In the Community

At Canwest, community investment is not only a value; it is a philosophy.

We provide cash or in-kind support for thousands of organizations, causes and initiatives in the communities where we do business each day. The level and scope of this giving varies; from running PSAs to providing significant financial support.

We do this work under three pillars: Canwest endeavours to improve our nation's literacy levels, foster new talent through media studies and sustain our country's vibrant performing arts scene. By selecting our beneficiaries and causes wisely, these investments enhance Canwest's efforts to "inform, enlighten and entertain."

In 2008, Canwest introduced one of the largest benefits spending packages in Canadian media history - more than $150 million over seven years. The package is primarily focused on investment in the broadcasting industry but also aligns with our corporate giving strategy and long-standing commitment to give back to the community.

We have set aside over $10 million for training and mentorship programs; $1.4 million for media literacy programs; and more than $3 million allocated to arts and diversity festivals from coast-to-coast. This investment affirms our commitment to cultivate new content and positions our businesses in the communities in which we serve.

Literacy

Canwest Canspell National Spelling Bee will celebrate its fifth year in spring 2009. The program engages a quarter of a million students who take part in classrooms from coast-to-coast. Supported in 22 communities from St. John's to Victoria, the program celebrates academic achievement and study success for students in Grades 4 through 8.

Canwest Raise-a-Reader, which launched nationally in 2002, has raised almost $13 million. Affectionately known as "RAR" among the thousands of volunteers in 28 cities across the country, the program raises money to support local family literacy initiatives. All the proceeds raised in a given region are dedicated back to the community in which they're raised. National sponsors and the successful Raise-a-Reader Concert Series add extra funding to the program each year. The concert series launched in 2008 and has collected funds from some of the country's (and world's!) best touring performers: Michael Buble, Anne Murray, James Taylor, Bob Dylan and Sam Roberts have all leant their voice to the cause by donating a portion of ticket sales revenue during Canadian concert tours.

Media Studies

The benefits program expanded the scope of our corporate giving. The Canwest Emerging Writers Program is just one of many initiatives to develop the skills of new writers and producers.

The Global Maritimes Media Centre at Nova Scotia Community College, has been funded to upgrade to state-of-the-art standards; assuring the next generation of film and TV students have the skills to grow our broadcast industry.

Performing Arts

Canwest Cabaret launched in Toronto this fall. A resounding success, the weekend festival of performance promises greater content opportunities in the years ahead.