Neighbours across the South Okanagan Similkameen are once again bringing small but meaningful ideas to life through the Neighbourhood Small Grants program.
This year, the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen (CFSOS) received 115 applications from residents across the region. Following a community-led review process, 67 Neighbourhood Small Grants have been awarded to support local gatherings, creative projects, skill-sharing, cultural learning, food connection, neighbourhood celebrations, and other activities designed to bring people together.
Funded projects will take place across the region, including:
- 26 projects in Penticton
- 8 projects in Summerland
- 15 projects in the Similkameen
- 18 projects in the South Okanagan
“Neighbourhood Small Grants are about helping neighbours take the first step,” said Kim English, Regional Development Manager with CFSOS. “A small grant can give people a reason to gather, meet someone new, share skills, and build stronger connections close to home.”
The 2026 applications were reviewed by 22 volunteer advisory committee members from across the region. These local volunteers helped steward the funding decisions with care, local knowledge, and a deep understanding of their communities.
Neighbourhood Small Grants (NSG) are designed to reduce isolation, strengthen belonging, and support residents to connect where they live. Projects are free to attend, inclusive, and open to neighbours. Many are led by first-time applicants, while others are built upon relationships that have grown through previous community gatherings.
The Community Foundation would like to thank all applicants, project leaders, volunteer advisory committee members, donors, and local partners who help make NSG possible.
In the South Okanagan Similkameen, Neighbourhood Small Grants are delivered and co-funded by the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen, in partnership with Vancouver Foundation, with additional local support from the City of Penticton.
Find out more about Neighbourhood Small Grants HERE.
Find out more info about Tai Chi in the Park HERE.