NEWS RELEASE
COMMUNITY FIRST CREDIT UNION
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The Soo Pee Wee Arena Board of Directors voted unanimously to accept Community First Credit Union’s naming rights for the Soo Pee Wee Arena, at its regular meeting on Thursday, June 25.
The Board’s approval gives the Soo Pee Wee Arena the nod to formally enter into an agreement with the financial institution, and for the arena to officially take the name Community First Soo Pee Wee Arena.
Community First proposed a 5 year naming rights agreement, with the option to renew for another 5 years.
As well this partnership will see Community First supporting the arena in their efforts to reach their capital fundraising goals.
“The Soo Pee Wee Arena is an important institution in the city of Sault Ste. Marie, and we couldn’t be more excited to begin this partnership,” said Community First Credit Union CEO Brent Lamming.
“One of Community First's strategic pillars is partnerships. To us, this means developing partnerships with organizations that focus on the same goals as we do; promoting education, families and children, and the well being of our communities to make a lasting impact. Our two organizations are like-minded in our community values, and we are committed to working in tandem with the arena to support in building a stronger community for our youth and their families. The Community First Soo Pee Wee Arena will continue to be a great source of local recreation for years to come.”
Arena Manager Chad Bouchard adds, “We are very pleased that the Community First Credit Union has chosen to partner with us. We are very much looking forward to having a positive impact in our community together with our new partner.”
The first year of the agreement will see Community First Credit Union making a significant investment in signage, as well as physical enhancements inside the arena.
In addition, Community First agrees to support the arena in their capital improvement campaign by actively promoting the facility in their two Sault Ste. Marie branch locations as well as online.
Board Chair of Community First Credit Union, Jeff Piper and Colin Kirkwood, Board Chair of Soo Pee Wee Arena agree that this partnership provides both organizations with an opportunity to invest in our local youth and create positive and lasting relationships for their families.
About Community First Credit Union
Community First Credit Union Limited is a full service credit union open to everyone living in the province of Ontario. Community First offers a full range of financial products and services for both personal and business banking.
Located in Northeastern Ontario and operating for over 65 years, Community First has two branch locations in Sault Ste. Marie, and one in Timmins.
Members/Owners have convenient access to over 2,400 surcharge-free ATMs across Canada through THE EXCHANGE® Network.
About Soo Pee Wee Arena
The Soo Pee Wee Arena opened its doors in 1967, and has been a home for minor hockey in Sault Ste. Marie for over 48 years.
The Soo Pee Wee Arena is one of the only non-profit arena facilities in Canada and features an ice rink with a spectator capacity of 1000, as well as a pro shop, sharpening services, concessions, and a full-service restaurant overlooking the rink.
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(FILE PHOTO: Local firefighters play the Korah Colts during the 10th Annual SSM Professional Firefighter Hockey Marathon at the Pee Wee Arena in this April file photo. Donna Hopper/SooToday)