That’s why they chose to focus on building professionally managed purpose-built rental projects, like the 191-unit Willoughby Walk project set to open its doors in November. There’s a drastic scarcity of long-term, reliable, quality-built rental units in the Lower Mainland, and Colin and Daniel want to help chip away at that problem.
They’ve instilled this community-minded ethic into every aspect of their business. Both Colin and Daniel are actively involved in a number of civic and charitable organizations, and their eyes and ears are always open to opportunities for ENM to contribute to causes they care about.
Karin Lacey, Colin’s wife, has taken on the task of coordinating this kind of community involvement. In addition to her role as a client manager with ENM, she seeks out opportunities for ENM to partner with organizations or businesses to serve the community. “Colin and I have three kids, two in high school and one in college, and a lot of opportunities have come through just meeting other parents in their schools. I’ll ask what kind of business they’re in and what kind of causes they’re passionate about. And if possible, we’ll try to find ways to support that.”
Colin and Karin have also contributed to the schools themselves. For the last six years, they’ve helped to fund four musical theater productions at Langley Fundamental. “Both of our kids were on stage crews, and we decided to help sponsor the productions.”
ENM has also sponsored several hockey teams in the Aldergrove Minor Hockey league. “Our kids were involved with that league as well, as players and as referees. By the time they reach that age, parents are sick of fundraising, and it’s great to be able to sponsor the team and provide their uniforms as a business.”
One of the most ambitious projects they’ve taken on was a partnership with the Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS)“Colin and I attended a gala fundraiser a few years ago for LAPS, along with Daniel. We’re all animal lovers, especially cat lovers, and we heard about their ambitions to build a new kind of isolated shelter for sick and injured cats. After the gala, we approached Jane Nelson at LAPS and we figured out a way to help them build the shelter at cost.”
Karin says this partnership is probably the one she’s most proud of. “We care a lot about helping reduce euthanizations and extending the chances for cats to find homes. We were able to use our skills and capacity as a construction and development company to directly benefit that cause. So many cats will get the care and attention they deserve. It was very satisfying.”
