Prince George Community Foundation wraps up another year of giving

It's unlikely that you haven't heard or seen at least some of the Prince George Community Association's impact on this city.

With events, fundraisers, community gathering and celebrations, they have been prolific in both giving and community engagement in 2024.

Some of these community events and stories include the 24th Annual FARR/ WIC Golf Tournament, Legacy Giving Seminar and the PG Cougars Mega 50/50 Jackpot, among others.

As well, the organization raised a total of $94,434 through its Community Impact Grant in December to fund local non-profits like Scouts Canada's Camp Hughes, Canadian Red Cross (Prince George), Prince George Conservatory of Music, The Exploration Place and the Pacific Autism Family Network.

These funds built kitchens, playgrounds, and galleries for the community and for vulnerable people in desperate need of assistance.

Their most recent project saw the organization take part in the Miracle Theatre fundraiser for wildfire protection equipment which raised a total of $180,025 to help procure equipment for the firefighters of Prince George.

“As I reflect on this year I am filled with gratitude and pride in reflecting on the achievements and growth of the Prince George Community Foundation," said president Zahid Islam. “This year has been marked by significant milestones and new opportunities that have strengthened our commitment to creating a positive and lasting impact on our community.”

This year the Community Foundation has also been awarded the Excellence in Not-for-Profit and Community Service Award at the 2024 Business Excellence Awards.

The Community Fund is still extremely devoted to serving the community of Prince George and they already have a series of new funds to help local organizations in the community.

These funds are included but not limited to Prince George 2022 BC Summer Games Society to help support local youth athletes, The Kris Yip Memorial Fund to help support local health initiatives and the PGCF Legacy Award to help support SD57 grads pursuing post-secondary education.

Besides the projects previously mentioned with the support of the Community Foundation, Hope Air has made 1,300 travel arrangements in 2023 for low-income residents of Prince George seeking medical help outside the community.

Grants have also been training seniors to bridge the digital divide, making art and theatre more accessible for people with disabilities and cultivating sustainability with their Growing Knowledge Community Compost Garden.

Next year is the Community Foundation's 30th anniversary.