Our CEO Don Coulter is doing his part to help homeless youth this month. He’s participating in Covenant House Vancouver‘s annual Sleep Out: Executive Edition on November 17. We sat down with him to learn why this cause is particularly important to him and Coast Capital.
Why is this cause so important to you personally?
The idea of young kids sleeping on the street is something I find very troubling. I was very lucky growing up. We lived in a comfortable house, I went to school, I played sports; I had a great childhood. My parents made sure I didn’t have to worry about sleeping out on the streets, and I feel comforted knowing my children will never have to sleep on the streets either. Every kid deserves a childhood like theirs and I’m doing my part to try and help the situation.
How does the Sleep Out relate to the work Coast Capital does in the community?
Like the other women and men who are also doing the Sleep Out, I believe in making a difference in the community – just like Coast Capital does. Coast Capital has a 76-year history of supporting and investing in the local community to make an impact and help others thrive in cases where they can’t help themselves.
“I don’t think anyone has any idea what it’s like to sleep outside until you actually do it.”
There are several programs to help homeless youth in Vancouver – what’s different about Covenant House?
They have some really terrific programs to not only raise awareness but also provide real solutions to youth homelessness. The staff and supporters at Covenant House have a passion to help those in need. They provide youth people with the support they need to carry on happy, fulfilling and productive lives.
This isn’t the first year you’ve participated in the Sleep Out: Executive Edition. Who usually donates to your efforts?
I’m very lucky to get support from friends, family members and also my Coast Capital family. They share the same belief that it’s important for us to all help reduce the number of homeless kids in our communities and find ways to help them succeed. Some of the great employees at Coast Capital organized a pancake breakfast to support me. I really appreciated their efforts and enthusiasm.
What do you think businesses can do to help homeless youth?
In addition to providing financial resources, businesses have contacts who can join forces to take on events like the Executive Sleep Out. We can reach out to our business partners and encourage one another to get involved in some way or another.
What is it like sleeping outside?
Well, it’s really cold. I don’t think anyone has any idea what it’s like to sleep outside until you actually do it. It’s a scary and lonely experience. To know that kids, similar to the ages of my three boys, have no other options and sleep outside regularly – that’s just heart breaking.
Looking ahead, are you committing to doing the Sleep Out next year?
Absolutely. I will do what I can to help.
At Coast Capital Savings, we’re all about building a richer future for youth in your community. It’s something all of us here are very passionate about, and is one of the reasons our employees love working at Coast Capital. And it’s one of the reasons our members choose to bank with us. Learn more about how our community activities support youth.
