Role of Skidmore Group Foundation in the funding ecosystem
Skidmore Group Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Skidmore Group, a multi‑generation family enterprise based in British Columbia, Canada. Established to "ignite" the family’s intentions to create positive change, the foundation channels charitable giving into organizations that advance community development, healthcare and education. Operating as a registered non ‑profit under the BC Societies Act with a Canada Revenue Agency charity number, it distributes funds to qualified charities and institutions rather than running front‑line programs itself.
The foundation works largely through strategic partnerships with established organizations. It highlights long‑term relationships with medical foundations, hospitals, universities and community agencies, and showcases a wide range of beneficiaries including children’s hospitals, local hospital foundations, universities, autism and accessibility organizations, and addiction recovery programs. These partnerships allow the foundation to leverage existing expertise while amplifying impact.
Funding themes and beneficiaries
- Healthcare: A significant portion of Skidmore Group Foundation’s giving focuses on health, especially for children and vulnerable populations. Support is directed to hospital foundations and related health charities to improve access to care and outcomes for patients and families.
- Community development: The foundation backs organizations that strengthen social ties and provide practical support to people facing poverty, mental illness, addiction or social exclusion. This includes local community centres, recovery farms and agencies that serve under‑resourced groups.
- Education: Skidmore Group Foundation supports students and educational institutions, recognizing learning as key to unlocking individual potential. Its contributions help schools and charities provide educational opportunities and related services.
Heroes Invitational and other giving mechanisms
A flagship initiative of the foundation is the Heroes Invitational charity golf tournament. Launched in 2022, this annual event raises funds and awareness for selected partner charities each year. Past editions have supported organizations such as Pacific Autism Family Network, Rick Hansen Foundation, Wagner Hills Farm, Ally Global Foundation, City Dream Centre, Kuwasha and Raphael House. Funds raised are granted out to these partners to expand programs in areas like accessibility, mental health, addiction services, food security and education for children and families.
Beyond the tournament, Skidmore Group Foundation and the Allan Skidmore Family Foundation make discretionary donations aligned with their core pillars. While the website does not present formal open‑call grant programs with application deadlines, it clearly positions the foundations as active funders that provide financial support to selected charities in British Columbia and, where appropriate, beyond.
Publics served and overall impact
Through its funding, the foundation helps underprivileged children, youth, seniors and families, as well as those living with disabilities, mental illness or addiction. Its support of educational and community initiatives also benefits caregivers, first responders and broader local communities. By combining the resources of a family office with targeted philanthropic giving, Skidmore Group Foundation plays a meaningful role in the regional ecosystem of charitable funding.