The Squamish Community Foundation invites local businesses to participate in our first ‘Squamish Gives 5%’ Holiday Giving Campaign on Saturday December 7th.
This initiative seeks to unite the community in supporting local businesses while raising funds for the Squamish Community Foundation (SCF) Smart and Caring Community Fund.
The event will raise funds through a local marketing collaboration. Participating businesses will contribute 5% (or more) of gross sales on Saturday Dec 7th to the SCF, helping meet local gift-giving goals and supporting crucial issues and programs. This is a fantastic opportunity to give back while showcasing commitment to the Squamish community. Donations will go to the Smart and Caring Community Fund which supports a broad range of current and urgent community needs through our annual granting program. Everyone involved will help raise awareness of the value of donating to a low-barrier fund.
Why grow the Smart and Caring Community Fund?
Each year we receive requests for more funding than we have available. Most SCF endowment funds grant to specific and important local programming, addressing issues such as health, wellness, recreation, the environment and education. Growing the Smart and Caring Community Fund increases our most flexible fund. This low-barrier fund allows the SCF to respond to requests from local charities and non-profits for grants addressing varying urgent issues. Together, shoppers, businesses and the SCF can develop the Smart and Caring Community Fund and strengthen our ability to respond to vital community needs.
Will your business Give 5% on December 7, 2024?
Please email or call Karen at kclarke@squamishfoundation.com or 604-848-8683 to take part.
Who benefits from the Smart and Caring Community Fund?
Over the past three years, nearly $11,000 was granted out of the Smart and Caring Community Fund alone. Here are a few examples of the programs and services this fund supports.
Squamish Volunteer Centre Society
The Digital Divide Project provided devices and training to help community members, especially immigrant seniors, access online services safely. Participants gained skills to navigate digital life, like connecting with family abroad and making secure online purchases. Graduates received certificates, laptops, and accessories, fostering a more connected and inclusive community.
Whistler Adaptive Sports Program
The Whistler Adaptive Sports Society Program offers a multi-sport experience for Squamish children and youth with physical and cognitive disabilities and neurodiversity. With skilled coaches and adaptive equipment, the program enables local children and youth to participate in the many sports and recreation opportunities available in the Sea to Sky corridor while developing physical literacy skills for life.
Tantalus Wellspring Society
The Tantalus Wellspring Society (TWS) identified a critical need for expanded mental health support in the community due to a longstanding and growing mental health crisis. Financial constraints limit access to qualified counselling, so TWS’s Empowerment and Choice Program offers up to five subsidized counselling sessions for youth, families, and individuals in need. This initiative ensures timely, affordable, and professional support, helping Squamish residents develop skills to manage mental health challenges.
