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New community liaison brings expertise to East Kootenay
James Woodall brings social work background and non-profit experience to role
Columbia Basin Trust welcomes James Woodall to its Community Liaison team. With 12 years of experience running a non-profit, serving on several boards, operating a restaurant, and a background in social work, Woodall brings compassion and relevant expertise to the East Kootenay.
“As a long-time Basin resident, I’m eager to connect with more communities across this vibrant and diverse region,” he said. “It’s been amazing learning about the Trust’s history, processes, past grants and funding, as well as the direction the organization is taking now. I’m excited for the opportunity to contribute to the area’s continued growth and success.”
Based out of the Cranbrook office, Woodall, along with the Trust’s other Community Liaisons, will focus on engaging with communities, particularly rural areas that may lack resources for their projects.
Katie Kendall, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits at the Trust, is pleased to have Woodall join the team. “James has quickly become an integral part of our dynamic team,” she said. “His positive attitude, communication skills and dedication to helping others are invaluable assets that will greatly benefit the people of the Basin.”
Woodall’s passion for supporting and connecting with diverse communities is evident throughout his career. In his previous position as Executive Director with Crowsnest Community Support Society—a non-profit organization that supports adults with unique disabilities—Woodall worked directly with funders to secure social equity grants for affordable housing and employment programs.
His early career in child welfare and hospital social work shaped Woodall’s multifaceted approach to working with people in need, preparing him for proactive community engagement and facilitation.
Always up for a challenge, Woodall opened a restaurant with his wife during the COVID-19 pandemic, which put his project management, planning and adaptability skills to the test. While the restaurant continues to operate, he’s enthusiastic about further expanding his horizons.
“I’m excited about the Trust’s strategic direction and its focus on health and resilience over the next ten years,” he said. “I see myself playing a pivotal role in fostering connections and facilitating positive change to help communities in the East Kootenay achieve their unique aspirations.”
After moving to the Elk Valley in 2007 and living in Sparwood for four years, Woodall has been enjoying mountain life in Fernie since 2011. He’s thrilled at the opportunity to do more of what he loves most: connecting with new people, exploring the region and contributing to grassroots efforts that positively impact communities.
Communities are encouraged to reach out to the Trust’s Community Liaisons to discuss their needs and ideas at ourtrust.org/communityliaisons.
Columbia Basin Trust supports the ideas and efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, and how it helps deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the Basin, visit ourtrust.org or call 1-800-505-8998.
