There was plenty of reason to celebrate at Community Futures North Okanagan Wednesday afternoon.
Not only was it small business week, but Community Futures also opened its doors for the grand opening of the WorkBC Employment Services Centre.
An estimated 200 visitors toured the three-story building on 33rd Street, learning about the non-profit organization’s business and employer services, employment assistance services, and economic development programs. Among those in attendance were Eric Foster, Vernon-Monashee MLA, Moira Stilwell, Minister of Social Development, Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of State for Small Business, along with local mayors and other dignitaries.
The WorkBC centre represents the amalgamation of provincial employment services contracts for the region under one roof. The result is a more efficient administration of programs.
“I’m very proud to see where Community Futures has come and how they’ve evolved over the years,” said Foster, a founding board member. “The focus over the years has been small business, being able to provide training and loans. I was most pleased to see Community Futures’ application to be the primary contractor, and how they were able to incorporate all the other community agencies into the fold.”
Along with the tour and meet-and-greet with Community Futures’ staff, the open house featured a small business trade show, service provider showcase and talks by guest speakers George Duffy (Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce) and Kevin Poole (City of Vernon).
