Feature Stories
In Their Words: Keith Sashaw
Feb 28, 2008
Keith Sashaw is president of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA). On behalf of the VRCA, Sashaw works with the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) and Building Opportunities with Business Inner-City Society to deliver construction-readiness training. This training is co-located with VANOC’s carpentry training program at the RONA Vancouver 2010 Fabrication Shop.
That Momentous Day by Keith Sashaw
Like thousands of other British Columbians, I remember well that momentous day of July 2, 2003 — it was announced that Vancouver won the right to host the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Prior to the announcement, there was a general air of discontent because we had suffered through a decade of lagging economic performance. For me, it seemed that the province was destined to be mired in the doldrums forever. No so.
Following the thrill of seeing Vancouver announced as the host for the 2010 Winter Games, I remember walking from BC Place Stadium and feeling the energy and the confidence that was palpable in the air. This announcement restored confidence in the province and sent a message that BC is capable of great things on the world stage — it was probably the most impactful message of any single announcement.
Having been raised in Vancouver, and having lived through the excitement of Expo ‘86, I have seen first-hand what hosting a world-class event can do to a city in terms of instilling confidence and pride. I savoured the opportunity to welcome once again people to Vancouver with typical Canadian hospitality.
Following the announcement about the 2010 Olympics, I was excited about having visitors come to a city in which I take great pride.
Looking back on Calgary’s Games
When Vancouver was selected as the Host City, I remembered back to 1988 and the sense of anticipation and excitement I felt when my wife, two kids and my in-laws jumped in our mini van and drove from Vancouver to Calgary to watch my wife’s cousin compete in bobsleigh for Canada. Once in Calgary, I was taken with the overwhelming sense of community and support that was extended, not only to our athletes, but also to every visitor attending the Games.
We had the privilege of going to Canada House in the evening to celebrate those Canadians who had competed that day in the Olympic Games. The most moving part of that experience was recognizing the parents and supporters of those athletes that made their success possible.
Events like Expo and the Olympic and Paralympic Games build communities. Successful events are the result of groups of people coming together to work for a common cause. We are already seeing that with Vancouver 2010.
Opportunity for business and communities
Already, the 2010 Winter Games have provided an opportunity for the construction industry to come together with community groups to address issues. The present issue facing the construction industry is the urgent need for construction workers. The issue for community groups is to find meaningful employment for their clients.
By harnessing the synergy created by Vancouver 2010, the Vancouver Regional Construction Association is working closely with the Building Opportunities with Business organization to work with people from Vancouver’s downtown eastside — people who may have particular employment challenges. One such outreach program — The RONA Vancouver 2010 Fabrication Shop — is helping individuals work towards a career in carpentry or construction. Clearly, this initiative builds on the strengths of all the parties in the agreement.
I am proud to be part of an initiative where industry and community agencies are working together to provide a helping hand to those who want to develop skills and to provide opportunities for life-long careers. The Games in 2010 are a catalyst for community improvement.
What a great legacy to leave.
In Their Words Series
In Their Words is a celebration of the two-year countdown to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. This 17-part series is comprised of personal stories written by Olympians and leaders with a passion for the Games. Visit vancouver2010.com every day from February 12 to 28 for a fresh story of inspiration, triumph and hope.
In Their Words: Kristi Richards
In Their Words: François-Louis Tremblay
In Their Words: Cassie Campbell
In Their Words: Cristobal Huet
In Their Words: Dominique Maltais
In Their Words: Lascelles Brown
In Their Words: Johann Olav Koss
In Their Words: Tewanee Joseph
© 2009 The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games
Olympic and Paralympic Games photography © Getty Images, unless otherwise stated.
