Big Grass Community Foundation

08/10/2026

Big Grass Community Foundation was proud to take part in the Gladstone Fair parade this weekend!
Our float rolled through with plenty of smiles and community spirit. Thanks to everyone who came out, waved, and helped make the parade such a fun celebration of Gladstone.
We love being part of this tradition and supporting the communities we serve.

07/02/2026

✨ **Citizen of the Year – Celebrating Laurel McConnell** ✨

At our Evening of Giving in late April, Big Grass Community Foundation was proud to present the Citizen of the Year Award to an extraordinary member of our community — Laurel McConnell. 💙

The Citizen of the Year Award recognizes an individual, group, organization, or business within the Municipality of Westlake-Gladstone whose volunteer efforts, achievements, and contributions have made a meaningful and positive impact on our community.

Laurel embodies the spirit of this award in every way. 🌾

Her dedication to helping others is truly inspiring:

* She has been **solely running the Gladstone/Westlake Food Cupboard since 2018**, compassionately providing over 100 hampers to individuals and families in need.
* She serves as **Vice-Chair of the Gladstone United Church Council** (since 2022) and has been a council member since 2019.
* Laurel has been **Treasurer of the Gladstone Ag Society since 2011**, contributing over a decade of leadership.
* She is an active member and past secretary of the **GES PAC**, supporting local education for the past 7 years.
* She also serves as a **board member with Gladstone Minor Ball**, contributing to fundraising and sponsorship efforts.

“If you need something done, go to Laurel.” 💫

These are just a few of the many ways she continues to uplift and strengthen our community. Her compassion, commitment, and tireless volunteerism make her truly deserving of this recognition.

Congratulations, Laurel, and thank you for everything you do! 👏

06/25/2026

🎓 Congratulations, Ena Herceglic! 🎓

The Big Grass Community Foundation is proud to congratulate Ena Herceglic, recipient of the Big Grass Bursary at the WMCI Gladstone Graduation.

Ena, your hard work, dedication, and commitment to your future have truly stood out. We are excited to support you as you take your next steps and continue to grow, learn, and make an impact.

Wishing you every success in the journey ahead — the future is bright for you! 🌟

06/25/2026

✨ **4th & FINAL SET OF PHOTOS** ✨
✨ **An Evening of Giving** ✨

In late April, Big Grass Community Foundation proudly hosted our *Evening of Giving*—a celebration of generosity, community spirit, and local impact. 💙

We were honored to distribute grants to **16 incredible local non-profits**, each doing meaningful work to strengthen and support our communities. From grassroots initiatives to essential services, these organizations are making a real difference every day.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, supported our mission, and helped make the evening so special. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant region. 🌾

📸 Take a look at some highlights from the event below!

06/24/2026

06/18/2026

✨ **3rd SET OF PHOTOS***✨

✨ **An Evening of Giving** ✨

In late April, Big Grass Community Foundation proudly hosted our *Evening of Giving*—a celebration of generosity, community spirit, and local impact. 💙

We were honored to distribute grants to **16 incredible local non-profits**, each doing meaningful work to strengthen and support our communities. From grassroots initiatives to essential services, these organizations are making a real difference every day.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, supported our mission, and helped make the evening so special. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant region. 🌾

📸 Take a look at some highlights from the event below!

06/16/2026

06/11/2026

✨*****MORE PHOTOS******✨

✨ **An Evening of Giving** ✨

In late April, Big Grass Community Foundation proudly hosted our *Evening of Giving*—a celebration of generosity, community spirit, and local impact. 💙

We were honored to distribute grants to **16 incredible local non-profits**, each doing meaningful work to strengthen and support our communities. From grassroots initiatives to essential services, these organizations are making a real difference every day.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, supported our mission, and helped make the evening so special. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant region. 🌾

📸 Take a look at some highlights from the event below!