Two local groups have received funding from the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) for outdoor projects in qathet region.
According to a media release from the outdoor recreation council, the inaugural grant intake has awarded $250,000 in grants for 30 deserving recipients from around the province.
The release stated that the application period, open through April 2024, saw an overwhelming response from nonprofit organizations, local governments and Indigenous governments. ORCBC received 208 applications, collectively requesting $1.8 million in funding, according to the release. Each application featured projects ready for immediate launch and included a matching contribution—cash or in-kind—that equalled or exceeded the requested funds.
“We are immensely proud and inspired by the response to our first grant intake," stated Louise Pedersen, executive director at ORCBC. "The overwhelming number of applications and the diverse range of high-quality projects demonstrate the deep commitment of volunteer-led recreation groups, First Nations and local governments to enhancing and preserving our outdoor spaces. We are excited to see the positive impact these grants will start to have on communities in BC."
qathet Parks and Wilderness Society is receiving $8,000 to support essential maintenance of the Sunshine Coast Trail, campgrounds, huts and other infrastructure that ensures continued enjoyment and conservation of old-growth forest and recreational opportunities in the qathet region.
Tla'amin Nation is receiving $5,000 to install signs along the Tla’amin trails network that educate the public and Tla'amin citizens with Tla'amin traditional language, and about traditional medicinal and food plants, and spiritual and cultural-related areas. This keeps with Tla'amin's pride in protecting its lands and resources for future generations and for land-based healing.
The grant program focuses on projects within one or more of three priority areas, including: supporting community groups in enhancing and maintaining outdoor recreation infrastructure such as trails, signage, campsites, boat launches, and more; promoting responsible use of the outdoors through education and stewardship initiatives that minimize environmental, cultural and safety impacts of outdoor activities; and encouraging accessible, inclusive and diverse outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly for under-represented groups.
The Outdoor Recreation Fund of BC helps to address the long-standing need to support volunteer-based organizations and community groups that are crucial in maintaining and building trails and other recreational infrastructure, protecting and restoring natural areas, and delivering programs that make outdoor recreation accessible and safe for everyone, the release stated. In May 2023, the Province of BC jump-started this support by contributing $10 million to ORCBC, establishing the first-ever endowment fund of its kind in BC. The fund will generate income to fuel a yearly grant program administered by ORCBC.
ORCBC invites British Columbians to support future efforts of dedicated volunteer-based organizations and community groups by helping the organization grow the Outdoor Recreation Fund of BC. For more information, email [email protected].
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