A dedicated and inspired group of community visionaries formed the Columbia Valley Community Foundation in June 2001. Their aim was to build community vitality in our communities stretching from Spillimacheen in the north to the Village of Canal Flats in the south.

14 local organizations were awarded over $51,000 in grants; the largest amount granted back to our community in one grant cycle.

The purpose of the Foundation is amended to include scholarships, bursaries, awards and financial assistance for the education of youth.
The Foundation hires paid employees for the first time.
Roger Smith and Emile Morin retire from the Board of Directors after 13 years of service.
Seona Helmer retires from the Board of Directors after 11 years of service.

Single largest donation in Foundation’s history to the Arnold Ellis Scholarship Fund in the amount of $1,475,000
Directors choose Vancouver Foundation as endowment funds manager

Establishment of Kootenay Savings Community Fund is made possible by generosity of Kootenay Savings Foundation

Applications to Vancouver Foundation and Columbia Basin Trust approved ($25,000 each)
June 2002 – Grants funds distributed for the first time
September 2002 – First Annual General Meeting
Total assets reach $141,014

Stakeholder meetings starting in 2000 were favourable for the formation of a Community Foundation in the Columbia Valley;
Founding Board of Directors:
- Bruce McLaughlin (Chair)
- Emile Morin (Vice-Chair)
- Marla Lucas (Secretary)
- Roger Smith (Treasurer)
- Ken Bell
- Leona Gadsby
- Carol Seable
- Tim Strand
- Hedi Trescher
- Lynne Turvey
BC Society incorporation is completed by founding members and directors on June 27, 2001 (#S0043369)
November 2001 Charitable status approved by Canada Revenue Agency and charitable registered number is issued – #882618713 RR0001
December 2001 Community Foundation of Canada membership
December 2001 Fundraising begins in earnest