With classrooms reopening and new 'back to school' routines being implemented due to COVID-19, Avenue Living Communities (ALC) and our teams in western Canada still look for ways to enhance the communities we live, and work in. We believe with an In It Together attitude, we can continue giving back to our residents through these changing times.
For Deryk Whyatt, Residential Portfolio Manager in Yorkton, Sask., being able to make a difference, at any time, in his hometown is truly rewarding. Especially during uncertain times where families and residents may be facing additional hardships.
On a Thursday in October, Whyatt and his colleague presented a cheque to the Columbia Elementary School to assist with their lunch program. With this donation, the school will be able to focus on developing the program further. With teachers volunteering their time and donations from the community, it is a lot of teamwork to ensure children in Yorkton are set up for success in their educational environments.
So why Columbia School in particular?
"When we looked at where our buildings were located, and the communities in which we invest in, we knew Columbia School would be a great recipient," says Whyatt. "The school is only blocks away from several of our ALC buildings, and we know many of families living with us have children that attend class there.
"Once we met the principal of Columbia School last year, we brainstormed a couple ideas on how we could give back. Unfortunately, with COVID-19 it pushed the timeline back slightly and limited the options available as many of the programs were on hold due to health guidelines and policies."
Well, looks like everything worked out for the best. While Columbia School had to put a hold on their breakfast program, they were able to get their lunch program back up and running. "This donation will allow the school to offer more nutritional options in the program," says Whyatt.
A born and raised Saskatchewan boy, Whyatt was thrilled to help determine where they could invest capital back into the community that he has called home for so long.
"Of course, it feels good.
"But it's more about the purpose behind all the busy days and late nights that you spend working, and then ultimately being a part of giving back directly where it makes a difference."
Avenue Living Communities works genuinely and consistently to invest in and provide opportunities in the communities we serve. We thank Columbia School for being a community advocate and educating our ALC families in Yorkton.
We are all in this together, and together, we are stronger.