The volunteer team at The The Vibrant Veggie Garden, (a project of the Central Okanagan Food Bank), are working hard to plant the vegetable garden again this year. All produce is donated to organizations locally. Last year we grew 13,500 pounds. If you would like to help,(no experience necessary), please contact me for more information. Everyone of all ages welcome!

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.

Today, our volunteer team had the honour of hosting Alison Faulkner, Manager of Business Development from Canadian Blood Services, who gave us a powerful presentation on the importance of regular blood donation. We’re proud to announce that we are officially forming a “Partners for Life” group in Vernon, BC!  What this means: Our team will now organize regular group blood donations to help save lives across Canada. This is our first step toward making a lasting impact in community health.  Special thanks to Canadian Blood Services for trusting our team and guiding us through the process. Stay tuned for our first group blood donation event, coming soon! #CanadasLifeline #GreenSvernon #PartnersForLife #CanadianBloodServices #VolunteerImpact #GiveLife #VernonBC #DoSomeGood