Local non-profit Executive Directors (ED’s), community leaders, and program alumni gathered this morning to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the SharED Program. SharED a cornerstone peer-learning network facilitated by Community Futures North Okanagan (CFNO).

Held at the Vernon Museum and Archives, the anniversary brought together two decades of non-profit managers and executive directors who have participated in the program since its inception. The milestone event served as both a celebration of regional collaboration and a testament to the sector’s vital role in building resilient communities across the North Okanagan.

Launched 20 years ago, SharED was designed to break the isolation often experienced by leaders in the non-profit sector. By bringing together non-profit organizations for bi-weekly peer sessions, the program fosters candid dialogue, resource-sharing, and collaborative problem-solving. Over the past two decades, cohorts have tackled critical organizational challenges together, ranging from governance and strategic planning to sustainable revenue generation and volunteer recruitment.

“Leading a non-profit organization comes with unique operational demands, complex organizational and community needs, and significant responsibility,” said Leigha Horsfield, Executive Director at Community Futures North Okanagan. “For 20 years, SharED has provided local leaders with a confidential sounding board, practical toolkits, and an enduring support system. Today was an incredible opportunity to look across the room and see twenty years of shared knowledge and positive community change in action.”

The enduring success of SharED has been made possible through steadfast community partnership, underscored by VantageOne Credit Union’s unwavering 20-year commitment as the program’s dedicated sponsor. “Sustaining a program like SharED for two decades requires champions who truly understand the power of investing in local leaders,” added Horsfield. “We are deeply grateful to Glenn Benischek, President & CEO of VantageOne Credit Union, and the entire VantageOne team for their 20 years of continuous sponsorship, belief in this vision, and ongoing support for the vibrancy of our local non-profit sector.”

SharED continues to welcome managers and executive directors across the North Okanagan who are seeking to strengthen their organizations, share industry insights, and contribute to the collective development of the local non-profit ecosystem.

For more information about Community Futures North Okanagan programs or to inquire about upcoming SharED cohorts, visit https://www.futuresbc.com/ or contact 250-545-2215.