CEO update – October 2021
It is my pleasure to report to you with this update that we are seeing a resurgent interest in carsharing across BC. Membership growth is once again increasing after a relatively stable period through much of the COVID-19 period. Growth of our co-op is fundamental to achieving our Purpose: To transform communities by connecting people with places in a way that’s affordable, convenient, inclusive and sustainable.
At Modo, we are mindful of the fact that our co-op and our carsharing fleet operate on the traditional and unceded territories of many First Nations. We appreciate and respect the long-standing tradition of Indigenous peoples in caring for the land and have committed to reducing the harm caused to the land, air, and water by our vehicles as a core part of our Purpose.
Our focus on affordability, convenience, inclusion, and sustainability drives our daily work and longer-term thinking. It is the filter through which all decisions, tactical and strategic, are considered. For example, as we add vehicles to ensure vehicle availability meets your needs, we are taking every opportunity to reduce fleet emissions and thereby harm caused by vehicles. Wherever possible, new additions are EV (Electric Vehicle) or hybrid.
In observance of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and in the hopes of contributing to truth, healing, and reconciliation, we have donated $19,662, all hourly revenue earned on September 30th, to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.
Like so many across the country, I dedicated the 30th to listening and learning about the impacts of the residential school system and the devastating harm that has caused to Indigenous peoples. It is painful to hear but so important that we know and accept the truth. It is a precondition to reconciliation. One elder that I listened to, on the grounds of the University of British Columbia, reminded us of the need to also reconcile with the earth and wildlife. Personally, I took a step forward that day and know that I still have much to learn.
Our Purpose has been deeply rooted in our DNA from the very first day, nearly 25 years ago. It defines why we exist, and we have held true to that purpose over the years. It is important nevertheless to reconfirm it from time to time, to know if there is need of any tuning. To that end, we will be conducting a survey across the membership on this topic in the days ahead. Please do take a few minutes to respond. Your views are vitally important to us.
