The City of Kamloops is strengthening its community-driven approach to Build Kamloops through a new partnership with the BC Interior Community Foundation, enabling residents, businesses, and supporters to contribute directly to the project through charitable donations.
For 40 years, the BC Interior Community Foundation has supported initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents. That shared commitment continues with Build Kamloops, a once-in-a-generation investment in civic infrastructure that will benefit the community for decades to come.
As part of the partnership, the BC Interior Community Foundation will receive donations designated for Build Kamloops and issue charitable tax receipts to eligible donors. Donations received through the BC Interior Community Foundation will be directed to the City of Kamloops for eligible project costs.
“Build Kamloops reflects the vibrancy, creativity, and energy of our community,” said Wenda Noonan, Development and Communications Director of BC Interior Community Foundation. “A performing arts centre and arena multiplex will create spaces where people can gather, perform, and compete. We are proud to work alongside the City of Kamloops to help generous residents, businesses, and supporters bring these projects to life and support spaces that will serve Kamloops for generations.”
The partnership provides a direct path for donors to support the Build Kamloops initiative, with options to contribute to the overall program or direct gifts toward specific projects, including the Kamloops Centre for the Arts and the arena multiplex.
“Partnering with the BC Interior Community Foundation is an exciting step forward for Build Kamloops. It gives people a meaningful and accessible way to contribute and be part of something that will shape our community for generations,” said Councillor Kelly Hall, Build Kamloops Select Committee Chair. “Community donations are a vital part of bringing projects like the Kamloops Centre for the Arts and the arena multiplex to life. They reflect shared pride, shared ownership, and a collective investment in Kamloops’ future.”
Fundraising has always been a foundational component of the Build Kamloops financial plan. The City is delivering the program through a balanced approach based on four funding pillars:
- Fundraising: Community-based contributions, including philanthropic donations, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising initiatives
- Grants: Ongoing efforts to investigate and apply for provincial and federal funding opportunities for various project components
- Existing Budgets: Strategic use of reserves, operating budgets, and non-competitive grant programs, such as the Community Works Fund
- Capital Funding: Multiple financing sources, including debt financing
This diversified approach ensures the City can advance critical infrastructure while maintaining financial sustainability.
The Build Kamloops initiative has already been shaped by the generous time and financial contributions of community members, most notably Ron and Rae Fawcett.
Prior to the program’s launch, an independent evaluation estimated approximately $40 million in fundraising potential, demonstrating the strong community support behind the initiative. The City and its partners are developing a comprehensive fundraising and sponsorship campaign that will include philanthropic, corporate, and community contribution opportunities at all levels.
The partnership with the BC Interior Community Foundation expands opportunities for community participation and reinforces the collaborative spirit that defines Build Kamloops.
By working together, the City, its partners, and the community are helping to shape inclusive, vibrant public spaces that will serve residents now and into the future.
To make a donation, visit LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/BuildKamloops or BCICF.ca/BuildKamloops.
