Overview

The Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies (CFKR) stewards a total of approximately $4 million in 45 permanently invested funds

Since 2003, thanks to the income earned from our endowment funds as well as external project funding, CFKR has granted over $1 million to more than 300 local non-profit projects in our communities of Elkford, Sparwood, Fernie, Cranbrook, and the surrounding rural areas.


Vision, Mission, and Values

Vision

Together, making our communities even better places to live, work, and play, now and forever.


Mission

We build permanently invested endowment funds, provide grants to qualified donees to address local community needs, and offer positive leadership to explore community priorities.


Values: CFKR CARES

  • Community:
    • We are deeply rooted in our communities. We love where we live, including our favourite mountaintops, lakes, rivers, and trails. We love the people in our communities and all the things they love to do. This is why we provide grants to the widest possible range of eligible organizations and activities, to make our communities even better places to live, work, and play.
  • Accountability:
    • We are accountable to our donors, endowment fund holders, grant recipients, and the community at large. We strive to be transparent and accurate in all our communications in order to clearly demonstrate our accountability. Our board of local volunteers ensures that we stay on track. A key aspect of our core business is to be accountable for and an excellent steward of each and every donor dollar.
  • Responsiveness:
    • We keep our ear to the ground. We have our fingers on the pulse of our communities. We strive to keep current with local issues and emerging needs. Our non-designated funds give us the flexibility to respond to new priorities through our annual granting. We are always open to establishing new funds, as opportunities arise.
  • Excellence:
    • We strive for excellence in all we do, seeking to be a positive leader in our communities.
  • Sustainability:
    • We offer a long-term approach to charitable giving. We invite donors to help create a lasting legacy that will benefit current and future generations.


Service Area and Charitable Business Number

Service Area

The Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies is honoured to serve the following communities and surrounding rural areas:

  • City of Cranbrook
  • City of Fernie
  • District of Elkford
  • District of Sparwood
  • ʔaq̓am
  • Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it (Tobacco Plains Indian Band)
  • RDEK Electoral Area A – all communities including, but not limited to, Morrissey, Fernie Alpine Resort, West Fernie, Cokato Road, Hosmer, Sparwood Rural, Elkford Rural, Corbin, Flathead
  • RDEK Electoral Area B – all communities including, but not limited to, Jaffray, Tie Lake, Rosen Lake, Galloway, Baynes Lake, Elko, Lake Koocanusa, Grasmere, Newgate, Roosville
  • RDEK Electoral Area C – all communities including, but not limited to, rural Cranbrook, Fort Steele, Mayook, Bull River, Wardner, Moyie, and the portion of Wycliffe that is not served by the Kimberley & District Community Foundation
  • On a case-by-case basis, the Board will consider awarding a grant to a charitable organization serving the East Kootenay region if a substantial portion of the benefit of the program for which the grant is being requested is realized in the CFKR geographic service area.

Charitable Business Number

Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies: 88875 1609 RR0001


Board of Directors

Lisa Barnes

Lisa Barnes

Board Chair

Lisa and her husband, Graham, are the owners and operators of Max’s Place.  Lisa was born and raised in Cranbrook and worked for Max in high school.  After living throughout the province with Graham, they returned to Cranbrook to take over the business in 2012.  When not at the shop making coffees and catching up with the customers, Lisa can be found on one of her various bikes, whether sharing her love of mountain biking as a Shred Sisters coach or cycling for charity with the Cops For Kids Charitable Foundation.  Lisa also enjoys spending time with her dog, an adorable pug.  Lisa is honoured to sit on the board of the Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies and to work with a group of individuals who are committed to making our community a better place to live, work and play, now and forever. Lisa joined the CFKR board in June 2017.

Michele Bates

Michele Bates

Immediate Past-Chair

Michele is the Regional District of East Kootenay General Manager of Development & Protective Services. She moved to Cranbrook from Saskatchewan in 1991. Michele believes in giving back to the community and joined the CFKR Board in 2015. She also volunteers with the Cranbrook Snowmobile Club, was a key leadership volunteer with the hugely successful Hungry For Life fundraiser, and served as a Board Member with the Key City Theatre. Michele loves to travel, but, when at home, her happy place is kayaking the Kootenay’s beautiful lakes or enjoying a magnificent meal prepared by her husband, Ray.

Sean Campbell

Sean Campbell

Vice-Chair

Sean Campbell is the General Manager of Community Futures East Kootenay, a non-profit organization that provides small business loans and advice to local entrepreneurs. Eager to raise his family in a smaller community with tremendous opportunities, Sean moved to Cranbrook from Calgary in 2002. Sean has served the community in many ways, including his role as Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce President in 2010-2011, as a board member with the Cranbrook Curling Club, and as the key driving force behind the establishment of the Ground Floor Coworking Space. He joined the Board of the Kootenay Rockies Community Foundation in June 2017 and is proud to volunteer his time with an organization so focused on positively impacting the lives of area residents.

Barb Nunes

Barb Nunes

TREASURER

Barb is a Chartered Professional Accountant.  She moved to Sparwood from the west coast in 1995 and was the Director of Finance for the District of Sparwood until her retirement in 2015. Barb believes in the value of community organizations and is currently the Treasurer of the Elk Valley Seniors Housing Society, Chair of CFKR’s Sparwood Community Fund Steering Committee, and a Director of  the East Kootenay Community Credit Union.  She enjoys gardening and spending time with her young grandson.  Barb joined the CFKR Board in June, 2019.

Daryl Richardson

Daryl Richardson

SECRETARY

Daryl is a community supporter and volunteer wherever he goes. Originally from Calgary, Daryl was heavily involved with the trades program at SAIT and the MCA. Daryl and his family moved to Cranbrook in 2001, and Daryl was quick to become involved with CMHA and later Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary, serving as Club President in 2012-2013. When Daryl arrived in Cranbrook, he mentioned at the time “I would retire here”, which he did in 2014, after 30 years with Emco. Retirement didn’t last long, and Daryl now owns a manufacturers agency in the plumbing and heating industry – Enercall Sales and Service.  Daryl enjoys bike riding and golf, and joins his wife as they enjoy kayaking in the area. He feels blessed to be in such a community of friendship and outdoor beauty. Daryl was glad to join the CFKR board in June of 2021 to work alongside the current board members and professionals as well as give back to the community that has given so much to him.

Courtney Baker

Courtney Baker

Board Member

Courtney has worked in nonprofits for 15 years, including her current work with the Seniors Citizens Society of Fernie and the Fernie Pride Society. In 2016, she started SWELL nonprofit support and helps regional nonprofits and community organizations with grant writing, organizational development, communications, and financials. Courtney continues to do the work she loves because she is continually inspired by the people in the Elk Valley and Cranbrook region and the amazing history this area has with building community through volunteerism and social capital. Courtney moved to Fernie from Seattle in 1985 and continues to live there with her son, partner, and dog where they can be found either skiing or biking, depending on the season. Courtney joined the CFKR Board in June of 2021.

Amy McKinnon

Amy McKinnon

BOARD MEMBER

Amy is a Chartered Professional Accountant and is currently the Financial Controller of the College of the Rockies. Previously, she worked in public accounting specializing in assurance services for municipal, private, and not-for-profit entities. Amy was born and raised in Cranbrook and was thrilled to be able to build a career in Cranbrook following her post-secondary studies at the University of Calgary. When not at the office, Amy enjoys travelling the world, camping around the Kootenays, and cross-country skiing. Amy joined the CFKR Board in the fall of 2021.

Jeremy Mitchell

Jeremy Mitchell

Board Member

Jeremy is a partner at the Rella Paolini Rogers law firm, where he practices litigation and dispute resolution.  Jeremy was born in Saskatchewan and raised in Cranbrook.  When he is not in the office, Jeremy and his family enjoy the many outdoor activities that Cranbrook has to offer.  Jeremy is pleased to be on the board of an organization that provides meaningful and long-lasting benefits to the local area. Jeremy joined the CFKR board in June 2017.

Mike Trick

Mike Trick

Board Member

Mike Trick received his CPA designation in 2020, achieving a spot on the National Honor Roll after finishing in the top 1% in Canada on the final CPA exam. He moved to Cranbrook in October 2020 with his wife Sarah to be closer to family and enjoy the beautiful scenery that the East Kootenay has to offer.

Born and raised in Winnipeg, Mike has travelled extensively and lived all over western Canada prior to finding a home in Cranbrook. When not at work, he enjoys playing music and pursuing various athletic interests.

Mike joined the board in Fall 2021 and is excited for the opportunity to support the community through CFKR.

Sandy Zeznik

Sandy Zeznik

BOARD MEMBER

Sandy is a retired educator and school administrator who spends most of her time volunteering in Cranbrook.  Sandy is a member of various boards such as Cranbrook Rotary, Kootenay C.A.R.P., Cranbrook Seniors’ Hall, Cranbrook/Kimberley Hospice, Cranbrook Public Library, Abreast in the Rockies Dragon Boat Team, and Seniors in Partnership. She also continues as a member of other non-profits as well as serving on the Council of Advisors for Isobel Mackenzie, BC Seniors Advocate. Sandy and her husband, Gene, have three children, daughter Laura and twin sons Jeff and Ryan, as well as four grandchildren. When time and COVID allow, Sandy enjoys, travelling, hiking, paddling, cross-country skiing, and reading. Sandy joined the CFKR board of CFKR in the Fall of 2021.


Staff

Lynnette Wray

Lynnette Wray

Executive Director

Lynnette is originally from Alberta and has been very proud to call Cranbrook home for more than twenty-five years. Dedicating her career to the non-profit field, Lynnette has worked with a variety of organizations throughout the East Kootenay region. Lynnette is an active community volunteer, including her role as Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary Club President in 2020-2021 as well as her service on the Steller Vista Credit Union Board (previously East Kootenay Community Credit Union) since 2016. Lynnette has a B.A. in Psychology as well as an M.Ed. in Adult, Community, and Higher Education. She is also an Accredited Canadian Credit Union Director and has earned her ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors. Lynnette and her husband, Ross, keep busy with their children’s activities, as well as playing hockey, cycling, and enjoying the beauty of the local area. Lynnette believes in the power of community and sees her role with the Community Foundation as an amazing opportunity to make a lasting positive impact. Lynnette joined CFKR in May 2017.


External Volunteers


  • Carol Hatala, Volunteer
  • Ken Lo, Volunteer
  • David Struthers, Volunteer
  • Lorraine Frocklage, Volunteer
  • Cary Swanson, Volunteer
  • Murray Knipfel, Volunteer
  • Angela Gordon, Volunteer
  • Wayne Eburne, Volunteer
  • Corinne Friesen, Volunteer

Committees

CFKR Executive Committee

  • Lisa Barnes (Board Chair)
  • Michele Bates (Immediate Past-Chair)
  • Sean Campbell (Vice-Chair)
  • Barb Nunes (Board Treasurer)
  • Daryl Richardson (Board Secretary)

 

CFKR Finance Committee

  • Barb Nunes (Chair/Treasurer)
  • Sean Campbell
  • Jeremy Mitchell
  • Amy McKinnon
  • Mike Trick

 

CFKR Governance Committee

  • Jeremy Mitchell (Chair)
  • Daryl Richardson
  • Barb Nunes
  • Courtney Baker

 

CFKR Granting Committee

  • Amy McKinnon (Chair)
  • Daryl Richardson
  • Sandy Zeznik
  • External Member: TBC
  • External Member: TBC

 

CFKR Nominating Committee

  • Lisa Barnes (Chair)
  • Michele Bates (Immediate Past-Chair)
  • Sean Campbell (Vice-Chair)

 

Fernie Community Fund Steering Committee

  • Courtney Baker
  • Lori Bradish
  • Alice Booth

 

Sparwood Community Fund Steering Committee

  • Beverly MacNaughton (Chair)
  • Norma McDougall
  • Tracey Brook-Baker
  • Andrea Flieger

 

Elkford Community Fund Steering Committee

  • Terry Vandale (Chair)
  • Shawna Klein
  • Ethel Robinson
  • Vera Rees
  • Toni McIntyre

 

Board Chair Lisa Barnes and Executive Director Lynnette Wray are ex officio members of all committees.


Our History

In the fall of 2000, a Kimberley resident bequeathed more than $190,000 to the Cranbrook United Way on the condition the funding worked in perpetuity to aid social causes within the Cranbrook region.

In searching for a proper investment vehicle, an opportunity was identified to raise funds locally and to receive matching grants from both the Vancouver Foundation and the Columbia Basin Trust to supplement a two-year local fund raising drive to the amount of $100,000. Over the ensuing two years members of a United Way committee worked within the community to develop interest and raise community awareness. The Cranbrook and District Community Foundation (CDCF) began to take root and initial board members came forward. On March 1, 2003, approximately 75 citizens of our community met at the Prestige Rocky Mountain Resort in Cranbrook with Barbara Oates of the Community Foundation of Canada to discuss the formation of a local Foundation. A steering committee was formed and exploration began on how to incorporate, receive status as a registered charity, and become a Community Foundation. The purpose of the Foundation is to benefit a broad cross-section of the community. It is mandated to serve Cranbrook and the surrounding area, including Fort Steele, Wardner, Jaffray, Moyie, and Wycliffe.

By 2004, the CDCF was incorporated, registered as a charity and was a member of the Community Foundations of Canada, having adopted their code of ethics to ensure open, transparent governance and the professional management of funds.

The CDCF held it’s first Grants Gala and Community Kick-Off event on September 25, 2004. It was attended by Foundation members, representatives from all levels of government, and numerous community leaders and engaged citizens from Cranbrook, both within the private and public sectors.

At the event, $5,000 in LEAD funding from the Vancouver Foundation was distributed to four community projects identified through the first CDCF public grants offering:

  1. A “Teen Space” for the public library
  2. Aid to the community kitchen managed by the Cranbrook Women’s Resource Society
  3. The Children’s Festival
  4. New sound and lighting equipment to enable the Cranbrook Community Theatre to mount more elaborate productions.

The other highlight of the evening was the official signing of a $50,000 Deed of Gift with the F. W. Green Foundation. The revenue generated from these monies will go to support seniors’ projects in the community.

The Board and members of the Cranbrook and District Community Foundation look forward to many years of community support. A prominent theme of Community Foundations is, “It takes a noble person to plant a tree under whose shade will sit people one may never meet.”


Publications

2022 Audited Financial Statements

2021 Audited Financial Statements

2020 Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements

2019 Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements 

2018 Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements

2017 Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements

2016 Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements

2015 Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements