A permanent $65,000 endowment fund benefiting Fernie and area has been launched through the generous donations and the commitment of Fernie community members.

The Fernie Community Fund, invested through a partnership with the Cranbrook and District Community Foundation (CDCF), ensures secure and sustainable funding is available through annual grants to charitable organizations, initiatives, and programs within the Fernie community.

“The CDCF board and staff are very excited to partner with the Fernie community on the establishment, growth, and management of this fund,” says Riley Wilcox, executive director for the CDCF. “It will be Fernie residents who have the power to grow it, choose outcomes, address community issues, and develop new opportunities based on their intimate knowledge of who they are and what they strive to be. Any donation that is made locally, will stay locally.”

Last year, the Fernie Community Fund fundraising campaign kicked-off with a $10,000 donation from East Kootenay Community Credit Union (EKC), followed by a $5,000 contribution from the Fernie Rotary Club, and a $25,000 commitment from the City of Fernie.

“The City of Fernie is continuously working towards ensuring our community remains a vibrant, inclusive place where all residents have access to opportunities and can live as their most successful and happy selves,” says Fernie Mayor Mary Giuliano.

“The City of Fernie is pleased to be able to make a significant contribution to the Fernie Community Fund, which supports our vision of a sustainable, caring and healthy community in which to live, work, and play. We look forward to seeing the fund grow and make a positive impact in our lives, and the lives of our children, grandchildren, and every generation to follow.”

The Cranbrook and District Community Foundation was pleased to secure an additional $25,000 for the Fernie Community Fund from an anonymous donor, bringing the total to $65,000 and growing.

The Fernie Community Fund is governed by a local committee comprised of volunteers: Tammy Ogden, community liaison with Teck Coal Limited, Eric Johnstone, and community advocates and leaders Randal Macnair and Aysha Haines. Fernie residents interested in joining the committee are encouraged to contact Riley Wilcox, executive director of the CDCF at 250-426-1119.

The Fernie Community Fund serves Fernie and the surrounding geographical area of Morrissey, Fernie Alpine Resort, West Fernie, Dicken Road, and Hosmer. The fund is held in perpetuity, which means the fund’s ability to support local non-profits is not only secure and permanent, but will grow stronger every year. Annual grants will be allocated by the Cranbrook and District Community Foundation (CDCF) Board of Directors on the recommendation of a granting committee comprised of Fernie community members, ensuring grants are distributed based on the evolving, specific, and unique needs and wants of Fernie residents.