Westport Bikes to Work 2013

Westport was a proud participant in the 2013 Hub Bike to Work Week, from May 27 to June 2.

Westporters pedaled their way to the following results:

Number of Trips Biked = 80

Number of Kilometers Biked = 867

Amount of Greenhouse Gas reduced*= 175 Kg

Congratulations to all of the participants in Vancouver and across the province!

Here are a few memorable moments from a week of getting to and from work on two wheels. Whether it was biking through high water, enjoying a ride with family, or popping wheelies, our team exhibited determination, style and fun. We look forward to logging our kilometres again in 2014!

James captures a creative moment as he arrives to start his day.

 Marco didn't let heavy rain stop him from his daily two-wheeled commute.

Dale and his son participated in both Bike to Work Week and Bike to School Week!

Teresa exhibits style and sustainability.

Some of the team gathered on the last day of Bike to Work Week to celebrate their achievements.

Westport Wins United Way's Leading the Way Award

By Ganesh Khanna

On March 14, 2013 the United Way hosted their annual Community Spirit Awards ceremony commemorating the workplace campaigns that took place throughout the 2012 fundraising campaign. The evening highlighted some of the best initiatives while giving all of us some insight into the types of programs that are supported by the United Way. The most powerful speech came at the end of the evening when Shamaila Shaikh spoke to the audience about how the YWCA (supported by UW) saved her from a cycle of abuse and empowered her to make a positive change in her life. It was a truly an inspirational moment and put into perspective just how impactful the United Way is.

Westport was nominated for two awards: the Greatest Impact Award and the Leading the Way Award and won the latter. This award provides recognition to the campaign that was best able to motivate its employees to become Leadership-level donors. Every year Westport participates in the United Way’s workplace campaigns as a way to give back to the communities in the Lower Mainland. Westport has a tradition of community service and encourages its employees to make positive contributions in the communities they live in. This award is a great honour that belongs to all Westport employees.

For more details about the awards ceremony please click here.

Westport Volunteers in the Community Schools Program – Part 2

About a month ago, we told you about Westport’s involvement as a United Way corporate partner in their Community Schools Program. Three Westport employees (Teresa K., Kat W., Heidi C.) led a seven week program called, “Yarn Artists” which helped Grade 4 and 5 children to discover all the fun and creative things with yarn.

“I am happy to report that the collaboration between Westport, United Way and the Vancouver School Board has been a success,” Teresa said. “I had so much fun and I think the kids did as well, since they asked us to go back to the school the next term. I feel great that I get to share my interest with the children and that they have fun learning new skills.”

The Community Schools Program gives Westport an opportunity to contribute to our local Vancouver community beyond a traditional corporate giving program, and gives staff a way to personally contribute and volunteer.