Category: Uncategorized

Ladysmith Community Fund Issues Inaugural Grant

The Ladysmith Community Fund Society’s Grants Committee met to consider the applications it received in response to its call for proposals in May of 2023. The Board accepted the Committee’s recommendation that a grant be issued to the Ladysmith Little Theatre Society. The theatre company will use the funds in its Hearing Enhancement Program, which will make available, on loan, headsets to theatregoers with hearing impairments. The headsets will be connected to the theatre’s sound system by Bluetooth. 

Ladysmith Community Fund Society President Bruce Whittington thanked the theatre company for submitting an application in this, the first annual call for proposals. “Ladysmith Little Theatre has helped us make a little history”, Whittington said. Now that the Fund is established, it will continue to offer grants annually, and it is continuing to grow—the Fund recently received another welcome gift of $500 from Ladysmith Rotary. 

Ladysmith Little Theatre Treasurer Anne Dougherty and Bruce Mason, founder and past president (centre), accept a cheque from Ladysmith Community Fund President Bruce Whittington.

Ladysmith Community Fund Issues Call for Grant Proposals

May 5, 2023

The Ladysmith Community Fund Society has issued its first call for proposals from charitable organizations in the Ladysmith area to receive a grant from the Ladysmith Community Fund. The Fund, which was established in 2021, has grown to the point where LCFS can use the revenue it earns to issue a charitable grant. President Bruce Whittington explained that the amount of the first grant will be small at $600. But, Whittington said, “We wanted to start giving back to the community as soon as we could, even if it is a small first step.” He added that more funds will be available in 2024, “and every year after that—forever.”

The deadline for applications is midnight, June 5th, and LCFS anticipates that funds will be issued in July. Applicants must be charities or other “qualified donees” as described under the Income Tax Act. Details of the grant application process, along with a downloadable application form, can be found under the “Granting” button on the LCFS website. LCFS also welcomes email enquiries at grants@ladysmithcommunityfund.ca. 

Changes on the LCFS Board

Charlie Schaal, the longest serving director on the Ladysmith Community Fund Society board, is stepping down to pursue other interests in the community. We are most grateful for Charlie’s tireless efforts in helping to make the Society and the Ladysmith Community Fund a reality. Fortunately, Charlie tells us he will “keep in touch”.

LCFS recently welcomed Lynda Baker to the board. With a strong background in business and the non-profit sector (see the “People” section), we welcome Lynda’s enthusiasm and experience. Lynda has agreed to be the Society’s Secretary, and is moving quickly to ensure all our records are in good order. Welcome Lynda!