Darren Pries-Klassen

Darren’s passions are many. He loves to travel; hoping to meet new people and hearing their story, especially when it includes generosity and support for charitable causes. As a leader, he continues to help the board and staff excel in their roles which has helped make Abundance Canada one of the most respected donor-advised foundations in the country.

He joined the organization in 1998 and became the CEO in 2009. For over twenty years he has been instrumental to the organization’s growth and in 2016 he successfully led the rebranding process from Mennonite Foundation of Canada to Abundance Canada. A sought-after speaker and writer, Darren is often at sector related events and his comments and articles are widely published.

Darren brings his integrity and open-mindedness into all aspects of his professional life; building relationships and connections with people to help them live and give generously. He believes generosity is a practical way of demonstrating the teachings of Jesus. In addition to his professionalism and high expectations, he also has a great sense of humour and loves to laugh. All of this makes Abundance Canada an attractive place for employees, directors, and clients.

Darren has an undergraduate degree in Theology and a graduate degree in Leadership. He completed the CREST leadership program and holds the Certified Financial Planner® professional designation. Darren has served on several boards including Kitchener-based Kindred Credit Union and Welcome Inn Community Centre in Hamilton. He is the past Chair of both the National Board of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP) and the CAGP Foundation Board. He currently sits on the Board of Directors of Imagine Canada.

When Darren is not at his day job or working with other organizations in the charitable sector, he can be found in the middle of a renovation project, working in his backyard garden, spending time with friends and family, reading, or watching his beloved Roughriders and Canadiens play.