.
Eric Bulmash, Chair, NGB Committee
As the new Chair for the Nicola Gives Back (NGB) Charitable Committee, Eric is looking forward to working with others on furthering the vision and mission of the committee. He takes the helm at a time of change as the company is ready to embrace a new philanthropic strategy under a new Executive Director, bringing a more integrated approach to uniting the NGB committee, employee volunteerism, and other charitable activities together. Eric has volunteered in various leadership capacities as a Board member with the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver.
Why is the work of the NGB Committee important to you?
Being there for others when they need you most is an important value for me. Support them to reach their potential in life and not be held back by their circumstances – this is one of the most important things we can do as a community and for each other, especially because we are so fortunate. When I look at my life, this is one of my core values and something very important to me.
You have worked previously for a company well known for its philanthropy in the community (Vancity). What observations from the experience will you bring to the Chair role?
It’s is important to understand issues at the ground level, to go out there and hear and listen to people themselves. You cannot be everywhere, but you can pick your spots and go out there based on your passion and interests to listen and learn how to make a difference. Second, and different from the first - it’s very important to operationalize how we make an impact so that we’re coordinated, planful and well organized – this will have a greater impact in the long-run and help you achieve more.
What are the one or two top priorities you are working on with the Committee right now?
Aligning our giving process and criteria to integrate fully with our broader philanthropic strategy. When we are all rowing in the same direction, we can move much farther and faster. We are also looking to engage our organization a lot more – especially coming out of COVID. We would like to engage staff much more through our Staff Champion model, connecting to causes, and fostering giving, learning and volunteering.
What is one thing that you will rely on Grace Budiono, your Vice-Chair, for?
Grace is incredible! I will rely on her for many things (as she already knows!). She brings heart, warmth, energy, and a depth of knowledge to her time on the committee. She is natural at engaging people across the company to foster giving. Of course, I’ll rely on her as a compass to ensure we’re always heading in the right direction and living our purpose as a committee.
What is one word that you hope the Committee will embrace as you start plan throughout this year?
Unite. We have several new committee members, and we anticipate the addition of a new Executive Director and a new philanthropic strategy. As a committee, we want to deepen our Charitable impact as we grow and have the capability to give more. There is substantial growth and change happening, which is exciting. Let’s unite and rally around a common purpose and vision to make this happen!
