Strong families
At Family Foundations Institute, we recognize the family as the foundation of society, “the original cell of social life” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2207).
Our Mission
We seek to connect, inform, and encourage families through many events and activities.
Connect
We facilitate and support connections for all members of the family, providing opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and feel part of a larger community.
Inform
We provide access to events and programs built on quality resources and speakers that adhere to the teachings of the Magisterium of the Roman Catholic Church and the Pope.
Encourage
Through our connections and formational activities we consistently seek to encourage all members of the family in their striving for holiness, no matter what stage of life.
About Us
Family Foundations Institute is a Registered Canadian Charity working to strengthen families. We started out small in London and Stratford as three families, meeting at their homes on a regular basis for family rosary, snack, and a time of catechesis. We now run a number of formation initiatives for men, women, boys, girls, teens, and young adults.
What We Do
We provide the following initiatives and opportunities, click on each item to learn more.
Upcoming Events
Check out our featured upcoming events for an opportunity to #ActivateDomesticChurch
Family Camp Week 2 2022
Family Camp is a wonderful opportunity for families to share vacation time; being active or hanging out together in an enriching atmosphere of outdoor rest and recreation.
Young Adult Canoe Trip
We're going on a canoe trip! Twelve canoes with life jackets are available on a first come basis. Register early, to reserve a canoe.
Family Camp Week 3 2022
Family Camp is a wonderful opportunity for families to share vacation time; being active or hanging out together in an enriching atmosphere of outdoor rest and recreation.
Anchor Camp for Girls 2022
This camp proves that making lasting friendships and having fun is a natural part of living a virtuous life!
Our Team
Working remotely or from the office in Glencoe Ontario.
Brian Simpson
Joanna Simpson
Sarah Small
Kelly Skin
Adam Helmers
Connie Vanderheyden
Anne Marie Posella
Paul Trombley
Frequently Asked Questions
Get to know us better by exploring the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Who oversees Family Foundations Institute?
FFI is overseen by a Board of Directors. The Executive Director is charged with implementing the organization’s Board-approved initiatives within the annual Board-approved budget. The Executive Director, along with 3 part time staff (2 admin, 1 youth coordinator), coordinate many lay volunteers who implement FFI activities and initiatives. Each event has designated lay coordinators to assist in executing these events.
FFI is guided by Principle #1 and is constantly checking and referencing materials used seeking to ensure there is a Nihil Obstat (i.e., certification by an official censor appointed by a bishop that a book is not objectionable on doctrinal or moral grounds), and by seeking guidance from appropriate individuals (including individuals of the Diocese of London) who are in good standing with their dioceses.
The main curriculum used for Family Catechism is the “Faith and Life” series. Family Catechism and Pure Life Gatherings also rely heavily on Formed.org for teaching materials. For speakers brought in for FFI Events, FFI follows the appropriate vetting process of the Diocese of London.
Is FFI a Secular Institute or Association?
No, FFI is not a formally approved Secular Institute or Association nor does it seek to be. FFI is a registered charity and is simply a lay endeavor initiated by the personal initiative of individuals.
Does FFI help the Church and parishes?
Yes, FFI helps the Church and parishes by encouraging lay members of the Church.
FFI supplements faith formation received at the parishes and aims to ignite a desire for participants to be more involved in their parishes and the Church. A multitude of experiences and evaluations show that participants have been reinvigorated in practicing their faith, to becoming more involved in their parish and have returned to their Church.
Many of the parents and youth from Family Catechism are the people who are the pro-claimers, altar servers, Eucharistic ministers, choir members, teachers of parish sacramental formation, marriage prep, finance members, etc. because they attend their parish with their families, because they have authentic formation, and because they want to serve.
For example, over the years there have been teachers from 28 parishes in the London and surrounding area who have had a part in delivering the London Family Catechism. Repeatedly teachers have remarked that they are much better formed and strengthened in their faith because of their involvement in the catechism program; further, they are confident and enthused about further participating in Parish life.
There have also been individual initiatives that FFI has incubated or supported that benefit parishes. (For example, Sarnia Marriage Conference or Men of Faith Listowel)
Does FFI have a Vulnerable Sector Policy
Yes, FFI has a Vulnerable Sector Policy entitled “Made in God’s Image” – you can read the policy here.
Knowing where to turn for help when faced with challenges can be confusing. Here’s a place to start for you and your loved ones. Mental wellness outreach from Family Foundations Institute offers tips, resources, support, and referrals for anyone facing mental health challenges.
Past Events
Are you thinking of attending an upcoming event? Check out these past events for more insight into what we have to offer!