A Vancouver Island credit union is being recognized for its contributions to the community.
The Victoria chapter of Big Brothers and Big Sisters has awarded Island Savings the Community Partnership Award, recognizing generosity and community leadership by an organization. Three of these awards are granted annually.
Rhonda Brown, executive director of BBBS Victoria, said the company had helped with substantial funding.
“Over the last five years, marketing resources and support ranging from social media campaigns, additional grant opportunities, Community Crew support, and joint partnerships at local community events have been provided by Island Savings,” she said in a release. “We’ve also benefited from more than $350,000 in funding.”
According to Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Island Savings representatives spent a week with the company to help them with volunteer intake through a school mentoring program. Over 1,000 children have been matched with mentors since 2012 as a result of that help. Island Savings also has 25 members who are mentors to children, or leaders with the BBBS board of directors and committees.
“I believe the community contributions of organizations are integral to the success of our communities and the families who call them home,” said Randy Bertsch, president of Island Savings. “It is a part of our culture not only to give financially, but also to be generous with our time and expertise.”