The Alberni Valley Community Foundation (AVCF) is soliciting grant applications from local community organizations. The deadline for the coming year's grant requests is Feb. 28, 2025.
Local organizations with "charitable" status under the Federal Income Tax Act may apply for grants in the following areas: arts and culture, education, health and physical activity, social services and environment, grants committee chair John Mayba noted.
The AVCF was founded in 1996 and since then has accumulated more than $2 million in its capital account as a result of donations and bequests from local individuals and groups.
"Each year the investment income from the capital account is distributed to local community groups in the form of grants," explained AVCF chair Hugh Grist.
Many groups such as Family Guidance Association, Community Arts Council, Abbeyfield, Port Alberni Friendship Centre, the Bread of Life and Alberni Valley Search and Rescue have received funding in the past. Numerous scholarships are also awarded each year.
"The first stage of the grant process requires groups to write a 'letter of intent' outlining project details and budget," Mayba said. Details of the application process may be found at the AVCF website albernifoundation.ca. "This part is due on Feb. 28. Later a second stage application may be requested."
Grants will be awarded at the foundation's AGM in May. Each year, the foundation disperses grants from $500 to $5,000. This year approximately $59,000 will be distributed to groups in the community.
“Making a donation or bequest to the foundation results in tax savings to the donor as well as leaving a perpetual legacy to our community,” Mayba said.
Persons wishing information about the grant application process or the process of making a donation to the AVCF may phone John Mayba at 250-723-2638.
