Centra Windows’ generous gift to NOW Canada Society

When NOW Canada Society asked Centra Windows to come and provide a quote for replacing the windows in one of their safe homes, they were not prepared for what came next!

Based in Kelowna since 1998, NOW is a non-profit organization that provides a variety of housing and programs for women, youth and children who are vulnerable and at-risk.

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“This safe house was built in the 1960’s and its windows were well past their sell-by date” says Liz Talbott, Executive Director.  “We knew we needed new windows so wanted to get a quote to know how much money we had to go about raising”.

Chad Guidi, Kelowna Sales Estimator from Centra Windows met with NOW Canada staff and after seeing the society’s need, took the issue back to the Centra team.  Guidi says “I was happy to help NOW Canada as I am involved with the youth metal health programs in Kelowna, so this particular job held a special spot close to my heart.”  This resulted in Centra donating all the windows, screens and the front door to the society, and the installers generously donated their time to install the windows.

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Garett Wall, President & CEO says: “We’ve been in business for over 30 years in BC. One of the things we learned early on is that success in business means you can’t take without giving back. Being a good corporate citizen is more than just creating jobs, it’s about supporting the communities in which we operate. You have to connect with community and find ways to align and support it. There are many individuals and groups who rely on donations and support from business to fill in the gaps for government funding or to support increasing competition from charitable organizations”.

That’s where organizations like Centra can make a difference, whether it’s communities in need with a donation of sorts or a charitable organization in need of new windows or restoration work.

“At Centra we’re very proud of our people and culture, because giving is at the heart of who we are. Giving at Centra’s isn’t about writing cheques, it’s about the giving of time and resources of Centra employee owners to be able to contribute something more than just money, it’s important for us to ensure our communities understand that Centra does care, and so the name of our recently launched foundation in 2015, Centra Cares. We couldn’t be more proud to support the Now Canada Society and the good work they do.”

“Such kindness should not go unrecognized” say Liz Talbott, “NOW Canada is truly grateful to the wonderful folk at Centra Windows.   NOW wishes to thank the generosity of Garett Wall, Ed Vandermeer, Anton Van Dyk and the fabulous installers Darren, Jamie, Peter, Kyle, Sam, Rick, Bryan.  A special ‘thank you’ to Chad – for recognizing the need and for making this happen.”

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Liz Talbott, Executive Director

NOW Canada Society