Over the past 15 years, Lynda Lafleur has been on the road, A LOT. As the Trust’s Community Liaison serving the northern Basin—now heading into retirement—her commitment to meeting people where they are has had countless exciting outcomes. Some are tangible, like well-loved outdoor rinks or pavilions. Others are less concrete, such as building capacity in small communities or forging collaborations between community groups.
“It’s bringing people to a place where they see what their potential is, which gives them the courage to pursue their goals,” Lynda says. “You’re also putting them together with other people with shared interests, understanding that they could do more if they collaborate. I’ve loved every minute of it.”
Lynda has been instrumental in forging new ground, from offering long-standing support to the LGBTQ2+ community to creating a partnership with Heritage BC to give tailored aid to heritage needs.
She’s proud of the efforts of all Trust staff and pleased she has been able to help the Trust pursue its founders’ vision: to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being. “I make sure that that’s always respected, and really honour those beginnings.”
“Lynda has worked tirelessly to connect and build connections throughout the Basin and the knowledge she built from these efforts has served the Trust in endless ways,” says Will Nixon, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “It has been a privilege working alongside Lynda and we thank her for all her contributions in supporting communities and rural areas in the Basin.”
Angie Elsmore is taking on the role as the new Community Liaison based in the Trust’s Nakusp office and can be reached at aelsmore@ourtrust.org or 1.800.505.8998.
