EKC celebrates with donation to community fund

During this year’s Member Appreciation Day on October 19, East Kootenay Community Credit Union (EKC) announced continued support of the Cranbrook and District Community Foundation (CDCF).

EKC contributed $5,000 to the Sparwood Community Fund. The Sparwood Community Fund was endowed in September 2016 and operates under the umbrella of the CDCF. The fund has grown to $65,000 thanks to the District of Sparwood, the Sparwood Futures Society and an anonymous donor.

“All of these donations are permanently invested, with the annual interest available every year, forever, to benefit eligible projects and programs in the District of Sparwood and surrounding area (i.e. Elk Prairie, Michel, and Natal),” explained Lynnette Wray, CDCF Executive Director.

According to Jody Burk, CEO of EKC, “Credit Unions have the unique ability to make a difference in people’s lives with donations to community groups, volunteering time and expertise and donations to foundations that offer annual grants.”

In 2004, EKC established a CDCF endowment fund in Cranbrook to benefit the Salvation Army’s Soup Kitchen. The initial donation of $10,000 was followed by $9,000 and has helped grow the fund to over $20,000. Jean- Ann Debreceni, EKC’s board chair was instrumental in establishing the EKC endowment fund.