Columbia Valley Pioneer Staff

Five local projects have received a monetary boost of $145,000 through the government of Canada’s Community Services (COVID) Recovery Fund.

The announcement was made on Aug. 17 by the Columbia Valley Community Foundation that heralded the following projects:

  • The Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance received $14,000 to create and execute a new donor engagement program and fundraising strategy.
  • The Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network received $29,000 to support the development of a remote learning platform about local environmental topics.
  • The Shuswap Band received $44,000 to support accounting upgrades.
  • Columbia Valley Search and Rescue Society received $18,000 to purchase IT equipment that will aid member training and terrain familiarization.
  • Family Dynamix Association received $40,000 to update organizational policies and procedures to reflect evolving challenges.

Since the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, community organizations have struggled with increased demand for their services, reduced revenues, and declines in charitable giving due to the rising cost of living.

Jenna Sudds, minister of Families, Children and Social Development, said these organizations are the “heart” of communities like the Columbia Valley that create a sense of belonging. She noted that the recovery fund will enable these groups to adapt and modernize their programs and services.

“Together we can rebuild from the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic and build a more just and equitable future for those in the Columbia Valley.”