FOR THE COMMUNITY

United to make a difference

Bettering the lives of those in our communities is simply what we do—though partnership, volunteerism and leadership that makes a meaningful social impact.

We believe in supporting local non-profit and charitable organizations that serve those in our communities. Through our Signature Cause, sponsorship and regional giving initiatives, we create capacity in the social sector by leveraging our financial strength and our social vision.

Signature Cause programs

We’re dedicated to combating food insecurity through various initiatives, from regular fundraising to partnerships and community programs. By supporting local food banks and collaborating to find solutions, we contribute to providing nutritious food to those in need ensuring the long-term sustainability of our local partners.

Team members participate by volunteering at food banks, organizing food drives, and raising awareness, which helps improve community health and well-being.

Our signature programs, Feed the Valley and The Full Cupboard, focus on raising food, funds, and awareness to support local food banks. Since 2010, these programs have raised over $5.5 million and 215,000 lbs of food. Annually, we support 31% of food banks in B.C., distributing essential items to families, children, seniors, and individuals at risk of hunger. In 2024, 89 First West team members raised $414,329, providing 828,658 meals to those in need.

Long-term investments, with the BC Cancer Foundation

Cancer affects countless lives, creating ripples that touch families and communities alike, like our team member Lisa, who along with her husband both battled cancer. “We were thrust into a world of unimaginable challenges, and those stressful years revealed to us the true essence of life,” she recalls. “It’s not just about surviving; it’s about embracing every moment that follows. Now, we live each day with deep gratitude, cherishing every opportunity to be together—whether it’s playing golf, tending to our garden, enjoying our dogs, or creating precious memories with our children and grandchildren. I am incredibly proud to be part of First West, where our partnerships with life-saving organizations bring hope and healing to our communities.”

The alarming fact is that one in two British Columbians are directly or indirectly affected. The need for support is immense, and that’s why we’ve partnered with BC Cancer Foundation in a four-year investment of $400,000. Additionally, our partnership involves initiatives that engage our team members, including the Workout to Conquer Cancer Challenge, and dedicated funds that go to advance research and innovative care across the province.

First West Foundation

Established in 1996, the First West Foundation is our philanthropic partner. As a federally-registered charity and private foundation, it enhances the communities served by the credit union through effective grant-making programs and partnerships with local charitable organizations, delivered through four community endowments representing First West’s divisions, Envision Financial, Enderby & District Financial, Island Savings, and Valley First, along with 14 named endowments benefiting charities across B.C

Since its inception, the First West Foundation has awarded more than $12.6 million in grants to local community groups and projects. In 2024, the foundation disbursed $975,759 to 100 charities representing First West and its regional brands.

“The food, funds and awareness raised through First West’s campaigns have played a massive role in supporting hunger relief efforts across the province. In the face of growing numbers and mounting pressure, partners like First West make it possible for us to keep meeting the need in our communities. Thank you or joining us in the fight to tackle hunger in B.C.”
Dan Huang-Taylor, Executive Director, Food Banks BC

Across our regions

Focused efforts and engagement to create lasting, positive changes in our communities

Local impact partnerships

We foster sustainable partnerships that advance social issues in our communities in alignment with six Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our focus includes the four key areas of food insecurity, financial literacy, mental health and employment readiness.

Learn more about partnerships in each of our regions: Island Savings, Envision Financial, Valley First and Enderby & District Financial.

Community leadership

Volunteering for community causes creates significant positive impact and is embraced by First West’s social vision. Our Lead Well program encourages team members to volunteer and develop as leaders in our workplace and beyond, supporting our communities and bettering our world.

In 2024, our team members gave over 6,800 hours of their time during paid work time and outside of working hours to support those in need and build stronger and more connected communities across BC.

“The inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in university settings is rare. The inclusive nature of CLIC supports students in learning to value the potential of people who have developmental disabilities and conversely, supports people with development disabilities to learn from and about the diversity of people in their communities.”
Doug Tennant, CEO, UNITI