Funds

The Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen offers a variety of fund options that allow donors, families, organizations, and communities to support causes they care about — now and into the future.

Whether you’re interested in contributing to an existing fund or exploring the creation of a new one, our team will work with you to ensure your giving aligns with your goals and creates lasting community impact.

Community Funds

Community Funds are established to support specific geographic areas, causes, or community priorities across the South Okanagan Similkameen.

These funds pool contributions from many donors and are directed toward initiatives, projects, and organizations that strengthen local communities. Community Funds often respond to evolving needs and opportunities, helping ensure support reaches where it is needed most.

Browse Community Funds:

Personal & Organizational Funds

The Foundation also manages a wide range of personal and organizational funds that provide flexible, long-term giving options.

These include:

  • Endowment Funds
  • Donor-Advised Funds
  • Agency Funds

Rather than needing to choose between these options on your own, the first step is simply a conversation with the Community Foundation team. We’ll help you understand the differences and guide you toward the fund structure that best fits your intentions, level of involvement, and long-term goals.

Funds can be established by individuals, families, businesses, or registered charities, and can support specific causes, organizations, or evolving community needs over time.

Learn more about setting up a fund

Giving That Lasts

Many funds are structured as endowments, meaning the original gift is invested and generates annual funding in perpetuity. This allows your generosity to continue supporting the community year after year.

You can also:

  • Donate to existing funds that are open to public contributions
  • Honour or remember someone through a named fund
  • Support the long-term sustainability of a charity through an agency fund
  • Work with professional advisors as part of an estate or legacy plan

The Community Foundation manages more than 200 funds across the region and provides professional stewardship to ensure each gift is managed responsibly and according to the donor’s wishes.

Creating a Fund: What to Expect

If you’re considering establishing a fund, we’ll walk you through the process step by step. Our team will help you think through:

  • The purpose of your gift
  • The type and amount of the gift
  • How the fund should be used over time
  • Your desired level of involvement
  • Recognition preferences
  • Any administrative or CRA requirements

You don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out — we’re here to help you explore what’s possible.

Ready to Talk?

If you’d like to learn more about contributing to a fund or creating one of your own, we’d be happy to connect.

📧 aaronmcrann@cfso.net
📞 250-488-0036

Or explore additional donor resources on our Giving page.