The CV Community Foundation has found a new way to help local charities: by supporting volunteers and staff of the many groups working hard to enrich lives in the Comox Valley.
The CVCF recognizes that charities stretch their resources to the maximum when providing services to the public. Often there is little money left to support and train staff and volunteers.
“Our new professional development grants will help groups strengthen the skills and capabilities of their workers,” said CVC Foundation President Norm Carruthers.” The Foundation will dedicate $10,000 for these grants. Local charities can apply for up to $2,000 in funding for professional training and other learning opportunities.
“Comox Valley charities make life better for all of us,” continued Carruthers. “We all benefit from the passion and talents of the many employees and volunteers who work so tirelessly.”
This is a new venture for the CVC Foundation. For the past 20 years its focus has been on helping charities by funding capital projects. In January, the CVCF announced grants of more than $120,000 which included everything from outdoor recreation equipment in Cumberland to replacing windows at the Stepping Stones recovery centre and providing new furniture for the living room at Lilli House. “Community grants that help acquire or upgrade capital resources will always be our focus,” said Carruthers, “but this is another meaningful way we can help charities do their jobs better.”
Funds for community grants and for the new professional development grants come from the income earned each year on the Foundation’s endowments. Generous members of the Comox Valley community have donated funds which are held in perpetuity and invested by the CVCF. More than $1.75 million has been paid out in grants.
Applications for professional development grants will be accepted until March 31, 2016. Successful applicants will be announced in June. Interested groups can learn more at cvcfoundation.org.
