One spark, endless possibilities!

THE BURTON FAMILY FOUNDATION (BFF)

The Burton Family Foundation (BFF) is committed to uplifting lives across Northern Ontario by removing barriers and opening doors to opportunity. Through investments in the arts, education, and community development, we nurture creativity, expand access to learning, and foster belonging—helping individuals and communities flourish for generations to come.

Your BFF Family 

The Burton Family Foundation (BFF) is rooted in something close to our hearts: the belief that everyone deserves the chance to express themselves through the arts.

Co-founded by father–daughter duo Brian Burton and Ashley Burton Rantala, our mission is deeply personal. As a family from Northern Ontario, we’ve experienced first-hand how artistic creativity and opportunity can spark confidence, connection, and possibility. Together, we wanted to give back to the community that shaped us—by opening more doors for local artists, dreamers, and change makers.

Through mentorship, community partnerships, workshops, and grants, our goal is simple: to nurture imagination and spark creativity across Northern Ontario.

BFF

BFF

Want to stay in the loop with all the exciting things happening at the Burton Family Foundation? From arts education updates to community initiatives and exclusive stories, our newsletter is your go-to place for everything creative and inspiring!

Small Actions, Big Impact!

PROGRAMS WE FUND

The Burton Family Foundation invests in youth and champions the arts as a pathway to opportunity, confidence, and connection.

We support:

  • Youth Arts Education – Creative workshops and training that spark exploration and skill-building.

  • Creative Leadership – Arts-based projects that grow confidence, teamwork, and youth leadership.

  • Cultural Access & Equity – Expanding access to performances, exhibitions, and cultural experiences.

  • Community-Rooted Initiatives – Local projects addressing underserved needs and amplifying youth voices.

  • Mentorship & Pathways – Connecting emerging artists with guidance and opportunities for growth.

  • Arts & Well-Being – Programs using creativity to support resilience, expression, and mental health.

  • Collaborative Partnerships – Schools, organizations, and community groups working together for impact.

Meet BFF’s Executive Director

Ashley Burton Rantala

MFA, BFA, BEd

Ashley Burton Rantala is a passionate community leader and advocate for arts and culture, with more than 20 years of experience across arts education, business, academics, and community initiatives. She holds a Master of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Bachelor of Education from York University. Ashley is dedicated to fostering collaboration and building opportunities where creativity and connection can thrive.

As Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Burton Family Foundation, Ashley champions access to the arts while also supporting community-rooted projects that reflect local voices and needs. From mentorship programs to cultural partnerships, she works to ensure that individuals and communities across Northern Ontario have the resources to explore, express, and grow through the arts.

With a background that bridges education and the arts, Ashley brings people together to spark dialogue, cultivate creativity, and strengthen community bonds. She is recognized for her ability to turn ideas into action, weaving together artistic vision and community engagement to create inclusive spaces where the arts are celebrated as a vital part of life and well-being.

Get in touch.

At the Burton Family Foundation (BFF), every change begins with an idea. Reach out to explore how we can partner to achieve your community and creativity goals.

Burton Family Foundation

Sudbury, Ontario, Canada

Registered Charity #79197 0965 RR0001