Past press releases:
December 30, 2004 - Envision Credit Union looking for skilled director candidates
December 20, 2004 - Innovative inter-provincial credit union partnership gets green light
December 17, 2004 - Envision Financial makes a holiday wish come true
November 10, 2004 - Abbotsford professional prepares to meet growing needs of senior citizens
November 9, 2004 - Students meet Holocaust survivor in preparation for Remembrance Day
October 14, 2004 - Envision VP rolls up his sleeves in Southern Africa
October 13, 2004 - Envision Financial recognized as Co-op Employer of the Year
September 22, 2004 - SOS Children's Village BC receives $561,501 for Envision House Project
September 20, 2004 - Ruth Maccan named Branch Manager at Envision Financial's Town Centre Branch
September 10, 2004 - Envision Financial employees give $9,000 to SOS Children's Village BC
August 12, 2004 - Outstanding students honoured by Envision Financial
August 4, 2004 - Envision Foundation Digs Deep With $180,000 Donation to SOS Children's Village BC
July 28, 2004 - Envision Financial and First Calgary Savings enter partnership discussions
June 30, 2004 - Envision Financial aids early literacy in Chilliwack
April 12, 2004 - Envision Financial reports continued strong earnings, high member satisfaction
March 22, 2004 - Tom Webster to be appointed CFO at Envision Financial
February 12, 2004 - Envision Credit Union returns $872,000 to members
December 31, 2004
The merger that made them stronger - B.C.'s Envision Financial named among Canada's top 50 employers for third year straight
When Delta Credit Union and First Heritage Savings joined to create B.C.’s third largest credit union, the merger could have evoked classic feelings of turmoil and instability among the organization’s close to 750 staff members. But instead, employees hailed their new company, Envision Financial, as one of the nation’s 50 best places to work. For the third straight year since the merger, Envision Financial has again made the list as one of Canada’s 50 Best Employers.
Findings in this year’s 50 Best Employers in Canada study, released this week, rank Envision as number 34. This puts Envision alongside companies such as the Canadian divisions of Microsoft, Wal-Mart and Mercedes-Benz. The annual survey, conducted by Hewitt Associates and published in the Globe and Mail’s Report on Business magazine, is the only national study where the employees of the organizations determine who makes the list. Staff complete questions on topics ranging from how well their opinions are valued to their understanding of the organization’s strategic goals, and from the organization’s commitment to career development to the effectiveness of its leadership.
“The ‘50 Best’ designation is especially significant given the recent change we’ve come through and adjustments our staff have made since the merger in 2001,” says Gord Huston, President & CEO of Envision Financial. “In our experience, fostering an environment where staff can thrive both professionally and personally means by creating the best place to work, you also create the best place to do business. This, in turn, leads to high levels of financial performance.”
For Envision Financial, a successful work environment includes perks like the organization's award-winning corporate university, Envision U, which allows staff to earn credits toward college diplomas or university degrees through company courses that are transferable to other post-secondary institutes. Additional perks include an adaptable benefits program and, through Envision’s staff concierge program, free access to a financial advisor to help employees with their personal finances.
Huston notes that Envision’s focus on workplace wellness and work-life balance have also been key in creating and sustaining a high-performance environment that is well-regarded by employees. Staff are encouraged to stay active through Envision’s health club, located at the organization’s administration centre in Langley, or through discounts at gyms throughout the Lower Mainland. Envision’s “Lunch n’ Learn” seminars and “Work, Family and Life” program offer information and resources on everything from parenting to stress management. And flexible work arrangements, including part-time and reduced or compressed work weeks, mean that employees who want to spend more time with their children, go back to school or volunteer for a community organization can do so.
“Envision’s greatest strength continues to be our people,” says Huston. “Every day we partner with thousands of British Columbians to help them realize their dreams, whether it’s buying a home, saving for retirement or starting a small business. Our staff play an integral role in this as they share their financial expertise, provide personalized service and stay actively involved in their communities—all things our founding credit unions have been doing for years.”
Envision’s roots go back more than a half century, when a small group of people, dissatisfied with service from traditional banks, established an alternative that would meet the unique needs of their community. Delta Credit Union was created in the 1940s with roots in the fishing industry, and First Heritage followed in the 1950s, catering primarily to local farmers.
Today, with more than 80,000 members and 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat, Envision Financial still maintains this grass-roots approach. The organization is an active supporter of numerous local community initiatives including school programs, health and safety initiatives and recreational ventures. Just last year, Envision distributed more than $500,000 to non-profit organizations through various sponsorships, scholarships and donations, and employees raised more than $60,000 for the United Way. Envision recently donated $20,000 to help launch a new business mentoring program in the Delta area. The Envision Charitable Foundation is currently building two homes for SOS Children’s Village BC, a society assisting B.C.’s foster children.
“Our staff find a great deal of satisfaction knowing that in addition to helping Envision’s members reach their individual goals, they are also helping the community succeed on a broader level,” says Huston. “More than just a financial service provider, we strive to enhance the quality of life for the residents of our local communities. I believe this is one of Envision’s strongest draws for both our employees and our members.”
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the third year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
December 30, 2004
Envision Credit Union looking for skilled director candidates
Langley, British Columbia – Envision Credit Union is looking for eligible member-owners to run as candidates in its Director Elections for 2005.
Four, three-year positions are up for election—two from Region One (Lower Mainland west of 264th Street and Vancouver and Gulf Islands) and two from Region Two (Fraser Valley east of 264th Street and the remainder of British Columbia). Nominations close on Tuesday, February 1 at 5 p.m.
Envision Financial’s Board of Directors plays an important role in determining the direction of the organization. As such, it is important that directors have an understanding of a variety of business areas. They also need to be knowledgeable and ethical people, have an understanding of the risks associated with the financial services industry and be committed to upholding and protecting the values of the credit union.
“As an organization, we look to our Board of Directors to help steward our vision of being the best place our staff have ever worked, the best place our members have ever dealt, an industry leader in financial performance and an industry leader in corporate citizenship,” says Envision Financial President & CEO Gord Huston.
At Envision, all eligible adult members are equal owners and can vote in the Director Elections. Voting will take place at the Annual General Meeting on Monday, April 25, at all Envision branches and via mail-in ballot.
Potential candidates may obtain a detailed nominations package from Wendy Olafson, Executive Assistant to the Board, at 604.539.7338 or wolafson@envisionfinancial.ca.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the third year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
December 20, 2004
Innovative inter-provincial credit union partnership gets green light
In an exciting move within the Canadian financial services industry, the boards of Alberta-based First Calgary Savings and British Columbia-based Envision Financial approved a business case this week to move ahead on a first-of-its-kind inter-provincial partnership. This initiative, known as the Pathways Project, has involved ten months of joint collaboration between both organizations. The final result is a detailed and compelling business case demonstrating that proceeding with the Pathways initiative is in the best interest of both credit unions and their member-owners.
“The business case demonstrates this partnership will generate improved financial performance and build stronger and more sustainable credit unions,” notes Envision Financial President & CEO Gord Huston. “It will also help us work toward our vision of being the best place our employees have ever worked, the best place our members have ever dealt, the industry leader in financial performance and the industry leader in corporate citizenship.”
“I’m very pleased with the work that was undertaken,” adds First Calgary Savings President & CEO Dave Gregory. “First Calgary Savings and Envision Financial are excellent partners. It is more than encouraging to experience the passion employees are already exhibiting for this initiative. I would like to extend our appreciation and thanks to the many employees and our directors who have worked tirelessly to bring our vision of creating a strong and relevant financial network closer to becoming reality.”
The approved recommendations of the business case include proceeding with a common banking system, the development of a joint strategic plan and continuing in the pursuit of merger-enabling legislation. It also involves the creation of a joint venture that will house the value added integrated back office functions, including the common banking system platform.
Member-owners of both organizations will benefit from this partnership in both financial and non-financial ways. It is anticipated the partnership will result in expanded geographic access, increased effectiveness, economies of scale and significant financial returns.
“Our next step in the process is to make the business case a reality,” says Huston. “A number of partnering opportunities are already underway, including the banking system. During the upcoming months, we must focus on greater collaboration as we pull these two great organizations into closer alignment.”
Envision Financial is B.C.’s third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries—Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada’s IMAGINE program.
As a Calgary-based financial institution, First Calgary Savings has been annually selected one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies since 1999. Its ongoing commitment to the Calgary community is in building lasting relationships with its member-owners and leveraging its resources to focus on leading, learning and living in Calgary. First Calgary Savings has 13 – soon to be 15 - branches conveniently located throughout Calgary, nine one 2 one Financial Consulting centres, Commercial Banking facilities and Dealer Services providing automotive leasing and lending services. Its nearly 400 employees serve nearly 100,000 member-owners. With nearly $1.4 billion in assets under administration and a $2.6 billion book of business, First Calgary Savings is positioned as Calgary’s banking alternative. First Calgary Savings is a proud member of Canada’s IMAGINE program and recognized as an Alberta's Promise Builder.
For more information on the Pathways Project, please go to www.gopathwaysproject.com.
December 17, 2004
Envision Financial makes a holiday wish come true
Langley, BC – The Stepping Stone Community Services Society just received an early Christmas present. Yesterday afternoon, Envision Financial’s Langley City Branch presented the society with a cheque for $776.
“Each year during the holiday season, our branch takes great pride in making a contribution to our local community. This time of year can be very difficult for people who don’t have a lot,” says Langley City’s Branch Manager Tracy Yolland. “Stepping Stone makes the holidays brighter and more memorable for many local residents by providing a friendly place to enjoy some holiday cheer and spend time with special friends. It doesn’t get any better than that.”
The Stepping Stone Community Services Society helps adults recovering from a mental illness realize social, vocational and housing opportunities in the community. It provides a friendly environment where individuals are encouraged to become more self-reliant.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
November 18, 2004
Envision Credit Union donates $20,000 to help launch new business mentoring program in Delta
Delta, BC - Aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners in Delta will soon have access to a host of specialized support services thanks, in part, to a grant from Envision Financial.
Envision recently gave $20,000 to the Greater Delta Economic Development Partnership Society to assist with the launch of their innovative program which provides one-on-one business coaching to local business owners.
“A lot of small businesses in Delta suffer and die because they don’t have access to the right resources,” says program designer and consultant, Chris Flett. “Our research indicates that almost 500 businesses were lost in this community in the last year alone. This program will help connect business people with the advice and expertise they need to be successful, whether they’re just forming their business idea or have been around for 25 years.”
The first point of contact for the Greater Delta Economic Development Partnership Society will be Executive Director Kelly Guichon. Beginning in December, business owners will be able to book appointments with Guichon to get confidential advice on everything from start up issues to growth strategies. If further expertise is needed, Guichon can call upon the Society’s Advisory Board.
“The Board is made up of experts from a variety of business disciplines,” explains Flett. “These individuals can provide advice on specific issues related to sales and marketing, taxation, import/export, compensation, accounting and more.”
Interest in creating the program arose almost two years ago when the Delta Chamber of Commerce heard about successful enterprise facilitation programs operating in other B.C. communities, including New Westminster, Kamloops and Salmon Arm.
“The results of the Kamloops program were startling,” says Flett. “When the program began, 47 companies were facing bankruptcy or in serious financial trouble. Three months later, 45 were turning a profit and buyers were found for the other two businesses.”
Malcolm Ashford, Executive Director of the Delta Chamber of Commerce, is particularly excited about the new program’s possibilities.
“As a Chamber, we provide businesses with as much information as we can,” he says, “But we’ve never really had the ability to sit down with clients face to face and actually coach them. This is a way for entrepreneurs to sit down with a real live person and get input. The coaching and mentoring part of this project is what will really make it successful. It’s the critical success factor.”
While the society’s services will be available to business owners of all types, Flett believes the program will be especially attractive to owners of home-based businesses.
“The going rate for business coaching can be $100 an hour, or more,” explains Flett. “That’s out of many people’s reach. Through the Greater Delta Economic Development Partnership Society, these services will be financed by our private sector partners. It’s a massive opportunity for business development in Delta.”
Unlike programs in other centres, the society currently receives no public funding and is being underwritten entirely by private sector partners.
“This is the first time I’ve seen the private sector drive something like this,” says Flett. “Envision and other partners have really come to the table and helped the program take shape. It says a lot about how committed these businesses are to the larger community.”
“We’re proud to be a part of this initiative,” says Envision CEO Gord Huston, “And we look forward to seeing a stronger, more vibrant business community in Delta.”
For more information on the Greater Delta Economic Development Partnership Society, contact the Delta Chamber of Commerce.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
November 10, 2004
Abbotsford professional prepares to meet growing needs of senior citizens
Abbotsford, BC – “One size fits all” may apply in some fields, but when it comes to financial planning, Abbotsford’s James Grill knows that not everyone has the same needs. As Canada’s elderly population grows and an increasing number of seniors walk through his door, Grill has broadened his own portfolio so that he can better serve Abbotsford’s senior citizen population.
An investment adviser with Envision Investment Services, Grill recently earned his Certified Senior Advisor designation through the Canadian Academy of Senior Advisors. Grill’s internationally-recognized designation provides him with special expertise to help senior citizens make decisions that will meet their needs and address issues that are specific to their demographic. He is one of a growing number of professionals in North America to achieve this designation.
“Every day I serve people who are in their 70s, 80s and 90s,” says Grill, who works at the Envision branch on South Fraser Way. “They come to me for financial advice, but their needs are so much greater and are usually interconnected. I knew the Certified Senior Advisor program was the best training I could receive on senior issues and that a broader knowledge in this area would help me understand how to better serve them.”
Grill’s training for his CSA designation included courses on demographic shifts, social aspects of aging, health care, lifestyles, housing, transportation and end of life planning among numerous other topics.
“In addition to gaining a stronger understanding of trends and issues that seniors are facing, training included information on how to help them in very practical ways too,” says Grill. “For example, an audiologist came in to teach us how to more effectively communicate with seniors who are hard of hearing.”
Grill notes that the elderly are facing issues today that they never faced before, making careful planning even more important.
“The interest rates in Canada are among the lowest they’ve been in 45 years, which means it is more challenging for seniors to acquire yields,” says Grill. “As well, the world is increasingly complex. With so many choices available, it’s hard for seniors to wade through these options on their own to determine the best course of action.”
With his new designation, Grill looks forward to offering enhanced planning for the elderly, which make up the largest sector of his clientele.
“In Canada, there are nearly four million seniors, and this number continues to grow,” says Grill. “The Lower Mainland’s advantages make this an attractive place for retirement. Our favourable climate is a big draw, and we’re noticing that a number of seniors have chosen to settle here even though their families live elsewhere.”
As a Certified Senior Advisor member, Grill will continue to stay updated on new developments, practices and research related to senior citizens—information that will come in handy as he continues to cater to Abbotsford’s over 60 crowd.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
November 9, 2004
Students meet Holocaust survivor in preparation for Remembrance Day
Surrey, BC - Lillian Boraks-Nemetz was just five years old when the Germans invaded Poland in the fall of 1939.
“I was sitting eating my breakfast when all of the sudden I looked up and saw the sky was filled with airplanes,” she recalls. “My father swept me up and carried me into a ditch, covered by tree branches, where we could hide.”
Minutes later, the little girl got her first look at fear, death and the reality of war.
“I saw a woman running with a baby carriage. Her baby was dead; it had been shot from one of the planes,” she explains. “After that first air raid, the wall started going up—a wall that would create the Warsaw Ghetto.”
It’s a harrowing tale Boraks-Nemetz has told dozens of times, to all kinds of audiences, both young and old. Last week, the award-winning author had the opportunity to tell it again—this time to a group of Grade 6 and 7 students at Bayridge Elementary, located in South Surrey.
Boraks-Nemetz’ visit to the school came on the heels of a class trip to Vancouver’s Holocaust Education Centre, and was sponsored by Envision Financial as part of the Visiting Authors Program.
“The Visiting Authors Program is a great way to get kids interested in not only reading, but writing and drawing,” says Bayridge Librarian Mary Tisdell.
Each year, Envision Financial provides funding for authors to visit South Surrey schools through its Surrey Business Education Partnership.
Boraks-Nemetz has written several books for youth about the Holocaust, including The Old Brown Suitcase, a semi-autobiographical book about her own wartime experience. The book won the Sheila A. Egoff Book Prize for Best Children’s Book in 1995, and is on the recommended reading list for B.C. schools. She has also written a book of poems called Ghost Children.
After being incarcerated in the Warsaw Ghetto for 18 months, Boraks-Nemetz escaped under a false identity. The number of deportations from the Ghetto was increasing and her father was determined to save the life of his daughter.
“My father bribed the guards with my mother’s diamond ring, some leather gloves and soap,” Boraks-Nemetz explains. “They promised to look the other way while I walked through the checkpoint. I had to pretend to be a Catholic orphan. It was the longest walk of my life.”
Once through the checkpoint, Boraks-Nemetz was met by a woman who whisked her onto a train bound for her grandmother’s hiding place in a village in the Polish countryside. But even here, Boraks-Nemetz was not safe.
“It was very hard for me,” says the author. “I had to pretend I was someone else and that my grandmother wasn’t my grandmother. It was all very confusing.”
Eighteen months later, Boraks-Nemetz’ parents also escaped from the Ghetto, moving to a nearby village and pretending to be Christians. In time, the family was reunited, all except for Boraks-Nemetz’ sister, who they later discovered had been killed by the Gestapo.
“Anne Frank didn’t survive, but I did and because of that, it’s my duty to talk about it,” Boraks-Nemetz tells her audiences. “Everyone used to tell me ‘Forget the past,’ but it’s like chopping off your arm or your leg. I want to tell the story to the younger generations so that they can learn about racial prejudice and learn to accept people who are different around them. Then there’s hope for the future.”
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
October 14, 2004
Envision VP rolls up his sleeves in Southern Africa
At first glance, there doesn’t seem to be a lot in common between local credit unions and their cohorts in the developing world – the average small business loan (known as a micro-loan) in one of these countries might equal a North American teenager’s weekly allowance. But a local financial expert is traveling to Malawi (Southern Africa) in mid-October to aid a credit union that is making a difference in the lives of people desperate to start earning a living.
Barry Delaney, a senior vice president at Envision Financial, in conjunction with the Canadian Cooperative Association (CCA) – an organization supported by Canada’s credit unions, is going to see how he and others can contribute their expertise in other parts of the world.
Delaney isn’t just going to observe the situation; however, the number one qualification for stepping on a plane is that he’ll get his hands dirty once he lands. Among other things, the Envision VP will be working on marketing and savings strategies as well as a financial literacy program. These can be as simple as finding ways to explain the power of compound interest, to figuring out how to describe basic financial practices to those who are illiterate.
“I feel so strongly about credit unions being able to do something worthwhile,” says Delaney. “As Canadians, we have a strong willingness to help out international projects and to share our knowledge.”
The Canadian government, realizing the effectiveness of developing cooperatives, has dedicated the maximum allowable level of international funding to projects that support micro finance in developing nations. For every dollar raised by the CCA, the government pitches in three more. This money goes towards training centres that educate people on building and running their own cooperatives.
At the Malawi Union of Savings and Credit Cooperatives (MUSCCO), where 65 percent of the membership is below the poverty line, the average loan is $70 U.S. In these cooperatives, the money of the members is pooled together and loans are dispersed from the collective funds. Although $70 may seem miniscule to North Americans, it is enough to start something that could transform the lives of these people. That’s why Delaney is sold on the idea of Canadian credit unions being first in line to help out around the globe. “It’s motivating for me to see the Canadian credit unions show leadership in the area of international development.”
The Malawi connection is just one partnership the local credit union has fostered with a developing nation. Last year, Envision entered into a three-year project in Nepal, dedicating $30,000 to bolster 70 emerging women’s co-ops in rural areas of that impoverished country. Envision’s donation helped build capacity at the Centre for Micro-Finance in Nepal. The Centre trains people to open their own cooperatives and provides them with technical support, empowering them to make a difference in the lives of their fellow citizens.
Delaney will be in Malawi from October 16 to 24. By committing one week of his time to MUSCCO, he will be helping the CCA provide the education and skills that are necessary to break the cycle of poverty in Malawi.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
October 13, 2004
Envision Financial recognized as Co-op Employer of the Year
Abbotsford, BC – One of Canada’s 50 Best Employers has been honoured yet again for its commitment to employees. Last month, Envision Financial received the University College of the Fraser Valley’s Co-op Employer of the Year Award. This award is given annually to an employer who has surpassed the expected level of commitment to the co-op program. This includes an above average contribution to the students, including training courses or workshops for career development, thorough feedback on student performance and continued support of hiring co-op students.
“Envision has been a strong supporter of UCFV's Co-operative Education program, and of our talented and enthusiastic co-op students,” said UCFV’s Co-op Coordinator, Susan Francis. “For many years the credit union has provided our students with challenging and rewarding work experiences, and many of our graduates have gone on to long-term careers with Envision.”
Envision has employed more than 20 UCFV students participating in the co-op program. Most of these placements have been at the Administration Centre, now located in Langley.
“Practical experience can set recent post-secondary graduates apart and increase their employability,” said Envision Financial CEO Gord Huston. “The UCFV co-op students are exceptional employees and have made a positive contribution to our organization.”
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
September 22, 2004
SOS Children's Village BC receives $561,501 for Envision House Project
Langley, BC – On Saturday, August 28, Joe and Rosalie Segal hosted a dinner in appreciation for donors to the Envision House Project benefiting SOS Children’s Village BC. At this event, Treena Innes of SOS Children’s Village BC was presented with a cheque for $551,501 from the Envision Credit Union Charitable Foundation. An additional $10,000 was added later in the evening, bringing the total donation to $561,501.
“This evening provided us with the opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to those who have helped make a difference in the lives of BC’s foster children,” said Envision Financial CEO Gord Huston. “I would like to personally thank the Segals for their wonderful hospitality and our donors for their extreme generosity.”
The Envision House Project for SOS Children’s Village BC is an aggressive initiative led by the Envision Foundation to build two new homes for at risk foster children. A unique approach to foster care, SOS Children’s Village BC provides long-term, stable family homes for BC children who are unlikely to return home, or be adopted. Each house is staffed by a highly experienced foster parent and, where possible, brothers and sisters are kept together. The SOS concept is unique in that if the foster parent cannot take care of the children, the children remain in the home while a new foster parent is brought in. Growing up in the same home, attending the same school and having the same friends, provides a more stable environment for these kids.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
September 20, 2004
Ruth Maccan named Branch Manager at Envision Financial's Town Centre Branch
Abbotsford, British Columbia - A friendly new face has come to the community of Abbotsford. Envision Financial is pleased to announce that Ruth Maccan has been named Branch Manager at its Town Centre Branch, located at 32711 South Fraser Way. Ruth brings over 20 years of financial services experience to this position.
"We are thrilled that Ruth will be leading our Town Centre team," says Envision Financial CEO Gord Huston. "She is a positive and caring individual, who always puts the needs of our member-owners as her top priority."
A long-time Fraser Valley resident, Ruth has been an Envision employee for the past ten years. Her previous positions have included Mutual Funds Sales Support Coach, Investment Advisor, Estate Planning Officer and Personal Account Manager. Envision's top investment service provider in 2004, Ruth also has her Certified Financial Planner designation and is a Rotary Club member. She is excited about the new opportunities and challenges this position will provide.
"Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are our greatest asset. We are consistently striving to provide the best banking experience in the financial services industry," she says. "I am looking forward to meeting our member-owners at Town Centre and getting in tune with the pulse of the community of Abbotsford."
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
September 10, 2004
Envision Financial employees give $9,000 to SOS Children's Village BC
Langley, British Columbia - The staff of Envision Financial have cast their vote and selected the Envision Foundation's Envision House Project for SOS Children's Village BC as their employee charity for 2004. This year, Envision staff raised $9,000 through various internal fundraising initiatives.
"I am very proud of our employees," said Envision Financial CEO Gord Huston. "Neighbour helping neighbour is a fundamental value of our organization. To see it lived out through the generosity of our staff speaks volumes about their commitment to their communities."
The Envision House Project for SOS Children's Village BC is an aggressive initiative led by the Envision Foundation to build two new homes for at risk foster children. A unique approach to foster care, SOS Children's Village BC provides long-term, stable family homes for BC children who are unlikely to return home, or be adopted. Each house is staffed by a highly experienced foster parent and, where possible, brothers and sisters are kept together. The SOS concept is unique in that if the foster parent cannot take care of the children, the children remain in the home while a new foster parent is brought in. Growing up in the same home, attending the same school and having the same friends, provides a more stable environment for the kids. The Envision Foundation, a private foundation wholly funded by Envision Financial, has donated $180,000 to the Envision House Project. It has also committed to raising the remainder of the funds necessary to build the two homes, which will be close to $600,000.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries-Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
August 12, 2004
Outstanding students honoured by Envision Financial
Langley, British Columbia - Envision Financial is proud to announce the awarding of its Outstanding School and Community Involvement scholarship to 17 recent high school graduates. This year's $1,000 scholarship recipients were ViviAn Bleakney, Kile Brokop, Rebecca De Jong, Amanda Degenhardt, Kathleen Evans, Katrina Forstbauer, Barbara Johnson, Amrita Pannu, Tarnvir Paul, Jayson Piesche, Kristen Sawatsky, Stefanie Sebok, Kyle Sue, Dana Truelove, Ciara Wakita and Sheena Westover.
Alison Hamilton, winner of the $5,000 scholarship, graduated from Robert Bateman Secondary. She plans to study business and specialize in marketing. Hamilton's community and school involvement included school government, the Food Bank, peer tutoring, Big Sisters, Operation Christmas Child and the BC Disability Games.
"I was amazed by the achievements and contributions of this year's winners," said Envision Financial CEO Gord Huston. "We are proud to provide educational funding for these students who share our goal of improving and enriching our local communities."
This year, Envision Financial awarded 16 - $1,000 scholarships and one - $5,000 scholarship to students throughout BC who displayed strong academic performance and outstanding contributions to school and community life. Since 1996, 139 students have shared $224,000 in scholarship funding.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries-Envision Insurance Services, Envision Investment Services, Envision Leasing and CU Dealerlink. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
August 4, 2004
Envision Foundation Digs Deep With $180,000 Donation to SOS Children's Village BC
Langley, British Columbia - The Envision Foundation (a non-partisan, non-profit organization) and SOS Children's Village BC, broke ground today in a special ceremony to mark the start of construction on the Envision House Project.
Digging deep to contribute to the community, The Envision Foundation has donated $180,000 and has committed to raising the remainder of the funds necessary, which could be as much as $500,000, for the building of the homes. This will be done over a set period of time through individual donations, fundraising events and internal employee initiatives and events throughout Envision Financial branches and the administration office.
The groundbreakers included Sally O'Sullivan, Chair, Envision Foundation Board and Lorane Martin, First Vice-President, SOS Children's Village BC Board.
"This is a truly important moment," says Envision Financial CEO Gord Huston. "Stability is important for children, yet many foster children change homes a number of times. The SOS Children's Village BC makes a real difference in the lives of these children and we are proud to partner with them on the Envision House Project."
SOS Children's Village BC provides long-term, stable family homes for some of BC's most desperate foster children - kids who are unlikely to return home, or be adopted. Each house is staffed by a highly experienced foster parent and, where possible, brothers and sisters are kept together. The SOS concept is unique in that if the foster parent cannot take care of the children, the children remain in the home while a new foster parent is brought in. Growing up in the same home, attending the same school and having the same friends, provides a more stable environment for the kids.
The Envision Foundation was established in 1996 by the Board and Management of Envision Financial. It was created to provide Envision with the opportunity to help create healthy and vibrant communities for its members. As a private foundation, the Envision Foundation's endowment fund is wholly funded by Envision Financial and earnings from the endowment are dispersed annually to charitable organizations working to enhance the quality of life for residents in the communities Envision Financial serves.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries - Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
July 28, 2004
Envision Financial and First Calgary Savings enter partnership discussions
Langley, British Columbia - In what could be the first of its kind arrangement in Canada, First Calgary Savings and Envision Financial announced today that they are considering an inter-provincial partnership.
The first step involves developing a business case to review the feasibility for partnering and integrating the back office operations of the Alberta and BC-based credit unions. Legislation to permit inter-provincial mergers between Alberta and British Columbia credit unions does not currently exist. As such, a merger is not under consideration at this time.
"For years now, our members have been telling us they want their values-based, community-focused credit union to be a real alternative to the banks-part of this includes seeking expanded service opportunities across greater geographic areas," says Envision Financial's Board of Directors Chair and long-time credit union advocate Terry Enns. "I'm very pleased that Envision and First Calgary Savings are leading the field by taking steps toward understanding the opportunities."
"This is a very exciting time for our credit unions," says First Calgary Board of Directors Chair Bob Gemmel. "We anticipate that we'll see considerable value created for our member-owners as we proceed through the exploratory process."
"First Calgary and Envision are working together in a unique and innovative manner to establish a strong and relevant financial network for western Canadians," says Dave Gregory, CEO, First Calgary Savings. "I'm confident that strong partnership opportunities exist with Envision given our shared values and compatible cultures."
Although the business case process to explore the partnership opportunities have just begun, Gregory notes that First Calgary and Envision are already in negotiations to partner on a common banking system platform.
"Unlike traditional mergers, where one company gobbles up the identity of the other, the First Calgary-Envision partnership would be based on both credit unions maintaining their local identities and continuing to provide unequalled personal service throughout their local communities," says Gregory.
For Gord Huston, CEO, Envision Financial, this partnership would be just the beginning of what he and Gregory foresee as a change to the financial services industry in western Canada. "I think western Canadians see a lot of value in doing business with a strong, regionally-focused, values-based financial institution. Presently, consumers in B.C. and the Prairies simply don't have much choice in this regard. That's about to change." Huston adds that he expects other credit unions to consider joining Envison and First Calgary, as this type of partnership maintains brand-equity and community-focus while effectively competing against the big banks.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business magazine for the second year running, Envision has $2.7 billion in assets under administration and a $4.2 billion book of business, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries-Insurance Services, Investment Services, Leasing Services and CU Dealerlink. Envision has also been recognized by the National Quality Institute. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program.
As a Calgary-based financial institution, First Calgary Savings is focused on meeting specific financial needs of Calgarians. Its ongoing commitment to the Calgary community is in leveraging its resources to focus on leading, learning and living in Calgary. First Calgary Savings has 13 branches conveniently located throughout Calgary, eight one 2 one Financial Consulting centres, Commercial Banking facilities and Dealer Services providing automotive leasing and lending services. Its 388 employees serve nearly 100,000 member-owners. With over $1.5 billion in assets under administration and a $2.6 billion book of business, First Calgary Savings has been one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies for five years running. First Calgary Savings is a proud member of Canada's IMAGINE program and recognized as an Alberta's Promise Builder.
June 30, 2004
Envision Financial aids early literacy in Chilliwack
Langley, British Columbia - School may be out for the summer, but for some Chilliwack students, class isn't over yet! The Chilliwack School District will be running a summer literacy program from July 5 to 23 for students who have completed Kindergarten, thanks to a business-education partnership between the school district and Envision Financial. A long-time supporter of the Chilliwack community, Envision Financial will contribute $30,000 over the next three years to the Chilliwack School District.
"We are very excited to have our students participating in the first Envision Read 'n Rec project. It is our hope that all students will be able to read," says Michael Audet, director of instruction at the Chilliwack School District. "Parents and students would not have this opportunity without the financial support that Envision is providing. Envision this: every child a reader!"
The Envision Read 'n Rec summer literacy program is targeted at 20 students who have been identified as at risk with their reading ability. Held at Central Elementary Community School, the program aims to improve reading skills in young students.
"The ability to read is essential and for some, learning to read is a real struggle," says Envision Financial CEO Gord Huston. "This program will help alleviate that struggle. We believe in taking care of the people in our communities and are proud to partner with the Chilliwack School District."
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada, it has over $2.3 billion in assets, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries-Envision Insurance Services, Envision Investment Services, Envision Leasing and CU Dealerlink. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy.
April 12, 2004
Envision Financial reports continued strong earnings, high member satisfaction
Langley, British Columbia - Envision Financial will report another year of strong earnings along with very positive member satisfaction results at its 2004 Annual General Meeting on April 26 at Newland's Golf and Country Club in Langley. This will be the credit union's third Annual General Meeting since the merger of First Heritage Savings and Delta Credit Union in 2001.
"2003 was another exceptional year for our organization," says Envision Financial CEO Gord Huston. "Though we were faced with economic challenges, declining margins as well as final merger integration activities, our strong financial and service results make this one of our best years to date."
Envision recorded another profitable year, exceeding all of its financial targets. Operating income was $11.96 million, the loan portfolio increased 8.8% to $2.0 billion and deposits rose 8.2% to $1.77 billion. On the member service side, Envision once again ranked high, with over 90% of its members satisfied or very satisfied with their Envision experience.
"We're in the business of financial enlightenment-providing complete financial solutions and resources for our members," says Huston. "And, as our results indicate, more and more British Columbians are choosing to do business with an organization that has their interests at heart."
In addition to strong profit and satisfaction performance, Envision experienced a number of notable highlights in 2003, including:
- Being named a 50 Best Employer in Canada by the Globe and Mail's Report on Business.
- Receiving the 2003 Certificate of Merit for Excellence by the National Quality Institute.
- Opening of the environmentally sound Willoughby Community Branch in Langley.
- Investing over $500,000 in worthwhile community initiatives.
- Returning over $900,000 of profits to its member-owners.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. It has over $2.3 billion in assets under administration, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes three subsidiaries-Insurance Services, Investment Services and CU Dealerlink. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy.
March 22, 2004
Tom Webster to be appointed CFO at Envision Financial
Langley, British Columbia - Envision Financial CEO Gord Huston announced today that Tom Webster will assume the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) effective April 5, following the retirement of long-time CFO David Jones. Webster brings 20 years of financial expertise to this position.
"We are very pleased to announce that Tom Webster will be our new CFO," says Huston. "Tom has a strong background in finance and we are confident in his ability to continue our tradition of prudent financial management."
Webster is a Chartered Accountant (1987) and has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Victoria (1980). He joined Delta Credit Union in 1992 as Controller and has since served as Vice-President, Finance, for nearly ten years.
While at Delta Credit Union (DCU), Webster was responsible for the due diligence and presented the business case for the merger with First Heritage Savings to the DCU board. After the merger, his primary focus was establishing the financial framework of the organization and structuring the control framework for the banking system conversion. Webster has also implemented and promoted extensive risk management procedures to ensure that Envision Financial is on par with the most prestigious financial institutions in Canada.
In addition to his duties at Envision, Webster has taken on responsibility in organizations in his community. He is currently President of the Board of the Vancouver Chapter of Financial Executives International (FEI). FEI is an association of senior financial officers representing 8,000 of North America's leading corporations. Webster is also a member of the B.C. Institute of Chartered Accountants and serves as Treasurer of his daughters' swim club, the Pacific Sea Wolves.
Envision Financial is BC's third largest credit union with 17 branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada, it has over $2.3 billion in assets, nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. The credit union includes four subsidiaries-Envision Insurance Services, Envision Investment Services, Envision Leasing and CU Dealerlink. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy.
February 12, 2004
Envision Credit Union returns $872,000 to members
Langley, British Columbia - Envision Credit Union announced that it has returned $872,000 in dividends to Envision members for the 2003 fiscal year. Class A membership equity shares, class B investment equity shares and RRSP equity shares received a 3.55% dividend. Class C non-equity shares received a 2% dividend.
"2003 proved once again that more and more British Columbians are choosing the friendly and knowledgeable service at Envision Financial," says Envision Financial's CEO Gordon Huston. " As a result, we're very pleased to return 6.6% of our profits to our members."
In addition, Envision Financial and the Envision Charitable Foundation invested over one-half million dollars in beneficial community initiatives. Says Huston, "The credit union and its membership truly believe that building stronger communities is the socially responsible thing to do; our dividends on such worthwhile investments are invaluable."
Among the year's highlights, Envision was recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada and received an Award of Excellence from the National Quality Institute of Canada.
With over $2.2 billion in assets, Envision financial has nearly 750 staff and more than 80,000 members. Recognized as one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada , the credit union has 17 branches throughout BC's Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Kitimat. The credit union includes three subsidiaries-Insurance Services, Investment Services and CU Dealerlink. For its extensive support of the community, Envision Financial is designated a Caring Company by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy.
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