The Definity Insurance Foundation has welcomed Arti Freeman as its founding CEO.

According to Definity, Freeman has nearly 20 years of experience in the philanthropic sector. She has led granting programs and strategies, organizational change initiatives, and business process improvements, most recently serving as the manager of partnership investments at the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).

"We are delighted to welcome Arti as our founding CEO. She has a proven track record in non-profits, as well as working with diverse communities and other partners to help drive systemic change," said Definity Insurance Foundation board chair Willy Robinson. "The Board believes Arti will establish a solid base for the Foundation as she grows our support for charities doing community-based work that reduces social inequities in health, opportunity, and climate-related challenges."

"Helping to establish and lead a new major philanthropic foundation in Canada that is committed to advancing equity and justice by building trust and working with communities is truly a privilege," commented Freeman on her appointment.

Freeman added that her personal philosophy revolves around establishing institutions that are “responsive, relevant, and mindful of recipients of [the organization’s] services,” so it is important to her that the Definity Insurance Foundation properly reflects the voices of the people it serves.

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The Definity Insurance Foundation was established following the demutualization of Definity Insurance Company – previously known as Economical Mutual Insurance Company – in November 2021. The Foundation received $100 million from the proceeds of this demutualization and is a registered charitable entity in Canada.