RBC is an active supporter of Aboriginal people and Aboriginal organizations across Canada.
As such, RBC funds a variety of community infrastructure projects; sponsors Aboriginal economic development organizations; contributes to projects, initiatives and organizations that benefit various aspects of the Aboriginal community and social development; and provides support for Aboriginal education and training, as well as, hires and retains many dedicated Aboriginal employees.
“We are pleased to have seen an increase in the number of Aboriginal employees at RBC and it remains an area of focus for us," says Neal Dawson, Royal Eagles Atlantic co-chair.
As a result of having committed Aboriginal employees, RBC has created an active Employee Resource group made up of both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal employees who work together to create awareness and support for Aboriginal culture throughout RBC. This employee resource group is called the RBC Royal Eagles.
"Our mission is to increase awareness of the Aboriginal community at RBC, provide support to Aboriginal employees, and support recruitment, retention and the promotion of RBC as an employer of choice for Aboriginal employees," says Colleen Doyle, Royal Eagles Atlantic co-chair.
One way that the RBC Royal Eagles supports Aboriginal communities is to provide funding to activities within the communities that promotes Aboriginal culture and awareness of that culture. That is why the Royal Eagles are proud to sponsor the grand prize for JEDI’s Pow Wow Photo Contests. Pow Wows are steeped in culture and tradition and it is important to share this Aboriginal pride amongst the communities themselves as well as with others.
"We are a longstanding supporter of Aboriginal communities and our employees are an essential part of our efforts," says Neal. "We provide a support system for all RBC employees and act as a liaison between the bank, its employees, and the Aboriginal community. We strive to enhance our professional, cultural and spiritual lives by presenting ourselves as positive role models within and outside RBC."
The GRAND PRIZE of JEDI’s 10 Pow Wow photo contests includes a handmade basket made by local artist Katie Nicholas which contains a 7.9 inch ACER tablet, a gift certificate for $75 worth of Holistic services at Grandmother Bear Holistic Centre, and a $75 gift certificate for the Wolastoq Wharf in Fredericton, NB. This basket and all of its contents (valued at $500) have been donated by the RBC Royal Eagles.
The draw for the grand prize will take place on Sept. 19th at 10:00am at St. Mary’s Entertainment Centre in St. Mary’s First Nation. To see the beautiful entries, please visit JEDI's Facebook page.
JEDI greatly appreciates the support of the RBC Royal Eagles and looks forward to working with them and RBC again in the future.