16 | TOURISMKELOWNA.COM PLANNING WITH PURPOSE GATHER FOR GOOD Every business event leaves a legacy, but in Kelowna, planners have the opportunity to shape it thoughtfully. By weaving corporate social responsibility (CSR) into programs, organizations can support the community, economy and environment with outcomes that endure beyond the event itself. “Incorporating CSR into meetings and conferences helps ensure events have a positive, lasting impact on the destination,” says Julia Garner, Business Development, Client Engagement & Events at Tourism Kelowna. “Our sustainable event planning resources encourage groups to align their activities with global sustainability goals and support the community through purposeful actions, not just programming,” she says, reflecting on Tourism Kelowna’s commitment to protecting the area’s natural beauty, supporting local businesses and fostering community well-being. “CSR initiatives tied to events create direct, meaningful benefits for Kelowna’s community,” Garner explains. From supporting local non-profits through donations or volunteer activities to sourcing goods and services from Kelowna-based vendors, groups can contribute in ways that are intentional, measurable and effective. EXPERIENCES THAT RESONATE For delegates, CSR can deepen engagement by connecting them to the destination. “Delegates often express deeper engagement and satisfaction when their conference includes meaningful local interaction—such as volunteer projects or community-focused excursions,” says Garner. PLANNER SUPPORT Tourism Kelowna helps planners incorporate CSR by connecting them with local partners and ofering resources aligned with broader goals, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals. “Even with limited time, planners can weave CSR into their events by choosing local suppliers, incorporating short service activities (e.g., group volunteering, food drives), or showcasing local makers at conference receptions,” says Garner, adding that “small additions can still deliver meaningful impact without derailing event logistics.” SPOTLIGHT: HELEN’S ACRES COMMUNITY FARM This community farm offers groups a hands-on way to give back. Every pound of produce grown on the farm is distributed to local agencies, including the Central Okanagan Food Bank, The Salvation Army, Mamas for Mamas and Kelowna’s Gospel Mission, supporting food security, health and dignity. Iconic West Experiences has developed the “Grounded in Nature” teambuilding activity in partnership with Helen’s Acres. The experience features a guided farm tour before hands-on activities such as seeding, transplanting and weeding. “It’s teambuilding with purpose that’s meant to foster collaboration, problem solving, a shared sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for sustainable agriculture,” says Jessica Pacheco, Vice President, Sales and Marketing for Iconic West.
