Libro Champions Prosperity in Southwestern Ontario

- Share the Future Celebrates Local Economy & Community -

LONDON, ON, Nov. 1, 2012 /CNW/ - Libro Financial Group, southwestern Ontario's full-service credit union, launched an initiative aimed to support economic success across southwestern Ontario and inspire local community building. Called Share the Future, Libro, in collaboration with local residents, will share regional success stories and contribute to the community in an effort to foster inspiration and encourage opportunities.

"Since 2008 we've heard a great deal about what our region is lacking, as well as the hardships many are facing, so we see a need to focus on what's great in our communities and celebrate success," said Stephen Bolton, President & CEO, Libro Financial Group. "By sharing prosperity, we inspire growth and foster a future where our youth can find opportunities right here."

Libro is sharing inspiring stories of local businesses and organizations throughout the year at Libro.ca/share, and inviting others to submit their stories as well.

Little Mushroom, a small but thriving catering business owned by Stephanie Tanner, is just one of the many success stories in the region. Stephanie's business went from a one-person operation to a fully staffed small business. Another is Country Paws, a local dog resort business. The business started out as a fairly novel idea, and has since expanded to include services such as grooming and massage, as well as a retail store that offers a selection of toys, home decor and treats for canines.

Share the Future also aims to help build stronger communities through Libro's Get $50 to Give program. Whenever a new account is opened, Libro donates $50 to a youth-related charity or cause of the customer-owner's choice. Get $50 to Give complements Libro's Community Builder program which invests 5 per cent of its profit each year towards community projects across southwestern Ontario that support youth leadership.  Many organizations have already started to benefit from the program, including YMCA of Western Ontario, Original Kids Theatre Company, KMHA Major Pee Wee, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of London and Area. The full list of recipients is available at Libro.ca/share.

"By giving, sharing and learning we are hoping to show what successes are possible in our own community. Coming together to celebrate each other's wins as a means of inspiring others will make us succeed locally so that southwestern Ontario can compete globally," said Bolton.

About Libro Financial Group
Libro Financial Group is southwestern Ontario's full-service credit union operated by a community of owners and open to everyone. With 58,000 owners and over $2 billion in assets under administration, Libro delivers a full range of chequing, savings, investment, RRSP, insurance and loan products along with financial coaching and advice for consumers, and farm and business owners. Libro has been operating for 60 years and has 15 branches in southwestern Ontario. Owners have access to a surcharge-free network of 3,000 ATMs across Canada. For more information, see www.libro.ca.

To view this media release online and download photos click here.

Image with caption: "Libro Champions Prosperity in Southwestern Ontario - Share the Future Celebrates Local Economy & Community (CNW Group/Libro Financial Group)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20121101_C3709_PHOTO_EN_19965.jpg

SOURCE: Libro Financial Group

or to set-up an interview, please contact:

Tina Romano
Communications Manager
Libro Financial Group
P: 519-672-0130 x4408
C: 519-200-5279
[email protected]