Helen and Francis Barnett have been longstanding pillars of the Kamloops community, recognized for their deep commitment to the arts and public service. Helen generously volunteered with the BC Interior Community Foundation, serving for many years on the Granting Committee and helping to guide the Foundation’s philanthropic efforts. Her dedication to the community also extended to public office, having served on both Kamloops City Council and the School Board. Both she and Francis have generously supported numerous arts organizations, including the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra and Western Canada Theatre, where they are recognized as valued donors.

Francis Barnett is a respected Kamloops-based lawyer with over four decades of experience in corporate, commercial, real estate, and wills and estate law. He earned his law degree from Osgoode Hall and has practised locally from 1979 to 2014.

In keeping with their lifelong commitment to community betterment, the Barnetts established the Helen and Francis Barnett Fund at the BC Interior Community Foundation. This endowed fund provides discretionary granting resources to address emerging and urgent needs in Kamloops, with a particular focus on supporting initiatives in arts, culture, environment, and recreation. Their legacy of service and generosity will continue to uplift and enrich the community they love for generations to come.