Stories Legacy in Action / Donor Stories

A New Generation of Generosity: Ferdinand Lañgit

June 21, 2020 By: Lisa Catterall

A New Generation of Generosity: Ferdinand Lañgit

Growing up in Edmonton’s west end, Ferdinand Lañgit and his three siblings were introduced to the idea of charitable giving from a young age. Their parents were active members of their church  community, and were keen to instill the value of philanthropy in their kids.

“Giving back was just something that was done automatically — there was no question about it. It was just what we were raised to do,” he says.

So much so, that after completing his undergraduate degree, Lañgit was determined to make a difference in the world. He dreamed of working for a large national or international organization that could have a positive impact on large groups of people. He moved across the country to pursue this dream, but soon came to realize that the work he wanted to do — where he felt like he’d be making the most difference — could be done closer to home than he’d thought.

“I’d spent some time volunteering in housing for people living with HIV, and it dawned on me that this was how I could give back,” he says. “That was it for me. I knew from that point on that I had to work in the non-profit sector.”

Lañgit went on to work with and sit on the boards of a variety of non-profits in Edmonton. Through this experience, he came to appreciate one common thread that tied these organizations together: No matter which cause they supported, or how they worked to create change, each had a need for sustainable, longterm funding. So Lañgit decided to do his part.

“I realized I wasn’t in a place to make a large lump-sum donation, but I could start somewhere,” he says.

He discussed possible options with Edmonton Community Foundation. Then, he approached his family with the idea of creating a lasting legacy: the Lañgit Family Fund.

Unsurprisingly, the Lañgits didn’t require much convincing. “Everyone was on board right away. It was a great way for all of us to give back while keeping our personal interests in mind,” he says. And although the fund will not begin granting for some time, the family is excited to see the impact it will eventually, have in supporting arts, culture and seniors care — areas they all agreed should be top priority.

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