Hospitality and Viticulture Employee Training and Seasonal Accommodation Program with Naramata Centre Society

The Naramata Centre is planning to offer a Hospitality & Viticulture Program to local employers for their seasonal employees. The Hospitality & Viticulture Program will provide personal and professional development opportunities to young employees in a community setting and provide much needed staff accommodation to business partners in the community.

Naramata Centre is considering to offer 7 to 14 rooms between mid-April through October of 2023 for program participants. Each room has two beds and an ensuite with a shared kitchen and lounge.

Naramata Centre is working with TOTA, WorkBC, and the Okanagan Collage to develop a variety of training opportunities in addition to the Centre’s own personal development and community offerings.

Participants will get access to a flexible and tailored leadership development curriculum, which covers topics such as:

• Work-life balance

• Personal and professional development

• Emotional intelligence

• Boundary recognition

• Diversity and inclusivity

• Community engagement

• Connection to the land

• Spiritual life practices

The Centre is very open to working with local businesses, tourism associations and the viticulture sector to enhance these offerings.

If well-received this offer would continue in subsequent years.

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Virtual Info Session

Naramata Centre is hosting a virtual info session November 9, 2022, at 10 AM.

TOTA to Host "7 Celebrations" Series of Themed Local Festivals to Reconnect in the Thompson Okanagan

Kelowna, B.C. - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) announced a line-up of seven diverse and dazzling events to officially commemorate the reopening of the Thompson Okanagan region post-pandemic, and to celebrate its people and cultures. The 7 Celebrations - Reconnect in the Thompson Okanagan is an invitation to revisit the sights, sounds, people, and culture through a region-wide celebration set to take place now through March 2023. The festivals are set in various areas of the Thompson Okanagan, in the Shuswap, the North and South Okanagan, Boundary Country, North Thompson, and Gold Country.

The Thompson Okanagan is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes: from tall mountains, rolling hills, raging rivers, peaceful lakes, a dry desert, and a temperate rainforest. The region is also home to diverse communities - each with unique people, cultures, stories, and traditions.

TOTA invites locals and visitors alike to join in celebration and reconnection, and to discover a taste of what each host community has to offer. Highlights include live performances; a welcome home to the sockeye salmon; a winter season kick off with the Fire & Ice Light Up; the legend and lore of the lake; a Winter Carnival; a celebration of women in sport and mountain culture; a visit to Gold Country’s roots; and a celebration of local products and businesses.

The series 7 Celebrations was named to pay tribute to one of TOTA’s core mandates - the 7 Affirmations for 7 Generations Thompson Okanagan Pledge. This pledge was inspired by the Indigenous philosophy that recognizes the “actions made today have a lasting impact for the seven generations that follow.” In the spirit of invested and purposeful travel, the series focuses on the traditions, stories, and cultures of a selection of the region’s communities in an effort to give them life for years to come. Read more about the pledge below.

The 7 Celebrations event schedule and details can be found at ThompsonOkanagan.com/7-Celebrations

This series of events was made possible with support from the Ministry of Canadian Heritage and the support of the hosting City Destination Management Organizations (CDMO).

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About 7 Generation Pledge:

The 7 Affirmations for 7 Generations Pledge was created by TOTA out of a need to develop guidelines for sustainable tourism and conscious travel. Based on the Seven Generations Principle, rooted in Indigenous philosophy: The decisions we make today will have an impact for as many as seven generations to come.

Learn More & Take the Pledge →

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About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association:

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a not-for-profit society that represents a geographic area nestled in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Canada. The region’s name is derived from two major geographic features: the Thompson River and Okanagan Lake. TOTA aims to stimulate ongoing sustainable growth by embracing the value of tourism through community engagement, innovative leadership in promoting authentic experiences, and inspiring creative collaboration. Key TOTA initiatives include; Biosphere Certified Gold Destination, 7 Generations Pledge, and Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.

For more information about TOTA visit TOTABC.org, or visit the consumer facing website ThompsonOkanagan.com.

Media Contact:

Krista Lochhead

krista@hatchhos.com

778.227.2396

Hatch Hospitality Inc. dba hatchcomms.ca

Thompson Okanagan Part of International Network of Observatories Guiding Shift Towards More Sustainable and Resilient Tourism

Destinations around the world are reporting significant advances in sustainable tourism, with timely evidence and analytics serving as key tools for transformation as the sector’s recovery continues to get underway.

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)'s Destination Development & Stewardship Specialist, Eve Layman, travelled to Madrid this past week to meet with the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) and gain insights from more than 150 experts, with a focus on key topics including the shift towards a circular economy and reducing food waste across the sector.

In October 2019, TOTA became the first Canadian destination to join INSTO. Through a lengthy application process, destinations are required to meet the criteria outlined in the INSTO framework and commit to the ongoing monitoring and reporting of 9 core issue areas including Tourism Seasonality, Employment, Local Satisfaction, and Energy Management.

The global network of INSTO Observatories is pioneering and implementing, very often for the first time, catalytic activities designed to help the tourism sector implement sustainable development at the destination level. Together, they are leading the transformation of tourism by building on the principles of participatory approaches including all stakeholders to ensure an inclusive and resilient tourism development.

At the Global INSTO Meeting, destinations focused on how a timely and evidence-based approach is helping stimulate circular economy processes that result in using resources such as water and energy more efficiently. In addition, challenges in the environmental and social dimensions and the need for indicators that allow for comparability among destinations were highlighted.

Another topic was the availability of data from a growing variety of data-sources, making it increasingly difficult to process them into useful information needed for an informed decision- and policy- making process. It was agreed that all of these issues will be addressed in the INSTO Network through webinars and technical discussions.

While in Madrid, Eve Layman was also invited to meet with the Canadian Ambassador to Spain, H.E. Wendy Drukier. Eve presented her with a painting by Okanagan artist Alex Fong, as well as sharing the regional 7 Affirmations for 7 Generations Pledge and BeadTrails bead with the Ambassador and other guests.

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Supports Women of Recreation, Tourism, and Hospitality through Sponsorship of Empower Her Event by WORTH Association

Date: Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Time: 6 - 9:30 PM
Location: Coast Capri Hotel, Kelowna

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The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has signed on as a Bronze Sponsor for the Empower Her series of events, organized by the Women of Recreation, Tourism and Hospitality (WORTH) Association. This sponsorship demonstrates TOTA’s commitment to supporting initiatives that elevate, educate, and empower women in the tourism industry.

TOTA and WORTH Association are in consultation to examine their roles as non-profit organizations in promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and reconciliation efforts across the province of British Columbia.

“As an association, we envision a future free of bias, discrimination, and sexism,” said TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews. “This sponsorship is an investment to support WORTH Association in their work to advance gender equity initiatives.”

Empower Her is WORTH’s signature networking and panel discussion event for women in hospitality and tourism. After a two-year hiatus, WORTH is hosting the fifth edition of the event in 2022 and 2023 to educate, elevate, and empower women in the industry - and first in the Thompson Okanagan region.

The Thompson Okanagan event will be held on Tuesday, October 18 at the Coast Capri Hotel in Kelowna at 6 PM to 9:30 PM. Moderated by TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews, the panel will feature inspiring women working in the Okanagan tourism industry and will examine ways organizations and individuals can accelerate women into leadership roles at the senior level.

The panelists include:

• Lisanne Ballantyne, CEO, Tourism Kelowna

• Christina Ferreira, Owner, Impact Events & Project Management

• Sandy Leier, Winemaker, Laughing Stock Vineyards

• Shelley Robinson, Chef/Owner, Golden Lucky Peach Enterprises

Tickets are now available at WORTHAssociation.com/empower-her-kelowna-2022. Other Empower Her events are planned for Victoria, Vancouver, and Whistler.

WORTH’s mentorship, leadership, and empowerment programs have supported many women since 2019 and significant expansion is planned through support from partners such as TOTA.  

Previously, TOTA has supported WORTH by sharing resources, such as the WORTH Association Gender Equity Audit, hosting a webinar on Retaining and Developing Women of Recreation, Tourism & Hospitality, and donating funds towards programs.

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Background

About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.

TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies. 

For more information, visit TOTABC.org.

About WORTH Association:

WORTH Association was incorporated in 2018 to combat inequities in the industry and provide opportunities for networking, mentorship, education, and leadership development for women of WORTH across British Columbia. WORTH advocates with industry associations to ensure a more equal future for women in industry leadership. WORTH Association is a non-profit society run 100% by volunteers, relying on donations from partners and friends to educate, elevate, and empower women.

For more information, visit WORTHAssociation.com.

Become a member for free (for a limited time) to stay connected and supported through WORTH’s newsletter, events and resources.

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For more information, contact:

Chelsea Travere
Corporate Communications Specialist
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
E: News@TOTABC.com

Joanna Jagger
President & Founder
WORTH Association
E: Info@WORTHAssociation.com

New Program Aims to "Spark" Innovative Tourism Ideas in Thompson Nicola

For Immediate Release: September 27, 2022

KELOWNA, B.C. – A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas in the Thompson Nicola area of the Thompson Okanagan tourism region in British Columbia was officially announced today by local and provincial tourism partners.

The “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants from the area with a tourism mentor and provide a $3,000 grant to supplement additional partner support, to help bring new tourism ideas to the next level of development.

The goal is to find, foster, and support new tourism ideas, experiences, and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits.

Applications can be submitted from September 27 to November 4, 2022 and are encouraged from entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations based in the Thompson Nicola area including the communities of Kamloops, Sun Peaks, Valemount, Clearwater, Blue River, Merritt, Lytton, Cache Creek, Clinton, and surrounding areas. Following a review process, five finalists will be invited to a virtual Pitch Session where three winners will be selected.

The “Spark” Program will support businesses and entrepreneurs in the area to bring new tourism experiences to life, which will help visitors experience the Thompson Nicola, benefitting the local community and residents.

The “Spark” Program was first launched in Ontario in 2018 by the Tourism Innovation Lab and has expanded to several regions across British Columbia.

The Thompson Nicola “Spark” Program is presented by Destination British Columbia in collaboration with Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Tourism Valemount, Tourism Kamloops, Tourism Sun Peaks, Explore Gold Country, Tourism Wells Gray, and the Tourism Innovation Lab.

For more information on the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program, including eligibility and upcoming Information sessions, visit TourismInnovation.ca/ThompsonNicola

Quotes

Richard Porges, President & CEO, Destination BC
“We are thrilled to be awarding Spark grants and mentorships to three local tourism entrepreneurs in the Thompson Nicola area. It will be rewarding to see the winning initiatives come to life and enhance the availability of diverse tourism offerings in the local area.”

Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
“This is a tremendous opportunity for new tourism ideas to be realized in the Thompson Nicola area of the Thompson Okanagan region. The “Spark” program enables and encourages those with innovative tourism concepts to have the chance to see them come to life. We are very excited that Destination BC has brought this opportunity to the Thompson Okanagan.”

Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab
“We are excited to be launching the “Spark” Program in British Columbia in the Thompson Nicola area,” said Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead of the Tourism Innovation Lab. “We are keen to spark and support new tourism ideas that will enhance the region’s tourism offerings and drive innovation.”

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Media Contacts

TOTA Communications

Chelsea Travere, Communications Specialist
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
Email: News@TOTABC.com

Destination BC Media Relations
Email: Media.Relations@DestinationBC.ca

Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead
Tourism Innovation Lab
Email: info@tourisminnovation.ca

Social Media

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

• LinkedIn: @TOTABCNews

• Facebook: @TOTABCNews

• Twitter: @TOTABCNews

Destination BC

• Twitter: @DestinationBC

• LinkedIn: @DestinationBritishColumbia

Tourism Innovation Lab

• Facebook: @TourismInnovationCanada

• Instagram: @TourismInnovationCanada

• Twitter: @TourInnovation

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About

About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association:

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the BC Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.

TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.

Learn more at www.TOTABC.org.

About Destination BC:
Destination British Columbia (Destination BC) is a Provincially funded, industry-led Crown corporation that supports a strong and competitive future for BC’s tourism industry through a combination of global marketing, destination development, industry learning, cooperative community-based programs, and visitor servicing. Destination BC’s programs help to improve the visitor experience, support businesses and communities across the province, and strengthen BC’s worldwide reputation as a destination of choice.

For more information about Destination BC’s programs and services, please visit: www.DestinationBC.ca.

About the Tourism Innovation Lab
The Tourism Innovation Lab is a non-profit initiative created to find, foster and support new tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships, to cultivate and propel collaborations between the tourism and tech sectors, and to build a community of tourism innovators, idea makers and entrepreneurs. Launched in Ontario in 2018, the Lab and its "Spark" Mentorships & Grants Program are expanding to new regions across Canada. The Tourism Innovation Lab is a program of Hackforge and has a BC home base in Squamish.

Learn more at www.TourismInnovation.ca.

Join TOTA at the CRIS Adaptive Amazing Race August 23-24 to Raise Funds for Improving Accessible Outdoor Recreation in the Okanagan

Community Recreational Initiatives Society is hosting the 3rd annual Adaptive Amazing Race in August.

The Adaptive Amazing Race is based on the Amazing Race TV series, and involves a piece of adaptive equipment. It is an excellent opportunity if you and your team are looking for a fun team-bonding event. Additionally, it is a great way to contribute to the local community's well-being.

CRIS is looking for teams of 4-6 members to compete in this year's race. If you are unable to participate as a team, you can participate as a prize sponsor or as a general fundraiser.

Dates and Locations:

• August 23, 2022: 12 pm-3 pm, Polson Park, Vernon

• August 24, 2022: 11 am-2 pm, Mission Creek Park, Kelowna

Funds raised allow CRIS Adaptive to

• Maintain and purchase new adaptive equipment

• Run programs

• Cover membership and trip fees for individuals who need financial support

Learn More & Register →

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TOTA Participating in CRIS Adaptive Amazing Race

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is committed to supporting accessible and inclusive tourism in the region. As a partner and supporter of CRIS Adaptive, TOTA is raising funds and team members are participating in the race in Kelowna on August 24.

Want to get involved? Make a donation to support CRIS Adaptive towards their goal of enabling outdoor recreation for all.

Donate to CRIS Adaptive

Request for Proposals: Patio Furniture Designed by Local Carpenters/Woodworkers/Artists | Deadline: August 12

 Deadline: Friday, August 12, 2022 | 3 PM PT

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre, operated by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), is requesting proposals from local carpenters/woodworkers/artists to design furniture for an outdoor patio space.

The Tourism Inspiration Centre is a visitor centre located at the gateway to the Okanagan, on Highway 97C (Okanagan Connector) above Peachland. The centre welcomes over 40,000 international and domestic visitors per season, as well as local community members for special events. This year, the Tourism Inspiration Centre installed a new public patio space, overlooking Okanagan Lake and perfect for viewing performance art from the IArT Venue stage.

Information for Proponents

Deliverables:

• Work closely with the Tourism Inspiration Centre Manager and Indigenous Specialist for TOTA to ensure scope of project follows intended outcomes and results,

• Design, source materials, and build six (6) picnic table/bench sets, and six (6) Adirondack style chairs with locally inspired indigenous artwork and weatherproofing to ensure long-term protection from elements,

• Incorporate section of table for sponsor logos to be displayed on interchangeable plaques,

• Picnic tables should be approximately 8 feet in length and built from locally sourced wood in a stable fashion that prevents tipping (refer to examples below),

• Two of the picnic tables will be built to accommodate wheelchair users (extended table tops on ends - see photo 2),

• Tables and benches should be separate from the table (not attached) from each other to be moved and utilized as individual pieces,

• Work within the timeframe outlined and agreed upon for project start and completion.

Example of Table, Bench, and Chair Concepts

Requirements

• Carpenter/artist with related experience residing, operating, or with personal history in the Thompson Okanagan region.

• Work closely with TOTA Tourism Inspiration Centre Manager to ensure scope of project follows intended outcomes and results within the timeframe outlined and agreed upon for project start and completion.

Delivery of Proposals

Deadline: Friday, August 12, 2022 | 3 PM PT

Proposals are to be submitted to the emails provided below with the following information:

• Attachment of a cover letter including name, address, and contact information.

• Resume which outlines past experience and projects.

• Five (5) examples/photos of similar work or projects including style of art

• Three (3) reference contacts for clients from similar work or projects, and

• Conceptual drawings of initial ideas based on information included in the project deliverables below.

All inquiries and submissions should be directed to:

Barbara Bonnough

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre Manager

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

Barbara@TOTABC.com | (778) 752-5877

 CC:

Jamie Bourne

Indigenous Tourism Specialist

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

Jamie@TOTABC.com | (778) 760-2965

Selection Process

Submissions will be reviewed by a committee and up to four (4) shortlisted artists will be invited to the next stage of the selection process. 

The committee will evaluate applications on the basis of:

• Artistic excellence, skill, innovation and merit, as evidenced in samples of previous work.

• Qualifications and professional experience based on references of the carpenter/artist.

• Demonstrated ability of the carpenter/artist to execute a project of this scale under the budget and timeline set out.

• Representation of and connection to local Thompson Okanagan region

Shortlisted artists will be invited to respond to a detailed Request for Proposal package, including schedule of completion of project and budget.

TOTA Board Election: Early Call for Nominations

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) will hold the 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, October 13, 2022.

Leading up to the AGM, the Board Election will take place as follows:

• Monday, July 18: Early Call for Nominations

• Friday, July 29: Official Call for Nominations Begins

• Friday, August 12: Close of Nominations

• Tuesday, August 30: Electronic Voting Begins

• Wednesday, September 14: Close of Electronic Voting

• Thursday, October 13: TOTA AGM & Board Meeting

On behalf of TOTA Nominating Committee Chair, Frank Antoine, we invite Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals to put their name forward or nominate a qualified candidate (see Eligibility Requirements below) to serve as a member of the TOTA Board of Directors for a two-year term, effective September 29, 2022.

The tourism industry faced tremendous challenges over the past two years, and the TOTA Board of Directors was committed to guiding TOTA to support regional tourism stakeholders. Going forward, there is much work to be done as we reimagine and rebuild a resilient, sustainable tourism industry in the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia.

For 2022, TOTA is seeking to fill eight board positions with enthusiastic and energetic tourism professionals representing a wide range of the Thompson Okanagan’s tourism sectors, communities, and perspectives. The TOTA board is eager to explore new ideas and learn from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

TOTA board members commit to a two-year term, with the following schedule:

• Regular board meetings and board retreat (four meetings / year)

• Option to join the Finance & Audit Committee (four calls / year)

• Option to join the Governance Committee (four calls / year)

The board will elect board members to serve the executive positions of Secretary-Treasurer, Vice-Chair, and Chair.

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Eligibility Requirements

Based on the TOTA Constitution & Bylaws, to nominate/vote and to qualify as a Board Nomination Candidate, the company or organization must meet the following criteria:

• A tourism stakeholder in good standing with TOTA.

• Must have participated in a TOTA marketing program or provided in-kind value in the amount of $100 or more within 12 months prior to the call for nominations on Friday, July 29, 2022.

• Nomination submitted in writing, signed by four voting members other than the nominee.

Community DMOs may serve on the board, however cannot hold an executive position.

For questions and to confirm voting member and board candidate eligibility, please email TOTA Board Liaison Chelsea Travere at Chelsea@TOTABC.com.

Run in the TOTA Board Election

If you or someone you know is interested to run in the TOTA board election and meets the criteria outlined above, please submit a signed nomination form to TOTABC.org/AGM/election by Friday, August 12, 2022.

Nominations cannot be accepted after the deadline.

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About TOTA

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a not-for-profit society governed by the BC Societies Act. TOTA is one of six Regional Destination Management Organizations (RDMO) in the province of British Columbia that work under the Super, Natural British Columbia brand as an official representative of Destination British Columbia and whose mandate includes Industry Development, Destination Marketing, Destination Stewardship, and Destination Development.

Learn more at TOTABC.org.

TOTA Access & Inclusion Liaison Tour of Boundary Country

In the summer of 2020, TOTA partnered with the Christina Lake Welcome Centre to visit Boundary Country on an Accessible FAM tour, and experience many accessible and inclusive activities and attractions that this beautiful region has to offer.

It was an adventure packed full of endless fun and possibilities, such as:

• Museums in Midway and Greenwood

• Gallery 2 in Grand Forks

• Culinary experiences at the The Wooden Spoon, The Board Room Cafe, Christina Lake Marina Grill & Deli, and the Christina Lake Golf Course

• Adaptive mountain biking adventures on the KVR with Wild Ways

• Glow golf at Cascade Par3 Golf Course

• Discovering Indigenous pictographs on Christina Lake on a boat tour 

With so much to do and see in the Boundary Country, the team stayed for a while and rested between experiences in the comfortable and accessible accommodations at the New Horizon Motel in Christina Lake.

The positive vibes and inclusive energy and atmosphere that we felt on our journey through Boundary Country made it clear that tourism operators are striving to make their experiences and adventures accessible and inclusive for all.

With a team of passionate community leaders, and through the Enabling Accessibility Youth Innovation Component funding opportunity, a Mobi-Mat (wheelchair accessible beach mat) and beach wheelchair was acquired to create and increase accessibility on the beach and to the lake at the Christina Lake Provincial Park.

Beach Wheelchair

Mobi-Mat

To some degree and at some point in everyone’s life, we will all require an accessible feature to continue enjoying adventures alongside family and friends.  

Although all of our physical environments may never be completely accessible, we can create an emotional connection where acceptance, integration, and inclusion can ignite the realization and the understanding of “why” our physical spaces and environments need to be accessible. 

Let’s make it our collective responsibility to support and uplift everyone in our communities regardless of their age, ability, gender, or culture. This can simply begin with an inclusive attitude and mindset, allowing that to be the catalyst towards building and creating physical environments that are accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Whatever your level of adventure is, there are accessible and inclusive experiences waiting to be discovered in Boundary Country!

Sustainable Companies in the Thompson Okanagan Now Listed in Biosphere Search Engine of Sustainable Consumer Choices

Biosphere has launched a new website, BiosphereSustainable.com, allowing people to easily learn about the good practices and sustainable efforts of companies and destinations around the world. The website has listings of companies participating in the global Biosphere Community and transparently shows contributions to the fulfilment of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

Companies that are part of the Biosphere Community, including companies in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, can showcase their sustainability efforts through the new website so people around the world can quickly and easily search and discover their work to improve local life, environment, economy, employment, education, ecosystems, and other sustainability issues.

The Biosphere system is an independent, objective, impartial, and transparent verification methodology with an external auditing team of professionals to validate the sustainable efforts implemented by each entity, based on the indicators, criteria, objectives, and sustainability goals of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The website is adapted for those with general knowledge in sustainability, to help people make responsible, ethical, and sustainable consumption decisions. With more informed and aware societies, it will become easier for each person's consumption decisions to reflect their values, achieving a real involvement on the part of society to act more responsibly and adopt more sustainable models.

Visit BiosphereSustainable.com Website →

View Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Company Listings →

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For more information about the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, visit TOTABC.org/biosphere-commitment or email Biosphere@TOTABC.com.

Interested in Joining the Biosphere Commitment Program?
Book a Biosphere Introduction Presentation →

For Biosphere Committed Companies:
Book a Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Platform Walkthrough →

Universal Design Washroom Renovation at Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre

Renovations are well underway at the TOTA Tourism Inspiration Centre, and Access and Inclusion are top of mind. 

TOTA is excited to announce the Accessible and Universal Design Washroom Renovation for the Tourism Inspiration Centre above Peachland on the Highway 97C Connector. 

The visitor centre has been operating in this location since 1986 and has undergone significant renovations and additions that began in the fall of 2021. Included in these renovations is the creation of a new single use fully accessible and universal washroom, from a pre-existing storage room. The washroom was completed by the centre’s opening day, May 18, 2022, to welcome ALL visitors and offer yet another valuable accessible feature to the building. 

The renovation project was made possible through funding from the Enabling Accessibility Fund Youth Stream, as well as funding from the BC Rehab Foundation. TOTA put forward the remainder of the renovation costs to complete the project. 

TOTA collaborated with Access & Inclusion Liaison, Sonja Gaudet, to ensure the washroom design meets best practices and accessibility guidelines. The project construction was awarded to local construction contractors, Wolverine Industries from Kelowna.

Creating accessible spaces and environments allows equal opportunity and full inclusion for EVERYONE - regardless of age, size, ability, culture, or gender - and it nurtures a sense of belonging and wellbeing for ALL.

Welcoming everyone to participate in the services, products, and experiences that you have to offer, starts with addressing the following three key priority accessible features:

• Designated accessible parking spaces with an access aisle

• Easy and safe access from the parking area to the main entrance

• Accessible and/or universally designed washroom

Here is a document that will get you started on your accessibility journey one accessible feature at a time:

Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Experiences - Key Priorities

Wheelchair Accessibility Consultations

TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program includes a wheelchair accessibility consultation and resources to assist in creating better access and inclusion within your tourism experiences.

Register for Biosphere Commitment Program →

Access and Inclusion are not only what we build into our physical environment.

It is a collective positive energy and attitude that can be felt upon entering any environment.

It transcends directly from the heart and creates a welcoming feeling of belonging and freedom.  

This powerful and open mindset towards full integration, inspires meaningful and authentic connections with one another, enriching the lives of EVERYONE along its path.

Humans long for integration and full participation - to live, work, play and travel with and alongside family and friends!

Host an Event at the Indigenous Artisan’s Trail (IArT) Venue near Peachland

The Indigenous Artisan’s Trail (IArT) Venue is now available to companies and entrepreneurs to reserve for events, free of charge, from July to October 2022.

Operated by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Indigenous Tourism Program, IArT is located at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre on Route 97, above Peachland (3960 BC-97C).

IArT can be reserved for single or multiple days to be used for public or private events, such as:

• Meetings

• Workshops

• Markets

• Artist studio, gallery, and retail space

• Performance art with music and dancing

• Food and beverage tastings

• And more…

The IArT Venue comes with a secure, air conditioned, accessible indoor space with an outdoor stage facing the Tourism Inspiration Centre patio and seating area. The Tourism Inspiration Centre has a parking, bathrooms, and storage.

Public events will be featured on the ThompsonOkanagan.com and social channels.

To schedule your event, submit an Expression of Interest form or email Indigenous@TOTABC.com with any questions.

About IArT

Indigenous Artisan’s Trail (IArT) is a collaboration between TOTA and Indigenous Tourism BC launched in 2019 to connect visitors to Interior Salish arts and culture in the Thompson Okanagan. IArT has hosted exhibits in partnership with the Rotary Centre of the Arts and UBC Okanagan, as well as art and jewelry created by Indigenous artists outside the Kelowna Art Gallery.

In 2022, IArT is available to rent to host events related to tourism, arts, and culture at the Tourism Inspiration Centre.

About the Tourism Inspiration Centre

The Tourism Inspiration Centre is the second busiest visitor centre in the Thompson Okanagan region, attracting over 45,000 people traveling to and from the Okanagan Valley. The venue is a perfect destination for connecting people from various communities in the Thompson Okanagan, enabling groups to meet in the middle.

The Tourism Inspiration Centre and IArT Venue are a short drive from several Thompson Okanagan communities, such as:

• 10 minutes from Peachland

• 30 minutes from Kelowna and Westbank First Nation

• 45 minutes from Penticton and Penticton Indian Band

• 1.25 hours from Merritt and Lower Nicola Indian Band

• 1.5 hours from Vernon and and Okanagan Indian Band

• 1.5 hours from Osoyoos and Osoyoos Indian Band

• 1.5 hours from Princeton and Upper Similkameen Indian Band

• 2 hours from Kamloops and Tk'emlups te Secwepemc

• 2 hours from Salmon Arm and Splatsin First Nation

To get a quote and schedule your event, submit an Expression of Interest form or email Indigenous@TOTABC.com with any questions.

Energy Efficiency Tips: About Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)

Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) will play a significant role in decarbonising businesses by leveraging existing gas pipeline systems.

Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is made from organic waste produced by everyday activities. As organic matter such as food decomposes, it releases biogas which when cleaned produces methane, also known as Natural Gas. As this methane is produced through organic resources it is considered completely biogenic or carbon neutral. 

FortisBC is offering renewable and low carbon gases to customers as part of the 30BY30 target to reduce its customers’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 in support of the CleanBC Roadmap to 2030.

To learn more about renewable natural gas and other ways to reduce your business' carbon footprint, register for a free Energy Assessment or connect with TOTA’s Energy Analyst at Energy@TOTABC.com.

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Energy Efficiency Tips: About Heat Pumps

A heat pump is an energy efficient alternative to furnaces and baseboard heaters. Heat pumps act like reverse refrigerators transferring heat from a cool space to a warm place. Alternatively heat pumps can also work as air conditioners.

During the cool weather, heat pumps move heat from cool space outdoors to warm the indooars.

During the cooling season, heat pumps move heat from the indoors into the outdoor space.

As heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate heat, they can be quite efficient as compared to traditional heating systems. 

If interested, you can connect with the TOTA Energy Analyst who can help you in finding the right energy efficiency solution for your business and inform you of the various rebates available from FortisBC.

Learn More →

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Thompson Okanagan Tourism Board of Directors Working On Moving Tourism Forward

(Kelowna, B.C.) June 9, 2022 - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Board of Directors and Senior Staff members of the association met on June 8, 2022 at the Summerland Waterfront Resort for their first in-person board meeting since October 2021 and only their second in-person meeting since February 2020.

"While the board has continued to meet virtually and work tirelessly over the past two years, nothing can replace the dynamics and creativity of face-to-face dialogue," said TOTA Board Chair Michael J. Ballingall.

"The challenges the tourism industry has faced and continues to deal with are immense and will take innovation, collaboration, and partnership to help deal with post-pandemic recovery, supply shortages, and labour challenges. It has never been more important to come together to build a resilient and sustainable industry," said Ballingall. "We have to recognize that things are not going back to "how they once were" nor, in fact, do we want them to. We must incorporate a new way of thinking to build forward and better for the long term."

TOTA has been a leader in encouraging the implementation of sustainability plans and practices since the release of its 10-year Regional Strategy "Embracing Our Potential" in 2012. In 2017, the Thompson Okanagan region became the first Biosphere Certified Destination in the Americas, a program that is part of the Responsible Tourism Institute and built around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Since then, the other regions that form the British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) including Kootenay Rockies Tourism, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism, Northern BC Tourism and 4VI (previously Tourism Vancouver Island) have all become Biosphere Certified Destinations, as well as Destination Greater Victoria.

There are several ways to get involved with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, including:

• Register as a stakeholder

• Join the Biosphere Commitment Program

• Run in the Board of Directors Election

For more information, visit TOTABC.org or contact TOTA at Info@TOTABC.com.

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Background

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.

TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.

Learn more at TOTABC.org.

National AccessAbility Week & Accessibility Ambassadors in the Okanagan

National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) is being celebrated from May 29 to June 4, with the theme: “Inclusive from the start.”

Join in to celebrate the valuable contributions and leadership of Canadians with disabilities; highlight the work of individuals, organizations and communities who are removing barriers, and reflect on our ongoing efforts to become a better, more accessible, more disability inclusive Canada.

Learn More →

View Promotion Toolkit →

As part of the celebration, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC) will have accessibility ambassadors on the ground next week, collecting information for the AccessNow app on the main streets in Kelowna, Penticton, and Vernon.

The AccessNow app is a go-to resource for accessibility information, built on a connected platform that empowers all people to discover a world of accessible opportunities, make travel decisions, and remove barriers. The app has over 200K places rated in 35 countries, including restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, trails, and parks.

AccessNow has a growing community of people who believe in an accessible future. Anyone is welcome to get involved through mapping, reviewing, beta testing, outreach, and storytelling.

Tourism businesses can claim their listing and let people know what to expect when visiting.

Claim Your Listing →

South Okanagan Food & Drink Experience Development Program Event: Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages

Chef Aman Dosanj

Food & Drink Experience Development Pilot Program

The Culinary Tourism Alliance (CTA), in collaboration with Destination British Columbia (DBC) and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), delivered a Food & Drink Experience Development Pilot Program in the South Okanagan. The pilot program initiated in May 2021 and concluded in February 2022.

Goals of the Experience Development Pilot Program

1. To support selected businesses with the creation and delivery of a new, market-

   ready food & drink experience to offer both locals and visitors to the South

   Okanagan

2. To contribute to the development of new food tourism experiences that will add

   to the destination’s overall value proposition, help visitors connect to the region

   in a more meaningful way, and encourage repeat visitation and referral

3. To summarize learnings from the experience development pilot program that

   may inform future experience development supports provided by DBC, which

   align with the implementation of the Invest in Iconics Strategy across British

   Columbia.

The first participant, Covert Farms Family Estate Winery, has now launched their event they created during this pilot program. Their event Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages is an immersive dining experience with Chef Aman Dosanj of the Paisley Notebook pop-up series.

Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages

The night will begin with a welcome reception, where guests can take their seat and enjoy free time to play farm games and explore. Next, you will hop aboard their vintage cherry red trucks for an open-air tour of their regenerative farm and vineyards. Here, they will discuss the rich history of the Syilx Okanagan Nation and neighboring Indigenous cultural site nʕaylintn, and then forage for traditional plants, some of which will be featured in the night’s dishes.

Chef Aman will guide guests through each of her incredible dishes along with the ingredients used, including organic fruits and vegetables grown right here on our farm and meats raised at the estate. Each dish will be paired with Covert Farms Estate wines by winemaker and farmer, Gene Covert, all of which are made with regenerative viticulture practices, using minimal intervention and natural fermentation when possible.

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Recap of IMPACT Sustainable Tourism Conference 2022

Last week, several TOTA team members attended the annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism Conference in Victoria. The spirit of this internationally informed, Canadian-focused event is to educate, unite, commit, and take action towards the development of tourism as a financial and social force for good. Monitoring and measuring success through the lens of environment, community, culture, and economy (also known as planet, people and prosperity by the BC Ministry of Tourism, Art, Culture, and Sport).

Over the course of 2.5 days and more than 20 sessions, the conference presented the sustainability challenges faced by the tourism industry worldwide. Inspiring examples were shared of companies working towards regenerative tourism, and they called on tourism professionals to commit to meaningful action.

Key highlights from IMPACT:

Regenerative Tourism

The COVID-19 pandemic and climate change have converged to cause great disruption, however we are now in the midst of what is being referred to as the  Great Restart, an opportunity to reassess the ways in which we do business and refocus efforts to prepare for the future.

This requires significant intentional change and an urgency to incorporate sustainable and regenerative practices into the core of business planning and operations.

Tourism can strive to regenerate - meaning to protect and strengthen - land and communities, creating net positives for both. Working collectively, we can minimize the negative impacts and amplify the many benefits, to be equitably enjoyed by residents and guests.

What does regenerative tourism look like in action?

• Work to attract “High Values Guests,” meaning visitors that generally stay longer, support local businesses, and strive to minimize their individual impact on the destination and community.

• Incorporate sustainable technology and practices into your business that improve the guest experience and reduce costs.

• Make it easy to choose and provide education for guests to reduce carbon emissions, such as lower emission transportation methods, foods, and energy sources.

• Employ creative thinking around partnerships and collaboration, job sharing, and cross training to attract tourism professionals seeking full time, long-term employment.

• Industry certifications and frameworks which help destinations and companies build a foundation of practices that meet (or exceed) industry sustainability standards and communicate commitments to partners and customers.

• Collaborate with the scientific community to better understand tourism’s positive and negative impact. For example, researchers could study aspects of the tourism business to make improvements and help develop educational tourism experiences that share their knowledge and appreciation with guests.

• Develop infrastructure and experiences that help to lengthen the tourism season and encourage dispersion.

Indigenous Reconciliation

Indigenous reconciliation was woven throughout the entire conference, and underscored the importance of DMOs and businesses developing an Indigenous strategy and creating relationships with local nations working in collaboration to share stories and promote Indigenous services and experiences.

How can tourism be a powerful cultural and economic tool to take action towards reconciliation? Some examples for non-Indigenous entities include:

• Work to learn from Indigenous people and the sustainable practices at the core of their way of life

• Acknowledge the local nation and their history in tourism experiences and content.

• Become a Friend of Indigenous Tourism BC to begin collaboration towards mutual success and that contribute to reconciliation through the support of Indigenous tourism.

• Create an Indigenous Ally Program and share a portion of profits with local Indigenous bands, which can provide reliable income to employ Indigenous forest guardians.
  

Thompson Okanagan Commitment to Regenerative Tourism

While sustainability has been a key aspect of TOTA’s destination management strategy since 2012, it’s inspiring to see sustainability develop as the foundation of tourism in British Columbia, Canada, and other destinations around the world.

The TOTA team is eager to further incorporate regenerative tourism best practices into the Thompson Okanagan region, in order to continue as a competitive tourism destination and inspire others to plan the future of their destination through a sustainability lens.

If you want to discuss sustainable tourism and how your business can get started or build on an existing foundation, contact the TOTA Destination Stewardship team at Biosphere@TOTABC.com.

Job Opportunity: TOTA Communications Coordinator (Summer Intern Program) | Apply by June 17

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is seeking to hire a Communications Coordinator for a summer internship program. The Communications Coordinator will work with the Corporate Communications Specialist to support the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry communications by creating content for news updates, email newsletters, webpages, and social media content.

The position is based on a Canada Summer Jobs Grant and is limited to an 8-12 week internship, with the option to work remotely full-time or part-time from the TOTA office in Kelowna. The position also includes time as a Visitor Counsellor at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre located above Peachland on the Coquihalla Connector.

Candidates must be able to travel to the TOTA office, team events, and Tourism Inspiration Centre as needed.

Please send cover letter and resume to HR@TOTABC.com by June 17.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

New Biosphere Committed Company, Codfather’s Seafood Market

Jon and Anne-Marie Crofts, Owners of Codfather’s Seafood Market

Codfather’s Seafood Market has been operating in Kelowna for over 30 years and operates a traditional Fishmongers shop as well as supplying restaurants in the Okanagan and beyond with high quality seafood. Operating out of a small space in the Guisachan Village on Gordon Drive in Kelowna, they are a family run business and pride themselves on making a big impact out of a small space.

“We decided to join the Biosphere Commitment Program because we needed a way to ensure that we take every opportunity to progress and look at every area of our business in terms of sustainability. We felt that this would lead to real and measurable improvement for us.”

- Jon Crofts, Codfather’s Seafood Market

Sustainability for Codfather’s as a seafood business has always been tied closely to the ethics of seafood harvesting and growing, and the way that fisheries are organized and monitored. Sustainability is more than just an eco-label, it also comes from the heart and should never be driven by the desire to profit in any other way than to ensure that a livelihood and thriving ecosystem is still available for all the generations to come.

Lack of equitable access and corporate monopolisation have become huge problems when it comes to sustainability, with “Ocean Grabbing” prevalent throughout the world. Through their work with the Slow Fish organization, they fight against these problems in various guises constantly. They also believe firmly in the value of local co-management of fisheries by Coastal and inland watershed communities. Codfather’s works towards this through their involvement with the “Fisheries for Communities” campaign.