The City of Surrey began exploring the concept of a community foundation in 1992. Discussion with the business community indicated there was support in establishing a community foundation for Surrey.

In addition to local businesses and tremendous support from the Vancouver Foundation, the United Way also supported the endeavour, as they believed a community foundation would help generate more charitable donations for Surrey.

On May 18, 1994, eleven members involved on a Steering Committee signed the incorporation documents as Interim Directors; and on May 24, 1994 the Surrey Foundation was incorporated under the Societies Act of B.C.

The Surrey Foundation thus set out to encourage the will to build an outstanding community in one of the fastest growing cities in Canada.

Founding Directors & Steering Committee Members:
Trevor Armstrong, Hilar Belling, David Boulton, Barry Collins, Lloyd Craig, Allan Ecclestone, Duane Geddes, David Gomm, Ken Johnson, Rick Johnson, Herb Van der Ende, Jack Whittaker, Guy Young, Pieter Zeeman