Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Chinook Scout Foundation (CSF)

Chinook Scout Foundation is a registered charitable foundation dedicated to sustaining and expanding Scouting in Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and more than 100 communities across southern Alberta. Created in 1974 to provide long‑term funding for the Chinook Council of Scouts Canada, it raises and manages capital so that investment income and donations can be directed to youth programs rather than day‑to‑day fundraising.

The foundation supports a broad range of needs: financial assistance for families who cannot afford membership fees, uniforms or camping costs; funding for outdoor and adventure programs; community outreach activities; and initiatives to recruit and retain volunteers. It also plays a key role in Scouting’s financial security in the Calgary/Chinook region through endowed funds, including an investment portfolio originating from the Estate of Bert Sheppard and subsequent planned-giving donors.

A major component of the foundation’s funding is its post‑secondary scholarship program. Each year, Chinook Scout Foundation offers three academic scholarships to youth and young adults with a strong history in Scouting who are pursuing university, college or skilled trade training. Each scholarship can provide up to $4,000 annually, for a potential total of $16,000 over four years, contingent on continued full‑time enrolment.

Scholarship applicants must demonstrate Scouting involvement and leadership, community contributions beyond Scouting, and solid academic performance. The application process, detailed on the foundation’s website and in an official PDF form, requires a short personal statement on the value of Scouting, reference letters, transcripts and other supporting documents, which are reviewed by foundation representatives.

Beyond individual aid, the foundation also funds group projects and adventures. It is a proud funder of the Grizzly Den competition, an initiative started by the Chinook Council and now adopted by other councils across Canada. In this program, Scout groups pitch ambitious adventure ideas to a panel of mentors, receiving both guidance and financial support to turn their plans into reality. Past projects have included major canoeing and back‑country camping expeditions in Canada’s North.

The Chinook Council of Scouts Canada is the primary beneficiary of the foundation’s income, ensuring that funds are directed to programs serving youth in southern Alberta. The foundation is governed by a volunteer board that meets regularly to plan fundraising events—such as the longstanding Gardner Club Breakfast and Fellowship Dinner—and oversee the investment portfolio and granting activities.

Through this combination of scholarships, direct financial assistance and project‑based funding, Chinook Scout Foundation helps remove financial barriers, enrich youth programming and strengthen the capacity of local Scout groups to deliver safe, challenging outdoor experiences and leadership development opportunities.