The Winkler Community Foundation’s vision is to grow a thriving and
generous community to benefit ALL today and forever. One way we
support the community is through our annual grants to charities and
not-for-profits. On June 12, 2025, 33 organizations received grants for
a total of $205,836.
Founded in 1988, it became active in 1994, the Winkler Community
Foundation established with a clear mission: to support and
strengthen the community by providing grants to various local
initiatives. Over the past 30 years, the Foundation has granted over
3.4 million dollars to a wide array of projects, from education and
health services to arts and culture, ensuring that every corner of our
community benefits from its generosity.
The Foundation’s success can be attributed to the unwavering
support of local donors, businesses, and community leaders who
recognize the importance of investing in our future. Through
endowments and donations, they have made it possible for the
Foundation to grant funds to vital programs that enrich lives and
enhance the quality of life for all residents.
The Winkler Community Foundation released its first grants in 1996.
Awarding $8,500, impacting 8 charitable organizations. Since then,
we have granted over $3.4 million back into projects, programs, and
initiatives that impact our community.
As we celebrate this milestone, it’s essential to reflect on the stories
behind the grants. The individuals and families whose lives have been
touched by the Foundation’s support exemplify the profound impact
of community-driven philanthropy. From inspiring success stories of
scholarship recipients to heartwarming accounts of organizations’
impact, the Foundation’s legacy is woven into the fabric of our
community.
• We have learnt how supporting habitat for humanity projects shows
tremendous community spirit. We witnessed so many people in the
community stepping up to make this home a reality, both through
financial contributions and volunteering their time on the build.
• With the grant to the C W Wiebe Medical Center for barrier-free
patient tables, our medical centre has been able to create a more
comfortable, efficient, and patient-centered environment within
our medical clinic, benefiting both patients and healthcare
providers alike.
• By supporting school and daycare playground projects, the
opportunity for children to use their imaginations to create and
explore expands. Teachers also use the play areas for inquiry
activities to enrich the students’ understanding of academic
concepts.
Where does the Annual grant money come from?
We receive donations throughout the year, memorial gifts, bequests,
and individuals and businesses partnering with us to support a cause
or area of interest to address community needs.
All contributions are pooled together and invested. It is from the
interest earned from these endowed funds that goes back into the
community in the form of grants. The initial gift is never spent.
We currently have 23 endowment funds: some supporting general
community initiatives, some created by organizations to support their
charitable work, and others designated to a specific charity or field of
interest. Each addresses areas of need to enhance the quality of life
in our community for all. We encourage you to check our website to
learn more about our endowment funds or talk to a board member or
me; we would love to work with you to better our community.
Beyond financial support, the Winkler Community Foundation has
enriched lives in countless ways. It has fostered connections among
residents, creating a network of individuals and organizations
committed to the betterment of the community. Vital Signs and other
collaborative projects have not only raised awareness about local
issues but have also cultivated a sense of belonging and shared
purpose.
As we honor the past 30 years, we look forward to the future with
renewed energy and dedication. The Winkler Community Foundation
is committed to continuing its mission of granting support, fostering
community spirit, and enriching lives. With every donation, every
initiative, and every partnership, we strengthen our community and
pave the way for future generations.
For a complete list of 2025 grant recipients and the total amounts,
please check our website.
The Winkler Community Foundation’s 30-year journey is a testament
to the power of community, the importance of giving, and the
potential for positive change. Together, we can build on this legacy
and ensure that Winkler remains a thriving place for all its residents.
Here’s to community impact, support, and enrichment!
33 organizations received grants from WCF for a total of $205,836
