This week Weyerhaeuser announced that they will be investing a total of $1,000,000 into Drayton Valley over the next several years.
Nancy Thompson, Weyerhaeuser’s senior director of advocacy and philanthropy, says the investment is part of their Thrive program. Weyerhaeuser has committed $5 million to the project to support five different rural communities where they have a facility.
“We launched the program in 2023 to provide targeted support to operating communities like Drayton Valley so they can remain great places to live, work, and do business,” says Thompson.
“Thriving rural communities are places businesses can grow, families can build their futures, and the next generation can see opportunities that are close to home,” says David Graham, the president of Weyerhaeuser’s Canadian Division. “I think of these communities and the people that live here as really the backbone of our province.”
The company has already invested in four rural communities in the United States, but Drayton Valley is the first location in Canada.
“We’ve operated in Drayton Valley for nearly 40 years,” says Thompson. “We’ve got a long-standing connection with the community and the people. So, it was really the obvious choice for us because we do have such a long operating history there.”
Drayton Valley Mayor Nancy Dodds expressed gratitude for all that they’ve done for the community.
“Weyerhaeuser plays a significant role in our community, in Alberta, in Canada, and in the United States,” said Dodds at the funding announcement. “Thank you so much for the jobs you create, the food that you put on the table, and the families that you feed.”
Jeff McKay, the manager of the Drayton Valley sawmill, says they are proud to call the area their home.
“Together we’re going to work to ensure the community remains strong and vibrant, continues to be a place for people who want to grow their careers, raise their families, and enjoy their futures.”
McKay went on to thank the employees for their hard work and commitment and recognized long-term employee Dave Swindlehurst who has been with Weyerhaeuser for 40 years.
“Our people are the heart of the company and foundation of our commitment to the community. Whether working in our mills or forests, their dedication, hard work, and community involvement make initiatives like this possible,” he says.
Division 3 Brazeau County councillor, Aria Harris, expressed gratitude for the investment on behalf of the County.
“After learning about the Thrive program, what I found unique about it is that it begins by listening. Instead of assuming what a community needs it considers what matters to residents and where this investment can make the greatest impact,” says Harris.
The Minister of Forestry and Parks, Todd Loewen, and the Drayton Valley-Devon MLA and Minister of Tourism and Sport, Andrew Boitchenko, were also on hand to give thanks to Weyerhaeuser. They both pointed out that the company provided jobs for 450 employees and contractors, with Boitchenko adding that he believes that number is a low estimate when considering the local companies that do business with Weyerhaeuser.
The funds can be spent in whichever areas need it the most. In their other Thrive program communities, they have made improvements to local ball fields, invested in water infrastructure, started a worker housing initiative, and are discussing possible improvements to educational opportunities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) programs.
Thompson says they will be listening to the community and working with local stakeholders, including their employees, to find out where their investment can make the biggest impact.
