Press Release:
West Coast Sustainable Tourism Association Supports Local Community Initiatives with $246,650 in Funding
Cheque presentation to the Clayoquot Sound Community Theatre association for Theatre renovations
Work starting on the Tofino Legion roof replacement made possible by the $75,000 donated by the WCSTA
[Tofino, September 20, 2024] – West Coast Sustainable Tourism Association (WCSTA) is proud to announce the 2024 donations totalling $246,650 in support of their commitment to sustainable community projects in the vibrant communities of Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere region renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Created in 2023, the WCSTA is an innovative partnership model, which involves partnering hotels, other accommodation providers and like minded businesses donating a self imposed additional 1% fee added onto their room revenue to support the association's cause. This collaborative effort has yielded significant financial resources, empowering WCSTA to make a tangible difference in the future of the communities it serves.
These funds are directed towards initiatives that aim to enhance community infrastructure, support youth development, promote environmental stewardship, and foster cultural reconciliation.
The following projects have been selected to receive funding:
Clayoquot Sound Community Theatre Renovation: Vital renovation to create a healthy, flexible, accessible venue to ensure the community can enjoy and support the arts.
Ucluelet Children's Centre Playground: Creating a vibrant and safe outdoor play area in the backyard space of the new infant/toddler daycare.
Tofino Legion Roof Replacement: Ensuring a safe and functional community space for veterans and local gatherings.
Pacific Rim Hospice Society Grief Counselling for Youth: Supporting employment of a counsellor to support youth in the grieving process of loss.
Breakfast Program – Wickaninnish Community School: supporting the food cost in delivering the healthy food program.
Ucluelet Secondary School – Celebrating Learning Language & Reconciliation in 21st Century: Support of tools and technology for students to present their work.
Maaqtusiis Girls Group: empowering First Nations girls exploring their identity as Nuučaanuł people.
Youth Environmental Stewardship (YES) program-Surfrider: Supporting education and fostering commitment to preserving and respecting the environment
Youth Mentorship Program Ha’oom Fisheries: Supporting programs to educate the modern and traditional fishing practices of First Nations.
On the Road Tofino/Ucluelet/Ahousat Science World: Support travel needed to transport science education to all youth in the region.
Redd Fish Restoration Society Indigenous Summer Student Sponsorship: Supporting hiring an indigenous summer student for restoration work.
WildSafeBC Pacific Rim Program, BC Conservation Foundation: Promoting wildlife safety and education within the community.
These projects were chosen for their alignment with West Coast Sustainable Tourism’s commitment to sustainable projects, community enhancement, and cultural preservation. By supporting these initiatives, West Coast Sustainable Tourism aims to contribute positively to the social fabric and environmental resilience of the West Coast communities and its various community partners.
"We are thrilled to be able to support such diverse and impactful projects across the West Coast," said J.J. Belanger, President of West Coast Sustainable Tourism. "These donations represent our ongoing commitment to sustainability and community well-being, and we look forward to seeing the positive impacts they will have."
West Coast Sustainable Tourism remains dedicated to sustainable tourism practices, fostering partnerships and initiatives that benefit local communities, preserve cultural heritage, and protect the natural environment for future generations.
For more information about WCSTA and its initiatives, please visit https://wcsta.ca/
About West Coast Sustainable Tourism Association:
The West Coast Sustainable Tourism Association (WCSTA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism practices and community development in Clayoquot Sound a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Through strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives, WCSTA works to preserve natural and cultural heritage while fostering economic opportunities for local communities.
Media Contact:
Rob Renna
Executive Director
West Coast Sustainable Tourism Association
Shawna Gardham
Media and Public Relations Manager
Wickaninnish inn
604.928.5013
Note to Editors: Photos and additional materials are available upon request.
