November 24, 2009 | British Columbia

CDI College holds charity campaigns across Canada throughout December

Vancouver, BC - November 24, 2009 - With the holiday season about to kick into high gear, charities across Canada are trying to meet the higher demand for services in the face of a decrease in the number of donations caused by the unstable economy. In a collective spirit of goodwill, the students and staff at CDI College, Canada's leading career-training provider, plan to undertake a number of initiatives to help those in need across the country.

"Even though CDI College is across Canada, each campus is community-oriented," says Bohdan Bilan, VP of Academics for CDI College. "Our students, instructors and staff want to contribute to the communities they live, study and work in. They hope to inspire others to make a difference, especially during these tough economic times. "

The college will hold food drives at campuses in Surrey, BC; Winnipeg, MB; and Montreal and Laval, PQ; with proceeds going to local food banks. Staff and students in Winnipeg are very motivated to make their food drive a huge success. In 2008, the campus amassed 1200 lbs for the local food bank. This year they are determined to reach 1500 lbs.

In addition to their food drive, staff and students at the campus in Laval, PQ, have invited Operation Nez Rouge (Operation Red Nose) to raise awareness on campus about drinking and driving.

At least two BC campuses are hosting clothing drives, as well. Students in the Addictions and Community Services Worker program in Surrey are collecting warm clothing, rain gear and alcohol-free personal hygiene items to hand out to the city's homeless. In addition to collecting donations of money, blankets, and seasonal clothing (toques, scarves and gloves) for the Salvation Army, staff and students from the Abbotsford campus will also volunteer to feed the homeless on November 28, 2009.

Anyone interested in donating to any of the CDI College initiatives should contact the campus nearest them. Keep up to date with campus life and events at CDI on Facebook and Twitter