Lionel’s Story …

Over 35 years ago, Lionel Wace had an idea.  It started with a dream, grew into a mission, and became a significant part of his life’s work!

To say Lionel’s story is inspirational is an understatement. It is also a wonderful reminder of how much can be accomplished when you plant the seeds of a vision and dedicate efforts to nurture growth in community giving.  Among the broad range of notable accomplishments that bear Lionel's mark is the  formation of Central Okanagan Foundation.

An Okanagan based supervisor for the Ministry of Social Services in the early 1970’s, Lionel recognized the inherent risk of relying solely on government money to solve community issues. He believed too much dependence on the government was not only regressive for the community, but negative for its residents.  Lionel envisioned a separate organization that could offer a flexible, responsive, and personalized structure for giving, where donors could make a difference in the community they called home. As usual, forward-thinking Lionel was absolutely right.

Lionel’s mission became setting up a community foundation in the Central Okanagan for the purpose of raising funds to address community needs.  With the fellowship and help of Frank Williams, Ish Holmes, and a cast of characters that have come to be known as the COF “Founders”, Lionel’s dream became a reality and Central Okanagan Foundation was born.

Lionel’s passion and dedication to the community foundation movement remained strong throughout his life. As he so humbly stated, “Anyone can leave a legacy”.  Lionel passed away on March 2, 2012 at the age of 92.