Closing the Gap Between Many Young Job-Seekers and Recruitment Challenges for Tourism & Hospitality Businesses
According to a recent news article, many young Canadians are struggling to find summer employment, having lost more than 100,000 jobs in the month of April. Meanwhile, many employers within the tourism and hospitality industry are actively recruiting and at the same time finding it challenging to fill open positions.
According to a recent news article, many young Canadians are struggling to find summer employment, having lost more than 100,000 jobs in the month of April. Ongoing uncertainty, especially prior to the announcement of BC's Restart Plan, was and continues to be felt by both job-seekers and employers alike. The May 2021 federal Labour Force Survey showed a loss of 68,000 jobs, most of which were part-time, and though the unemployment rate for B.C. remains below the national average, it remains high for young people between 15 to 24.
Meanwhile, many employers within the tourism and hospitality industry are actively recruiting and at the same time finding it challenging to fill open positions. The pandemic has posed countless challenges and greatly affected the recruitment process, including the ability to hire international workers and reach young people through job fairs.
This is a gap we all need to work together to fix to help ensure our Tourism Industry can rebound and that those who are seeking employment opportunities know how and where to connect with our tourism stakeholders.
If you are looking to attract and/or retain employees during this season, tourism employers can take advantage of an abundance of resources offered by go2HR, including a virtual job board, and one of many recent webinars with practical tips on adjusting recruitment practices.
National AccessAbility Week
From May 30 to June 5, we are celebrating the valuable contributions of Canadians of all abilities, the accomplishments of individuals, communities and workplaces, and the ongoing work we all have to do to promote a culture of inclusion - it’s National #AccessAbility Week! When barriers are removed, all Canadians are able to participate fully in society and workplaces. This helps our communities thrive and our economy prosper, so everyone benefits.
From May 30 to June 5, we are celebrating the valuable contributions of Canadians of all abilities, the accomplishments of individuals, communities and workplaces, and the ongoing work we all have to do to promote a culture of inclusion - it’s National #AccessAbility Week! When barriers are removed, all Canadians are able to participate fully in society and workplaces. This helps our communities thrive and our economy prosper, so everyone benefits.
This week, together with Access BC and Travel Penticton, TOTA's Accessibility Specialist, Sonja Gaudet, will be completing access and inclusion site visits within Keremeos Cawston, Penticton and Naramata. These site visits will assist our Biosphere partners with recommendations and specifications on how to improve the accessibility within the built environment and any of the experiences that they have to offer, while identifying the accessible features that many experiences already have inplace through the AccessNow consumer facing app.
We invite you to join the #AccessAbility Week celebrations and conversation and answer the question: How can I champion disability inclusion in my everyday life?
Building an Inclusive & Accessible Destination
There are numerous fantastic organizations, initiatives, and people within the Thompson Okanagan working hard to remove barriers. We would like to express gratitude toward each and every person championing accessibility and helping to build a more inclusive community and destination.
2021 Tourism Week May 23 - 30 | Pledge to Travel Canada When the Time Is Right, Support Local & Show that #TourismCounts
Next week, from May 23 – 30, 2021 is Tourism Week in Canada and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is leading a national campaign to recognize Canada’s tourism economy, and the impact it has on every community across the country.
Next week, from May 23 – 30, 2021 is Tourism Week in Canada and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is leading a national campaign to recognize Canada’s tourism economy, and the impact it has on every community across the country.
Since the world of travel and tourism is very different this year, TIAC is encouraging Canadians to take the 2021 Tourism Pledge to Travel In Canada when the time is right and restrictions are lifted. Extending an invitation to come together virtually, support our local tourism destinations, businesses, and employees, and amplify the importance of our industry. Different parts of Canada will be highlighted throughout the week, with British Columbia in the spotlight on May 27th.
We encourage you to get involved in Tourism Week and show that #TourismCounts, take the pledge, post your commitment through social media channels and encourage others to do the same. More information along with a branding toolkit to help spread the word can be found at TourismCounts.ca.
A Virtual Graduation Ceremony to Remember
Last week, we celebrated the first cohort of graduates from TOTA’s Tourism Skills Training Program with an emotional, virtual graduation ceremony. After over two months of instruction, mentorship, employment coaching, and job placement support, we are extremely proud of the hard work, passion, and dedication of our 46 successful graduates.
Congratulations to the First Cohort of Graduates From TOTA's Tourism Skills Training Program
Last week, we celebrated the first cohort of graduates from TOTA’s Tourism Skills Training Program with an emotional, virtual graduation ceremony. After over two months of instruction, mentorship, employment coaching, and job placement support, we are extremely proud of the hard work, passion, and dedication of our 46 successful graduates.
Throughout the program, we came to discover that many of our students had recently lost jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic and were in search of next steps, resources, and connection. Within a virtual setting allowing for a large group of participants from all corners of the region, students learned about Tourism and Hospitality trends, regional experiences, and the delivery of day-to-day guest service, including an overview of Indigenous tourism, accessible tourism, and sustainable tourism from a diverse roster of tourism experts. A virtual job fair held last month introduced program participants to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism industry and 20 potential employers.
The training program was offered to participants free of charge, in cooperation with the University of Victoria-Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, and supported by the Province of British Columbia, in response to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and decline of international tourism.
We would like to express a heartfelt 'thank you' to all those who have supported this program - mentors, facilitators, partners, and members of our staff whose passion and commitment made it all possible.
Congratulations to our graduates, we wish you all the best and trust you will be successful in all your future endeavours.
Free Online Health & Safety Training Course for Tourism & Hospitality Employees Open for Registration
BSAFE (BC Safety Assured For Everyone) a new, 90-minute online health and safety course created by go2HR is expected to launch in mid-May and is now open for employers to pre-register. Geared towards employees in BC’s tourism and hospitality industry, BSAFE provides staff with a strong foundation in COVID-19 health and safety protocols and assists them in understanding ever-evolving best practices.
BSAFE (BC Safety Assured For Everyone) a new, 90-minute online health and safety course created by go2HR is expected to launch in mid-May and is now open for employers to pre-register.
Geared towards employees in BC’s tourism and hospitality industry, BSAFE provides staff with a strong foundation in COVID-19 health and safety protocols and assists them in understanding ever-evolving best practices. Once the course is completed, participants are awarded a certificate that demonstrates their knowledge of and commitment to COVID-19 health and safety. Supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, BSAFE aims to build community and staff confidence in the health and safety protocols of BC’s tourism and hospitality industry as the province navigates and emerges from the COVID-19 era.
Thank you to the team at go2HR for their efforts in bringing this program together. We know this is an important step in our province's move toward recovery and resiliency and we encourage all of our tourism businesses to take the time to participate in this new program.
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New Mental Health Resource Hub Available for Sectors Hit Hard by the Pandemic
Throughout the Tourism and Hospitality Industry whether a business owner, operator, or employee we have faced and continue to experience an increase in stress, worry, and burnout. We are very pleased to advise that employers and employees within the Tourism and Hospitality industry now have access to new mental health resources through a digital hub offering a range of online support tools - all connected in one place.
With a lot of uncertainty still laying ahead, the COVID-19 Pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental health of many. It has been a year of multiple closures and restrictions combined with job insecurity and lay-offs. Throughout the Tourism and Hospitality Industry whether a business owner, operator, or employee we have faced and continue to experience an increase in stress, worry, and burnout.
We are very pleased to advise that employers and employees within the Tourism and Hospitality industry now have access to new mental health resources through a digital hub offering a range of online support tools - all connected in one place.
The digital hub provides workshops, webinars, and information designed to assist in managing stress and building personal resiliency. It also provides tangible steps for workers at all levels to improve their overall mental health, as well as navigation support to connect to other mental health services, including counseling and peer support. Soon, training and personalized coaching will also be part of the platform.
To access, visit: www.workmentalhealthbc.ca
The new hub has been developed by the B.C. Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, in partnership with the B.C. Division of the Canadian Mental Health Association and health and safety associations, including go2HR.
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TOTA's Energy Analyst Named One of 13 #EnergyChampions in Canada
We are very proud to announce that Thivya Viswanathan, TOTA's Eco Efficiency Analyst was just named one of 13 #EnergyChampions from across the country by Efficiency Canada, celebrating a meaningful career in helping Canada meet its climate goals and improving our everyday lives.
We are very proud to announce that Thivya Viswanathan, TOTA's Eco Efficiency Analyst was just named one of 13 #EnergyChampions from across the country by Efficiency Canada, celebrating a meaningful career in helping Canada meet its climate goals and improving our everyday lives. Through the feature, Thivya shares her story, background, and passion for creating a greener, more eco-friendly future.
In her role as TOTA's Energy Analyst, Thivya works closely with tourism and hospitality businesses to help owners and facility managers understand their energy consumption patterns and provide opportunities for cost savings. Engaging in this process provides the Tourism Industry one avenue to take meaningful action in the fight against climate change.
If you are interested in working with Thivya through an Energy-Only Assessment (free for tourism & hospitality businesses), or the Eco Efficiency Program (available to Biosphere Committed Companies), book a complimentary meeting to start the conversation
Enjoy Your Easter Weekend
Please Follow the Provincial Health Orders
Stay Safe, Stay Calm, Be Kind
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Supporting Our Industry: Registration Now Open for the BC Hospitality Foundation #HospitalityHustle
It is tremendous to see so many organizations working to create virtual events and activities. Registration is now open for the #HospitalityHustle, presented by Odlum Brown, in support of the important work the BC Hospitality Foundation continues to do for our industry.
It is tremendous to see so many organizations working to create virtual events and activities while restrictions are still in place preventing traditional events and fundraising activities from taking place.
One new initiative, raising funds for the BC Hospitality Foundation is the #HospitalityHustle, presented by Odlum Brown Limited.
The BC Hospitality Foundation has long been in place to provide financial assistance to industry employees when they are facing a crisis due to health-related challenges not covered under benefits. They also offer scholarship programs to support students enrolled in hospitality-related training in BC to help foster the development of our future tourism leaders.
Right now they need our help and support to ensure they have the funds to continue to do the tremendous work they do. Registration is now open for the #HospitalityHustle and it is easy to get involved. Set a physical activity goal of your choice, anything from a 30-minute walk with your dog, to a 5km run, playing Frisbee, skiing or even dance... and post your video or photo on social media using #HospitalityHustle.
A variety of prizes and discounts will be drawn and awarded to registered participants and the event will conclude with a province-wide dance party on May 30th, 2021.
Individuals or teams can register online at BCHF Odlum Brown #Hospitality Hustle, challenge others to get involved, and be sure to contact lucy@bchospitalityfoundation.com
The BCHF is here for the tourism industry, let's make sure we are here for them.
- The TOTA Team
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Recipients of B.C.'s Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program (CERIP) Announced
Nine projects within the Thompson Okanagan region were recently announced as recipients of the Provincial Government’s Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program (CERIP) for the Destination Development Stream.
We are pleased to share that the following projects were recently announced as recipients of the Provincial Government’s Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program (CERIP) for the Destination Development Stream:
Salmon Arm Museum and Heritage Association | Completion of Cultural Heritage Attraction
Bonaparte Indian Band | Phase 2 of the Mcabee Trail Project
North Okanagan Regional District | Okanagan Rail Trail Connection
Osoyoos Desert Society | Desert Centre Boardwalk Trail Rehabilitation
Kamloops Wildlife Park Society | Accessibility improvements
Nicola Valley Fall Fair Association | Fall Fair building improvements
Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC | Merritt and Nicola Valley fishing access improvement Project
Sun Peaks Recreational Trail Association | Destination Trail Development
Greater Kamloops Motorcycle Association | Duffy Lake Recreation Site & Trail Development
Other Regional projects were funded through other CERIP Streams. Of note, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association received funding through the Rural Development Stream to implement recommendations within the KVR Masterplan. Much of the funding will go directly towards creating a better trail experience with improved signage and on trail amenities between Mile 0 and Little Tunnel.
For more information regarding this project, please contact Mike Overend at industrysupport@totabc.com.
- The TOTA Team
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How Can Your Organization Pay it Forward?
No matter how small the gesture it is important, now more than ever, to find ways that we can give back to our communities and to others around us that may need a little assistance.
This past Friday, the team at TOTA had a "virtual" Staff Retreat. It was a full day of departmental presentations, reviewing goals and priorities as well as spending some much needed time together with a few social activities.
As part of the activities over lunch we engaged in a short cooking lesson, via zoom, with the assistance of Chef Liam from Brodo Kitchen in Penticton. To say the least it was entertaining, informative and definitely tasty. At least it was tasty for most of us, however there may have been a few minor mishaps in some of the kitchens!
Far more importantly, it was an opportunity for us to give back. While we were learning to make a delicious Parmesan Tomato Soup, with a fair bit of garlic, Chef Liam was making an additional 20 litres of this soup to donate to the South Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS) on our behalf.
This is a program that used to be offered at Brodo pre COVID, however as a result of the gathering restrictions it had to be suspended. We really appreciated the willingness of owner and Chef Paul Cecconi together with his colleague Chef Liam for letting us bring the concept back to life "virtually"!
No matter how small the gesture it is important, now more than ever, to find ways that we can give back to our communities and to others around us that may need a little assistance. Whether you are able to find the time to volunteer, assist a neighbour or friend, pay it forward at your local coffee house or simply find opportunities for random acts of kindness, everything helps.
And Remember... it has been proven that giving not only assists in bringing happiness to others but actually does even more for the person giving. Thank you again Brodo Kitchen for helping us to Pay It Forward.
- The TOTA Team
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Time to Come Together (Virtually) to Reflect, Share, Appreciate & Dialogue
It is time to once again gather together (virtually) and more important than ever that we do so. It is time to reflect, share, appreciate, and dialogue about where we have been and where we are going.
It is almost impossible to believe that just one year ago our industry partners were about to gather together in Victoria for the annual TIABC Tourism Industry Conference unaware of what lay ahead.
That week, while there was mounting discussion around the Coronavirus, we truly had no idea of the tremendous and unfathomable impact the virus would have on tourism in British Columbia, Canada and the World.
Little did we know that within a few weeks so much of what we considered normal and took for granted would be dramatically changed. Travel and tourism would be literally shut down, we would come to learn what self isolating and gathering with our bubble meant and words like zoom and pivot would become a regular part of our vocabulary.
It has definitely not been an easy year and we know the way forward is still very uncertain, but it is time to once again gather together (virtually) and more important than ever that we do so. It is time to reflect, share, appreciate, and dialogue about where we have been and where we are going.
TIABC together with the BCHA are hosting this year's Tourism Industry Conference March 8th - 12th. The cost is just $99.00 per person or $250.00 for a company (up to four persons). They have a tremendous line-up of presentations, keynote speakers and workshops. There is even a Tuesday night Craft Beer Tasting event for just $20.00.
To learn more and to register go to: www.BCTourismAndHospitalityConference.com.
We look forward to "seeing" you there...
Keeping Guests and Staff Safe During COVID-19
TIABC has invested in a series of videos that will act as PSAs educating multiple audiences about the province’s health and safety protocols, what businesses are doing to ensure their customers, guests, employees and communities are safe and protected, and to reiterate the provincial tourism marketing messaging “Know Before You Go”. The first of a series of four videos was produced for the hotel sector with guidance and support from the BC Hotel Association and other partners.
- The TOTA Team
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BC Small & Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant
There have been a number of changes to the BC Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant since it was originally announced, however, there still seems to be some confusion around the Eligibility Criteria. Outlined below are the most recent changes to this program and we encourage you to review them closely.
Understand the Details | You May Still Qualify
There have been a number of changes to the BC Small and Medium-Sized Business Recovery Grant since it was originally announced, however, there still seems to be some confusion around the Eligibility Criteria. Outlined below are the most recent changes to this program and we encourage you to review them closely.
It is also important to note that while there is a requirement for the development of a recovery plan there is an allocation of $2,000 to support the preparation of that plan.
If you are a tourism stakeholder in the Thompson Okanagan Region and, after reviewing the changes to the program you are still deemed to be ineligible, we want to hear from you at recovery@totabc.com. The changes that have been made to-date have been the result of receiving stakeholder input and feedback.
These funds will only be available until March 31st, 2021 and we want to help ensure that, if at all possible, those businesses needing this financial support are able to receive it.
Updates to Business Eligibility Criteria
Sole proprietorships & partnerships with no staff are now able to apply for the program
Businesses that have been in operation for the last 18 months are now eligible (reduced from three years)
Businesses that are temporarily closed or seasonal are now eligible
Reduced the lost revenue requirement from 50% to 30% at some point during May 2020 to present – and seasonal businesses have the flexibility to show loss
Removed the requirement for grant applicants to list GST, PST, and WorkSafeBC Registration numbers
Updates to Tourism Eligibility Criteria
Increased grant amounts available to tourism-related businesses of up to $15,000 on top of the base grant
Updated definition of tourism to match Statistics Canada
“Tourism” definition expanded to make it broad and trust-based
Seasonal businesses can provide information relevant to their specific business cycle – so things like revenue losses comparisons may be different for them – and they can still apply
- The TOTA Team
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Why Your Digital Presence Is Essential
Now is the time to make sure your business is competitive and easily accessible to consumers as we move toward a time in the near future when our visitors are coming back.
Do You Know How Much More Essential the Pandemic Has Made Your Business' Online Presence?
Recent studies have shown the tremendous growth in online shopping not just since the Pandemic but certainly, COVID-19 has exponentially added to those that are surfing and shopping from the comfort of their computer, Ipad or phone.
It was reported this week that in 2016 Canadian consumers, purchasing from Canadian companies (excluding any foreign retailers) spent $12.3 billion, compared to $22 billion in 2019 and up a further 6.0 percent in 2020 hitting an all-time high of $32.8 billion.
The consumer has been changing for years now however that change is happening far more rapidly in the past 11 months. Online is important to your business as we move through this period and into what will be a time of recovery.
As part of the ongoing BC Tourism Resiliency Network, our Program Advisors want to assist you in navigating what can be the intimidating and challenging digital world.
The Digital Support and Literacy Program has been developed to provide tourism businesses with one on one guidance in determining where you currently are digitally and where your business needs to be.
As part of this program, a digital marketing expert will offer complimentary services to:
Make urgent updates to your website, such as changes to your operations and the addition of your COVID-19 Safety plan
Claim your Google My Business listing
Set up your TripAdvisor listing (linked to the HelloBC listing)
Set up a social media account (Facebook, Instagram)
Provide recommendations on where your efforts should be focused now and into the coming weeks.
Now is the time to make sure your business is competitive and easily accessible to consumers as we move toward a time in the near future when our visitors are coming back.
Registration information will be available later this week and will be found on TOTABC.org/resiliency.
- The TOTA Team
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Support Our Restaurants
Now is the time to show support for restaurants by taking action. You can take part both as an individual and by encouraging your community to take a stand.
There was a very poignant PSA released on television and online last month that speaks to all of the moments that restaurants have played in our lives. The video is part of Restaurants Canada's campaign, "Picture Your Life Without Restaurants," which is a reminder of all of the very special occasions we have shared thanks to the food and beverage industry.
Restaurants are where we have celebrated birthdays and anniversaries, perhaps had a first date, gotten engaged, or simply enjoyed time with friends or family at the end of a long week. Dining out is more than eating for sustenance - a meal can bring people together in a place where cherished memories are created, feeding not only your body but your soul.
As our entire tourism industry continues to struggle through the lengthening period of this pandemic, Restaurants Canada is reporting that Canadians have already seen 10,000 restaurants close across the country, losing over 850,000 jobs... with more anticipated. Most restaurants in Canada and certainly in our region are owner-operated and each one that closes is the end of a dream for an entrepreneurial spirit who worked tirelessly to help create our special moments.
#RestaurantsAreFamily Toolkit
Now is the time to show support for restaurants by taking action. You can take part both as an individual and by encouraging your community to take a stand.
The toolkit provides you various ways to get involved.
1. Pledge your support on SupportRestaurants.ca
2. Post photos of restaurant moments on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn
3. Include the “SupportRestaurants.ca” URL and hashtag, #RestaurantsAreFamily, in all your social posts
Restaurants Canada has provided a social media toolkit to make it easy to spread the word to your staff, your customers, and your community about how they can support restaurants during this time.
Supporting Thompson Okanagan Restaurants
In British Columbia, we are fortunate that regulations have allowed restaurants to stay open in autumn and winter and we can still support restaurants by dining "within our bubble." Alternatively, for those that may not feel comfortable dining out, many offer special take-out menus, ready to heat meals, or meal prep kits which you can prepare with their quality ingredients, offering through pick up and delivery options. Even the purchase of gift cards will help give hope for future days.
Dine Around British Columbia Starts February 5
The BC Restaurant & Food Services Association (BCRFA) is once again coordinating the popular Dine Around event from February 5 - to March 7, 2021. Participating restaurants will offer three course menus costing $15, $25, $35, $45, or $55 per person. Some restaurants will offer the option to ‘take-out’ their Dine Around menu. Registration is still open for restaurants to participate.
This is one fantastic opportunity for locals to support the restaurant industry.
Every Meal Counts
As you are able, take the time to enjoy a meal or a Dine Around menu this month. This is an industry that survives on small margins and none of the current changes and pivots will make up for what once was or will sustain them for the long term. However, each time you choose to support them you are helping make a difference.
Our collective efforts can make can help ensure our dining options continue to be there now and for the future.
- The TOTA Team
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Skills Development Survey
I can hear the words as I sit to write this week's Manic Monday: "Glenn, we don't want to do another survey!" Well, like my mother often said to me when she would give me a bad-tasting dose of medicine, "Trust me, this will make you feel better."
Repeatedly we hear that a critical area of concern is in building the employee base in this region. Our team at TOTA is working to solve this issue, including the development of a specialized Tourism Professional Skills Training Program.
Not Another Survey...
I can hear the words as I sit to write this week's Manic Monday: "Glenn, we don't want to do another survey!" Well, like my mother often said to me when she would give me a bad-tasting dose of medicine, "Trust me, this will make you feel better."
Repeatedly we hear that a critical area of concern is in building the employee base in this region. Our team at TOTA is working to solve this issue, including the development of a specialized Tourism Professional Skills Training Program.
You may not feel better right away but this survey will definitely help us to support you in the near future. We believe this initiative will help to build a much needed base of trained employees.
Participants will receive training to develop specialized in-demand tourism skills, followed by a work placement to gain on the job experience to enhance the participant’s employability skills. The training will be delivered in a group environment, supported by a range of activities which may include counselling, vocational and/or learning assessments, work experience, job search skills, mentorship, referral to community resources, and post-project follow up.
Hiring graduates with these specialized skillsets will enable hospitality and tourism employers to focus on delivering high quality guest experiences and growing a sustainable and resilient business.
This unique program will focus on the areas of need that you as Tourism Stakeholders provide to us in the Skills Development Survey. Please take the time to complete this brief survey to help us better understand the employment needs of the industry.
If you are interested in hiring program participants for the 2021 peak season, you have the option to include your contact details and an Expression of Interest at the end of the survey.
It is another survey but one that can directly support the growth of the industry and your business in the future.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO
Winter Is Coming
Fall is definitely upon us and to quote Game of Thrones: "Winter is Coming." There is no question that we will all have to continue to adapt and support each other. The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program (TRP) is designed to help you maneuver these uncertain times through one-on-one meetings with a Program Advisor, webinars, and access to Expert Business Mentorship, micro loans, Mental Health supports, and the newly announced Ideas Labs.
There is no cost to be part of the Tourism Resiliency Program, simply register online or call us at 1-877-431-8489 (ext 8).
Fall is definitely upon us and to quote Game of Thrones: "Winter is Coming."
There is no one who knows what to expect in the weeks and months to come but there is also no question that we will all have to continue to adapt and support each other as we maneuver through these uncertain times.
It is true that some tourism businesses, in some parts of the region did well over the summer period, however, that is not the case for the vast majority of the region's stakeholders. Uncertainty remains the only constant and as we wait for the second wave of the virus there is speculation, worry, and fear that many tourism operators will not be able to make it through to next spring.
Funding programs are being announced and/or renewed both federally and provincially and a variety of other programs will be available to provide support to both individuals and companies. We know that it is difficult to navigate this ongoing information and we want to reinforce that the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program (TRP) is designed to help you find ways to assist you.
Through the TRP, TOTA together with our regional partners, has been offering one-on-one meetings with Program Advisors, a variety of Webinars, and ongoing access to experts if required. We have put in place the opportunity to access Micro Loans through Community Futures, Human Resources, and Mental Health supports, and the newly announced Ideas Labs. Through a partnership with Okanagan College, we will soon be able to offer one-on-one Expert Business Mentorship coaching sessions in specific specialty areas.
There is no cost to be part of the Tourism Resiliency Program, simply register online and a member of our team is in contact with you. If you have any questions, call us at 1-877-431-8489 (ext 8).
Finally, on November 25th and 26th, TOTA will be co-hosting our annual AGM and Summit (virtually) together with the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association. We hope you will save the date and join us for an important dialogue on "building forward better."
"Winter is Coming" and we will continue to focus efforts with our many partners on bringing industry the resources necessary to get through it. We will all need to be creative, coordinated, cooperative, and to communicate our needs with a collective voice to ensure our issues are fully understood.
Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO