LANGLEY, B.C. – First West Credit Union and BC Cancer Foundation are proud to announce the extension of their partnership through 2025. The partnership includes a total investment of $100,000 from First West and its regional brands Envision Financial, Valley First, Island Savings and Enderby & District Financial.
First West is further supporting the Foundation’s ‘Life Beyond Cancer’ campaign in featuring two of its employees who faced cancer — James Funfer and Lisa Paulson. The campaign aims to inspire donors as to the impact they can have on advancing cancer research and care across the province by sharing the stories of individuals who have been diagnosed, gone through treatment, and are now living a full and healthy ‘life beyond cancer.’
“This partnership makes me immensely proud, having experienced cancer firsthand a few years ago,” says James Funfer, Team Leader, Learning & Development at First West Credit Union. “I have so many things to be joyful for — my partner, my dog, and my family. Battling cancer reminded me that every day is a gift that shouldn’t be squandered so I try to make the most of each day with gratitude.”
The partnership also involves employee engagement and activation for several of BC Cancer Foundation’s initiatives throughout the year as well as dedicated funds going towards the greatest areas of need across the province to help advance research and innovative care.
“We are truly grateful for First West Credit Union’s continued partnership,” says Lindsay Abbott, Senior Director, Corporate Relations, BC Cancer Foundation. “Cancer is the greatest health challenge of our generation. Thanks to donor support, we have an unprecedented opportunity to be a catalyst for innovation and help more families experience life beyond cancer.”
“Life Beyond Cancer” is part of BC Cancer Foundation’s historic $500 million fundraising campaign to elevate research and cancer care across the province.
First West and BC Cancer Foundation established their partnership in 2022, which has included a total investment of $300,000 between 2022-2024. To learn more about the Foundation, or to join the cause, visit bccancerfoundation.com.