By Times Chronicle Staff
More than $1 million has been disbursed to regional communities in the first quarter of 2025 by the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen (CFSOS).
“We traditionally disburse funding through our Foundation grant program in the first quarter of each year,” says Kevin Ronaghan, Community Investments Manager with the Community Foundation.
“In 2025, we were fortunate to add disbursements from the Okanagan Prosperity Fund and the City of Penticton’s Municipal Grant Program to the mix. It was a hectic few months, but the results are well worth it,” he added.
The Foundation grant program is the cornerstone of the Community Foundation’s grant program, and this year, it disbursed just over $390,000 in total grants to 48 community organizations.
The Okanagan Prosperity Fund is a one-time, $400,000 grant opportunity funded by the provincial government. Funds from this channel were distributed to support the programs and operations of 13 organizations tackling poverty and enhancing social inclusion in the region.
This was also the first year that the Community Foundation delivered Municipal Grants on behalf of the City of Penticton. These grants, which saw $227,000 disbursed to 34 organizations, also cover organizations that work throughout the South Okanagan area.
“When we’re given additional opportunities to get much-needed financial resources out to organizations doing great things in our communities, we’ll find a way to make it work,” says Aaron McRann, CEO of the
Community Foundation.
“We’re honoured to play this role in helping to build a healthy, caring, inclusive and thriving South Okanagan Similkameen region.
“This investment in community is more than just numbers – it’s about supporting the people and places that make our region strong, connected, and resilient. Thank you to all the applicants, volunteers, and community leaders who are contributing to making South Okanagan Similkameen a better place for everyone.”
Recipients in Oliver, Osoyoos, and area include locally based organizations: Wide Arts National Association, School District #53, Osoyoos Desert Society, OneSky Community Resources, Desert Valley Hospice Society, Desert Sun Counselling & Resource Centre.
A full list of Foundation Grant recipients can be found at cfso.net/apply-for-a-grant . The City of Penticton grants recipients can be viewed at cfso.net/city-of-penticton-grants, and Okanagan Prosperity Fund recipients at cfso.net/okanagan-prosperity-fund .
