Our Commitments

At the very centre of everything we do at the Rural Communities Foundation of Nova Scotia (RCFNS) are rural communities; they are the heart of our commitments.

Around this centre, our work is guided by four big pledges:

• Supporting the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• Using the Nova Scotia Social Determinants of Health to understand and work toward fair and healthy communities

• Following the Philanthropic Commitment to Truth and Reconciliation

• Following the Canadian Philanthropy Commitment to Climate Change

We believe that if we ignore problems like poor health, poverty, or climate change, it will undo progress in equity, human rights, Indigenous rights, and community well-being—especially for people who are most at risk.

Here’s what these commitments mean in practice:

• Health and equity: Everyone deserves the chance to be healthy, no matter who they are or where they live. Reducing health inequalities means making opportunities fair and equal.

• Truth and Reconciliation: We invite everyone to walk together in understanding, dignity, and respect, so we can build stronger relationships with Indigenous communities and move toward reconciliation.

• Climate Action: We face a climate emergency. We ask people to step up, learn from past experiences, and act with even more urgency to protect our environment and communities.

• Poverty and growth: Ending poverty goes hand in hand with creating good jobs, supporting education, protecting health, and building strong economies—while also protecting the environment.

At RCFNS, our circle of commitments always comes back to rural communities at the centre. We work in partnership with others across Nova Scotia to make sure all people and communities can thrive.