Integris, McBride partnership receives provincial recognition

Integris, McBride partnership receives provincial recognition

By Andrea Arnold

In late March, Integris Credit Union submitted a nomination to the BC Economic Development Association for the Community Project Award, recognising a community of partnership working together in economic development – population under 10,000. 

On May 15th, at the BCEDA Summit in Penticton, the Integris McBride branch project was selected as the provincial winner in that category. Jim Rivett, past board chair of Integris and former Mayor of Clinton, B.C., accepted the award.

In his speech he told attendees how the community of McBride lost its only physical financial institution after 67 years posing a real risk and challenge to the community.

“From the moment we were invited into the conversation, it was clear: the McBride residents weren’t looking for charity,” said Rivett. “They were looking for a partner. A partner who would help co-create a sustainable solution rooted in ownership, accountability and trust.” 

Integris worked with the McBride Chamber of Commerce, the McBride Community Forest Corporation, the Village of McBride, local businesses and residents to build a collaborative, community-driven business case.

In just over a year, Integris and the people of McBride pulled together to prove viability, established a location, and opened the doors on March 5th. Prior to the brick-and-mortar facility, Integris rented out a room at the McBride and District Public Library in order to meet residents and begin to provide services while building relationships. As of the day of the awards, the physical structure has been open for 70 days and many of the 2025 annual growth objectives have already been met. 

“In this, the Year of the Cooperative, we can think of no better example of what partnership and community ownership truly means,” he said.

The new branch has allowed people access to all types of banking services without the need to travel to Prince George. It has created job opportunities both within Integris and outside by supporting business growth. Alison Hoskins, Integris CEO believes that indirectly, the project resulted in enhanced relationships between organizations, the Village and community members, coming together for a common goal.

“The success of this initiative demonstrates how community-driven financial solutions can address service gaps in rural areas, providing a model that can be replicated in other communities facing similar challenges,” said Hoskins. Hoskins said that this partnership has provided McBride with a financial institution with shared ownership.”Integris, like all credit unions, has a requirement to build and hold capital through the accumulation of profits to retain earnings to serve members and communities. Integris profits remain in our region by being shared with all members through annual dividends, reinvested through our Community Enrichment strategy and growing our capital which in-turn enables us to better Life Out Here for all who call ‘here’ home,” she said.

One example is the Integris group’s participation in the upcoming Pioneer Days. The official grand opening of the McBride branch will be held on June 7th in conjunction with the festivities. Integris is working with the Elks to provide the BBQ, and a $1000 donation will help to cover food for volunteers throughout the weekend.

Both Hoskins and Rivett made comments embracing the grassroots community involvement in the establishment of the new branch. During his award acceptance speech, Rivett said, “To the people of McBride thank you! You’ve proven that small communities don’t need to wait to be saved. You can take control of your own future; we’re proud to stand beside you as a partner in your financial wellness. This award is a recognition of what’s possible when cooperatives and communities work together.”