Together,we can thrive
Vancity Community Foundation was founded in 1989 on the belief that by working together, we can all thrive.
Today, we’re on a bold journey to restore affordability, advance climate justice and build more connected communities across British Columbia – led by those we serve.
Our work is grounded in anti-racism and the principles of Truth and Reconciliation, with a focus on the Downtown Eastside neighbourhood we call home. Through projects like 312 Main, BC Rent Bank, Living Wage BC, Reaching Home, the Vancity Affordable Community Housing Program and over 260 philanthropic funds, we are building a future where power is shared, lives are dignified and nature is in balance.
What guides us
At Vancity Community Foundation, we focus on three interconnected priorities that guide our work and measure our impact.
Restoring affordability
We support eviction prevention and the development of community-owned housing to address structural inequities in housing and income security.
Climate justice
We invest in climate-resilient housing and recognize climate change as a justice issue that disproportionately impacts
equity-deserving communities.
Connected and just communities
We build social infrastructure and shared spaces that foster belonging, mutual care and community governance.
How we work
Trust-based practices
We work alongside community organizations as partners, trusting their knowledge and leadership.
Values-aligned investing
From how we grow our assets to how we grant them, we manage every dollar with purpose.
Community-led solutions
We support solutions that are shaped and led by the people most affected.
Inclusion and equity
We prioritize Indigenous, Black, Downtown Eastside and other communities that face the greatest barriers.
The Halifax Declaration
We are a signatory to the Halifax Declaration for the Eradication of Racial Discrimination – a manifesto rooted in Recognition, Justice and Development. This commitment drives our work to prioritize Black-led and Black-serving organizations across everything we do.
The Circle on Philanthropy
In 2015, we signed The Circle on Philanthropy’s Declaration of Action, committing to reorient our practices toward equity and justice for Indigenous communities. This shapes how we fund, who we fund and how we share power.
Part of the Vancity family
As part of the broader Vancity ecosystem, we maintain a strong partnership rooted in shared values while operating as an independent public foundation.
Vancity Credit Union provides strategic support and sustained funding that enables us to pursue bold, community-led solutions.
Through our partnership with Vancity Investment Management (VCIM), fundholders benefit from responsible investing with rigorous ESG standards, shareholder activism and a commitment to climate action and Indigenous Reconciliation.
The people behind the work
Our team and Board bring deep expertise in community development, social finance, advocacy and program design. Together, we work alongside community partners to deliver trusted guidance, responsive support and innovative solutions that help more people and places thrive.