The Circle of Habondia Lending Society, a registered non-profit organization, has been providing West Kootenay women with financial literacy skills and resources since 1998. Habondia is dedicated to the financial empowerment of women and their families in the West Kootenay. The organization has provided micro-loans of up to $1,000 to approximately 85 women who could not ordinarily access traditional forms of credit.
In addition to providing numerous successful micro-loans, Habondia offers community members the opportunity to invest locally and ethically. Through a partnership formed with the Kootenay Savings Credit Union, Habondia has developed an investment backed (guaranteed) loans fund. This fund allows individuals to invest in Term Deposits and earn interest while building collateral for the loans given to local women — a win-win situation for all!
Presently, Habondia is engaged in the Community WISH (Women in Sustainable Housing) project which began in 2009. Funded by Status of Women Canada, this unique project promotes the economic and social advancement of women by removing barriers of inequality and promoting the elimination of violence against women.
The Circle of Habondia Lending Society is officially entering into the arts with a charitable auction. On Thursday, June 30, Habondia will host its gala Women to Women Art Auction fundraiser.
Open to all, the auction will showcase pieces created and donated by such talented artists as Yvonne Munro, Sue Whittaker, Lainey Benson and Carol Reynolds, just to name a few. The donated pieces will be auctioned at the event with the proceeds going to the Circle of Habondia and its WISH project. Some of the other “artistic” offerings on the block include a series of voice lessons with Bessie Wapp, a tree donated by Georama Growers and other delights. The auctioneer for the event is none other than Nelson-Creston MLA Michelle Mungall.
Beginning at 7 p.m. at Self Design High, the elegant evening will start with refreshments and live music followed by the auction at 8 p.m. Admission is by donation at the door. Interested parties can contact the Habondia office at 250-352-6688 for further information.