NEWSLETTER - Tribal Wi-Chi-Way

NEWSLETTER
FALL/WINTER ISSUE
2010
Aboriginal Business Development
“TO LEAD OPPORTUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN THE ECONOMIC REALITY OF MANITOBA FIRST NATIONS”
TWCC VOLUME 11 • ISSUE 2
Contents
TWCC ACHIEVES ISO CERTIFICATION
TWCC ACHIEVES ISO CERTIFICATION 1
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2
CEO GREETINGS
3
TWCC SERVICES - ASKI FINANCIAL 4
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
4
MEMBER TRIBAL COUNCILS
5
CONTACT INFORMATION
5
TWCC LENDING DEPARTMENT
6
TWCC LENDING DEPARTMENT
7
FIRST NATIONS FARM CREDIT
8
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
9
FIRST NATION FARM ADVISOR
10
DIRECTOR SUBMISSIONS
11
HR DEPT/DATES TO REMEMBER
12
OPEN HOUSE INVITATION13
CANADA STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM 14
CSR SUBMISSIONS
15
TWCC CHARITY OF CHOICE - UNITED
WAY CAMPAIGN
16
Do you or your company have any
news you would like to announce
in our newsletter? We welcome
any questions, comments or
suggestions.
Please
direct
them to:
From Left to right: Alan Park/CEO, Grand Chief Morris Swan-Shannacappo/Chair, Bettie
Johnson/BDC Rep, Ashmede Asgarali/Vice-Chair, Jonathon Flett/Treasurer/Secretary.
WINNIPEG, Man. (June 10, 2010) – Tribal Wi-Chi-Way-Win Capital Corporation (TWCC)
announced today it has gained ISO 9001:2008 certification as part of its commitment to
high management standards and sustained service quality.
``This is a tangible and transparent benchmark we are using to maintain confidence in
our growing brand as an Aboriginal financial institution and member of the Aboriginal
business community,’’said Grand Chief Morris Swan-Shannacappo, TWCC chairman.
``Standards of excellence are something we have always taken very seriously. And this is
why we are one of Manitoba’s fastest growing companies.’’
ISO 9001:2008 certification is part of a family of standards for quality management
systems that are maintained by the International Organization for Standardization and
are administered by certification bodies around the world. ISO 9001:2008 requirements
involve everything from a set of procedures covering all aspects of the business to
Vickie Bushie, reviewing quality systems for effectiveness.
E x e c u t i v e For TWCC, this certification is one more step forward in its evolvement into a major
Aboriginal financial institution. Earlier this year, it was selected to be among MANITOBA
Assistant
Tel: (204) 943-0888 x. 239
Toll free: 1-800-568-8488
Email: [email protected]
BUSINESS Magazine’s 50 Fastest Growing Companies in 2009.
Established in 1993 with just three employees, TWCC has written more than $34 million
in loans in 45 First Nations communities in Manitoba. Its payroll has grown from 28
employees in 2006 to 120 today across three lines of business. Revenue has grown by
continued on page 3 CEO Message
1
© 2010 Tribal Wi-Chi-Way-Win Capital Corporation
TWCC
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2010
GRAND CHIEF MORRIS
SWAN-SHANNACAPPO
CHAIR
ASHMEDE ASGARALI
VICE-CHAIR
KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL
JONATHAN FLETT
SECRETARY/TREASURER
ISLAND LAKE TRIBAL COUNCIL
EX-OFFICIO TBD
BOARD MEMBER
2
CHIEF GLENN HUDSON
BOARD MEMBER
INTERLAKE RESERVES
TRIBAL COUNCIL
JANET MOORE
BOARD MEMBER
SWAMPY CREE
TRIBAL COUNCIL
CHIEF NORMAN BONE
BOARD MEMBER
WEST REGION
TRIBAL COUNCIL
Tribal Wi-Chi-Way-Win Capital Corporation
(“TWCC”) has been established to provide
financial resources to qualified member Aboriginal
entrepreneurs and businesses in Manitoba. TWCC
was created through the efforts of five Manitoba
Tribal Councils and a number of Independent
First Nations.
TWCC
CEO GREETINGS
ALAN PARK
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
What a year!
Growth created by diversification and good strategic planning has proven to be the engine that has
spurred a huge increase in our staff complement to 120 and a revenue increase of over 200% since
2006. In fact, we are already looking at the concept of a larger office building and/or branching out
to our member communities. As a testament to this growth, TWCC ranked 12th in Manitoba Business magazine’s
40 fastest growing companies last year.
In June of 2009, TWCC became 100% owners of our subsidiary company Aski Financial services, which resulted
from a share purchase arrangement with our former partners ATF Financial. This acquisition is consistent with our
strategic plan and Vision Statement “To be the financial services provider of choice for First Nations in Manitoba”
and most certainly compliments our growth strategy. By doing so, we have centralized operations to improve
efficiencies and are expanding into more disbursement type services for such things as payroll, social assistance
and education allowances.
Our core business programs for commercial and agriculture business lending products have been faced with
some challenges through the federal government/Indian and Northern Affairs creation of a “Loan Loss Reserve
Program” for mainstream banks and credit unions. This luxury of a significantly reduced risk lending environment
was not extended to Aboriginal Financial Institutions like TWCC, creating a significant un-even playing field
in the marketplace. TWCC has filed an application for a judicial review in the federal courts on the program.
However, we have continued to host and/or participate in business forums and information sessions throughout
the province and application levels have remained status quo.
Our call center operation is churning out tremendous numbers in call volumes, as well as quality and adherence
ratings. The center has under gone some renovations and sound improvements to the point of maximizing the
performance and capacity of their current space. We are currently researching other opportunities for the call
center in order to leverage the capacity we have created and to continue to facilitate job opportunities.
In closing, I must acknowledge the tremendous loyalty and commitment of our management and staff team. Their
focus on providing quality, professional service is evident through the success we are experiencing. I also wish
to give thanks to the Board of Directors for the unconditional support and encouragement you provide to me, the
staff and TWCC.
Respectfully submitted,
Alan D. Park
TWCC Achieves ISO Certification cont’d
200% in the same period.``TWCC is a fine example of what Aboriginal people can do
for themselves,’’ said Alan Park, Chief Executive Officer. ``This important certification
will assist us as we continue to pursue excellence and growth as a prudent and responsive
lender.’’
3
TWCC
ASKI SERVICES
New Aski Financial Services
Aski Financial is committed to bringing state of the art financial services to First Nation communities and
Aboriginal owned businesses/organizations. To do this we are continuously improving our services to you the
customer. Our new uninterrupted level of service includes:
Multiple Loans:
All of our clients can now apply for a second loan while their first loan is still in process.
Our clients are eligible to receive funds up to $100.00 above their net pay threshold. This
means if a client currently has a loan with a $250.00 balance remaining on that loan and their net pay is
$1000.00 they would be eligible to take out a second loan for $850.00.
Friendlier Repayment Schedule:
Aski Financial now makes repayment much easier by increasing the length of time to
repay all loans. We now offer a repayment schedule of 5-8 pay periods. We feel this makes it much easier with
less stress to our valued clients.
No More Fees:
Aski Financial has also done away with our $10.00 disbursement fee as well as our transaction fees which came
to anywhere between $20.00 and $100.00 depending on the amount of the loan. We feel this is a great plus to
our valued clients!
Declining Interest:
With each payment received for our clients from their Employers, the interest on their
loan decreases on the remaining balance. Another plus for our valued clients!
Pre-paid Mastercard:
With our new Aski card, you can now pay your bills online, make purchases online, and make ATM
withdrawals/POS transactions worldwide.
Are you interested in:
• Having extra cash for Christmas time for you and your employees?
Find out how by contacting us at 1-866-987-7180 or check out our website at www.askifinancial.ca
Notice to Existing Clients
If you haven’t received your new Aski Card with benefits please contact us below.
- Contact: Phone 204 987 7181 - Fax 204 987 7188 - Web www.askifinancial.ca
4
TWCC
MEMBER TRIBAL COUNCILS
INTERLAKE RESERVES
TRIBAL COUNCIL
Dauphin River First Nation #316
Pinaymootang First Nation #272 (Fairford)
Kinonjeoshtegon #268 (Jackhead)
Lake Manitoba First Nation #271
Lake St. Martin First Nation #275
Little Saskatchewan First Nation #274
Peguis First Nation #269
SWAMPY CREE TRIBAL COUNCIL
Chemawawin Cree Nation #309
Wuskwi Sipihk Cree Nation #324
Sapotaweyak #314
Mosakahiken Cree Nation #312 (Moose Lake)
Misipawistik Cree Nation #310 (Grand Rapids)
Mathias Colomb Cree Nation #311 (Pukatawagan)
Opaskwayak Cree Nation #315
Black Sturgeon #328
ISLAND LAKE TRIBAL COUNCIL
St. Theresa Point First Nation #298
Garden Hill First Nation #297
Wasagamack First Nation #299
Red Sucker Lake First Nation #300
WEST REGION TRIBAL COUNCIL
Ebb & Flow First Nation #280
Keeseekoowenin #286
Pine Creek First Nation #282
Skownan First Nation #281 (Waterhen)
Gamblers First Nation #294
0-Chi-Chak-KO-Sipi First Nation #279
Rolling River First Nation #291
KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL
Barren Lands First Nation #308 (Brochet)
Fox Lake Cree Nation #305 (Bird)
God’s Lake First Nation #296 (God’s Lake Narrows)
Manto Sipi Cree Nation #302 (God’s River)
Northlands Denesuline Nation #317 (Lac Brochet)
Bunibonibee Cree Nation #301 (Oxford House)
Sayisi Dene First Nation #303 (Tadoule Lake)
Shamattawa Cree Nation #307
Tataskweyak Cree Nation #306 (Split Lake)
War Lake First Nation #323 (Ilford)
York Factory Cree Nation #304 (York Landing)
INDEPENDENT MEMBER
FIRST NATIONS
Cross Lake First Nation #276
Fisher River Cree Nation #264
Sagkeeng First Nation #262 (Fort Alexander)
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation #313 (Nelson House)
Norway House Cree Nation #278
Dakota Tipi #295
O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation #318
Buffalo Point First Nation #265
CONTACT INFORMATION
HEAD OFFICE:
TWCC
Peguis First Nation
Peguis, MB R0C 1N0
WPG SUB-OFFICE:
TWCC
419 Notre Dame Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3B 1R3
Tel: (204) 943-0888
Fax: (204) 946-5318
Email: [email protected]
Toll Free: 1-800-568-8488
Website: www.twcc.mb.ca
INTER-LAKE SUB-OFFICE:
FIRST NATION FARM CREDIT
27-2nd Avenue
Dauphin, MB R7N 3E5
Tel: (204) 638-6132
Fax: (204) 638-2854
Toll Free: 1-866-245-8871
Email: [email protected]
FNFC FARM ADVISOR
27-2nd Avenue
Dauphin, MB R7N 3E5
Tel: (204) 638-3763
Fax: (204) 638-2854
Toll Free: 1-866-288-8559
Email: [email protected]
CANADA STUDENT
LOAN PROGRAM
DIRECTOR OF CALL CENTRE
OPERATIONS
419 Notre Dame Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3B 1R3
Tel: (204) 947-5479
Fax: (204) 946-5318
Email: [email protected]
ASKI FINANCIAL SERVICES
419 Notre Dame Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3B 1R3
Tel: (204) 987-7180
Toll Free: 1-866-987-7180
5
TWCC
TWCC LENDING DEPARTMENT
IVAN DAVIS
DIRECTOR OF LENDING
MANAGING YOUR DEBT
Most people are unable to pay for
large capital purchases when starting
up or expanding their business. The
most common way to acquire the
assets for the business is through financing. Usually, a
fee is associated with financing in the form of interest
charges.
Managing your business/personal debt is one way
of adding to the bottom line of your business. For
example, making your payments on time, paying off
your debts ahead of schedule or paying more frequently
(monthly as opposed to annual) can minimize the
interest you pay on loans and/or credit cards. Avoid
purchasing items you don’t need or can’t afford can be
a big saving.
The worst thing you can do is miss/avoid making your
regular payments. Not only does this raise a concern
to your financial institution, but it is putting your
business at risk. When this happens, your interest
charges build up and make it more difficult for you to
catch up, especially if you let it build up for too long.
When a loan payment is made, the first item to be
paid off is the outstanding interest with the balance, if
any, going towards the principal. Interest is charged
on the outstanding principal balance of your loan
(simple interest) and in some cases interest is charged
outstanding interest (compound interest) as well. So,
if your loan is in arrears, your outstanding interest may
take a larger portion of the payment with less going
to the principal. This results with a higher principal
balance and on your next payment higher interest
charges. That is why it is important to make sure all
payments are made on time or lump sum payments to
avoid any unnecessary charges.
6
The biggest complaint we get at TWCC regarding our
loans program is that our interest rates are too high.
Since the topic is managing your debt, take a look
at the following example: A $100,000 loan at our
average loan rate of 11.0% for a farm loan over seven
years would have annual payments of $21,222. This
would mean the total interest paid would be $48,554,
if all payments were made on time. The same loan at
8.0% would have total interest charges of $34,456, a
difference of $14,098 or $2,014 per year.
Now, lets take the same example above and term it
over a longer period of time. Instead of a seven-year
term, lets use ten years at the same rate. This would
work out to annual payments of $16,981 and the total
interest paid (on time) would be $69,810. That would
mean you are paying an additional $21,256 in interest
charges just by extending the term of the loan by three
years at 11.0%.
What would happen if the loan gets paid off sooner?
Using the same example, but the loan gets paid off in
five years. The total annual payment would be $27,058
and total interest paid would be $35,290. This would
result in a saving of $13,264 of interest by paying off
two years earlier at the same 11.0%.
These examples show the importance of making your
debt payments on time or how saving could be made
by paying off loans earlier. To provide an incentive
for TWCC clients to make their payments on time, a
new program has been established to promote good
debt management. All clients who have made all
their payments on time and are up-to-date will receive
a 1.0% reduction on their loan(s) starting January 1,
2011. All loans can be lowered to as low as 8.0%. For
more information contact your loans officer or farm
advisor.
Mike Thomas-Loans Officer: 943-0888 ext.225
Larry Pascal-FNFC Loans Officer: 1-866-245-8871
TWCC
BUSINESS SERVICE PROVIDER FORUM
MIKE THOMAS
LOANS OFFICER
Aboriginal Business Forum Planned
Free, one-day forum for
entrepreneurs and potential
entrepreneurs will feature
business seminars, panel
presentations and a trade show.
Once again, TWCC has taken the lead role in
organising a group of major business service providers
in Manitoba to host a business forum at River Lodge
Place in Thompson. Intended for business owners who
are looking to grow their business and individuals who
are contemplating starting a business, the day will be
packed with information.
The Forum includes seminars on ‘Understanding
Your Credit Score’ and ‘Social Media: Tips and Tools
for Your Business’. There will also be two panel
presentations: the first will highlight the business services
and financing options that are available to entrepreneurs
in Manitoba. The second panel ‘From Dream to Reality’
focuses on the challenges and triumphs experienced by
three Manitoba entrepreneurs. There will also be a trade
show featuring a variety of service providers and local
partners.
Several organizations representing federal, provincial and
local interests have joined together to plan the Forum.
Among the collaborators are BDC Aboriginal Banking,
Community Futures North Central Development, Louis Riel
Capital Corporation, Manitoba Entrepreneurship, Training
and Trade, Tribal Wi-Chi-Way Win Capital Corporation,
and the Women’s Enterprise Centre of Manitoba. The
Aboriginal Business Service Network is the major sponsor.
The 2010 Aboriginal Business Forum builds on the
experience gained in similar events delivered around
Manitoba over the past three years. According to Mike
Thomas, Loans Officer at Tribal Wi-Chi-Way-Win Capital
Corporation TWCC “Interest in these events continues
to grow. It really is a one-stop shopping opportunity for
entrepreneurs to acquire information and knowledge
without having to travel far from home – and it’s free. We
expect at least 100 participants through the day.”
Details:
November 24, 2010
River Lodge Place
Thompson, Manitoba
11 am to 6 pm
For more information, see attached information or
contact:
Mike Thomas
Loans Officer
(204) 943-0888 or 1-800-568-8488
[email protected]
Aboriginal Business Forum*
November 24, 2010
11 am to 6 pm
River Lodge Place
(first left on road to McCreedy Campground)
Thompson, Manitoba
Are you dreaming about starting a business?
Do you need financing to start or grow your business?
Do you want to take your business to the next level?
*While there will be a focus on resources available for Aboriginal entrepreneurs, this event
will be valuable for all business owners and individuals considering starting a business.
Don’t miss this opportunity
to learn more about small
business and explore the
resources that are available
to help turn your dream into
reality:
Noon-1 pm
Business Service Providers:
A Panel Presentation
2 -3 pm
Understanding Your Credit Score
3-4 pm
Social Media: Tips and Tools
for Your Business
• Business Workshops
4:30-5:30 pm
From Dream to Reality: The
Experiences of Successful
Entrepreneurs
• Trade Show
• Panel Presentations
• Refreshments & Prizes
For information, call 1-800-203-2343
or visit www.wecm.ca
Sponsored by:
Proudly hosted by:
7
TWCC
FIRST NATIONS FARM CREDIT
LARRY PASCAL
FARM LOANS OFFICER
FACTS TO CONSIDER WITH LOW QUALITY FEED
Most producers in Manitoba this fall are faced with the problem of a reduced supply or poor
quality of winter feed.
The first thing to consider is marketing of the calves earlier then usual this fall. With the abundance of pasture due
to the heavy rains we’ve been experiencing, this will give the cows a chance to pick up some of that most needed
conditioning for the winter. A well conditioned cow is so much easier to winter then a thin cow.
With a limited feed supply, your next decision should be to cull the cow herd much harder then normal. Open
cows, late calvers, cows with bad teats, mastitis on one or two of the cylinders, bad feet, cracked hooves, cancer
eye, old cows, cows with bad teeth, etc., all should be considered as cull cows.
The cow herd can do fairly well on many types of forages provided the feed contains sufficient nutrients to meet
the cows needs and is provided in adequate amounts.
Be certain the pregnant cows have a well balanced diet with adequate vitamins and minerals. Proper levels of
trace minerals in the feed are crucial for a healthy immune system. To prevent deficiencies, inject Vitamin A and
Selenium early; 5 cc’s of each.
The nutrient requirements for a cow may vary some. Thin cows or growing young heifers will require a higher
protein and energy ration. Heifers are expected to grow to 85% of their potential mature weight in the first two
years while raising a calf. In all pregnant animals, nutrient requirements must match the development of the fetus;
with the most demand taking place in the final trimester of the gestation.
Poor nutrition during pregnancy could lead to aborting the fetus early, decrease in birth weight of the calf along
with calf vigor. A weak calf has a greater chance of not nursing and developing scours or pneumonia.
So, to ensure a healthy vigorous calf at birth feed your herd with a well balanced diet.
If you were fortunate to harvest adequate good quality hay for you winter feed supply, continue on as you’ve done
in the past with your wintering practices. If not, here are some rations you may consider for the coming winter
season;
First Nation Farm Credit (Manitoba) Corporation was established, under control of Tribal
Wi-Chi-Way-Win Capital Corporation (“TWCC”), to provide financial and/or technical
support to First Nation farmers throughout Manitoba. The Farm Loan Program is
available to any First Nation member wishing to start, expand or acquire a viable farming
operation in Manitoba.
8
TWCC
FIRST NATIONS FARM CREDIT
Feed Name
As Fed Lbs/Head/Day
% of Ration
$/Head/Day
Straw or poor quality hay
Barley Grain @ $3.60/bu
Mineral & salt free choice
Total
20 lbs/day
10 lbs/day
.7 lb/day
30.7 lbs/day
65%
33%
2%
$ 0.40
$ 0.75
$ 0.06
$ 1.21
Straw or poor quality hay
Barley Grain @ $3.60/bu
DDGS
Mineral & salt free choice
Total
16 lbs/day
3 lbs/day
12 lbs/day
.4 lb/day
31.4 lbs/day
51%
10%
38%
1%
$ 0.32
$ 0.23
$ 0.78
$ 0.03
$1.36
With a good dietary plan this fall for your winter feeding program, you will be happier with the results of your
calving next spring.
STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
Miranda McLeod began her role
as Finance/Administration Clerk
on August 9, 2010, Miranda had
previous experience with us in
our Call Center where she was a
Customer Service Representative.
We wish you all the best in your
new role from the Board & Staff.
Tanya Desousa assumed the position of
Term Team Leader position in our Call
Center until March 31, 2010. Tanya has
been working with us as a Customer
Service Representative since September
21, 2009. We wish Tanya luck in her new
role from the Board & Staff.
Carl Murdock began his role as
Junior Accounting Technician
in our Finance Department on
November 1, 2010. We welcome
Carl to the team and wish you the
best of luck in your new role from
the Board & Staff.
Verna Woodhouse Interim Director of
Business Development until the return
of Elma Mercredi in August 2011. Verna
has been with the company since 1995.
9
TWCC
FARM ADVISOR REPORT
DALE MYHRE
FARM ADVISOR
Cow power! The same process
that puts ethanol in your gas tank
also produces a byproduct that
will rev up your cows. It’s called
dried distillers grain soluble or
DDGS.
A final part of the experiments will be some education
courses on reserve. Manitoba Agriculture will provide
instruction on feeding and other topics.
TWCC will do hay testing to determine how to
supplement the hay that is out there.
The First Nations Bison Coop is one of the most
First Nation cattle and bison producers along with the successful businesses in the province. Cattle producers
University of Manitoba and Manitoba Agriculture will can also benefit by working together to learn and to
test DDGS on their farms this winter.
market their calves.
The advantage of the feed is that it has over twice the
protein of barley, but at the same price. This type of
feed is especially advantageous
where low quality hay and fall
pasture are found.
Professor Kim Ominski of U of
M has been testing the feed for a
year. She has found that only 2-3
pounds per day can help cattle
on grass hay come through the
winter in good condition. Peguis
producer Wallace Stevenson
and I (Dale Myhre) met with Dr.
Ominski and were impressed
with her willingness to assist First
Nation ranchers to check out the
feed on reserve farms.
Call me if you want further information.
We will also try feeding of DDGS
on yearling cattle and bison at
the Ebb and Flow Bison Coop.
Hopefully some good breeding
stock could be raised at the feeding
station for herd replacements.
In Photo: Left to Right
Wallace Stevenson and Bruce Bear
The Farm Advisor provides First Nation farmers with up-to-date information on cattle, bison, elk, hay,
crop production, financial planning, markets and government programs available. The Farm Advisor
will organize seminars to discuss important agriculture related issues. If you have any concerns regarding
your farm operation, the Farm Advisor is available to meet with you. These services are available to any
First Nation farmer in Manitoba.
For more information on TWCC’s Farm Advisor please call: 1-866-288-8559.
10
TWCC
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
CRYSTAL LABORERO
DIRECTOR OF
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Director,
Business
Development is a relatively
new role and was created
to look at new and exciting
opportunities for TWCC and
our clients. It has been very busy over the
past few months as a number of projects have
come to fruition and evolved complimenting
the TWCC family of products and services.
TWCC is very excited about the future and
all the additional services we will be able to
provide our communities and our customers.
Watch 2011 as TWCC introduces;
Registered Education Savings Plans (RESP)
– In partnership with USCI, TWCC will
become an agency to offer Aboriginal people
RESP’s for our youth. Parents want to create
opportunities for their children. Through USCI
and TWCC, you can contribute your children’s
future.
Group Employee Benefit Plans
- In
partnership with industry experts, TWCC will
be leading the charge in providing services in
group benefit plans. This new company will be
designed to deliver services to the Aboriginal
market and also give back to our communities
through a Cooperative structure.
KATHRYN O’GORMAN
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Don’t wait until everything is just right. It
will never be perfect. There will always be
challenges, obstacles and less than perfect
conditions. So what. Get started now. With
each step you take, you will grow stronger
and stronger, more and more skilled, more
and more self-confident and more and more successful.
Take a look at what the TWCC team has accomplished. We have
grown to over 100 employees, promoted very talented people
and continue to develop bench strength for future growth and
opportunities because as we all know…
Success = preparation and timing!
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
2002 0
3,057 14,23515,43032,722
2003 22,50218,59415,68017,92274,698
2004 19,97722,76823,23923,40189,385
2005 30,15032,24531,76529,273123,433
2006 35,19332,41434,90232,321134,830
2007 33,90538,40739,52943,277155,118
2008 41,553 93,541 122,934136,819394,847
2009 158,646150,218199,772227,289735,925
2010 223,978200,534233,00790,004 747,523
The results and numbers speak for themselves – keep in mind
that Q4 is showing October results only – we still have 2 months
to go!!!
Most of 2010 has been all about collaboration and teamwork.
Operationally we have combined the call centre and Aski teams
Distributor Services – We know we have a into one more powerful unit.
great product in Aski Financial- Employer
Benefit Lending and we are taking it on the We have introduced a new card, made over 1,000 calls to Aski
road! We are working with other Aboriginal customers in order to offer the new card and talk about our new
Financial Institutions throughout the country
that are interested in becoming an Aski and improved services.
Financial Distributor. An Aski Distributor
basically offers the services of Aski Financial We will continue to work together as a team to ensure all CSLP
and manages the customer relationships while and Aski calls are answered in a timely manner with a high level
reaping the benefits of profit sharing, sound of quality – demonstrating that our customers come FIRST!
management, financial and marketing support.
We are looking forward to the holiday season and celebrating
with our friends and family – we wish you and yours all the
best!
11
TWCC
HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT
JODY SCHWEID
Succession Planning.
HUMAN RESOURCES
MANAGER
GROWING WITHIN
COMPANY
.
YOUR
Greetings. One of the phrases interviewers here
most often from potential employees is “I want to
grow within your company.” In this edition of our
newsletter we will offer information as to how
TWCC can help potential candidates with this
endeavour as we are always looking to promote
from within. Here are some ways we assist our
employees to grow within our company:
Cross Training
We provide cross training in other areas of business.
Cross training can be defined as “training an
employee to do a different part of the organization’s
work.” Cross training is good for managers,
because it provides more flexibility in managing
the workforce to get the job done. However, cross
training is good for employees too. It allows you to
learn new skills and gain a better understanding of the
company and its inner workings. Also, during busy
seasons, cross training helps adjust the work flow to
areas of importance within TWCC. Combined with
new training opportunities, cross training may open
up a whole new area of work for employees.
Internal Hiring
Here at TWCC we practice an internal hiring strategy.
This means that all positions that become available
within TWCCare available to our employees first
before extending to the general public. All internal
applicants are then screened and interviewed and if
we cannot fill the position internally we then extend
the competition to the general public.An internal
hiring strategy is beneficial to our company, as we
are utilizing the skills and abilities of our current
employees.
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“Succession planning” is a process for identifying
and developing internal people with the potential
to fill key leadership positions within the company.
Succession planning increases the availability of
experienced and capable employees that are prepared
to assume these roles as they become available.
By providing new training opportunities as well
as cross training experience, TWCC will help you
grow to your full potential! Business related training
opportunities can be sponsored by the company at
not cost to the employee. Through competency
based modelling we are able to identify those core
competencies required to fill a position and then
define who has these competencies to perform and
do well within a specific role with our company. We
will then invest in our employees to provide them
with the training necessary to fill these positions.
These areas are all part of TWCC’s vision, values
and goals to help our employees succeed and provide
every opportunity possible. If you are interested in
applying at TWCC please visit our website for any
future employment opportunites and come and grow
with us.
DATES TO REMEMBER
TWCC Social Committee is inviting employees
and their immediate family to the TWCC Christmas
Family Fun Day on December 5, 2010. An internal
invitation will be sent out to all staff.
TWCC offices will be closed for the Holidays on the
following days:
December 24
December 27
December 28
December 31
Christmas Eve
Office Closed
Office Closed
New Year’s Eve
TWCC
TWCC OPEN HOUSE 2010
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TWCC
CANADA STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM
AUDREY CAMPBELL
CUSTOMER SERVICE
REPRESENTATIVE
I did my training in July 2010 for
3 weeks. Our trainers were Tal and
Jerilyn. There were 14 other people
in the class as well, all of them were
awesome to train with, we had a lot
of laughs.
I Joined TWCC because of the good things I heard
from my sister Mona Campbell, who also works here.
The first time she mentioned “Quality Lunches” I
thought she meant they tasted good. Now I know
it’s because she does a good job.
The last few months have been great, I continue
to learn and meet new people all the time. My coworkers are very friendly and always have a smile
to greet you. The Team Leaders and floorwalkers are
always there to assist you. Now that’s team work!
I’ve enjoyed the extra things that TWCC does for
their employee’s such as; potluck lunches, team
competitions, United Way kick-off, paddlewheel
and customer service week.
I also won a gift card for attendance which I will
enjoy with my family. Oh yes, and I really like the
sweaters we all received as well, Thank you TWCC.
But it’s not all fun and games. We still need to
maintain certain targets and be the best that we can
be for the customers that we serve. It’s a great job
and I am grateful to be a part of this team.
Audrey Campbell
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JO-ANNE DUNNING
CUSTOMER SERVICE
REPRESENTATIVE
My year at TWCC
My name is Jo-Anne Dunning.
I’m entering the next phase in my
life. You know the one, kids are all
grown and have moved out.
So, anyways, for about a year I was sort of lost.
Then decided enough of feeling sorry for myself. I
needed some changes.
First thing, new job. Well, tried a number of
positions, still not happy. Was exploring job
opportunities on the net. Noticed TWCC. Sent
in resume. Started training within a month. Best
move I made.
Now am part of an extended family. I have to
say it’s a fun place to work. Don’t get me wrong,
there’s lots to know. A constant learning experience
and challenges. Just when you think you know
everything, there’s more. The life of a Customer
Service Representative is challenging. You are
helping a diverse group of customers.
What I like about working at TWCC is there is
always opportunities for advancement if you want
to move up. And as I stated before, you are a part of
an extended family. We have potlucks, activities,
contests, recognition/appreciation dinners, and
the management is always accessible. The upper
management even know you by your first name!
It is a great place to work. Forgot to mention the
Great Team Leader’s. What wonderful mentor’s
they are !!
Jo-Anne Dunning!
TWCC
CANADA STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM
ASHLEY COCHRANE
CUSTOMER SERVICE
REPRESENTATIVE
My name is Ashley Cochrane. I
am originally from Peguis, Manitoba. I am 28 years old and currently reside downtown Winnipeg.
I started training with TWCC Aug. 8, 2010. I
learned an enormous amount while in training. I
have learned even more while working in the call
centre. I am glad I was hired!
I have found that everybody works very hard and
is willing to help one another to succeed. They are
also pleasant to work with. The team leaders are
very helpful. They also make working for the call
centre fun. Calls can be stressful and there always
seems to be someone to lend a hand. I would like
to thank everyone for that!
I am excited about the upcoming expansion and
the new training program. I am glad they are renovating the training room’s roof. I hope it is a comfortable temperature in there for my teacher Tal. I
will miss the patio.
I hope we get another, possibly near the wheelchair
ramp. It seems we will need a larger building to
keep up with the company. Good job TWCC!
I enjoy the events that I have been participating in
so far. It must be fun here because it seems time is
going by fast. I look forward to upcoming events.
It is great to see the participation. It feels good to
be a part of something that makes other lives easier.
Ashley Cochrane!
HANNAH THURIER
CUSTOMER SERVICE
REPRESENTATIVE
My name is Hannah Thurier, I am
from Fairford, MB and I am 21 years
old. I have been a Customer Service
Representative since August 2009. It
was brought to my attention by close
friends whom have worked with the
company that they were hiring, and
since then i’m still here and enjoying it.I really enjoy
working for TWCC because they have activities outside the call centre that are sponsored by the company.
In the winter they have curling and in the summer they
have baseball and dragon boat. This was my 1st hand
experience in joining the TWCC team. This summer we
entered a dragon boat festival located here in Winnipeg and also played baseball in the Aboriginal Slo Pitch
League. Our team succeeded in the baseball league that
next year we will be getting uniforms.Working in the
call centre is a different scenerio then being on the ball
field, I find it challenging everyday that is what I enjoy
about my job. Every day is different and everyday is a
learning experience for everyone, I enjoy my occupation here and hope that one day I will succeed into a
career in TWCC by using my education and knowledge
from the call centre.
TWCC is one of the fastest growing company in the
Aboriginal Community, it is very exciting to see an Aboriginal company who started with 3 people succeed
into a company with now over 100 employees and still
growing. The part that is growing significantly is located in the call centre we are expanding and bringing
in more classes, we will soon need a larger call centre.
That is where all these new and improved renovations
are coming into play, and with Aski expanding we’re
going to need a lot more space, and I am excited to see
where these new renovations lead to.
In conclusion I wish TWCC great success in their fast
growing company and I wish all the employees great
success in the new 2011 year.
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TWCC
TWCC CHARITY OF CHOICE
TWCC has raised over $16,000 this year winning
two United Way awards:
1.
Pace Setter Award-For having a early campaign this year.
2.
Quantum Leap Award-For increase in monetary donation by 25%.
We Thank all staff for their generous donation’s
for this year’s campaign.
In Photo (Left to Right)
Jennifer McLeod (CSR), Teresa Woodhouse (CSR), Jo-Anne
Dunning (CSR), and Wallace Anderson (CSR)
CEO Alan Park waiting to be sunk in the dunk
tank with all proceeds going towards United Way.
CEO Alan Park, Director of Bus Development Crystal Laborero,
Director of Lending Ivan Davis, and Natasha Prince Aski Loans
Mission Statement:
“To Lead Opportunity Development in the Economic Reality for Manitoba First Nations.”
Vision Statement:
“To be the Financial Services Provider of choice for First Nations in Manitoba.”
Value Statement:
“TWCC is a nationally recognized, successful, progressive, diversified, and self-sustaining financial services
institution. First Nations owned and operated we subscribe to holistic First Nation values and cultural
traditions that nurture the health and well-being of our clients, stakeholders and staff. Our committment is to
accountability, transparency, quality of service and organizational success.”
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© 2010 TWCC, Volume 11, Issue 2