Report 2011

R.R.SMITH MEMORIAL FUND FOUNDATION REPORT -2011 

This past year has been somewhat of a reactive one. We asked the Charities Bureau for a decision on a paper that we had proposed.  After six months, they approved it.  Now that it has been approved, we no longer need it. It is though, a generic one which can be used if necessary at some later date. We had one of our 2010 grants returned.  The Canadian charity to which it had been granted discovered that the school in Sri Lanka did not tell the truth in their request for money. We waited to see how effective our requests, through you, for grant applications for B.C. projects would be. It was successful as we received five applications.

This year, the Foundation gave out 15 regular grants totalling $17,480.00 and one special grant.  The list of the 2011 regular grants was provided in the R.R. Smith report appearing in the Summer 2011 issue of the Postscript.  Two of the grants went to Central American projects, five to African, three to Asian and five to B.C. 

         

The Foundation oversaw the special grant which former Director Kathy Friederici’s family and friends, gave to Escuela Estanquillos elementary school in Costa Rica.  The $21,000.00 grant provided a covered play area for the school.  Kathy’s family will be attending a special ceremony next March in which the community will honour her by putting up a plaque and naming the area for her. 

         

Each year the Foundation must thank certain individuals and organizations for their generosity to our draw; Johnson Inc., Hilton Richmond, Holiday Inn, Skip Bergsma, and the BCRTA.  Our power point and graphics were done by Barbara Mikulec and Judy de Vries. Patricia and Kristi are extremely generous of their time and expertise.

           

You will have noticed that two of the present directors are retiring;  Diane Gorton and I.  Interested members may put forward their names for election, by contacting the office (604-871-2260) or myself (604-538-7140.)  There are five positions available. I personally want to thank all the present Directors; Tom Brunker, Judy de Vries, Diane Gorton, Andy Hattrick, Barb Mikulec and Sheila Pither. They have supported me and guided the Foundation to another successful year. 
Respectfully submitted,
Glen Pinch, President