Love in Action: What Community Philanthropy Really Means.
We often say that philanthropy is not only about dollars – it is about belief. It is about neighbours helping neighbours. It is about choosing to care.
This time of year, as we celebrate Valentine’s Day and the connections that matter most, we are reminded that generosity is one of the most powerful expressions of love a community can offer.
In this edition of Extraordinary Connections, you will read stories that reflect that love in action. From a local student who shared his gratitude for support through the Ron C. Wells Geological Award, to wildfire prevention initiatives helping protect homes in the North Thompson Valley, each story highlights how community generosity becomes meaningful impact.
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We see it in students who are able to focus on their studies because an award eases financial pressure. We see it in families who feel safer knowing wildfire preparedness efforts are strengthening their neighbourhoods. We see it in the quiet decisions people make to invest in something larger than themselves.
Community philanthropy is different from transactional giving. It is collective. It is thoughtful. It is rooted in long-term care for a place and its people. When a donor creates a funds with our Foundation, their generosity becomes enduring. Through endowed funds, gifts are invested and protected, and a portion of the earnings is granted each year. This means one act of generosity will continue to create an impact forever!
There is no single path to giving. Some people establish funds during their lifetime. Others include charitable gifts in their estate plans. Some wish to honour a loved one. Others are passionate about education, the environment, arts and culture, or community well-being. What matters most is that generosity reflects intention and values.
As we look ahead, our commitment remains clear. We will steward community generosity with care. We will remain responsive to emerging needs. And we will continue working alongside donors, volunteers, and partners to ensure that giving creates meaningful and lasting impact across the Interior.
Community foundations exist because people believe in the power of collective action. They believe that, together, ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference.
We invite you to explore this edition of Extraordinary Connections and see how generosity continues to shape our region. If you have ever wondered how your own giving might continue building a stronger, more connected community, we would be happy to talk. There is no obligation and no urgency, just a conversation about what feels right.