The Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen supports and leads a range of community programs focused on addressing local needs, strengthening connections, and creating lasting impact across the region.
These programs reflect priorities identified through community engagement, research, and partnerships, and they evolve over time in response to changing needs. Some initiatives are long-term focus areas, while others respond to urgent or emerging circumstances.
Below is an overview of our current community programs. Each program page provides more detail on goals, partners, and ways to get involved.
Food Security
Food security is a core impact focus of the Community Foundation’s current strategic plan. Our work in this area is centered on strengthening local food systems and addressing food insecurity as a growing challenge in the South Okanagan Similkameen.
This includes convening community conversations, supporting collaboration across sectors, and contributing to long-term systems change.
Learn more about our Food Security work
Community Cycling Fund
The Community Cycling Fund supports initiatives that improve access to cycling and enhance cycling infrastructure, including the development and maintenance of trails across the region.
By supporting cycling programs and infrastructure, this fund contributes to recreation, health, and active transportation in local communities.
Explore the Community Cycling Fund
Penticton Youth Centre
The Community Foundation is proud to own and steward the Penticton Youth Resource Centre — a shared space that brings together youth-serving organizations, including Foundry Penticton, under one roof.
The Centre supports a wide range of services aimed at improving outcomes for young people and strengthening community-based support systems.
Learn more about the Penticton Youth Centre
Summerland Refugee Sponsorship Fund
The Summerland Refugee Sponsorship Fund supports the work of local volunteers helping refugees settle and build new lives in the community.
The Community Foundation provides administrative support for this fund, ensuring donations are managed responsibly and that tax receipts are issued to donors.
Learn more about the Summerland Refugee Sponsorship Fund
Response & Relief Funds
From natural disasters to public health emergencies, the Community Foundation responds when communities face urgent challenges.
Response and Relief Funds are established to provide timely financial support during crises, helping individuals and communities recover and rebuild.
View current and past Response & Relief initiatives
Table Talks
Table Talks is a community-based dialogue initiative developed in partnership with IndigenEYEZ. The program brings Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members together in a safe, respectful space to engage in meaningful conversations about reconciliation.
Through facilitated dialogue, Table Talks aims to foster understanding, build relationships, and inspire action in both personal and professional contexts.