Langley, B.C.This fall, three local non-profit agencies stand to benefit from a unique partnership between Envision Financial, a division of First West Credit Union, and Douglas College. This innovative program, entering its sixth year, pairs local non-profit agencies with student-led teams who help the agencies by applying market research and problem solving skills to address challenges facing the agencies. The students gain exposure to the growing social sector and receive hands-on learning experiences that ultimately benefit the community.
Project proposals from local non-profit and charitable agencies that have an operational or program need that the student teams could assist with are now being accepted. Since 2012, 14 local non-profit agencies have benefitted from this program, including Eagle Ridge Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Store, Alouette Addictions Services and the Surrey Food Bank.
"Many non-profit agencies are stretched thin and don"t have the time or expertise to research and develop new programs or marketing campaigns," says Susan Byrom, senior manager of community investment at Envision Financial. "This program fills that need while providing enriched learning opportunities for the students. At Envision Financial, we want to make a meaningful difference in our local communities and this program allows us to do just that."
"This unique project provides real business experience for students and adds to their classroom learning, while the non-profit agencies gain valuable business tools and strategies," says Hazel Postma, associate vice-president external relations. "Along with Envision Financial, we are excited to be able to offer three local non-profit agencies the opportunity to participate in the 2016/2017 project."
Local non-profits that would like to be considered as a community partner in the 2016/2017 Envision Financial and Douglas College community building program should forward their expression of interest by August 5, 2016 to Susan Byrom at
sbyrom@envisionfinancial.ca. Three local non-profit agencies will be chosen. A full list of criteria can be found at
https://www.envisionfinancial.ca/Personal/CorporateCitizenship/CommunityHighlights/.
About Envision Financial
Envision Financial is a premier provider of banking, investment and insurance services for residents and businesses throughout the Fraser Valley, Lower Mainland and Kitimat regions. As a division of First West Credit Union, B.C.'s third-largest credit union with 54 branches and 38 insurance offices throughout the province, Envision Financial brings innovative products, an extensive branch network and local decision making to the banking experience. For more information on Envision Financial, visit
www.envisionfinancial.ca.
