By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
A new chapter in community giving has begun in Osoyoos with the local branch of Cascadia Credit Union (formerly the Osoyoos Credit Union) making a $1 million gift to establish a legacy fund with the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen (CFSOS).
The Osoyoos Credit Union Community Legacy Fund will provide enduring support for local programs and initiatives, “ensuring that the spirit and legacy of Osoyoos Credit Union (OCU), founded in 1946, continues to shape the community for generations to come,” it said.
The gift marks a continuation of Osoyoos Credit Union’s long standing tradition of community support, with a view to the future. The partnership between Cascadia Credit Union and the Community Foundation network is a natural alignment, according to the two. “Both are grounded in the belief that strong communities are built through long-term investment, local leadership, and a deep understanding of place.”
“For nearly 80 years, OCU has been a trusted partner in Osoyoos, investing in local organizations, sponsoring events, and responding to community needs with generosity and care. From supporting youth programs to enhancing services for seniors, OCU has long been a trusted and generous partner in building a vibrant, caring community.”
Now, as part of Cascadia Credit Union, OCU becomes the third founding partner to establish a $1 million legacy fund with its local community foundation.
Following in the footsteps of the Summerland and Revelstoke branches, Cascadia Osoyoos said this growing network of legacy funds reflects a shared vision: “That even as credit unions evolve and grow, their commitment to their home communities remains unwavering.”
Reiterating Osoyoos Credit Union’s integral role in the community for nearly 80 years Greg Sol, former CEO of Osoyoos Credit Union and current Chief Operating Officer of Cascadia Credit Union, said this legacy fund is the credit union’s way of ensuring that impact continues long into the future.
“We’re proud to honour the trust our members have placed in us by creating something that will support local needs year after year. Even as we’ve grown to become Cascadia Credit Union, our values remain rooted here in Osoyoos.
“This community will always be at the heart of who we are. We’re grateful to our members and partners for helping us build a fund that will carry forward the spirit of Osoyoos Credit Union for generations to come.”
Reflecting on the development Aaron McRann, CEO of CFSOS said, “We’re seeing a remarkable regional story unfold. One where three credit unions – each deeply rooted in their communities – are shaping the future with care, generosity, and collaboration. It’s a hopeful and inspiring moment, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
Each of the three legacy funds will generate annual grants from investment earnings while preserving the original capital in perpetuity. The Osoyoos and Summerland Credit Union legacy funds are held with the CFSOS, while the Revelstoke Credit Union legacy fund is held with the Revelstoke Community Foundation.
“It’s a model that mirrors the strength of the credit union movement itself: local, resilient, and built to last,” Cascadia Osoyoos added.
Local charities and organizations interested in learning more about future grant opportunities through the Osoyoos Credit Union Community Legacy Fund are encouraged to connect with Cascadia Credit Union or the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen.
