The Victoria Foundation is a Canadian nonprofit organization and registered charity based in Victoria, British Columbia. Established in 1936, it is one of the oldest community foundations in Canada and holds the distinction of being the second oldest among nearly 200 community foundations nationwide. The foundation operates with a mission to connect donors who care with causes that matter, fostering community wellbeing through philanthropic giving and grantmaking[2][5].

History and Purpose

Since its inception, The Victoria Foundation has been dedicated to supporting the growth and betterment of the local community by creating permanent endowment funds. These funds generate income used to provide grants for charitable and educational purposes. With the generosity of its donors, the foundation currently administers over $421 million in assets and has awarded more than $300 million in grants. Its broad approach to community support enables funding across numerous sectors and organizations addressing diverse local challenges and opportunities[2].

Activities and Impact

The foundation invests in people, ideas, and activities designed to strengthen the Victoria community. It publishes an annual community report called Victoria’s Vital Signs, which functions as a comprehensive assessment of the Capital Region’s quality of life. This report measures various aspects of community health, providing citizen grades in critical areas affecting residents’ lives. To extend the reach of Vital Signs, the foundation sponsors a television news feature series titled Vital People on CHEK TV, highlighting stories of individuals and organizations tackling issues identified in the report[1].

Governance and Accreditation

The Victoria Foundation is an accredited charity under Imagine Canada and complies with the Canada Revenue Agency’s requirements. It operates with a professional team, led by CEO Sandy Richardson as of 2025, and employs approximately 46 staff members. The foundation is classified under the NAICS codes 8132 and 81321, related to grantmaking and giving services, which reflect its core nonprofit activities[2][5].

Legacy and Community Role

For nearly a century, The Victoria Foundation has served as a key philanthropic institution in Victoria and the broader Capital Region. It is recognized for inspiring giving and stewardship of assets entrusted by donors committed to making a lasting impact. The foundation’s flexibility in grantmaking and its significant endowment make it a pivotal player in supporting local nonprofits and ensuring ongoing community development[2][1][5].

This summary encapsulates The Victoria Foundation’s foundational role, community engagement, and continued impact as a cornerstone Canadian charitable institution committed to enriching lives in Victoria, British Columbia.