Looking Back to the Future - Celebrating 30 Years

For Immediate Release - August 23, 2011


 

Cowichan Intercultural Society Celebrating 30 Years – Looking Back to the Future

(DUNCAN) The Cowichan Intercultural Society (CIS) is proud to be celebrating 30 years of vision, services and programs for the diverse cultural heritage that makes the Cowichan Valley. “As we approach our celebration events on October 22nd, we are reflecting on the rich and colourful thirty year history that has inspired our success, ” enthuses Deborah Conner, Executive Director.

CIS began in 1981 when a large influx of Vietnamese refugees underwent tremendous peril to escape post-war Vietnam. Valley volunteers, including government employees, church and community groups, teachers and concerned citizens, assisted newcomers with all aspects of the settlement process. The Intercultural and Immigrant Aid Society was hatched from this effort.

Founding member Phyllis Bomford and her late husband Norm, were among the key supporters for the just arrived refugees. Phyllis Bomford, now in her 80s, recalls that there were many urgent needs to be addressed, such as finding homes, clothing, English as a second language instruction, sponsorship and friendship for the refugees. Derek Gibson, President of CIS reflects, “It was the determination and foresight of committed individuals such as Phyllis and Norm Bomford and many others that inspires the work of CIS today. As our mandate has grown over the years, our historical roots inform our passion and perspective at CIS.”

Over the past 30 years, CIS has supported a culturally diverse Cowichan Valley through its considerable service to 43,000 youth, adults and families. Since the beginning CIS has engaged over one million participants, hosted over 1000 events and partnered with over 200 community service organizations. To celebrate the achievements of the community and organization, CIS is hosting a vibrant trio of community events on Saturday October 22nd: Walk of the Nations, One World Festival and Tapestry Gala.

The Third Annual Walk of the Nations will kick start the day`s events. Then the One World Festival will be in full swing from 11-4. This free community event will highlight CIS`s 30 year anniversary with 30 door prizes, 30 entertainers, 30 cultural costumes, 30 community service organization booths, 30 silent auction items, 30 local vendors, 30 ethnic food booths and 30 fun gaming activities.

That evening, the Tapestry Gala event at the Quw’utsun’ Cultural and Conference Centre promises to be a vibrant step into the cultural heart of the community. Featuring a silent and live auction, ethnic food and multicultural entertainment, this formal evening event will celebrate 30 years of community support and care programs as well as highlight the generous support of our sponsors and partners.

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Media Contact:
Deborah Conner, Executive Director: 250.748.3112 cis@telus.net
205-394 Duncan Street, Duncan BC