The Thermal Insulation Association of Alberta (TIAA) held its annual winter events in Jasper, Alberta, this past March, aiming to help boost the economy and tourism after the town suffered extensive social and economic losses from a wildfire in 2024.
Shifting its focus beyond professional networking to spotlight the community’s recovery efforts, TIAA’s board focus the event on providing industry connections and giving back to a community that urgently needs support.
“We could have held the event anywhere,” said James Low, TIAA board member. “But when we learned about Jasper’s desperate need to rebuild its tourism industry, the decision became clear. Supporting Jasper aligned perfectly with our mission to create opportunities and foster community.”
During the three-day event, 35 people gathered, representing a 33% increase over previous years. Guests comprised a good mix of Alberta contractors, distributors, and manufacturers, plus eight attendees from BC including Vancouver, Surrey, and Prince George.
“The event received great support from the BCICA,” Low says.
Guests enjoyed snowshoeing, a guided Canyon Ice Walk, skiing and snowboarding at Marmot Basin, and a beautiful afternoon at Pyramid Lake. At dinner on Saturday night, the deputy mayor of Jasper joined the group and spoke along with two representatives from the Jasper Community Team Society—the event’s charity of choice.
“The weekend was an overwhelming success,” Low says. “It was a well-rounded itinerary with added elements like a dinner on Friday night and Sunday afternoon gathering time.”
The event gave away door prizes on Saturday, and all the prizes were purchased in the town of Jasper. On Sunday at Pyramid Lake, the group had coffee, hot chocolate, cookies, and muffins all locally purchased at the Bear’s Paw Bakery.
“We estimate over $20,000 was spent in Jasper over the weekend, which directly helps contribute to their local economy,” Low said.
Additional on-site fundraising efforts resulted in an extra $1480 raised for the Jasper Community Team Society.
In July 2024, wildfires in Jasper National Park forced the evacuation of 25,000 residents, workers, and visitors. The blazes destroyed 358 of the town’s 1,113 structures and left scars on the landscape. Damages totalled $880 million, becoming one of Canada’s costliest natural disasters.
“We would like to invite anyone who couldn’t make the event but wishes to support Jasper to reach out in support of Community Team Society at jaspercommunityteamsociety.ca,” Low says.
Visit jasper.travel/wild-fire for more ways to support Jasper’s ongoing restoration and tourism revitalization efforts. ▪
