Community Connect

Join us for Community Connect Victoria, a premier networking event designed to cultivate collaboration between the vital nonprofits, innovative local businesses, and impactful social enterprises right here in Victoria, British Columbia. This isn't just another meet-and-greet; it's a dedicated opportunity to forge meaningful partnerships, discover shared resources, and ignite new initiatives that will strengthen the fabric of our beloved community.

At this Community Connect, you'll have the chance to:

• Learn from Orca Spirit Adventures: Learn about how Eric Fenato, the Operations Manager of Orca Spirit Adventures, transformed the gift shop to support local artists. As well as what Orca Spirit Adventures does to give back to the community and its waterways!
• Network with Purpose: Connect directly with leaders and representatives from diverse organizations who are all working towards a better Victoria.
• Discover Synergies: Explore how your organization's mission and resources can align with others, creating powerful, mutually beneficial collaborations.
• Share Insights & Best Practices: Learn from fellow community builders and contribute your own expertise to a collective pool of knowledge.
• Identify Collaborative Opportunities: From joint projects and funding initiatives to volunteer programs and skill-sharing, uncover new avenues for collective impact.

Please read through our FAQs and agenda and email [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns!

Whether you're a nonprofit seeking corporate partners, a local business looking to enhance your social responsibility efforts, a social enterprise aiming to expand your reach, or a community member who wants to hear about what is going on behind the scenes, this Community Connect event provides you with the ideal platform. Let's learn and work together to build a more resilient, equitable, and vibrant Victoria for everyone.

About Eric Fenato

Eric Fenato is the General Manager of Orca Spirit Adventures, where he leads marine tourism operations, vessel logistics, safety management, and guest services on the coast of British Columbia. With more than 20 years of experience in hospitality, logistics, and safety, he has managed complex operations in both remote wilderness and resort settings.

His background includes serving as General Manager of Spirit Bear Lodge, where he supported community-based tourism and worked closely with First Nations partners. He has also managed large-scale projects in mining and hospitality, focusing on operational efficiency, safety, and stakeholder engagement. Earlier in his career, Eric served as a police officer for 12 years, gaining extensive experience in public safety, emergency response, and crisis management.

Across all roles, Eric emphasizes safe, sustainable, and people-centered operations. He is known for building collaborative teams, fostering strong relationships with Indigenous communities, and ensuring high standards of service and safety in challenging environments.

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