In recognition of Earth Day on April 22, the Western Communities Foundation, the charitable arm of Western Financial Group, is organizing community clean-up and tree planting events across Canada.
Western Financial Group CEO Grant Ostir (pictured above) explained that the company’s growth strategy for 2025 focuses on expanding its customer base while maintaining its emphasis on supporting communities and promoting sustainability.
“As we continue to grow, we prioritize taking care of our customers and the communities where we operate,” said Nancy Green-Bolton, chair of the Western Communities Foundation Board and chief operating officer at Western Financial Group. “Our participation in Earth Day activities underscores our dedication to creating safe and sustainable communities across Canada.”
The company’s Earth Day events are taking place in various regions, including British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. In British Columbia, Oak Bay (Victoria) will host the Earth Day Power Hour Community Clean-Up on April 22. In Kelowna, the City of Kelowna Adopt a Stream Clean-up will take place on the same. In Cranbrook, a Wildsight Co-Community Clean-Up is set for April 26. Meanwhile, in Alberta, the Town of Okotoks will hold a Community Clean-Up and Tree Planting event on May 10. Another event, the Spruce Up Spruce Grove Community Clean-Up and Tree Planting, will be held on May 24. And finally, in Ontario, King City will host a Community Tree Planting on May 10.
Michelle Mak, director of the Western Communities Foundation, emphasized the role of sustainability in the company’s day-to-day operations.
“These Earth Day events are an extension of our broader commitment to making a positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve,” Mak said. “We encourage all team members to get involved, demonstrating care and kindness in action.”
Western Financial is targeting a significant expansion over the next five years, aiming to double its customer base. The company’s new strategy, introduced by CEO Grant Ostir, emphasizes service improvements, greater customer convenience, and the restructuring of operations to modernize its approach.
Announced after his first 90 days in the role, Ostir’s plan aims to strengthen the company’s position as one of Canada’s largest insurance brokerages. With more than 200 branches nationwide, Western Financial Group offers a range of insurance products, including home, auto, commercial, life, and group benefits coverage.
Founded in 2001, the Western Financial Group Communities Foundation focuses on supporting communities across Canada. The Foundation's key programs include community infrastructure grants, educational awards, and fundraising efforts for local causes. Since its inception, the Foundation has granted more than $9 million to support various initiatives, including those that promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.
