Penny McDonald (left) is presented with the Community Futures 2022 Volunteer of the Year award by Michele Hill, chairperson of Community Futures North Okanagan (Photo credit: CFNO)

By Vernon Matters Staff

'passion for business'

Community Futures names local volunteer of the year

Aug 3, 2022 | 10:00 AM

Penny McDonald loves helping businesses grow.

That’s why she started volunteering for Community Futures North Okanagan in 2012, and that’s what keeps McDonald volunteering a decade later.

But when McDonald, the Community Futures North Okanagan 2022 volunteer of the year, originally joined the Community Futures Self-Employment Committee, the North Okanagan business landscape looked far different than it does today.

“The local business community has become more diversified. With the growing population, there’s more opportunity for entrepreneurs than ever before,” said McDonald, CGA, CPA and senior manager with KPMG LLP. “Overall, that has kept me engaged for all these years. I have a personal interest in businesses of all types and it’s exciting to see what businesses are succeeding today.”

With more than 20 years of experience in providing accounting and tax services, McDonald sits on the Board of Directors and is the Community Futures North Okanagan treasurer.

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“Community Futures is continually evolving, and its strength comes from the people that work there,” McDonald remarked. “We’re very fortunate to have this organization in our community. What they give to the community and people from all walks of life is amazing.”

A strong supporter of business development, McDonald spearheaded Community Futures’ popular Enterprize Challenge competition and continues to support the initiative.

“We are very grateful to Penny for sharing her valuable time and expertise to improve and enhance the organization and the community we serve,” said Leigha Horsfield, CF North Okanagan executive director. “Her passion for business and devotion to owner-managed businesses makes Penny an invaluable member of the Community Futures North Okanagan team.”

Horsfield said volunteers are the reason Community Futures can contribute meaningfully to the North Okanagan business community.

For more information about how to volunteer with CF North Okanagan, visit futuresbc.com.