Media Release
²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵstudents rebuild donated van for Pacific Association of First Nations Women
Vancouver – April 8, 2025: ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵ (VCC) and the ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵFoundation have reconstructed a Honda Odyssey van, which was donated to the Pacific Association of First Nations Women (PAFNW+) to support the organization’s mission to empower Indigenous women.
PAFNW+ will use the van to improve Indigenous women’s access to community services by transporting them and their families to services such as healthcare appointments.
“We are hugely grateful for the support we’ve received from ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵstudents in reconstructing the donated vehicle, which will have a tangible impact on the lives of the Indigenous women we support,” says Sherri-Beth Rosette, Executive Director at PAFNW+. “With this additional van, we’ll be able to help more women access essential services, meaning we can better serve our community by breaking down the transportation barriers that too often stand in the way of healthcare and other critical needs.”
²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵstudents were given the opportunity to repair the van alongside Red Seal-endorsed auto collision instructors in an auto collision repair shop that meets current industry standards.
“Having the chance to work on projects like this gives our automotive students invaluable real-world experience as they prepare to enter the workforce,” said Moira Gookstetter, ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵFoundation Executive Director. “Reconciliation is one of VCC’s key values – we are committed to working towards decolonization, accessibility, and inclusivity for all. We are honoured to have the opportunity to take part in this inspiring initiative to support Indigenous women and their families.”
VCC’s Transportation Trades programs provide students with the opportunity to train on real vehicles and equipment in fully operational shops, utilizing the most up-to-date tools and technology. Learn more: /programscourses/transportation-trades/.
About ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵ Foundation
Founded in 1983, the ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵFoundation is a registered charitable organization and partner to ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵ (VCC). With the support of a community of donors, the ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵFoundation raises funds to support new buildings, classroom equipment, and special projects, as well as for scholarships, bursaries, and awards. As student needs are identified, the Foundation works to find funding that provides financial relief and support for ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵstudents.
About ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵ
²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵ (VCC) is one of British Columbia's largest and oldest public post-secondary institutions, offering over 140 programs across a wide range of disciplines, including health sciences, hospitality, trades, design, and arts. With a focus on hands-on, industry-relevant learning, ²ÝÁñ¶ÌÊÓƵis committed to providing students with real-world experience that leads to meaningful employment. Real learning for real change. /welcome/.
About the Pacific Association of First Nations Women
At Pacific Association of First Nations Women (PAFNW+), we envision a matriarchal community where all Indigenous women in BC are safe and respected with a sense of belonging and connection to cultural traditions. To bring our vision into reality, we advocate for systems change. We provide Indigenous, culturally safe learning and offer holistic support to uplift Indigenous women and strengthen families.
Contact
Emma Miller
emmmiller@vcc.ca