Mark Farrell
"As a parent of two young children, it's important for me to
support family programs that make a long-term difference -
programs that address child development, children's mental
health and the effects of family violence."
Mark Farrell has played a critical role on the Child Development Institute Foundation Board since joining in 2004 and as President since 2007. With a background volunteering with young offenders and kids, he was looking for work that addressed the changing needs of children in our city.
"I was new to Toronto and Child Development Institute seemed to be a good fit," says Mark. "It was shortly after Earlscourt and the Crèche merged to create Child Development Institute. It was a new beginning for an organization with a long history. The programs were innovative and evidence-based, there was a strong focus on research and knowledge and, most of all, it was an organization that strengthened families and children."
Mark is President and CEO of The Futura Loyalty Group, a Toronto based company that markets and manages a suite of rewards programs (including Aeroplan) to the mid tier retail and service provider sectors in Canada.
When asked why he thinks Child Development Institute's work is so important, Mark responds, "As a parent of two young children, it's important for me to support family programs that make a long-term difference - programs that address child development, children's mental health and the effects of family violence. The money invested now, early, has such a huge impact on children, their families, and the entire community. The cost-savings of prevention and early intervention services is significant."
