In 2012, Shirley Walker decided to create a fund with Mission Community Foundation dedicated to the Mission Community Archives Centre. The fund has been set up to automatically distribute funds in June using the interest monies earned from the fund capital of $10,000. Our goal is to help offset their financial stresses by doubling that capital to $20,000.
This week is Heritage week and conversations turn to our past; how the city started and how it’s changed over the years. From our beginnings we have had cultures from many countries influence the way this city has grown and that diversification has enabled us to become the welcoming city that we are today. Fortunately some people had the foresight to create mechanisms to retain that history for future generations.
The Mission Community Archives Centre staff and volunteers, with guidance from head archivist Val Billesberger, are responsible for cataloging and preserving our archival history. They maintain a resource library that contains photographs, historical books, and personal files for many of the citizens that helped Mission grow. They work with local schools to provide tours of their facility and will willingly help anyone who wants to delve into our past. Their group also spearheads the Paths & Pathfinders: Women of Mission Program that recognizes women of diverse backgrounds and their contributions to the community.
If you are interested in preserving our past, help us help them by donating today.
Donations can be made online (or) by cheque to Mission Community Foundation, PO Box 3427, Mission BC V2V 4J5 (please put Archives Centre on memo line).