Simon Adams - Chief Executive Officer
Contact: ceo@centralokanaganfoundation.org
Central Okanagan Foundation Announces Simon Adams as Incoming CEO
The Central Okanagan Foundation (COF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Adams as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective April 13, 2026.
Adams brings more than 25 years of executive leadership experience in the charitable sector, most recently serving as Vice President, Regional Centre Operations with YMCA BC. Throughout his career, he has led large, complex organizations through periods of growth and transformation while strengthening governance partnerships, operational excellence, and community impact.
A Kelowna resident, Adams has long been committed to advancing community wellbeing in the region and sees the work of community foundations as a vital driver of lasting social change.
His appointment comes at an important moment for COF as the organization begins implementing its 2025–2028 Impact Strategy, which focuses on strengthening the social sector, deepening relationships across the community, and increasing the Foundation’s ability to fuel bold philanthropy and catalytic investment.
“Simon brings the kind of thoughtful, values-driven leadership that will help move the Central Okanagan Foundation’s strategic priorities forward,” said Dustyn Baulkham, Board Chair of the Central Okanagan Foundation. “Our new impact strategy challenges us to deepen relationships, strengthen the sector, and grow our impact in the community. Simon’s experience leading large charitable organizations and building strong partnerships makes him exceptionally well positioned to guide COF into this next chapter.”
Baulkham also expressed appreciation for Abbie Norrish, who has served as Interim Managing Director during the leadership transition.
“I also want to thank Abbie for stepping forward to lead the organization during this period of transition,” said Baulkham. “Her steady leadership, commitment to our team, and focus on maintaining momentum have been invaluable as we prepared for this next chapter.”
Adams said he is excited to step into the role and work alongside the board, staff, and community partners to advance COF’s mission.
“The Central Okanagan Foundation has an important role to play in shaping a stronger and more resilient community,” said Simon Adams. “I’m honoured to join an organization that is committed to bold philanthropy, investing in community leadership, and ensuring resources reach those who are driving real change. I look forward to working with the board, staff, donors, and community partners to build on this momentum and bring the Foundation’s impact strategy to life.”
The Central Okanagan Foundation supports charitable organizations and community initiatives throughout the region by stewarding donor funds and investing in projects that strengthen communities today and for generations to come.
Abbie Norrish - Interim Managing Director
Contact: abbie@centralokanaganfoundation.org
Abbie has worked with a wide range of non-profit organizations as an administrator, fundraiser, and executive director, and is excited to continue her career with the Central Okanagan Foundation providing support to the many non-profit organizations working to make our community great. Abbie holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Okanagan College, as well as an MBA from the University of Northern BC.
Lisa Watson - Office Administrator
Contact: lisa@centralokanaganfoundation.org
Paula Mendes - Grants & Stewardship Coordinator
Contact: paula@centralokanaganfoundation.org
Paula is community driven with a passion for connection, inclusion, and meaningful impact. Drawing from a diverse professional background and years of global experience, she brings a deep understanding of people, cultures, and collaboration.
In her role as Grants & Stewardship Coordinator, Paula applies empathy, strategic communication, and cross-sector insight to support engaged partnerships and strengthen community through thoughtful grantmaking and relationship building.
Her experience across sectors has shaped a strong belief in the power of community led change. She is committed to building authentic relationships, supporting inclusive initiatives, and ensuring that funding opportunities reflect the diverse needs and strengths of the region. Paula approaches her work with curiosity, care, and a deep respect for the lived experiences of those she serves.
Paulyn Chua, CPA - Finance Manager
Contact: paulyn@centralokanaganfoundation.org
Paulyn has called Kelowna home since 2003. She graduated from then the Okanagan University College with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree and was awarded both the Governor General’s Silver Medal as well as the Bachelor of Business Administration Medal for academic excellence. Paulyn received her Chartered Professional Accountant designation in 2005 and has worked in both public practice and industry for over 20 years. She has also owned and managed a licensed daycare for six years as she wanted to be able to be actively participating in her children’s early years, while at the same time feeding her entrepreneurial spirit.
Paulyn joined the Central Okanagan Foundation in November of 2023. Having had many years of experience in the private sector, she now wants to turn her focus on contributing to her community. She has a great passion for helping people and is looking forward to working together with the non-profit organizations of the Okanagan to help create a better community.
When not at work, Paulyn enjoys spending time with her children enjoying the beautiful Okanagan, listening to podcasts, taking dance lessons, crafting, and creating wonderful experiences and memories through travelling the world.
Julie Belgrove - Accounting Technician
Contact: julie@centralokanaganfoundation.org
Julie joined the Central Okanagan Foundation finance team with over 20 years of non-profit accounting experience. She has worked both directly for non-profits in the Okanagan and independently, running a successful bookkeeping business with a focus on the charitable sector. She feels passionate about people in general, and with an education in business accounting, she wishes to remain within the realm of the betterment of mankind.
Moving from the receiving end of the gifts provided, she feels privileged to be able to support those same charities with the funds to sustain their amazing work within our community. The need is growing every year and the generosity of our citizens has touched her immensely.
Niveria Oliveira - Community Entity Manager
Contact: niveria@centralokanaganfoundation.org
Niveria Oliveira (she/her) has worked in the social purpose and profit sector for over 20 years. Prior to joining Central Okanagan Foundation, she worked for Vancouver Foundation creating transformational change in numerous granting programs. She is a graduate of both University of Waterloo and UBC and volunteers her time with WORTH advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in the recreation, tourism, and hospitality sectors.
Ricardo Villegas - Program Manager, Reaching Home
Contact: ricardo@centralokanaganfoundation.org
Ricardo Villegas S. (He/Him) has worked in multiple roles in academia and the non-profit sector as a researcher, teaching assistant, grants administrator, and project coordinator. Before joining the Central Okanagan Foundation, he worked in the Office of Research Services at UBC Okanagan. He also supported a project on precarity and migrant workers in the Okanagan Valley, in collaboration with university faculty and community advocacy groups.
Ricardo holds a Master’s degree in Global Studies from the University of British Columbia Okanagan, specializing in multidisciplinary research on refugees and migrants, public policy, and Canadian foreign policy in Latin America. He obtained an Honours Specialization in International Relations from the University of Western Ontario, which inspired his passion for challenging power imbalances through research initiatives and community engagement.
Outside of work, you will find Ricardo playing sports like soccer and volleyball, hiking, reading, travelling, and trying different food spots throughout the Okanagan.