Community foundation issues grants

The Prince George Community Foundation gave almost $35,000 Thursday night to help support local organizations.

The foundation, which celebrated its 21st anniversary this year, recognized work in arts and culture, education, youth, health and social services.

The recipients are Bel Canto Choirs, Prince George Folkfest Society, Huble Homestead Heritage Society, Theatre Northwest, Two Rivers Art Gallery, PG Conservatory of Music, Scouts Canada, The Child Development Centre, The Arthritis Society, Prince George Council of Seniors, Canadian Red Cross Society, PG Activator Society, Prince George Montessori Education Society and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Prince George.

Prince George Community Foundation President Teresa Saunders said, "We are pleased to recognize that all of these organizations have contributed a great deal to the quality of our community and all of them are supported by very dedicated volunteers."

Its endowment funds are now in excess of $9.4 million. Since its inception in 1995, it has handed out more than $1.3 million.

Past projects have helped introduce youth to carving and wood turning techniques, purchase equipment like a digital stage piano for the orchestra, provide snow-clearing services for seniors and more.