FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The Community Foundation made its final report presentation, on Monday, to City of Fort St. John Council during a Committee of the Whole meeting.
In early 2019, The Council directed administration to explore options for community‐driven methods of enriching the quality of life for local residents by allowing for greater public participation in building a stronger social fabric in the community.
The establishment of a philanthropic Community Foundation was among the targets included in the 2018‐2023 Strategic Plan adopted by Council on February 25, 2019.
According to Kathy Arney, of KEA Canada, this Community Foundation was to be designed to help drive community‐led solutions on the issues that matter most to residents, while working in a collaborative and networked approach with community partners from across sectors.
Arney says it would also provide an opportunity to assist a local non‐profit sector that finds itself overly burdened in response to the needs of the times, creating a present environment that is by necessity “reactive” rather than proactive, facing daily challenges and increasingly focused on addressing immediate issues and service gaps.
Following the trial, it is being recommended to Council that the Community Foundation begins operations in 2021 and to be undertaken by the City. Before the Community Foundation begins operations in 2021, they will be looking at creating a name that is inclusive for all members of the community.
The Community Foundation also recommends that:
Fund types will include:
The Funds will be coming from five streams:
The full presentation can be watched below.
