Preparing the Yellowknife Community Foundation annual calendar for 2017 provides an ideal opportunity to take stock of the achievements of Yellowknife organizations that the Foundation has been able to support in 2016 and consider opportunities for next year.
Since its 1993 inception, the Foundation has embodied the simple concept that people working together can make a difference. With a mission to enhance the quality of life of the citizens of Yellowknife and the surrounding area, the Foundation has distributed over $140,000 in grants and scholarships this year, an increase of 30% over 2015. We are pleased to report that our assets are now approaching $4.5 M. Imagine, with ongoing community support, each year we’re able to do a little bit more.
Your Foundation joined Yellowknife’s humanitarian effort in 2016 contributing to the support of Syrian refugees. We’re proud that Yellowknife readily stepped up to assist people in need. But of course that’s the history of this city. Partnering with the Polar Bear Swim Club to provide needed equipment at the community pool was a valued sport contribution while Side Door, YWCA, and Women’s Society contributions, amongst others, strengthen our social service community. Food Rescue contributions not only benefit people in need but assist with keeping edible food from reaching the land fill. All of these grants were made possible from funds donated to our general fund, titled The Yellowknife Community Fund. This fund provides support to a wide variety of organizations in our city. Many other grants and scholarships are also made possible through funds developed for specific purposes.
Common amongst all organizations supported by the Foundation is their volunteer base, people working together to make a difference. We’re inspired by the incredible
volunteer efforts of our community.
On February 11, 2017 the Foundation will host our annual gala, A Night in Paris. This event, which is our major fund raiser is only made possible and successful by the many volunteers and corporate contributors of auction items and event sponsorship. We hope you’ll join us for this very special night out.
Our annual barbeque, held in late summer each year, also provides an opportunity to thank the many donors to the Foundation, honour those memorialized by scholarship and grant programs, and recognize scholarship recipients.
In 2017 the Foundation plans to be pro-active by seeking to identify organizations and projects that enhance our community. Everyone is encouraged to view the web site http://www.ykcf.ca/ to learn more about the Community Foundation and consider how we might partner to enhance the quality of life for all who choose to make Yellowknife home.
Thanks to everyone who helps keep our Community Foundation successful. Together we are making a difference.
Download the 2017 calendar (PDF 9.1 MB)
Bronwyn Watters
President
