The County Foundation - Prince Edward County - News by communicationsThe County Foundation - Prince Edward County - News by communicationshttps://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/author/communicationsThu, 16 Apr 2026 16:42:24 -0400http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Planning Your Legacy: How Gifts in Your Will Can Change Lives]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/planning-your-legacy-how-gifts-in-your-will-can-change-livesOn May 29th , The County Foundation is hosting an event at the Picton Yacht Club from 2:00-3:30pm for those looking to learn more about how to give thr ]]>

Planning Your Legacy: How Gifts in Your Will Can Change Lives

On May 29th, The County Foundation is hosting an event at the Picton Yacht Club from 2:00-3:30pm for those looking to learn more about how to give through your Will and what the benefit is for the charities and causes that you care about. Join estate lawyer M. Cath Collins and Dominique Jones, Executive Director of The County Foundation, for a session on planned giving.

RSVP to Attend - Planning Your Legacy

What is a Bequest? Bequests are gifts that are made as part of a Will. Most of us (at some point) will go through the process of creating or updating a Will. A bequest is a direction that you put in your Will that says you would like to give donations and you get to decide what that looks like. 

The County Foundation can work with you to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to record your intentions and expectations. Nothing in the MOU legally binds you to make a gift. In the MOU, you can dictate if you want to contribute toward an existing fund or establish a new fund. You can tell us what charities or causes you want to support. We can help you develop your giving plan to ensure we respect your wishes and provide guidance every step of the way.

Learn more about Bequests & Endowments

]]>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 08:04:38 -0400<![CDATA[Announcing 2025 Vital Impact Fund Recipients]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/Announcing-the-2025-Vital-Impact-Fund-RecipientsSee the full list of recipients below and learn more about the activities they'll be carrying out in 2026! The County Foundation is pleased to announce ]]>

Announcing the 2025 Vital Impact Fund Recipients

See the full list of recipients below and learn more about the activities they'll be carrying out in 2026!

The County Foundation is pleased to announce this year’s Vital Impact Fund grant recipients. More than $180,000 in Vital Impact Fund grants will support five local intiatives, with funded activities rolling out over the next year. 


The Vital Impact Fund was established by The County Foundation as our new signature fund that unites the work of our Vital Signs data with our grants to better serve the needs of Prince Edward County. Vital Signs® data is an ongoing consolidated snapshot of the trends and most vital community well-being issues in Prince Edward County. 


This year’s grant recipients reflect a clear and powerful theme: investing in people, programs, and ideas that support an evolving community. 

“The Vital Impact Fund responds directly to the trends, challenges, and opportunities highlighted by the local data in Vital Signs. The grants this year prioritized initiatives that strengthen families, support children and youth, and help members of our community feel connected, supported, and empowered. Funding like this supports inclusive communities with an aim to benefit all generations, and to respond to change and population shifts,” -Dominique Jones, Executive Director of The County Foundation   

"The Department of Illumination is thrilled and incredibly grateful to the County Foundation for their support of our program Art Kitchen 2.0 through their Vital Fund granting stream. Art Kitchen 2.0 is a reimagining of the Art Kitchen program we have been offering in The Macaulay Village Park over the past three years. Thanks to the Vital Impact Fund’s support, our expanded program will now run year round, and through partnerships with The County, The Macaulay Village Neighbourhood Group, PELC, TheROC, County Kids Read, and Victoria Taylor Landscape Architect, the program will offer a holistic range of services and activities rooted in a community-centred approach to serving the needs of this important Prince Edward County neighbourhood.” -Hri Neil, Project Coordinator, Department of Illumination.

“We’re proud to be working together on the Child Care Pilot Program, a partnership that reflects our shared commitment to strengthening childcare availability in Prince Edward County. This funding enables the municipality and Reaching for Rainbows to build on each other’s strengths and explore initiatives that respond to the needs of local families. With support from the Vital Impact Fund, we're able to take innovative steps towards improving the childcare system in the County and we’re excited about the positive impact this collaboration will have on children, caregivers and the community as a whole." -Emily Cowan, Director of Community Services, Programs and Initiatives for the County of Prince Edward, and Beth Lafay, Executive Director of Reaching for Rainbows. 

2025 Grant Recipients

The Vital Impact Fund is adjudicated by The County Foundation’s Grants & Vital Signs Committees. 


Five initiatives were selected to receive a total of $180,117 of funding for 2025. Below is a breakdown of the recipients, as well as a summary of their plans for the funding. We thank everyone who applied to the second year of this program, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of their work over the next year.

 Funded Organization/Initiative  Vital Signs Alignment – Summary 
 *Does not reflect the breadth of the application and the alignment to Vital Signs
 
Alternatives for Women’s Caring Dads Program that aims to educate fathers who are at risk of causing harm to their children and their mothers. 
 In 2024, there were 222 domestic violence incidents reported in Prince Edward County. Domestic violence is one of the main policing challenges in PEC. 
 

A collaborative project focused on addressing the County's urgent childcare needs spearheaded by the County. Includes: 

  1. Offering students transportation between Loyalist College and the HUB for hands-on learning opportunities; 

  1. In partnership with Reaching for Rainbows, offering co-working / child-minding space for limited times during the week; 

  1. Explore evening and weekend care through partnerships with Reaching for Rainbows or other not-for-profit organizations providing recreational programming. 

 Vital Signs 2025: “When families lack nearby childcare, it strains their ability to balance work, education, and caregiving – directly impacting well-being ... The waiting list [for the HUB Child & Family Centre] has grown from 155 in 2021 to 350, reflecting growth in the age 0–9 population.” 

The Department of Illumination’s Art Kitchen 2.0. Expanding the DOI’s free drop-in arts programming and providing access to additional services and resources for the historically underserved Macaulay Village community. Through collaboration with several partners, services will include mental health, nutritional and financial supports, as well as mentorship in advocacy and community-building.


 
The 2025 Vital Signs report focused on the importance of social infrastructure in communities. “Social isolation and loneliness are increasingly being recognized as a priority public health problem and policy issue across all age groups.” 
 Youth Inclusion Program (YIP) offered through theROC Youth Services. Youth program focused on conflict resolution, positive leadership, social-emotional learning, substance misuse and truancy prevention leading to increased high school graduation and youth success.  
The 2023 Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey (OSDUHS) reports that 38% of students rate their mental health as fair or poor, 37% 
experience elevated stress, and 51% report moderate-to-serious psychological distress, doubling over the past decade (CAMH, 2024). 
 Operational support for Reaching for Rainbows to support growth and sustainability as an organization filling programming gaps for children, youth and girls helping to solve many of the challenges PEC faces such as lack of childcare options and spaces.  
From Vital Signs databank: “People who are living in poverty are more likely to face health-related setbacks; to have difficulty accessing transportation, finding and keeping a job; to find themselves in the criminal justice system; and to need various social supports and assistance. Also, children who grow up in poverty are more likely to remain in poverty as they age.” (Canada Without Poverty) 

Supporting the Vital Impact Fund

How to Give 

If you are passionate about supporting organizations that address the most urgent community well-being needs in PEC as highlighted by Vital Signs data, consider giving in the following ways: 
  • Donate using a credit card through Canada Helps. Select "Vital Impact Fund" from the drop down menu. 
  • We can accept Interac e-Transfers sent to info@thecountyfoundation.ca. Indicate "Vital Impact Fund" in the notes section. 
  • Make cheques payable to The County Foundation, and use the memo line to specify the Vital Impact Fund.
    Cheques can be mailed to: 

More Information

]]>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:34:47 -0500<![CDATA[Elderberry Fund Celebrates Grant Recipients]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/elderberry-fund-celebrates-grant-recipients2Elderberry Fund Celebrates Grant Recipients We are excited to celebrate the incredible organizations who have been selected as the grant recipients fro ]]>

Elderberry Fund Celebrates Grant Recipients

We are excited to celebrate the incredible organizations who have been selected as the grant recipients from the Elderberry Fund, which has made a meaningful donation that will support critical resources to strengthen services, operations, and benefit the PEC community overall. 

The Elderberry Fund is a donor-advised fund established by a local couple whose support will have a positive impact on community-building organizations and causes that are close to their hearts. The fund is administered by The County Foundation. 

"It's a privilege to work with thoughtful donors who understand the importance of providing vital support by investing in both service programs and operations, enabling organizations to concentrate on advancing their missions. Together, we are able to amplify their generosity and strengthen an incredible number of organizations across many sectors,” - Gillian Armstrong, Interim Executive Director of The County Foundation

“We are happy to play our part to support our beloved PEC by investing in vital community organizations. We salute these organizations that are powered by volunteers and build community on many levels, including employing talented local staff, and providing essential services. We’re thankful for the guidance and stewardship of The County Foundation, comprised of a volunteer board, along with excellent staff including Acting ED Gillian Armstrong, and returning ED Dominique Jones. Their Vital Signs report data identifies the needs in the County that helps direct donations to help “build a place where everyone belongs and all can thrive.”  Elderberry Fund Donors.

Elderberry Fund Grant Recipients

Alternatives for Women 

Alternatives for Women provides safe and confidential support services while working to end violence and abuse against women 

Baxter Arts Centre 

Baxter Arts Centre provides a creative community space for the delivery of arts related programs and service 

BIGLAKE Arts 

BIGLAKE Festival is a summer celebration of immersive musical experiences in Prince Edward County, offering quality classical music 

County Arts (Prince Edward County Arts Council) 

Enriching the community by actively supporting and promoting the arts and artists as an essential part of life in Prince Edward County. Additional support for the Indigenous Voices Fund which provides direct financial support to Indigenous artists 

County FM 

Radio broadcaster in Prince Edward County 

County Kids Read 

County Kids Read distributes free books to youth in need 

County Stage Company 

Produce innovative and imaginative theatre, inspiring creativity and pride of place in Prince Edward County 

Department of Illumination 

Company of artists who aim to bring joy and creativity to our community by producing festivals, workshops, and other artistic events 

Hastings Prince Edward Learning Centre 

Food for Learning ensures that all students have daily access to healthy nutritious food while at school 

Hospice Prince Edward 

Offers quality of life, dignity in death, and grief and bereavement support to individuals affected by life-limiting illnesses 

HUB Child & Family Centre 

Provide quality licensed child care and early learning 

Kenhteke Seed Sanctuary 

A safe space for sharing knowledge and community seeds to promote growth and learning grounded in Rotinnonhsyon:ni values 

Library of Prince Edward 

Prince Edward County Public Library provide excellence in library services to the community 

Ontario Farmland Trust 

Mission is to protect and preserve Ontario farmlands 

PEC Memorial Hospital Foundation 

Advance health care for the patients of the hospital and the people of Prince Edward County 

Prince Edward Learning Centre 

PEC Fresh Good Food Market makes fresh fruits and vegetables accessible to everyone at affordable prices 

Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory 

Conservation organization that studies, monitors, and reports on the migration, breeding patterns and ecosystems of birds throughout Prince Edward County 

Picton United Church Food Bank 

Provide short-term assistance by acquiring and sharing food 

Reaching for Rainbows 

Provides a safe space for girls six to twelve years old to foster friendships, a feeling of belonging, and a greater sense of self 

Regent Theatre 

From movies to concerts to live-streams, The Regent Theatre brings year-round entertainment to The County and beyond 

ROC Youth Services 

Empower Prince Edward County youth to succeed socially, emotionally, and academically by prioritizing their wellbeing and safety; fostering resiliency and a sense of community 

Sandy Pines Wildlife 

Help all injured and orphaned wildlife (including mammals, birds, reptiles/amphibians) and release them back into the wild 

Tsi Tyónnheht Onkwawén:na 

Language revitalization, cultural education, and community empowerment through Kanyen’kehá:ka knowledge and teachings 

Wellington Storehouse Foodbank 

Collects food for families in need to redistribute locally 

 

Learn more about setting up a fund with The County Foundation
Discover how setting up a donor fund can help you support the causes you care about.

]]>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 08:59:20 -0500<![CDATA[2025 In-Kind Municipal Community Grant Recipients]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/2025-in-kind-municipal-community-grants2025 Municipal Community In-Kind Grant Recipients An additional six community organizations are enhancing the quality of life for residents thanks to i ]]>

2025 Municipal Community In-Kind Grant Recipients

An additional six community organizations are enhancing the quality of life for residents thanks to in-kind support from the County of Prince Edward.

 

The second round of applications to the in-kind stream of the Municipal Community Grants program opened this past fall. With these six additional successful applications, the municipality has provided a total of $20,000 of in-kind support to 12 organizations in 2025. In addition, 30 organizations have received cash grants this year. A list of all 2025 recipients can be found here. 

"There are so many outstanding organizations and volunteers doing incredible work across Prince Edward County. I am thrilled that we can lend a hand to these groups so that they can have an even greater impact on the community." - Mayor Steve Ferguson

"“We're proud to partner on this program, which strengthens the work of community organizations by giving them access to resources they need. Offering grants for municipal venues or labour reduces their costs so they can redirect their time and budgets toward initiatives that create positive impact across the County." - Gillian Armstrong, Interim Executive Director of The County Foundation

2025 Grant Recipients (Second Intake)

The recipients during the secondary intake period include:

  • The County Marathon
    $2,000 to support the rental of the Crystal Palace in Picton
  • Grow With Me Programs
    $1,779 to support the rental of the Sophiasburgh Town Hall for Professional Activity (PA) day camps and after school programming
  • Prince Edward Learning Centre
    $2,000 to support ice rental for the County Cup, a community-based fundraising hockey tournament 
  • Shatterbox Theatre
    $958 to support the rental of the Sophiasburgh Town Hall for the rehearsal of shows Silent Sky and Next to Normal
  • Terror  at Macaulay event 
    $1,500 to support the rental of Macaulay House, side grounds, and Carriage House
  • Together Through Pain
    $1,652 to support the rental of Picton Town Hall for seven monthly support group meetings

The Municipal Community Grants Program is made possible through funding from the County of Prince Edward and is administered by The County Foundation (TCF). The County Foundation works with an adjudication panel to determine which applicants receive the grants.


There are two intake periods for the in-kind funding stream. The primary intake takes place in the Spring with the full amount of funding for the year available. The secondary intake occurs in the Fall and allocates the remaining in-kind funds to projects scheduled later in the cycle, which often have shorter planning timelines. 

]]>Thu, 11 Dec 2025 10:34:05 -0500<![CDATA[Giving Tuesday 2025]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/Giving-Tuesday-2025The County Foundation is the local community foundation for Prince Edward County. We can help you support the organizations and causes that you care a ]]>

Giving Tuesday 2025

The County Foundation is the local community foundation for Prince Edward County. We can help you support the organizations and causes that you care about the most by helping your giving go further.







A word from TCF Board Chair Braydon Scully on the power of community-focused giving:

As we approach the upcoming holiday season and the noise inherent in the mass consumerism that marks this time of year, I like to reflect on community, on family and on how I can give back to my community of friends and fellow county residents.  I consider myself very fortunate to have found this wonderful place to call home and for everything and everyone that goes along with that.

The County Foundation has been part of my life now for coming up on 5 years, with my final year of service ahead, ending in December of 2026.  The County Foundation has played an integral role in helping me to both understand the community better and to learn more about the County, its residents and some of the issues we face.


We have fantastic opportunities here in Prince Edward County and many exciting things to get involved with as a volunteer, a participant or as a financial supporter. That is where I am asking you today, on Giving Tuesday, to consider how you can support your community.  Whether with a financial gift to a favourite local organization or charity, a one-time donation to our Vital Impact Fund or perhaps a consideration to leave a legacy donation to have your impact felt for many years to come. No amount is too small to have an impact, as it is our collective focus that continues to drive this community forward.


Our Vital Signs 2025 Focus report was recently released and highlights some key areas of learning.  With a focus on connection, the report discusses the importance of creating and celebrating spaces to connect in the community. It also highlights some of the barriers to connection that we face such as social isolation, housing instability, lower civic engagement and centralization of services.  It also celebrates some of the ways we are, as a community, maintaining those connections with the rise of new public markets, outdoor theatre, accessible community gatherings, local news outlets and radio and with volunteerism.

The County Foundation crossed the milestone of stewarding grants totaling more than $10 million dollars in the local community this year and the impact of those have been remarkable.  With your donation we can continue this into the future to help the County face the issues of both today and tomorrow. 


With Thanks,

Braydon Scully

Board Chair, The County Foundation

If you are interested in supporting our work, consider making an end-of-year donation to one of our funds or community initiatives, such as:

PEC’s Vital Signs: Your support provide resources for research & reports, community engagement, and expanding community awareness.

The Vital Impact Fund: Addressing the most urgent needs in PEC as highlighted by Vital Signs data.

The PEC Arts Fund: Support a pathway to establishing more sustainable funding for all arts organizations.

And our other established funds!

While we have highlighted our above funds, we also have a list of existing funds that can also be supported. Your generosity helps strengthen initiatives that are already assisting our community and expanding access to vital resources.

Make a Donation Today

TCF Granting Highlights

Over 1 million in grants facilitated in 2025 (so far!).

Over $600,000 granted through our Donor Advised Funds so far in 2025 including a recent grant of $100,000 to the HUB Child & Family Centre in support of the expansion of childcare services in the County.

Over 2.8 million in grants facilitated in 2024.

Learn More

The County Foundation is one of 208 Community Foundations in Canada. Since it was founded in 2008, The County Foundation has facilitated granting of over $10 million in Prince Edward County. 

  • About The County Foundation
  • About our Grants and Funds
  • About PEC's Vital Signs
  • Why give through The County Foundation?
    • ]]>    Tue, 02 Dec 2025 08:25:00 -0500    <![CDATA[2025 Huff Family Fund Grant Recipients]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/2025-huff-family-fund-grant-recipientsAnnouncing the 2025 Huff Family Fund Recipients See the full list of recipients below and learn more about the projects they'll be carrying out over th ]]>

    Announcing the 2025 Huff Family Fund Recipients

    See the full list of recipients below and learn more about the projects they'll be carrying out over the next year!

    The County Foundation was pleased to announce the 2025 Huff Family Fund grant recipients at Huff Estates Winery on November 26th, 2025.

    The Huff Family Fund was established in 2017 and officially launched in 2018 and is managed by The County Foundation. The Huff Fund supports a broad range of organizations benefiting Prince Edward County including addiction and mental health, animal welfare, arts and culture, healthcare and human services, housing issues and Vital Signs priority areas. Thank you to Lanny and Catharine for their ongoing commitment to supporting Prince Edward County.

    “The Huff Family Fund continues to make a profound impact across our community, empowering organizations across many sectors. Their leadership reminds us how powerful it is when individuals and families choose to give back. We are fortunate in Prince Edward County to have donors like the Huff Family, who recognize the value of broad, cross-sector support and who support programs and services that impact so many people in Prince Edward County.” - Gillian Armstrong, Interim Executive Director, The County Foundation 

    2025 Grant Recipients

    The 2025 Huff Family Fund grants totaling $250k will benefit 22 organizations who make a difference in our community across many vital sectors. The Huff Family Fund is a matching grant, meaning that each dollar received must be matched by either dollars or volunteer time, increasing the impact of the funding. 

     Al Purdy A-frame Association APAFA will increase the numbers of weeks of residency, develop and launch a second Mentorship Fellowship, develop a Community Project Resource Tool for writers, and increase the number of events. 
     Baxter Arts Centre Funding will support the growth and expansion of Baxter's programming, including game workshops and the continuation of the Bloomfield Night Time Parade's 'Pre-Parade Activities' event. Funding will also support the continuation and expansion of Baxter's Summer Camps and 20 week-long camps. 
     Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) Funding will support the Adjustment to Sight Loss (A2SL) 7-week program.  

    Community Care For Seniors 

    		Funding will be used to purchase essential kitchen equipment for the newly established County Seniors' Centre in Picton (including a fridge, stove, microwave, and 10-piece cookware set) from a local supplier. 
    County Food Hub Funding to support a 5-week culinary course in PEC held at County Food Hub (CFH) that provides no-cost, universally accessible, cooking classes.  
    County Stage Company Funding supports the 2026 Season, which will include 4 productions produced by CSC's repertory company performed in venues across PEC. 
    Driftwood Theatre Young Playmakers Program (YPM) program for PEC youth ages 11-17. 
    Heal with Horses Ensure the high-quality nutrition of their animals, who are essential for their delivery of effective programming (including equine therapy & small farm animal interactions. 
    Humane Society HPE  Supporting HSHPE's Pet Food Bank, which was recently soft launched to address the "growing but unseen need" of pet food insecurity. 
    Music at Port Milford  Funding to build new music practice sheds at its Port Milford campus, offering dedicated space for focused individual practice. 
    Ontario Farmland Trust 
    Advance farmland protection by establishing OFT-PEC Alliance, which will provide place-based outreach, volunteer opportunities, and communications specific to PEC.
     Prince Edward Learning Centre  Support for the Financial Empowerment program team to connect PEC residents with low incomes to two undersubscribed federal benefits (Disability Tax Credit & the Registered Disability Savings Plan) and support them through the months-long application process. 
    Quintissimo Funding will support providing underprivileged youth aged 6-12 with free instrumental music education at Prince Edward Collegiate Institute. 
    Reaching for Rainbows Expanding programming to ages 6-12 and establishing a new STEM-focused program for the older group. 
    Alzheimer Society of Hastings-Prince Edward Program providing people living with dementia 12 weeks of in-home activity and companionship, while offering relief/respite to caregivers. 
    County Museums Flashback February - Exhibition featuring a series of lesser-known objects from museum collection, displayed alongside new works created by 10 local textile artists that are inspired by these collection items. 
    Department of Illumination Continuation of Delhi Park Pageant project; a free community arts programming in Delhi Park culminating in an annual pageant. 
    HPE Learning Foundation Requesting support for 3 core programs, including Food for Learning, Sharing Cupboards, and the Student Emergency Fund. 
    Comedy Country Funding supports a live comedy series and training program. 
     TheROC Youth Services Funding supports Get Grounded; a three-week mental well-being workshop designed specifically for intermediate youth (Grades 7-8) in Prince Edward County. 
    Three Oaks Foundation Provides emergency shelter and support services for women and their children who are experiencing abuse. Funding to expand services by offering taxi transportation for women from Prince Edward County back to their communities—for appointments, school, work, or other connections. 
    Young Imaginations An initiative that brings the Rotinonhsyón:ni culture alive for youth 8 to 12 through immersive arts experiences. 

    In addition to the above, there are several ongoing multi-year commitments through the Huff Family Fund which include:  

     County Kids Read Distribute 1800 books (600 per year) focused on enhancing literacy and STEM learning opportunities.  
     Prince Edward Public Library & Archives  Annual series of author talks in June, tied to Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27, and Pride Month in June.  
     Prince Edward County Arts Council  Art Together: Free weekly drop-in facilitated art-making studio led by professional Artist Facilitators for community members 16+. 

    Thank you to each of the 22 organizations that have been supported through the Huff Family Fund this year. We deeply appreciate your commitment to this community and your contributions to make Prince Edward County a place where all can belong and thrive. 

    ]]>    Mon, 01 Dec 2025 09:31:10 -0500    <![CDATA[Announcing the Valery Ross-McElroy Bursary]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/announcing-the-valery-ross-mcelroy-bursaryThe County Foundation is very honoured to announce a new bursary fund in tribute of Valery Ross-McElroy.  An annual bursary of at least $1,000 wil ]]>
    Call for applications for Board & Committee members with cartoon people

    The County Foundation is very honoured to announce a new bursary fund in tribute of Valery Ross-McElroy. 

    An annual bursary of at least $1,000 will be awarded to support a female-identifying student who is graduating from Prince Edward Collegiate Institute pursuing post-secondary education studies in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Mathematics) or in Community Engagement/Development. 


    Valery Ross-McElroy was adventurous, and endlessly generous, and believed in the power of community. Deeply rooted in compassion, she never stopped giving whether through her work or in her day-to-day life.

    With the encouragement of her teachers at Prince Edward Collegiate Institute, she earned scholarships that helped her become one of the first in her family to graduate from university. She graduated from the University of Ottawa with a Bachelor of Science in biology and math, and earned a Master of Arts in Community Development from the University of Victoria.

    Valery passed away in April 2025 from cancer, and is survived by her husband Jeremy and son Darcy. In honour of her generosity and lasting impact, her family established this award to help local students—especially young women—believe in themselves, chase their dreams, and carry forward the spirit of generosity and courage that defined Valery’s life.

    Valery Ross-McElroy Bursary

    Applications are now open

    The full details of this bursary, including eligibility requirements and application process, are now available.
    The inaugural recipient will be selected in 2026.  

    Support Valery's Bursary

    If you are interested in supporting the Valery Ross-McElroy Bursary, you can: 

    • Donate online through CanadaHelps by selecting the fund from the drop down menu.
    • Mail a cheque addressed to The County Foundation with "Valery Ross-McElroy Bursary" in the memo. Mailing address is 24-35 Bridge Street, Picton, ON  K0K 2T0.
    • Send an E-Transfer to info@thecountyfoundation with "Valery Ross-McElroy" in the memo. 

    ]]>    Wed, 22 Oct 2025 09:08:19 -0400    <![CDATA[Announcing the 2025 Vital Signs Report]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/announcing-the-2025-vital-signs-reportThe 2025 Vital Signs report — Social Infrastructure: Access, Connections and Gaps — is now published. ]]>

    Announcing the 2025 Vital Signs Report

    The 2025 Vital Signs report — Social Infrastructure: Access, Connections and Gaps — is now published.

    Read the 2025 Report

    Released on October 8, the 2025 Vital Signs® Focus Report explores how social infrastructure – public spaces, services, and facilities that support community life – shapes connection, inclusion, and well-being in Prince Edward County.

    The report builds on the theme of Inclusion and Belonging, first introduced in 2021 during the pandemic, when residents were experiencing both heightened isolation and accelerated community change. Using maps and local data, it highlights where social infrastructure is strong, where gaps exist, and how these patterns affect access to services, opportunities for connection, and overall community life.

    Vital Signs® is Canada’s largest community-driven data program, led by local community foundations and coordinated by Community Foundations of Canada. It uses local insights to measure community vitality and encourage actions that improve quality of life. Released nationwide in the first week of October, the reports aim to spark conversation and inspire change.

    The County Foundation will be hosting a webinar on the 2025 Vital Signs report on November 6th

    Date: Thursday, November 6th 

    Time: 1 pm to 2 pm 

    Registration is required: Click to register today.

    Webinar Topics

    Highlights from the 2025 Vital Signs Report

    How mapping reveals local strengths and gaps

    A guided tour of the new Community Well-being Dashboard

    Prince Edward County’s version of Vital Signs® is led by The County Foundation in coordination with Community Foundations of Canada, offering a consolidated snapshot of key community trends and issues.

    For those looking to make a difference, The County Foundation’s Vital Impact Fund uses Vital Signs data to address the most pressing needs in our community. 

    Learn More

  • Prince Edward County's Vital Signs
  • The Vital Impact Fund
  • Why give through The County Foundation?
  • Contribute to an existing Fund
    • ]]>    Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:00:34 -0400    <![CDATA[Recruiting Future Treasurer for Board of Directors]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/recruiting-future-treasurer-for-board-of-directorsThe County Foundation is currently recruiting a volunteer Board Member and future Treasurer as part of a 2-year succession plan. At the Prince Edward C ]]>
    Call for applications for Board & Committee members with cartoon people

    The County Foundation is currently recruiting a volunteer Board Member and future Treasurer as part of a 2-year succession plan.

    At the Prince Edward County Community Foundation (The County Foundation) our mission is to inspire giving to our community, facilitate grants and support collaborative action to address identified community needs by linking a caring community with causes that matter. 

    Our goal is to ensure that the Board membership reflects the diversity, skills, experience, expertise and judgment necessary for the Foundation to carry out its objectives effectively and appropriately. 

    Apply now by submitting an Expression of Interest. 

    Submit Expression of Interest

    Preferred Skills/Experience

    We are especially interested in hearing from individuals with prior experience as a Treasurer who may be interested in serving in that role in the future. As part of a 2-year succession plan, the incumbent volunteer treasurer will assume the role after a cross-training plan.

    Time Commitment 

    Board monthly time commitment: approximately 4 - 8 hours. Includes Board meetings and contributing to at least 2 committees.

    ]]>    Fri, 26 Sep 2025 09:39:09 -0400    <![CDATA[The County Foundation Celebrates Over $10 Million in Grants Facilitated ]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/10-Million-in-Grants-FacilitatedThe County Foundation is proud to announce that we have hit a major milestone in our history and have officially facilitated more than $10 million in ]]>

    Here For Good: 
    ​The County Foundation Celebrates Over $10 Million in Grants Facilitated 

    The County Foundation is proud to announce that we have hit a major milestone in our history and have officially facilitated more than $10 million in grants since 2008, directly supporting the people, places, and projects that shape Prince Edward County. 

    This milestone is more than just a number as it reflects years of trust, collaboration, and meaningful progress. The County Foundation has become a trusted steward of charitable giving. We work with donors through donor-advised funds, scholarships, bequests, and grant programs to empower individuals to invest in the causes they care about most. 


    Our founding Board members led by example, personally contributing to establish our very first fund. This generous act laid the groundwork for our continued growth and expanding impact in the community. 


    We celebrate this achievement alongside the generous members of our community who partner with us to create lasting impact by establishing a charitable fund with us or by contributing to an existing fund. One notable example is the Huff Family Fund, which was established in 2017 and grants $250k annually to local organizations and the Huff Family through The County Foundation provided a $2 million gift to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation. 

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    The County Foundation works closely with our local municipality, administering several key grant programs on its behalf to support critical community initiatives that enhance our resident’s quality of life. This includes the Municipal Community Grants & PEC Arts Fund, Municipal Financial Relief Grants, and the Municipal Agricultural Grants.  

    Looking ahead, The County Foundation remains committed to building a community where all can belong and thrive. This moment is not only a reflection of The County Foundation’s impact, but a powerful reminder of what is possible thanks to the generosity of many. 

    Granting Highlights

    Over 1 million in grants facilitated in 2025 (so far!)

    Over $600,000 granted through our Donor Advised Funds so far in 2025 including a recent grant of $100,000 to the HUB Child & Family Centre in support of the expansion of childcare services in the County.

    Over 2.8 million in grants facilitated in 2024.

    Learn More

    The County Foundation is one of 208 Community Foundations in Canada. Since it was founded in 2008, The County Foundation has facilitated granting of over $10 million in Prince Edward County. 


    For those looking to make a difference, The County Foundation’s Vital Impact Fund uses Vital Signs data to address the most pressing needs in our community. 

  • Why give through The County Foundation?
    • ]]>    Wed, 10 Sep 2025 13:08:35 -0400