Angie Elsmore keen to support efforts in smaller, rural communities
Angie Elsmore is Columbia Basin Trust’s newest Community Liaison. With experience in education, project development and organizational operations, Elsmore is keen to get out into communities and learn more about how the Trust can support local efforts.
“I’m super excited to support people and communities in the northern Columbia Basin, and be contributing to something really meaningful,” said Elsmore, who will based out of the Trust office in Nakusp. She fills the vacancy left by Lynda Lafleur, who retires at the end of the month.
Elsmore’s focus, along with the Trust’s two other Community Liaisons, is engaging with smaller, rural communities that want to take on important projects, but may lack some of the resources to do so. She is passionate about meeting people and facilitating community dialogue to identify and implement projects that help rural communities.
“My goal is to listen, draw out what their priorities and needs are, and help identify which projects are going to be the most impactful. Then we can determine how the Trust can support these efforts,” said Elsmore.
Elsmore has experience as a business coach, corporate educator, performance consultant, and as an entrepreneur. She also holds both an MBA and an ICF Coaching Certificate, which lends to her collaborative approach for working in communities.
“Angie brings a diverse perspective to the team. She has worked with people from all over the world, as well as with local non-profits, in various capacities,” said Will Nixon, the Trust’s Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits. “Her lived experience, in addition to her education, is an asset to this role, as is her knowledge of the area from growing up in the Basin.”
Although she’s lived in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, Elsmore is originally from New Denver and has maintained a residence in the Slocan Valley.
“I was born and raised here and had the opportunity to venture abroad to work with diverse populations. Now I’m thrilled to be back to my roots,” she says. “Coming back and starting this position is like food for my soul and I feel privileged to be living and working in the Basin.”
To discuss their needs and ideas, small, rural communities are encouraged to reach out to the Trust’s Community Liaisons listed below.