The Vernon Museum sees its role in the community to be both that of caretaker and resource centre. In the role of caretaker of the public trust, it has a responsibility to care for and house objects and information of historical value to the community. (The Vernon Museum has become the recognized repository for archival material in the North Okanagan). 

The museum is dedicated to sharing the rich histories of Greater Vernon and its surrounding region, from pre-contact periods and the arrival of the first overlanders over 250 years ago, to the diverse cultural belongings and records produced since then.

As a resource centre and a cultural institution, it seeks ways to contribute both to the economic growth of the community through its fundraising initiatives and provide opportunities for improved quality of life for its residents through diverse education programs and social events.