A new study reveals what is very apparent to many families in the North Okanagan. Men are at risk due to isolation. Surprisingly, young men are in the highest category. Men's Shed Vernon's 120 members can fix that by offering coffee, friendship, and purpose at our large wood and metal work shop. Don't let this go unchecked. Get yourself, or the important guy in your life over to Men's Shed Vernon for an introduction. Interaction will improve your outlook, and it could save your life.

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

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