Child development charity receives $50k to expand operations in Fort St. John

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — One of Fort St John’s charities has received a $50,000 grant to assist with its renovation goals. 

The Fort St. John Child Development Centre (CDC) accepted the $50,000 contribution from Brian Surerus, owner of Surerus Pipeline, at its local office on July 9th.  

The CDC expressed its gratitude to Surerus on Facebook, saying the grant would go towards its Capital Campaign.

“This most recent contribution… to our Capital Campaign as a visionary partner, shows a remarkable commitment to our mission and the children, youth and families we serve,” said the CDC’s post. 

Tana Millner, executive director of the CDC, told Energeticcity.ca it has purchased an existing building adjacent to its Fort St. John facility as part of its Capital Campaign and is now looking to renovate the space.

The organization purchased the home in July 2024.

“We thought it was a really good opportunity to bring it into the fold of our organization,” said Millner.

Millner said the campaign has raised $277,000 of a $500,000 goal.

Once renovations are finished, Millner said the house will be used for the CDC’s programs, such as its therapy services and respite life skills program. 

Millner said the Capital Campaign started in 2023 and CDC hopes to hold a grand opening ceremony in the summer of 2026. 

“We really want to make sure we have all the funds secured before we start any major renovations,” said Millner.

Millner said the CDC applied for the Surerus Community Support Fund in March and believed it was selected because Surerus and his wife Connie, who is also a board member with the company, understood the charity’s role in the community. 

“Brian and Connie have a good indication of what goes on in our community, and really support things that are near and dear to their hearts,” said Millner. 

Energeticcity.ca reached out to Surerus Pipeline for further comment but did not receive a response before publication.

According to its website, the CDC is a non-profit organization founded in 1973 and provides therapy and support services for children. 

Donations to the CDC can be accepted here.