The Exploration Place is a non-profit organization and registered Canadian charity. Our mission is “To provide learning opportunities that foster an understanding of significant past and current issues shaping our community by linking experiences within the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George to the world in a unique, participatory Museum of regional history, science, and technology.” The Exploration Place is the largest museum and the only science center in northern BC and is a much-loved cultural asset and community gathering place. When we have needed support, whether it was sponsorship or a loan of a BBQ to fundraise for our summer camps, our friends at Integris Credit Union have always been there for us. Their generosity has helped ensure we can continue to help 180 young Canadians each summer develop an appreciation for and understanding of science and technology.

Our partnership with Integris Credit Union has a tremendous effect on the YMCA’s ability to impact the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities. Integris and the YMCA are building a stronger region through a number of initiatives including the Integris Community Centre in Vanderhoof and Foundry in PG. Our innovative collaboration has resulted in the YMCA of Northern BC winning a YMCA Canada Innovation Award and enabled our organization to develop capacity, capability and impact throughout the region.”

The Nechako Nordics is a relatively small cross country ski club located in Vanderhoof, BC. Our club has been active for over 30 years promoting cross county skiing in the Vanderhoof area. Last winter, for the first time, we initiated a Ski Rental Program. Our objective for this program is to keep ski equipment rental costs low and affordable. The Ski Rental Program was a phenomenal success! However, we quickly realized that while we have enough ski equipment for young children, we were sadly lacking equipment for interested older youth and adults. The Integris Credit Union funding we have received will help to correct this problem. Integris funding will also allow us to purchase waxing equipment so that club volunteers can efficiently and effectively wax our skis on a regular basis (storage wax application in the spring, storage wax removal in the late fall and a mid winter glide wax application). A BIG thank you to the Integris Credit Union Community Foundation for their support!