Governors' Page
by Ken Henderson
Since it was established in 1985, the Real Estate Foundation has
been involved with many organizations in the not-for-profit sector,
either awarding grants or otherwise engaging in discussions about
real estate and land use projects in BC communities. As a result
of the relationships we have developed, and our growing awareness
of issues where the Foundation can be an effective partner, we
are moving forward with new funding strategies for 2004 and beyond.
The mainstay of Foundation funding, making grants, is now known as the Responsive Grants Program, and will continue to encompass the range of activities described in the Real Estate Act, our enabling legislation: public and professional education, research, law reform, and good works.
In 2004 we will launch a “signature program” that targets agencies and practitioners which play a role in shaping the land use future of communities experiencing or planning for change. It is known as Planning for Community Transition in Non-Metropolitan Regions: A Partnership Initiative.
Another proactive step taken by the Governors is formalizing the Foundation’s support of education, research, and law and policy reform initiatives of the real estate industry. Through agreements with the BC Real Estate Association, the Real Estate Council of BC, and the Real Estate Institute of BC, we have set aside funding which will assist each organization in these areas for the next three years.
Foundation Governors and staff value the relationships we continue to build with organizations in the real estate and land use fields. While the Foundation manages and directs the public funds that become grants, it is the energy and expertise of dedicated individuals who implement projects on the ground that make our communities better places.
On behalf of the Real Estate Foundation, I extend thanks to our partners, and most of all to our fabulous staff, who have made my year as Chair a wonderful learning experience.