The Canadian Occupational Therapy Foundation became a reality on May 17, 1983. The first Board of Governors consisted of three prominent Occupational Therapists: Karen Goldenberg, President; Dr. Thelma Cardwell, Vice President and Dr. Isobel Robinson, Secretary / Treasurer.

The purpose of the Canadian Occupational Therapy Foundation has always been to support research and scholarship in the field of occupational therapy. The Foundation’s focus has been on generating, receiving and maintaining funds and developing mechanisms for granting awards to individuals and organizations for research and scholarships, which have an impact on clients.

From 1983 to 1995, COTF and CAOT shared office space in Toronto. When CAOT relocated to Ottawa in 1995, COTF remained in Toronto. However, a decision was made in 2002 for the Foundation to once again share office space with CAOT in order to foster a synergistic relationship which would benefit the entire occupational therapy community. From 2004 to 2015, COTF shared CAOT’s office space and services in Ottawa. Since 2015, COTF is still in Ottawa, has been enjoying its own working environment.

COTF recognizes CAOT as COTF’s founding partner and is grateful to CAOT for the support.