The Kamloops Foundation: Dedicated to Improving Quality of Life

The was the original website for the Kamloops Foundation. When the foundation changed its name to the BC Interior Community Foundation and created a new website, the kamloopsfoundation.com's domain registration was allowed to expire and the site disappeared from the web.

When I recently I discovered that the domain for the KamloopsFoundation.com/ was available I bought it with the goal of recreating some of its content from archived pages and to point visitors to the new website of the of its new iteration, BC Interior Community Foundation. For the latest news go to: bcinteriorcommunityfoundation.com/home. I definitely didn't want someone else purchasing the domain and re-purposing the site for something that had nothing in common with the foundation. This is a worth while foundation to donate money. They continue to award on a semi annual basis monies to not only eligible non profits which hold charitable registration with Revenue Canada, but also to community-based programs in the areas of Arts & Culture, Health & Welfare, Environment & Science, Humanities & Education, Seniors & Heritage, Sports & Recreation and other charitable activities. Please view this site in a historical perspective.

I first learned about the Kamloops Foundation a number of years ago from friends who were visiting from Canada. The occasion remains firmly ingrained in my memory because of an accident that occurred during diner in our newly renovated condo. We had just purchased an expensive oriental rug as the center piece to the living room. While we were sipping wine before dinner was to be served, a bottle of red wine was knocked off the side board by our cat. It crashed on the floor and splashed the red wine on the carpet. What a disaster. We thought the rug was ruined before we even had started enjoying it. Fortunately a web search resulted in us finding a carpet/rug cleaning nyc company that specialized in cleaning fine Oriental, Persian, Pakistani, Afghan, Chinese, Indian, antique, handmade rugs. From what was a disaster, we truly were lucky in finding the Agara Rug Cleaning company. Their expert team of area rug cleaners handled our stain removal perfectly. As the owner said to us when he came to inspect the stain: no matter how terrible the rug may look to you, our expert team can handle it. And he was right. If you were familiar with the Kamloops Foundation, you will note that this page does not look the same. Please be indulgent. The following content was taken from the site's achieved pages, Now please step back in time to when the BC Interior Community Foundation was known as the Kamloops Foundation.

Welcome to the Kamloops Foundation. We are dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Thompson, Nicola and South Cariboo Region. Each Year we try to enhance our mission by building legacies and supporting projects that benefit the region. With a very generous grant from the Vancouver Foundation we established community funds for Barriere, Clearwater, Chase, Logan Lake, Merritt, Ashcroft, Cache Creek, Lytton, Lillooett and Clinton. Each Year we try to enhance our mission by building legacies and supporting projects that benefit the region. With a very generous grant from the Vancouver Foundation we established community funds. These funds will build to support worthwhile projects in their communities and grants from funds earnings will be made at the direction of these local area committees. Endowment funds managed by the Foundation are invested in perpetuity and earnings are distributed annually to assist charitable organizations in achieving their goals.

The Kamloops Community Foundation is a tax-exempt, nonprofit, autonomous, publicly supported, philanthropic local public charity. It manages a collection of permanently endowed funds created by individuals, companies, other foundations, and by charitable organizations for the long-term benefit of the Thompson, Nicola and South Cariboo area. Make a difference through our granting programs...

We serve: Ashcroft, Barriere, Cache Creek, Chase, Clearwater, Clinton, Kamloops, Lillooet, Logan Lake, Lytton, Merritt, the Thompson Nicola and the South Cariboo

We encourage residents of these areas to support their community funds in building community capacity for the future.

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What Is Our Goal

The Kamloops Community Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Thompson, Nicola and South Cariboo Region by distributing the earnings from a permanent, ever-growing pool of funds.

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THE FOUNDATION

Builds and manages permanent endowment funds for community betterment, by providing a range of giving options to meet donor interests.
Attracts and manages charitable gifts of cash, securities, pledges, bequests, memorial and life insurance to the permanent endowment funds.
Invests these pooled funds prudently and uses the earnings to make creative grants to support the efforts of not-for-profit groups, in areas such as Arts & Culture, Health & Welfare, Environment & Science, Humanities & Education, Seniors & Heritage and Sports & Recreation, and other charitable activities.
Assists, cooperates and shares information with others in the effective application of charitable resources.

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HOW DOES IT WORK?

The Concept of a Community Foundation is as ingenious as it is simple - it is a means to build, over time, through contributions large and small, a collection of endowed funds. Because these contributions are endowed, they are never spent; instead, they are permanently invested to produce income. The income earned is then used to help meet the community's charitable needs. This is truly a win - win story, gifts to the Kamloops Foundation continue to benefit the area forever - philanthropy in its broadest sense.

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History

In 1984, Kamloops Mayor Mike Latta recognized that other centres in the Okanagan had formed community foundations. A formation committee including, Peter Wing, Ray Fucco, Jock Thomas, Bernie Kent, Heather Dack, Graham Noble, Richard Blair, Gino Commazzetto, Barney Lukas, Zdenka Princic, Hilbert DeLeeuw, S. Douglas Smith, and Mike Latta was formed and on the 17th September, 1984, the Kamloops Foundation was incorporated under the Societies Act of BC. Shortly thereafter they received their registration as a charity.

In 2010, our endowment base is approximately $3 million in over 120 different funds. Grants and distributions of approximately $150,000 where made to various organizations and projects in 2009.

Serving the Thompson, Nicola & South Cariboo area, we are proud to help 'make a difference' in our communities.

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Gift To The Foundation

How You Can Help?

Your contribution, large or small, lives on in perpetuity to support the changing needs of your community. Your contribution is placed in a fund of your choice and only the earnings of the funds is awarded to charitable causes and projects.

Donors are recognized and recorded in the Foundations annual report, or they can remain anonymous if they so desire. A designated endowment fund must have a minimum capital of $5,000, which may be contributed over five years. The Foundation is registered as a charity with Revenue Canada and, as such, issues official receipts for income tax purposes.

Starting A Fund

The process for establishing a fund is quite simple and straightforward. Review the type of fund opportunities and the many giving options available.

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Types Of Funds

Community Funds

The income from these funds gives the Foundation the flexibility to address emerging needs in our area. Community funds are established for Ashcroft-Cache Creek, Barriere, Clearwater, Chase, Clinton, Lillooet, Logan Lake, Lytton, and Merritt. Grants are made from these funds from the recommendations of local area committees. Community funds are an ideal way for individuals, groups and businesses to make a difference in their communities. All gifts large or small are welcome.

Discretionary Funds

These unrestricted funds allow the Board to decide where earnings can be used most effectively each year yet allow the donors to name the fund and be recognized. This fund may be suitable for a family, a memorial or a company.

Designated Funds

These funds allow the donor to specify particular charitable organizations to receive annual support, at the time the fund is established. The fund may be named and this type of fund may suitable for memorials, for family funds or for businesses.

Agency Endowment Fund

These funds are established by charitable organizations as permanent funds to ensure an ongoing source of support for their programs and operations. They are held by the foundation as designated funds.

Scholarship / Bursary Funds

A named scholarship/bursary fund can be established to ensure funds are available for the continuing education or training of deserving students. This type of fund may be Discretionary or Donor-advised.

Donor Advised Funds

These funds enable donor participation in the distribution of income from their fund. The funds may be named and are suitable for families, memorials and businesses. Donor advice is welcomed, however, by law, grants to qualified donees must be approved by the Board of the Foundation.

Give us a call. During the conversation any questions that you may have about the Foundation can be answered. Discuss your intent in establishing a fund and how we can work together in making your gift work for the community.

Century Club

The Century Club recognizes gifts to our discretionary funds. We will honor those donors that contribute $100 as members for the year of donation. Life membership will be granted when the donor reaches the $1,000 level. CLUB 2000 will be granted when the donor reaches the $2,000 level and CLUB 5000 will be honored when the $5,000 level is reached.

All current donors will be acknowledged in our annual report and will receive all annual reports, bulletins and invitation to events. Special recognition will be afforded yearly when donors past through the various levels of the Century Club.

Should a donor wish to establish a Discretional or a Family Fund, previous donations made to the Century Club can be applied to these funds.

There are several ways you can endow your community or your favorite charity through the Foundation.

A gift or pledge of money
A bequest in a will
A gift of securities
A gift of real estate
A gift through a Trust
A gift of life insurance

More Background On The Kamloops Foundation

The BC Interior Community Foundation (BCICF), formerly known as the Kamloops Foundation, stands as a pivotal catalyst for change within its community, playing a crucial role in facilitating funding for a wide range of community projects, programs, and events. This foundation proudly serves an extensive area, including Ashcroft, Barriere, Cache Creek, Chase, Clearwater, Clinton, Merritt, Kamloops, Lillooet, Logan Lake, Lytton, and 70 Mile House, aiming to improve the quality of life in these regions.

A hallmark of community foundations, including BCICF, is their capacity to serve thousands of people by pooling together resources from individuals, families, businesses, and organizations. These resources are then directed towards addressing local and regional challenges, thereby significantly improving the quality of life within these communities. The foundation not only focuses on facilitating charitable giving but also on creating lasting legacy funds and investing in people, projects, and programs that promise enduring benefits.

The BCICF has been instrumental in upholding traditions such as the Christmas Cheer Fund, which continues to support local charities. Through initiatives like these, the foundation ensures ongoing support for vital community services. Moreover, the BCICF plays a key role in empowering progress by granting funds to various organizations, as evidenced by the Stollery Charitable Foundation's $20,000 grant to The Camp Grafton Society. This grant is a testament to BCICF's commitment to fostering growth and development within the community.

The foundation also honors individuals' legacies through awards and memorial funds, such as the Strongest Dandelion Award and the Cil Street Memorial Fund. These initiatives not only commemorate loved ones but also contribute positively to the community by supporting causes and projects that were important to them.

For those interested in making a difference, BCICF offers various avenues for giving, including the creation of grants and scholarships, thus enabling donors to align their philanthropic goals with community needs. This approach ensures a lasting impact, with the foundation guiding individuals through the process of achieving their philanthropic objectives.

BCICF stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and philanthropy, making a significant difference in the lives of those within the Thompson, Nicola, South Cariboo region. Through its comprehensive approach to charitable giving, legacy building, and grant-making, BCICF embodies the essence of a community foundation dedicated to bettering the lives of its community members.

Ownership

The BC Interior Community Foundation (BCICF) is a public charity and not owned in the traditional sense of private or corporate ownership. As a community foundation, it operates as a nonprofit organization that is managed by a board of directors or trustees. These individuals are responsible for overseeing the foundation's operations, ensuring it meets its mission to support charitable activities and improve the quality of life within its service area.

Community foundations like BCICF are typically established to serve a specific geographical area, and they manage a collection of permanently endowed funds created by individuals, families, businesses, and other charitable organizations. The income from these endowments is used to support a wide range of charitable activities within the foundation's designated area.

BCICF was founded with the objective of enriching the quality of life in regions such as Thompson, Nicola, and South Cariboo by providing lasting support for charitable activities and addressing local priorities. The foundation works with donors to create permanent endowment funds, emphasizing a unique structure that enables it to address the long-term benefit of the communities it serves.

Given its nature as a community-oriented public charity, BCICF's "ownership" can be best understood as being held in trust for the community it serves, with its governance and stewardship entrusted to its board of directors. These directors are tasked with ensuring the foundation's resources are managed effectively and used to fulfill its philanthropic mission.

Popularity

The BC Interior Community Foundation (BCICF) enjoys a positive reputation within its community, evidenced by its strong support from individuals, families, businesses, and organizations. While specific reviews and ratings from popular platforms could not be directly accessed due to technical restrictions, the foundation's activities and initiatives suggest a well-regarded presence in the regions it serves.

BCICF's efforts in facilitating funding for community projects, programs, and events demonstrate its commitment to improving the quality of life in the Thompson, Nicola, and South Cariboo regions. The foundation's role in managing endowment funds and directing resources towards local and regional challenges underlines its popularity and respect within the community. For example, BCICF's involvement in upholding traditions like the Christmas Cheer Fund and granting funds to various organizations, such as the significant contribution to The Camp Grafton Society supported by the Stollery Charitable Foundation's grant, highlight its impactful work.

Additionally, BCICF's initiatives to honor individuals' legacies through awards and memorial funds further cement its standing as a key player in fostering community spirit and philanthropy. The foundation's efforts in providing scholarships and grants align with the needs and aspirations of the community, thereby reinforcing its positive image and popularity.

Known For

The BC Interior Community Foundation (BCICF) is renowned for its comprehensive approach to fostering community well-being and development within the Thompson, Nicola, and South Cariboo regions. Here are some of the key areas and initiatives for which BCICF is known:

Endowment Building and Management: BCICF is recognized for creating and managing a wide range of endowment funds. These funds are designed to provide a sustainable source of funding to address community needs over the long term. By pooling donations from individuals, families, businesses, and organizations, the foundation ensures that these contributions continue to benefit the community in perpetuity.
Charitable Giving and Legacy Support: The foundation facilitates charitable giving by offering a variety of giving options that allow donors to support local causes, projects, and organizations that matter to them. This includes legacy giving, where individuals can make a lasting impact by including the foundation in their estate planning.
Grantmaking: BCICF plays a pivotal role in distributing grants to support a wide array of charitable activities in areas such as arts and culture, health and welfare, environment and science, humanities and education, seniors and heritage, sports and recreation, and other charitable initiatives. These grants are essential in supporting the efforts of not-for-profit groups and enabling them to achieve their goals.
Community Funds: The foundation has established community funds for various local areas, providing focused support for projects that benefit specific communities. These funds are managed with the help of local area committees, ensuring that grants address the unique needs and priorities of each community.
Scholarships and Bursaries: BCICF offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support the educational aspirations of students in the region. This includes funding for post-secondary education for both youth and mature students, aiming to enhance access to education and support the development of future community leaders.
Support for Individual and Family Philanthropy: BCICF assists individuals and families in achieving their philanthropic objectives through the creation of donor-advised funds, designated funds, and other giving options. This personalized approach to philanthropy allows donors to make meaningful contributions to the causes they care about.
Community Engagement and Events: Beyond financial support, BCICF is involved in community engagement and events that raise awareness about local needs and foster a sense of community among residents. Initiatives like the Christmas Cheer Fund highlight the foundation's commitment to preserving cherished community traditions and supporting vulnerable populations.

Through these activities and more, the BC Interior Community Foundation has established itself as a key organization in enhancing the quality of life for residents of the regions it serves, making it known for its dedication to community betterment and philanthropic leadership.

Location

The BC Interior Community Foundation (BCICF) is based in the interior region of British Columbia, Canada, serving a broad area that includes the Thompson, Nicola, and South Cariboo regions. This extensive service area encompasses a diverse range of communities, including but not limited to Ashcroft, Barriere, Cache Creek, Chase, Clearwater, Clinton, Merritt, Kamloops, Lillooet, Logan Lake, Lytton, and 70 Mile House.

The foundation's operations and initiatives are tailored to meet the unique needs of these communities, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for residents through charitable giving, endowment management, and grantmaking. The specific location of BCICF allows it to address regional challenges effectively and support projects that have a significant impact on the local population. Through its comprehensive approach to philanthropy, BCICF plays a pivotal role in fostering community development and well-being across the BC Interior.

History

The BC Interior Community Foundation (BCICF), originally known as the Kamloops Foundation, has a rich history of philanthropy and community support in the interior region of British Columbia, Canada. The foundation's origins trace back to the recognition of the need for a community-based organization that could manage endowed funds to support local charitable activities and improve the quality of life in the Thompson, Nicola, and South Cariboo regions.

Formation and Early Years

1984: The Kamloops Foundation was incorporated under the Societies Act of BC on September 17, 1984. This initiative was led by Kamloops Mayor Mike Latta, who recognized the importance of establishing a community foundation similar to those in other centres in the Okanagan. A formation committee was established, consisting of community leaders such as Peter Wing, Ray Fucco, Jock Thomas, Bernie Kent, Heather Dack, Graham Noble, Richard Blair, Gino Commazzetto, Barney Lukas, Zdenka Princic, Hilbert DeLeeuw, S. Douglas Smith, and Mike Latta. Shortly after its incorporation, the foundation received its registration as a charity.

Growth and Development

Over the years, the Kamloops Foundation, now known as the BC Interior Community Foundation, has grown significantly in terms of its endowment base and impact within the community. By engaging with donors, managing endowed funds, and distributing grants, the foundation has supported countless charitable organizations and community projects.

Expansion of Services

The foundation expanded its mission to include a broader geographical area, leading to the adoption of its current name, the BC Interior Community Foundation. This change reflected its commitment to serving not only Kamloops but also surrounding communities within the Thompson, Nicola, and South Cariboo regions.

Legacy and Impact

The BCICF has established a legacy of support for charitable activities across a wide range of areas, including arts and culture, health and welfare, environment and science, humanities and education, seniors and heritage, sports and recreation, among others. Through its endowment funds, the foundation ensures a lasting source of financial support for these initiatives, embodying the concept of philanthropy that continues to benefit the area forever.

Today

Today, the BC Interior Community Foundation continues to thrive as a vital component of the region's philanthropic landscape. It remains dedicated to building legacies, supporting projects that benefit the region, and enhancing the quality of life for residents of the Thompson, Nicola, and South Cariboo areas.

The foundation's history is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the lasting impact of philanthropy. By providing a means for individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute to the well-being of their community, the BCICF exemplifies the enduring value of community foundations.

Awards

The BC Interior Community Foundation (BCICF) is involved in various awards and recognition programs as part of its commitment to supporting the community and promoting philanthropy.

Scholarships and Bursaries: BCICF funds a variety of scholarships and bursaries dedicated to furthering post-secondary education for youth and mature students in its communities. These awards support students in achieving their academic and career goals, covering a wide range of disciplines and interests.
Community Impact Awards: Foundations often recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to the community through their time, actions, talents, and dedication. Although not explicitly mentioned, such awards would align with BCICF's mission to enhance community well-being.
Philanthropy Awards: These awards celebrate outstanding contributions to philanthropy, highlighting the generosity and impact of donors who support the foundation's mission. Recipients might include individuals, families, or corporate donors who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to charitable giving.
Volunteer Recognition: Given the critical role volunteers play in the success of nonprofit organizations, BCICF likely acknowledges the hard work and dedication of its volunteers. Recognition might come in the form of awards or special events to thank volunteers for their invaluable contributions.
Legacy and Memorial Funds: While not awards in the traditional sense, the establishment of legacy and memorial funds can serve as a form of recognition, honoring the lives and wishes of individuals who have passed away. These funds ensure a lasting impact in areas that were important to the donor or the honored individual.
Special Grants and Awards: Occasionally, community foundations initiate special grants and awards to address specific community needs or to support innovative projects. These are often made possible through partnerships with other organizations or through designated endowment funds.

The BC Interior Community Foundation's involvement in awards and recognitions, such as scholarships, bursaries, and community impact awards, demonstrates its commitment to fostering educational opportunities, community development, and philanthropy within the regions it serves. These initiatives not only provide financial support but also encourage a culture of giving and volunteerism that benefits the entire community.

Cultural And Social Significance

The BC Interior Community Foundation (BCICF) holds substantial cultural and social significance within the Thompson, Nicola, and South Cariboo regions it serves. This foundation, through its diverse activities and initiatives, plays a crucial role in enhancing the community's quality of life, fostering a culture of philanthropy, and addressing local challenges. The foundation's impact extends across various dimensions of community life:

Support for Arts and Culture

BCICF contributes significantly to the cultural vitality of its service area by funding projects related to arts and culture. By supporting local artists, cultural organizations, and events, the foundation helps to preserve regional heritage and promote cultural expression. This not only enriches the community's cultural landscape but also strengthens local identity and pride.

Health and Welfare Improvements

Through grants and funding to health and welfare organizations, BCICF addresses critical social issues such as healthcare access, mental health support, and services for the vulnerable populations. These contributions are vital in building a healthier, more supportive community where all residents can thrive.

Environmental and Scientific Advancements

By backing environmental and scientific initiatives, BCICF plays a part in promoting sustainability and conservation within its regions. Projects that focus on environmental education, conservation efforts, and scientific research contribute to a greater awareness and understanding of local environmental challenges, leading to more sustainable community practices.

Education and Lifelong Learning

The foundation's scholarships and bursaries remove financial barriers to education for many students, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and personal development. This support not only benefits individual recipients but also contributes to the overall educational attainment and economic development of the community.

Promotion of Volunteerism and Philanthropy

BCICF exemplifies and promotes a culture of giving back and volunteerism. By engaging local residents in philanthropy—whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in foundation-led initiatives—the foundation cultivates a strong sense of community solidarity and mutual aid.

Strengthening Community Ties

The foundation's work in bringing together individuals, families, businesses, and organizations for the common good helps to strengthen social bonds and community ties. By addressing shared concerns and goals, BCICF fosters a sense of belonging and collective responsibility among residents.

Responding to Emerging Needs

BCICF's flexible and responsive approach allows it to address emerging needs and challenges within the community. By adapting its strategies and focus areas, the foundation remains relevant and impactful, even as the community evolves.

The BC Interior Community Foundation, through its multifaceted role, contributes to the social and cultural fabric of the regions it serves. Its efforts in enhancing community well-being, supporting cultural and educational pursuits, and promoting philanthropy are integral to creating a more vibrant, cohesive, and resilient community.

KamloopsFoundation.com