With the grant provided by the Integris Credit Union, we were able to buy some much needed safety equipment to replace gear that was WAY overdue for replacement. We were able to purchase new firefighter helmets, boots and to provide each firefighter with a personal high quality flashlight which, while required was never done before. We were also able to purchase a TIC, or Thermal Imaging Camera, which will be of great assistance when trying to locate hard to find hot spots in order to put out fires. As well, we bought Incident Command and Safety Officer vests which are also required on scenes. Without the support of Integris we would be putting our members at risk by having outdated safety gear, or by simply not having the right gear to begin with. We have taken a huge step forward in the last 2 years, with the help of Integris in our endeavor to become a certified fire department servicing our area of Cluculz Lake. We like to say a huge THANK YOU for your support!

The Fort St. James Public Library's mission is to support and create a space in the community where all are welcome and nurtured, surrounded by resources to inspire them. Our staff and public computers have been in need of updating for years now, and thanks to the Foundation, we have been able to achieve this goal. On behalf of the Trustees of the Fort St. James Public Library Association, the staff, the patrons, and the community at large, we want to thank the Foundation for the very generous donation which enabled us to buy these new computers for the public and the staff. Having access to technology for the community is an ongoing aspect of our strategic plan. We recognize how much the Integris Community Foundation contributes to the communities it serves. We will be sure that the Foundation is acknowledged publicly in the library. Partnerships are very important to us and so again we thank you for being a partner to the community and to the library.

As a community member of Fort St. James, I have seen over the years the visible, positive impact that Integris Credit Union has made investing in innovative, diverse community-driven initiatives. Their actions, through their Community Foundation, demonstrate belief in Fort St. James and region that in partnerships, socially-motivated activities can support stronger infrastructure and drive change within rural/remote communities. Their quiet leadership and encouragement of citizens to help each other, creates equity for all community initiatives and sectors. Along with their comprehensive financial services for not-for-profit societies in Fort St. James, I have also personally experienced their direct support to Boards that I serve on. It is commendable that the Community Foundation takes into account the diversity and well-being of the community and looks at the outlying area as a whole. These actions help our communities become a better place to live, work and play.