Welcome to Our New Quarterly Newsletter – November 2025
A Season of Growth & Gratitude
Welcome to the very first edition of our new quarterly e-newsletter. We’re excited to share a simpler, more engaging way to stay connected with what’s happening at the Parksville-Qualicum Community Foundation. Expect to learn more about our grants, community stories, and opportunities to get involved!
2025 has been a year of momentum for PQCF. We’ve welcomed our first Executive Director, continued expanding our local impact, and strengthened the partnerships that make our region such a generous and connected place to call home.
Our Board Chair’s Full Fall Message
Welcome to the first edition of the Parksville-Qualicum Community Foundation’s e-newsletter! We’re excited to share this new way of connecting with you—our donors, fundholders, volunteers, and community partners—about the work we’re doing together to strengthen the Oceanside region.
This Fall has been a season of growth and renewal for PQCF. We were delighted to welcome our new Executive Director, Charlene Smith, who has been focused on putting the right systems and structures in place to support our expanding operations and future growth. Together with our dedicated Board and volunteers, we’re building the foundation—literally and figuratively—for lasting community impact.
We recently completed our Fall Neighbourhood Small Grants round, supporting grassroots projects that bring neighbours together and foster connection and belonging. Looking ahead, we’re preparing for our annual community granting program in the new year and laying the groundwork for an exciting year of giving in 2026.
As we enter the giving season, I invite you to consider how your generosity can make a difference—whether by contributing to an existing fund, starting one of your own, or simply helping spread the word about PQCF’s mission to make our region stronger, more connected, and more resilient.
Best wishes for the holiday season,
Rob Duncan, Chair
Meet Charlene, Our New Executive Director
After 26 years of volunteer-led success, PQCF welcomed its first Executive Director this Fall!
Charlene Smith brings over a decade of experience growing philanthropy and community partnerships across Vancouver Island. Charlene is passionate about trust-based philanthropy, local collaboration, and helping generosity take root where it matters most, right here in Oceanside.
Learn More About Our New ED
It’s an incredible honour to serve as the first Executive Director of the Parksville-Qualicum Community Foundation and to join this remarkable organization at such a pivotal moment in its growth. Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know our Board, volunteers, and community partners, and what stands out most is the deep sense of generosity, pride, and care people have for this place we all call home.
Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by a commitment to community and the belief that philanthropy can be one of the most powerful tools for change. As a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), I’ve spent more than a decade helping organizations across Vancouver Island and beyond strengthen their impact through philanthropy, strategy, and partnership. I’m known for translating complexity into action, building genuine relationships, and helping organizations grow their revenue and impact in ways that are values-aligned and community-driven. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to help raise more than $25 million for causes that support our Island communities.
At the heart of my work is the belief that when we invest in one another and in the place we call home, we build stronger, more connected communities. Community foundations make that possible by turning local generosity into lasting impact—connecting people who care with causes that matter right here where we live. I’m deeply passionate about trust-based philanthropy, inclusive community development, and fostering partnerships that help local organizations thrive. I’m inspired by PQCF’s mission to ensure that generosity remains a driving force in our region’s future—and I’m committed to shaping the Foundation’s next chapter of sustainable growth and community impact. I truly believe that our trails—in work and in life—are better travelled together.
Having lived on the Island and along the coast my entire life, I’ve always felt a deep connection to this place and its people. Since moving to Oceanside three years ago, I’ve seen first-hand how special this community is—through its volunteerism, local events, and the many ways residents and businesses show up for one another. My partner and I chose to plant our roots here in Qualicum Beach with our furry companion, Remi, and we spend as much time as possible exploring the outdoors—hiking, biking, skiing, or camping somewhere along the Island’s mountains, trails, and lakes. I feel incredibly grateful to now serve the community I call home and care so deeply about.
My vision for PQCF is to build a strong foundation for the future—one that combines solid systems and thoughtful governance with a community-led, place-based approach to philanthropy. This means enhancing donor stewardship, supporting local organizations, and fostering collaboration across our region. As we look ahead, our greatest opportunity is to turn our recent momentum into lasting impact—through thoughtful fund development, strong cross-sector partnerships, and a shared vision for the future of the Oceanside region.
I’m excited for what’s ahead and profoundly thankful to everyone who has supported, and continues to support, this transition. Together, we’ll ensure the Foundation continues to grow and thrive as a trusted partner in community giving—helping generosity flourish here for generations to come.
Celebrating National Philanthropy Day
This weekend was National Philanthropy Day! On November 15th each year, it is a day dedicated to honouring the charitable spirit that drives positive change in our communities. It’s a moment to recognize the individuals, organizations, and businesses whose generosity strengthens the fabric of our society and fosters a brighter future.
Across Oceanside, we see generosity in action every day: volunteers lending time, donors supporting causes, and neighbours showing up for one another.
At PQCF, we’re proud to help grow a culture of local giving by connecting donors, partners, and non-profits to create lasting impact. On this National Philanthropy Day, we invite you to reflect on how generosity has touched your life, and to join us in supporting the causes that make our community stronger.
Neighbourhood Small Grants: Fall 2025 Round Complete
Applications for the Fall 2025 Neighbourhood Small Grants are now closed. Our volunteer adjudicators are reviewing submissions, and $9,500 will soon be awarded to projects that spark belonging and connection across Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Nanoose, Errington, and Coombs.
Stay tuned for stories from these inspiring, resident-led initiatives in the coming weeks (and consider making an application to our spring call for more neighbourhood projects!).
Community Impact Spotlight: Oceanside Prosperity Fund 2024
Last year, PQCF was proud to help deliver multi-year grants through the Oceanside Community Prosperity Fund, supporting organizations that strengthen inclusion and reduce poverty in our region.
Forward House Society
was able to expand its mental health workshops and creative programs, empowering participants to learn, connect, and heal.
“Since finding Forward House, I know I have people to help me with anything I face.”
– Program participant
Oceanside Integrated Fitness Society (OIFS)
was able to maintain vital adaptive fitness programs for people with mobility challenges, helping more than 40 clients build strength and confidence.
“This gym has given me more than strength, it’s given me confidence and community.”
Season of Giving: Help Grow Local Impact
As the year draws to a close, we invite you to join us in growing generosity across Oceanside. Your donation supports community programs, scholarships, and the Foundation’s areas of greatest need, ensuring we can continue to serve and strengthen our region for years to come.
Ways to Give:
- Give to the Community Fund for the greatest overall impact.
- Support an existing fund that aligns with your passions.
- Start a new fund to honour someone special or create a lasting legacy.
(All gifts received by December 31 are eligible for a 2025 charitable tax receipt.)
Looking Ahead & Staying Connected
2026 is shaping up to be a year of connection, collaboration, and growth.
Coming soon:
- Annual Community Grants open February 2026.
- Watch for 2026 Spring Neighbourhood Small Grants
- Volunteer Opportunities in the New Year to sit on committees for Granting, Fund Development & Marketing, and Finance.
- PQCF and our new ED will be doing an Oceanside Roadshow! Invite PQCF to attend, speak, or share updates at your local event.
This is the first edition of our new quarterly e-newsletter. Add [email protected] to your safe senders list to stay in the loop.
You can unsubscribe anytime, but we hope you’ll stay with us on this journey of generosity and impact!
Parksville-Qualicum Community Foundation
Growing a legacy of giving for Oceanside.