CIF Projects
The Consumer Initiative Fund (CIF) provides funding for projects that allow the community to connect with peers in a safe and welcoming environment.
About Projects
CIF projects are proposed, developed and led by people with lived/living experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges (peers).
These projects allow peers to take the expertise they have acquired through lived experience, identify activities that could benefit their community, and then bring their vision into reality.
Call for Project Proposals is now Open!
Have an idea for a community project for Fall 2023?
Submit a written proposal for an opportunity to receive funding!
Deadline: September 30, 2023
How Can I Benefit?
Participants
CIF projects offer a valuable service to the community, and the public can take part in project activities for free. Participation in this initiative fosters inclusion and community integration while decreasing isolation. Participants can also take inspiration from seeing peers in action.
Project Leaders
For project leaders and assistants, CIF projects provide an opportunity for personal growth. It can involve learning how to do new things such as booking venues, monitoring an ongoing budget, registering participants, and navigating obstacles that may arise along the way.
Build Capacity
Taking part in project activities can support recovery, whether it is developing an artistic skill, gaining inspiration from peers, or building confidence through group discussions. For project leaders, skills like problem-solving, managing finances, interpersonal communication, and leadership can really stay with an individual long after a project has ended. Participants and project leaders alike can apply these skills to other work or life opportunities in the future.
What does a CIF Project Look Like?
Some past projects include:
Creative Workshops
Photography
Drawing
Screenwriting
Autobiographical Writing
Improv
Choir
Community Groups
Ted Talks Discussion Group
Tour Vancouver
Community Kitchen
Cinema Nights
Heroes from Home
Exercise/Movement Groups
Exploring Spirituality Workbook
CIF Forms for Project Leaders
| Fees for Service Request | An invoice to bill for hours worked – Project Leaders & Assistants submit monthly | Download |
| Time Sheet | A record of hours worked – Project Leaders & Assistants submit monthly | Download |
| Receipt Summary | An invoice to reimburse for expenses – Project Leader submits monthly with receipts | Download |
| Attendance | Project Leader submits monthly | Download |
| Participant Feedback Form | Provide to participants to complete at their last session. Forms can be collected by project leader or sent directly to CIF Coordinator | Download |