RBC Foundation has been a valued and long-time supporter of Power To Be. In 2019, RBC supported Power To Be with a grant from the RBC Future Launch program as well as funding for internal capacity enhancement. RBC Future Launch empowers the youth of today for the jobs of tomorrow, making it a great fit for Power To Be’s Wilderness School. The Wilderness School is a multi-year intensive program in Victoria for youth who require additional support services to prepare them for life after high school. This comprehensive program connects with youth in an outdoor recreation setting, teaching them life skills and confidence.
Carmen Ryujin, Manager of Community Investment for BC, said “RBC Foundation is proud to support Wilderness School because it aligns so well with our Future Launch program. RBC Future Launch is about helping young people understand that the world of work is changing. Partnering with organizations like Power to Be will help prepare today’s youth for a successful future. At Wilderness School, new skills are developed, and important connections are made in a setting that is more approachable for some youth. Power to Be’s excellent facilitators create an environment for mentorship, celebration, and leadership.”
“Wilderness School has been a game-changer for the many at-risk youth with whom I’ve worked with and cared about,” explained Sophia Pettigrew, Support Teacher and Counsellor at Bayside Middle School “In our school system, we are often limited in the extent to which we’re able to meet the needs of our most vulnerable kids. Wilderness School has been a critical support for these youth in a much more comprehensive way and bridging the gap from middle to high school. I can’t thank the Power to Be staff and financial supporters enough for the love, dedication, and service they have provided to many of ‘my kids’.”
Not only is RBC Foundation committed to supporting youth, but the 2019 Capacity Grant allowed Power To Be to focus on improving our internal systems to make our programs better. RBC Foundation understands that by increasing an organization’s internal capacity, not only are our programs strengthened, but so is our ability to demonstrate impact.
“At Power To Be we believe in partnerships. Our relationship with RBC Foundation is a key example. We know they share our philosophy for ensuring young people thrive. By helping us strengthen our internal capacity to deliver quality programs, RBC Foundation is helping us to better serve our participants.” said Dana Hutchings, Chief Operating Officer at Power To Be.
Thank you to RBC Foundation for your continued support!