"Telling our Story" is part of CFBC’s celebration of 40 years in British Columbia! General Manager of CF Cariboo Chilcotin, Karen Eden, shares why she got involved with CF and how her team serves clients and communities throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin region including, Williams Lake, Bella Coola, and 100 Mile House.
How many staff does your CF have?
10
How many volunteers does your CF have?
9
What brought you to CF as a General Manager?
I suppose you could say I’m living proof of the phrase, “Time flies when you’re having fun!” I first joined CF on what was supposed to be a six-month contract as the finance person back in 1996. Well, six months turned into a few decades, and here I am, still here and still loving it! In 2007, I took on the GM role, and I’ve never looked back. What drew me to Community Futures was the opportunity to be part of an organization that provides exactly what I always felt was missing for entrepreneurs and the Community Economic development and sustainability of rural or remote communities: a trusted partner they can turn to, whether they’re in need or have an opportunity to pursue. Every day brings something new, whether it’s working alongside clients, collaborating with community partners, or connecting with the incredible team of CF folks across the region. It’s been a long and rewarding journey—one I’m glad to still be on!
What services, projects, or initiatives does your office offer directly?
- Loans
- Micro-loans
- Self-employment Program
- Workshops or Webinars
- Consulting, Coaching, or Advising
- Community Development
- Grants
- Community Economic Development Supports
What are you most proud of about how your office supports your community?
I am incredibly proud of our unwavering commitment over the past 40 years to supporting the entrepreneurs and businesses that are the lifeblood of our region. Our team has been instrumental in helping small and medium-sized businesses start, grow, and thrive across this vast and diverse area. We’re here to navigate not only the challenges that arise before, during, and after natural disasters but also to seize new opportunities that strengthen the region’s economic future. By actively partnering with local organizations, governments, and other stakeholders, we contribute to building a resilient foundation that sustains our rural and remote communities. Supporting both businesses and non-profits is vital here, as healthy enterprises are essential for the economic survival and vibrancy of the Cariboo Chilcotin.
What is a memorable client moment for you?
Our work with the Child Development Center in Williams Lake back in 2014. At the time, they were undertaking a major $1.2 million expansion to build a new facility focused on autism and spectrum support for children, serving families across a vast region. This project was transformative, not only because it expanded resources for children with special needs but also because it added essential office and program activity space to their main building. Our role in this was providing over $250,000 in bridge financing, helping them meet critical financial milestones and move forward with construction. In a region that’s predominantly rural and remote, where support services are often limited, it was especially rewarding to be able to step in and make a difference. Knowing that our assistance enabled the center to create a lasting impact for so many families is something our office will always be proud of. It’s partnerships like these that reflect the true spirit of what Community Futures is here to do.
What might surprise people to know about your office? What else would you like people to know about what you do and who you are?
What might surprise people about our office is that we’re a team of just 10, but we have a combined 120 years of experience supporting entrepreneurs, businesses, and community development throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin! We work with a wide range of partners, including the Social Planning Council, Chambers, and all levels of government, to support the local economy. One unique program we’ve been running since 2001 is our 4H loan program, which we developed to support youth with market projects in the 4H program. Over the years, we’ve lent more than $400,000, with an average loan of $1,200, to help young participants manage the costs of purchasing, feeding, and caring for their animals before the annual 4H auction in August. This program not only eases cash flow for families but also gives youth valuable experience with borrowing and repaying loans. It’s a way we can support future entrepreneurs and teach real-world financial skills—something we’re very proud of!
What's on the horizon in your CF that excites you? Or for the CF organization as a whole?
On the horizon for Community Futures is building on our experiences with various programs and projects, including the myCF program. Although myCF funding is ending, we’ve gained valuable insights into workshop delivery, consultant support, and other impactful resources. As the footprint of the forestry sector shifts, we’re especially excited about growing opportunities in agriculture and tourism. We are looking forward to using what we’ve learned to shape new programs that support our local entrepreneurs, businesses, and communities in these emerging sectors and beyond
What do you think are the greatest strengths of CF as an organization/network?
The greatest strength of Community Futures is our shared commitment to supporting the resilience and growth of rural/remote entrepreneurs and communities. Across the network of 34 CF offices in BC, there’s a strong culture of collaboration—everyone’s ready to share ideas and solutions. We recognize the unique challenges and opportunities in rural BC, and we work together to find practical ways to help our clients reach their goals and build sustainable businesses and communities.
What do you wish more people knew about CF as an organization?
It would be great for more people and organizations to know that Community Futures is made up of local, independent organizations where decisions are made right here by people who live and work in the community. Our board is made up of passionate locals who genuinely care about supporting the region. Another important aspect is our role during natural disasters—we’re here on the ground, with hands-on experience, ready to help businesses and communities recover and get back on their feet.
What motivates you to stay on with Community Futures?
Knowing that I’m making a difference in the place where my family and friends live, work, and play. A thriving business community and stable nonprofits are essential to strong, resilient communities, and being part of the solutions that support that is incredibly rewarding. It’s a privilege to contribute to something that truly matters to the people and the region I care about.
Is there anything else you'd like to say about your office for the CFBC anniversary?
It truly is remarkable that Community Futures has been serving BC communities for nearly 40 years. Our relevance today speaks volumes about the dedication of those who volunteer and work tirelessly for their communities and neighbouring areas. It’s a testament to the enduring commitment of everyone involved in supporting local resilience and growth—something I’m proud to be a part of every day.
Connect with this Office
Website: CFDCCariboo.com
