Last week I had the immense honour of being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal, presented by Dan Huang-Taylor, Executive Director of Food Banks BC. I was deeply humbled to be recognized by Food Banks BC and Food Banks Canada in the category of Community Service and Philanthropy. Over the past 20 years with First West Credit Union, I have been incredibly fortunate to have my career aspirations, educational pursuits, and personal growth supported and celebrated by First West. First West has generously provided me with the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in communities across BC. It is a privilege to support the many remarkable programs and partnerships that define First West’s community engagement. I am inspired by the dedication of Food Banks BC and its members. Their tireless efforts to increase access to healthy food and to innovate in support of client wellbeing is nothing short of extraordinary. As the need continues to grow, their commitment never wavers. I have not walked this path alone. The passion and generosity of First West team members across BC, our leadership, and our Board have been instrumental in supporting local food banks, our members, and our communities through challenging times. From the early days of Feed the Valley and The Full Cupboard, to our evolving understanding of food insecurity, we have seen how collective action can create lasting impact. I am deeply grateful for this honour - for the opportunities I have had, the experiences I have shared, and the partnerships that have shaped my journey. Thank you, Dan, thank you, First West and thank you to the hundreds of food bank team members and volunteers whose compassion and care strengthen our communities every day! First West Foundation Envision Financial, a division of First West Credit Union Island Savings a division of First West Credit Union Valley First, a division of First West Credit Union Enderby & District Financial, a division of First West CU Food Banks BC

Emma, Josh and Lizzy are researching fungi, AI, and endangered plants, respectively. They were excited to share their research findings at VIU’s CREATE conference in April. CREATE recognizes and celebrates student scholarship, research and creative activity. “It allows students to find out what their passions are, what their skillsets are, and to interact with material that just sets your brain on fire! When students receive support to engage with their research projects, it allows them to be seen.” ~ Kendra Stiwich, Director, Graduate Studies and Student Research Coastal Community is proud to partner with Vancouver Island University (VIU) and support inspiring programs like CREATE. Our sponsorship was made possible by our Sharing Our Success initiative: https://www.cccu.ca/about/community/sharing-our-success CREATE Conference is an annual event at Vancouver Island University and takes place at their Nanaimo campus. Learn more: https://research.viu.ca/create

Story Studio is an award winning charity that delivers innovative, ‘fun-first’ workshops that give youth the narrative tools to create amazing stories, using a methodology we’ve refined through work with over 12,000 youth. We pair emerging young writers with adult authors and illustrators, so they can learn from each-other. We operate both within the school system and outside of it to reach the kids who really need our help. In our School Age program workshops, youth (ages 5-10) engage in a process of story development, learning the skills that ‘real authors’ use to create their own unique tales. Along the way, participants are supported one-on-one by staff and volunteers to ensure that the program is accessible to youth of any literacy level, and builds on their individual strengths. The result is an improvement in both the technical skills associated with literacy (eg. grammar, spelling) but more importantly the emotional engagement and confidence that comes with writing a complete story. Each finished story is published, printed as a book by Story Studio staff, with copies given to the participant and school. In addition, support materials are given to families of youth participants to encourage reading and writing at home. With Peninsula Co-op's donation, we will deliver workshops to over 18 classes across Greater Victoria this fall. Helping hundreds of students learn the art of storytelling and fueling their passion for future leaning! Learn more here https://www.storystudio.ca/

We encourage growth of choral music and the choir offers choral scholarships for up to four male students attending university, college like University of Victoria, Camosun, Victoria Conservatory of Music. If the student is taking music or just loves to sing and joins the choir the scholarship helps with their education costs. They can also take leadership roles within the choir and the community. The choral scholarship for the 2025-2026 season is $1000.00 from September to the end of December, and $1000.00 from January to May. Businesses can also sponsor choral scholars if they wish. For more info check out our website at http://www.vamc.ca or info@vamc.ca

Solidarity Eco-Haven Housing Foundation Launches Fundraiser to Transform Affordable Housing Join us in creating eco-friendly housing solutions for low-income seniors and veterans Victoria, BC - The Solidarity Eco-Haven Housing Foundation is delighted to unveil a new fundraising initiative designed to revolutionize affordable housing for low-income seniors and veterans. Our foundation is committed to blending sustainability with community support, crafting eco-friendly living spaces that provide more than just shelter—they offer dignity and a sense of belonging for those who have served our nation and communities. "We believe that everyone deserves a safe, affordable, and sustainable place to call home," stated [Executive], spokesperson for the Solidarity Eco-Haven Housing Foundation. "This fundraiser represents a step toward turning the dream of housing into a tangible reality for all. By collaborating with community members, local businesses, and governmental organizations, we can drive lasting change and promote social equity and environmental responsibility." Key benefits of the Solidarity Eco-Haven initiative include: Affordable housing options specifically designed for low-income seniors and veterans Eco-friendly housing designs that promote sustainable living Community support systems that foster a sense of belonging and dignity Partnerships that improve the quality of life for residents Opportunities to engage with the community and advocate for housing equity Our fundraiser officially launches today, and we invite everyone to join us on this important journey toward social equity and environmental stewardship. Contributions will directly support the creation of sustainable housing solutions that empower our residents and strengthen our communities. Make a difference by donating today at https://www.zeffy.com/fundraising/donate-to-make-a-difference-10795.

Yesterday we said so long and thank you to our Foundation Board Chair, Richard Hill. With his demonstrated commitment to community, Richard joined the First West Foundation board in 2015, initially serving as Vice-Chair. In 2019 he stepped into the role of Chair, after serving alongside co-founding director Peter Podovinikoff. We didn’t know it at the time, but Richard quickly became our built-in First West Foundation ambassador in every room he entered, showcasing the work of the Foundation at every opportunity. His passion for his community still powers his warm, thoughtful and strategic approach to governance, business and life. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your exceptional leadership and for leaving a legacy of compassion and care for the communities we serve,” shared Susan Byrom, executive director of First West Foundation. “As you embark on your next adventure, we look forward to the exciting new chapters that await. It has been a tremendous pleasure,” she added. Thank you, Richard, for your legacy and leadership, for guiding us with unwavering dedication and for making a lasting impact on our Foundation and the communities we support. You will be missed!   Photo credit: Ladysmith Family and Friends Society Photo description: A group of four adults smiling, seated around a table with a young child held by one person, attending a tea party with wigs and props, in a child-care setting with children playing in the background.Yesterday we said so long and thank you to our Foundation Board Chair, Richard Hill. With his demonstrated commitment to community, Richard joined the First West Foundation board in 2015, initially serving as Vice-Chair. In 2019 he stepped into the role of Chair, after serving alongside co-founding director Peter Podovinikoff. We didn’t know it at the time, but Richard quickly became our built-in First West Foundation ambassador in every room he entered, showcasing the work of the Foundation at every opportunity. His passion for his community still powers his warm, thoughtful and strategic approach to governance, business and life. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your exceptional leadership and for leaving a legacy of compassion and care for the communities we serve,” shared Susan Byrom, executive director of First West Foundation. “As you embark on your next adventure, we look forward to the exciting new chapters that await. It has been a tremendous pleasure,” she added. Thank you, Richard, for your legacy and leadership, for guiding us with unwavering dedication and for making a lasting impact on our Foundation and the communities we support. You will be missed!   Photo credit: Ladysmith Family and Friends Society Photo description: A group of four adults smiling, seated around a table with a young child held by one person, attending a tea party with wigs and props, in a child-care setting with children playing in the background.