There’s no complicated government grant application forms and no long tense waiting periods. Community grants from Quesnel Community Foundation (QCF) are decided right here in the community and are handed out at a local gala.
The QCF began with a $50,000 donation from the B.C. Winter Games, held in Quesnel in 2002. The money was set up in an endowment fund with hopes it would grow and interest on the endowment would translate to grants to community groups for worthy projects.
The endowment fund has grown. This year, the fund is $1.7 million and QCF is delivering $55,000 to worthy local projects that help the community improve and helped create a better place to live.
The amazing growth of the endowment fund is thanks, primarily, to donations made for a variety of reasons, including in honour or in the memory of someone, family legacy funds, corporate and association funds and straight-forward donations.
As varied as the types of donations made are, QFC is flexible and prepared to work with families and organizations to ensure their donation fits their vision.
QCF’s Gala, slated for April 5, is the only major event sponsored by the organization.The gala serves three purposes. First the fundraiser, in part, offsets operating costs ensuring all donations are used to grow the endowment fund. Secondly, to raise awareness of the foundation and what it does.
“And finally and possibly the most important purpose is, to celebrate the amazing organizations we have the privilege of helping,” QCF coordinator Cathy Briggs said.
The Gala also includes a live auction, silent auction and entertainment by Rockin’ Chair.
Included in the live auction are some spectacular items, such as beautiful artwork by Maureen Wheeler and Richard Freeman, an amazing 14k gold coin minted in celebration of the 150th-year anniversary of the Cariboo Gold Rush. This item was donated in memory of amateur historian Andy Motherwell.
“There are gift certificates for an awesome array of services, dinners, gift cards and more,” Briggs said.
“And definitely a trip of a lifetime, we have a Gold Leaf Tour with Rocky Mountaineer valued at $4,100.”
Tickets for the Gala are $50 each and available at Sun Life Financial, Carvers Clothing Company or by calling Briggs, 250-747-1739.