By Nicole Favero
The Vancouver Canucks Alumni continued its commitment to community engagement this October, travelling to Creston, BC, in support of Fortis’s First Nations Community Visit Program. The mission marked another meaningful opportunity to bring hockey, friendship, and community spirit together while strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities throughout British Columbia.
On October 23, Alumni members Rich Sutter, Dave Babych, and Corey Hirsch visited the Creston and District Community Complex as part of the FortisBC initiative. Their participation reflects the Alumni’s ongoing dedication to extending its reach beyond the Lower Mainland, connecting with communities across the province and sharing the experiences and traditions that make hockey such an important part of Canadian culture.
A special part of the visit was the opportunity to connect with members of yaqan nuʔkiy (Lower Kootenay Band), one of the communities of the Ktunaxa Nation, whose history and cultural connections to the Creston Valley extend back generations.
Joining the Alumni was Jared Basil, a respected member of yaqan nuʔkiy and a dedicated community leader. Born and raised in Creston, Jared has devoted much of his professional life to education, Indigenous cultural awareness, and strengthening relationships between communities. As a Ktunaxa Cultural Framework Ambassador, he works to promote cultural understanding, respectful dialogue, and meaningful collaboration. His extensive community involvement and commitment to preserving and sharing Ktunaxa culture have made him a valued voice throughout the region.
The Creston visit builds on the Alumni’s growing relationship with FortisBC and its shared commitment to creating opportunities for community connection. Earlier this year, Alumni members also joined FortisBC in Oliver, BC, for a youth hockey skills camp with the Osoyoos Indian Band, where local children had the opportunity to participate in hockey activities, meet former NHL players, and enjoy a memorable experience alongside family and friends.
These initiatives represent much more than hockey appearances. They provide opportunities to build relationships, celebrate community pride, and encourage positive experiences through sport. Whether connecting with young hockey enthusiasts, sharing stories from their playing days, or simply spending time with residents, our Alumni recognize the importance of showing up and being part of the communities that have supported the game for generations.
Fortis’s commitment to developing respectful, lasting relationships with First Nations aligns with the Alumni’s dedication to inclusion, accessibility, and community involvement. Through partnerships such as this, both organizations can contribute to experiences that bring people together while recognizing the unique histories and cultures of the communities they visit.
We extend our sincere appreciation to FortisBC for its continued partnership and support, and to Jared Basil and the yaqan nuʔkiy community for their involvement in this special visit. A heartfelt thank you also goes to Rich, Dave, and Corey for generously sharing their time and continuing to represent the Vancouver Canucks Alumni with such enthusiasm and dedication.