Fall 2023 | I ignitemag.ca | 87 Delegates are provided with an easy-to-use, pre-paid card, co-invested by BLLT and the planner, which can be used towards any goods and services in the region—from the spectacular selection of restaurants, hotels and shops to an endless range of memorable activities and experiences. A portion of the funds from each card goes directly to a local charity operating within Banff National Park. Here’s how the program works: • Delegates are encouraged to use their pre- loaded cards to experience the destination during their event or by extending their stay. HOW THE COMMUNITY IMPACT PROGRAM WORKS The CIP functions as a turnkey solution for planners, as it effortlessly integrates into any program. Beyond seamless alignment with diverse organizations’ CSR objectives, it enriches the local community and encourages sustainability as the co-invested cards can replace conventional gifts. Earlier this year, the program was executed during SITE Canada Exchange. Pearleen Mofford, CITP, CIS, vice-president, fi nance, SITE Canada, appreciated how it gave delegates a choice: “Sometimes with gifting, you may or may not enjoy the gift you’ve been given, so having a choice is defi nitely greater for sustainability.” Mofford says guests loved the concept, “and see the value in how it gives back instantly to the community.” Julia O’Grady, owner, ITM Events, attended the event and says, “I loved this idea because I was able to spend the money on something that mattered to me and something that would allow me to remember the event in my own way.” She adds, “At our company, we feel strongly about engaging with the communities we travel to, so this concept fi ts perfectly with our belief that our attendees shouldn’t be stuck in boardrooms, but out exploring the communities we bring them to. Life is about experiences and this is a way for us to bring that to our delegates.” The Banff Canmore Community Foundation facilitates how funds from the Community Impact Program are distributed to local charitable organizations. Here are some of the charities supported by the initiative: • Cards can only be used within Banff and Lake Louise. • An initial portion of the total contribution, provided by BLLT, is directed to support one of the many local charitable organizations endorsed by BCCF. This allocation is chosen by the planner. Any unused funds are subsequently funneled back to the charity. • When the program concludes, BCCF will provide a report outlining the positive impact the program has had on the destination. BCCF TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION FUND supports projects that are Indigenous-led and/or advance the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. BANFF PRIDE SOCIETY a volunteer-led, non-profi t organization with a mandate to advance visibility and inclusion for Banff’s gender and sexually diverse communities. BIOSPHERE INSTITUTE OF THE BOW VALLEY empowers community leadership to address environmental challenges, delivering education and outreach programs connected to climate, wildlife and other environmental topics. ROCKY MOUNTAIN ADAPTIVE provides individuals of all ages and abilities the opportunity to participate, learn and excel at mountain sport and recreation. PHOTO: EPIC TRAILS / LUKASZ WARZECHA Ignite Destination Supplement | Ignitemag.ca | 87
