Mr. G.W. (Bill) Harris, a long time Mission resident and former Mayor,  recognized the need for an organization where Mission residents could donate funds, to be held in perpetuity, for the benefit of this community and its citizens.

This organization became known as the Mission Community Foundation – a non-profit charitable organization for the benefit of the citizens of Mission.

Mr. Harris, together with others who had a similar vision, approached the then Dewdney Constituency M.L.A.’s for their support.  Austin Pelton and Norm Jacobsen sponsored Bill Pr404 and the Mission Foundation was born.  Financial assistance during its early years was provided by the Mission Rotary and Kinsmen Clubs, McKnight Johnson and Partners and by the Founders: Norman Cook, G.W. Harris, Albert McMahon, Gordon Ruley, G.W. Walker, and John Weisgerber.

The first fund entrusted to the Mission Foundation came through the estate of the late Margaret Erskine in the amount if $228,000 to support students pursuing post-secondary education.  The Foundation has grown exponentially since then, thanks to the many incredibly generous donations made by community members.

The Mission Community Foundation is managed by a Board of  eleven.  There are six elected volunteer members and five appointed members representing Mission City, Mission Public School District, Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce, Mission Community Services Society and Fraser Valley Regional District.

The Mission Community Foundation Board of Directors relies upon a professional team, including a Wealth Management Group, Bookkeeper, Auditor and Executive Director to provide advice, ensure legal requirements are met and to look after the day to day administration.

Legal Status

The Foundation was established by an Act of the B.C. Legislature on  June 19, 1987. Official name change amendment Bill Pr 402-2007, May 8, 2007.

Income Tax Status

Mission Community Foundation is registered with Canada Customs and Revenue Agency as a Public Foundation under rules applicable to Registered Charities.  Donations qualify for individual tax relief pursuant to Charitable Registration  No. 119042810RR0001