Darren is the former CEO of Abundance Canada, a public foundation that works with a variety of donors to create charitable impact, often through Donor-Advised Funds. During his 15-year tenure as CEO Abundance Canada grew its asset base from $115M to $267M and granted $300M to charity on behalf of donors. In 2016 he led a rebranding process of Abundance Canada (formerly Mennonite Foundation of Canada) that included a redrafting of organizational by-laws, Board policies, and the governance model.
He is the former Chair of both the National Board of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners and the CAGP Foundation. In 2021 Darren received the ‘Friend Award’ from CAGP for his contributions to the organization and the charitable sector.
Currently, he serves on the Boards of Imagine Canada and Shalom Counselling Services based in Waterloo, ON. He has degrees in Theology and Leadership and has held the Certified Financial Planner designation since 2009.
Darren brings more than 25 years of leadership experience within Canada’s charitable and philanthropic sector, most recently serving as CEO of Abundance Canada, one of the country’s leading public foundations focused on generosity, charitable gift planning, and donor impact. Throughout his career, Darren has built a national reputation for thoughtful leadership, relationship-building, and a deep commitment to advancing philanthropy across Canada.
In addition to his executive leadership experience, Darren is widely respected across the sector for his volunteer and governance contributions. He is a past Chair of both the national board of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP) and the CAGP Foundation Board, currently serves on the Board of Directors of Imagine Canada, and was recognized as a “Friend of CAGP” in recognition of his contributions to the profession and philanthropic community.
Darren’s experience in strategic philanthropy, donor engagement, governance, leadership development, and charitable gift planning will further strengthen our national team of senior professionals. Just as importantly, Darren is known throughout the sector as a values-driven leader who believes deeply in the power of generosity, collaboration, and meaningful relationships.
Known for his warmth and kindness, Darren is passionate about building healthy organizations defined by inclusivity, collaboration, and safety. This begins with strong healthy leadership. It is the job of every leader and supervisor to bring the best out of every member of the team. (People are more likely to leave because of bad leadership than a lousy job.)
Prior to his time with Mennonite Foundation of Canada/ Abundance Canada, Darren was a church minister. He brings that same compassion for people and service to Global Philanthropic.
Fun fact: Darren is a motorcycle enthusiast, sports fan, former hockey and volleyball coach, and jazz aficionado. He has even been known to croon a few tunes with his bandmates. Oh, and he makes a mean pot of chili to go with his smoked brisket.