Lori and Bryan Beal, proud owners of Edo Japan. Photography by Noel West
OLDS, ALBERTA, Feb. 21, 2012–
Olds College has confirmed its first-ever local Affinity Program in Olds. Edo Japan, owned and operated by Lori and Bryan Beal, recently signed a three-year financial and service commitment solidifying their role as a major supporter of Olds College. This is part of an initiative to strengthen local businesses, community, alumni and college ties.
Ken Risi, Director of Development explains, “By increasing our community connections in Olds, we are opening the doors to local businesses. It’s a symbiotic relationship, where we all become stronger.” As part of the Annual Revenue Program, the Affinity Programs works in conjunction with the Sealed Bid Art Program, Online Auction, Royalty Programs and the Alumni Mail Out; programs that four years ago, didn’t exist.
As cities grow and change, so too, do its residents. In six years, Olds has expanded by 13.5 percent. Five-hundred and ninety-six of these residents are Olds College alumni, while approximately 1,300 new students make Olds their home each year. With more proposed program and summer course offerings, local businesses will continue to see an increased wave of new faces living, working and shopping in the area.
“We think it is critical that the town and college work together”, says Lori, co-owner of Edo Japan. “On a daily basis we see students, faculty and alumni from the college, including several Broncos athletic teams. This relationship [with the college] gives us increased exposure, which will help people realize we are here.”
The Affinity Program aims to streamline financial support in the college by encouraging one point of contact, building affordable programs that local businesses can participate in and encouraging residents, businesses and the college to work together. “These programs really encourage residents to support and shop in Olds,” says Ken adding, “in four years, we have been successful in creating a value-added program where we build stronger relationships with our alumni, new and existing residents, and unify the college community.”
The news of Edo’s partnership sets the standard for future Affinity Program participants. “The college matches our vision and represents what we believe in–education and growth,” states Lori. “We want people to know that we want to be part of the team with Olds College.”
-30-
{ 0 comments }
