The Prince George Community Foundation (PGCF) has announced it is now accepting grant applications for the Chad Staley Memorial Development Fund.
Chad Staley was a former Spruce Kings player who died after unknowingly ingesting a pill laced with fentanyl. The pill had been given to him by a friend to manage pain from an injury sustained during a game.
Launched in partnership with the PGCF, the fund was recently established by the Chad Staley Memorial Foundation to mark the fifth anniversary of Staley’s passing. It aims to support young athletes and local sports organizations across Prince George by helping them overcome challenges, pursue their goals and grow into well-rounded individuals.
The fund is built on five core pillars that reflect the values Staley demonstrated throughout his life: prioritizing health, developing athletes, promoting well-being, providing access and empowering academics.
“While rooted in athletics, the fund is designed to support athletes beyond the game,” said Jaymes Pattie, president of the Chad Staley Memorial Foundation. “By providing consistent, individualized support to both athletes and local sport organizations, we aim to build well-rounded funding streams that nurture performance, academics and overall health and well-being.”
Pattie added in a news release that Staley’s friends and family are deeply grateful for the community support that has brought the fund to life.
“Every dollar contributed has made a difference in helping us give back in Chad’s name,” he said. “We’re especially grateful to Selen Alpay, whose extraordinary generosity as the first official donor to the Chad Staley Memorial Development Fund made it possible to launch this grant program so quickly.”
Grants will be available to athletes up to age 24, as well as to local sport organizations that demonstrate financial need or face barriers to participation.
Eligible expenses include coaching and training, equipment, competition fees and travel, mental health counselling, academic tutoring, inclusive program access and more.
Individual athletes may apply for grants ranging from $250 to $2,000. Larger sport organizations can apply for up to $5,000.
The final grant amounts will vary based on each application, demonstrated need and available funds.
To apply, individuals or sport organizations must complete an online application and submit a short personal statement outlining their goals, challenges and how the funding will support their growth.
A letter of support from a coach, teacher, mentor or guardian is also requested to assist in the selection process.
Applications are now open and will be accepted until May 15, 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by June 30.
To learn more about the Chad Staley Memorial Development Fund, apply for a grant or make a donation to support the fund’s long-term impact, visit the PGCF website.
