February, 2023 (Whistler, BC) – The Whistler Institute would like to express its gratitude for the continued support of the Raindrop Foundation and Bob and Sue Adams at the end of 2022. Their generous donations both recently and over past years have allowed the Whistler Institute to develop, deliver, and grow its programs to the benefit of the Sea to Sky Corridor. These founders are joined by the McLean Group who in 2021 committed to support the Whistler Institute over a 4-year period. It is through the ongoing support of visionary organizations and individuals such as these that the Whistler Institute continues to expand year-round education initiatives that embed thought leadership and learning within the Whistler community, while contributing to the overall well-being of this region and its many residents and visitors.
The Raindrop Foundation is a privately held foundation with strong ties to the Whistler community. “We are grateful to the Raindrop Foundation for continuing to be a champion of lifelong learning, without their generosity the Whistler Institute would not exist as it does today,” said Dave Williamson, Board Chair of the Whistler Institute. Donations from the Foundation since 2018 have totalled $110,000. The McLean Group is a group of privately held companies with a diverse business portfolio within real estate, aviation, and film and television rental services, as well as the McLean and McCuaig Foundation. Having provided impactful support to numerous educational institutions in BC, Alberta, and across Canada, the McLean Group made a 4-year commitment to the Institute in 2021, this year marks year 3 of 4 in which
they have provided a $25,000 contribution. Sue and Bob Adams have been fixtures within Whistler and Pemberton for over 30 years. With a strong commitment to the betterment of communities they have served on numerous Boards and Committees including Community Futures, Audain Art Museum, Whistler 2020 Development Corporation Board, Whistler Chamber, and the BC Small Business Round Table to name just a few. Their continued support in the form of $10,000 is vital to the Institute as it moves into 2023.
What began as the Whistler Education Group in 2012 has grown to become the registered charity known today as the Whistler Institute. With a focus on providing opportunities for learning and influencing change the Institute has delivered 45 courses to nearly 500 students and continues to grow future program offerings. Topics currently under exploration include full-time early childhood educator (ECE) training, carpentry trades training, culinary training and teaching, as well as the continued development of Indigenous & Intercultural Awareness Programs that support individuals and businesses on their path to reconciliation. These recent financial contributions allow the Whistler Institute to continue to investigate and develop new education initiatives.
Additionally, over the past 4 years Global Speaker Series events have been delivered to hybrid audiences, reaching over 2,500 participants. Planning is well underway for Spring 2023 and beyond with topics including mountain resort community housing. An intimate Salon Series of events is also currently in development and will provide audiences with the opportunity to hear from inspiring industry experts followed by a social to engage in discussion around each topic.
The Whistler Institute is focused on identifying regional learning needs and developing and facilitating creative educational offerings to address them. Executive Director Suki Cheyne has said “The Whistler Institute continues to play a vital role in supporting our resort economy and improving the quality of life of the community through vibrant, relevant, and compelling education opportunities.” The Institute partners with individuals and organizations to provide opportunities for learning and influencing change by encouraging innovation and creativity in learning; by thoughtful consideration of global issues; by connecting with leading subject matter experts; and by inspiring individuals and organizations to take initiative. The Whistler Institute is funded by private donors, foundations, government grants and fees for service.
The Whistler Institute invites anyone interested in learning how they can support the continued
development of educational endeavors that Inspire Thought Leadership and Learning for Life to contact Suki Cheyne, Executive Director.
Media Contact: Suki Cheyne, Executive Director, Whistler Institute
Tel: 604-932-7600, Email: contact@whistlerinstitute.com