Last year our Board of Governors approved 59 grants totalling $2,767,203, almost $1 million more than the value of the 67 grants approved in 2010 ($1,776,463). This chart shows the yearly variation in grants approved since the Real Estate Foundation started its grants program in 1988.

Because the Real Estate Foundation has a revenue stream (interest on real estate brokerage trust accounts) and investments, our income varies with both the real estate market and the financial markets. Historically, the Foundation's grant making has reflected those peaks and valleys.

During times of higher income, when the markets were up, the Foundation board has been able both to approve more grants and put money in reserve--a stabilization fund which would allow us to continue to make grants during times of little or no revenue.

Though we cannot predict with complete certainty what our income will be, the Real Estate Foundation's level of granting in 2012 will be similar to what it was in 2011.

We look forward to working with BC organizations to support more great projects this year--progressive projects that lead to on-the-ground change for communities throughout the province.