In recognition of the International Year of Co-operatives, Concentra Financial, a Saskatoon based co-operative, announced the recipients of its Empowering Your Communities 2012 initiative which provides $180,000 to support credit union community projects nationwide.
Concentra Financial asked credit unions to submit proposals for a local project they’re leading or championing. The criteria was that it must embody shared co-operative values and demonstrate credit union leadership within the community. The results surpassed their expectations with 53 applications received from all over Canada.
Community First Health Co-op is a recipient of $10,000 based on an application made by Nelson and District Credit Union.
The credit union is championing “Creating an Age Friendly Community.” This project involves community wide collaboration to create a more inclusive and accessible environment that allows people to realize their potential for physical, social and mental well-being, while also providing individuals with adequate protection, security and care when needed.
“The project will benefit all ages in the area,” says Doug Stoddart, credit union CEO. “In addition, as this is the first project of its kind in the region, the project has the potential to be used as a model for other communities through the sharing of education, training and information”.
“The project involves a participatory planning process that builds education and co-operation across the community in its quest to meet the needs of an aging population,” adds Debby Zeeben, chair of Community First Health Co-op. “We’re proud and thankful to be supported by these two financial co-operatives, Nelson and District Credit Union and Concentra Financial, for our initiative.”
“The Nelson and District Seniors Coordinating Society is pleased to be part of this community cooperative partnership to continue to build age friendliness into the fabric of our community,” concludes society chair Joan Reichardt.
Nelson and District Credit Union was established in 1950 and has grown to over $167 million in assets and serves over 12,500 members throughout the Kootenay area.
The health co-op is made up of a volunteer board of directors and was established in 2003 with the mission to enhance the health and wellness of communities, families, and individuals by providing services through a co-operative partnership of consumers and health service providers. Visit healthco-op.ca for more information.