast to coast. If I can work alongside community partners and volunteer financial planning professionals to help set that in motion, I’ll have done my job.
