Nanaimo Foundation Grants $23,000 to Two Local Non-Profits

Nanaimo, BC – June 15, 2015 – The Nanaimo Foundation has distributed $23,000 in grants to two local non-profit organizations. The Nanaimo Family Life Association has received $10,000 and the Gabriola Commons has received $13,000, with these monies to be put towards completing their recent renovation and construction projects.

“Our building is old, run down, tired looking, and quite frankly it didn’t match our goal of wanting to provide comfort and support in an inspirational setting,” said Deborah Hollins, Executive Director of the Nanaimo Family Life Association. “Being an agency dedicated to the healing and well–being of those in our community in need of support, we are aware of the impact that the physical surroundings can have on one’s progress to mental and emotional health. The Nanaimo Foundation has made it possible for us to achieve that goal and to provide those seeking our services with a space that is clean, colorful, and inviting.”

George Szanto, Gabriola Commons volunteer and chair of the grant writing team, expressed his gratitude for the Foundation’s grant—the second grant the Commons has received from the Nanaimo Foundation in five years.

“The first grant was used towards the installation of new plumbing, electricity, and insulation,” Szanto said, “but Island Health required us to install a brand new septic system before we could begin operations. Now, we can install that system, thanks to this second grant.”

Ted Carson, Chairman of the Nanaimo Foundation, congratulated the 2014 Community Grant recipients. “We are extremely pleased to see such an incredible group of dedicated people working and volunteering in these organizations, and the Foundation is thrilled to be able to help support these important community projects.”

Until June 30th, 2015, the Nanaimo Foundation is accepting Letters of Intent from local non-profits seeking funding to assist capital and pilot projects. To find out more on how to obtain a Community Grant, please visit www.nanaimofoundation.com/grants

Gabriola Commons Cheque Presentation

[L-R] George Szanto, Chair, Gabriola Commons
George Hanson, Vice-Chair, Strategic & Grants Director, Nanaimo Foundation

[L-R] Deborah Hollins, Executive Director, Nanaimo Family Life George Hanson, Vice-Chair, Strategic & Grants Director, Nanaimo Foundation

[L-R] Deborah Hollins, Executive Director, Nanaimo Family Life
George Hanson, Vice-Chair, Strategic & Grants Director, Nanaimo Foundation