Local residents can make someone’s day – and help local businesses – on July 29 by performing a “random act of Coquitlam.”
COQUITLAM, BC, July 24, 2020 – Local residents can make someone’s day – and help local businesses – on July 29 by performing a “random act of Coquitlam.”
Tourism Coquitlam is encouraging people to buy a gift card or other item from a Coquitlam business next Wednesday, give it away and then share their act on social media, tagging both the business and #CoquitlamSPIRIT to inspire others to do the same.
The Random Act of Coquitlam initiative is part of the City’s efforts to support local businesses at this challenging time, as well as its CoquitlamSPIRIT program, which is helping residents stay active, healthy and tapped into their community during the pandemic.
Choosing Your Random Act and Recipient
Performing a Random Act of Coquitlam is easy:
- Think about a neighbour, friend, loved one or anyone else who could use a pick-me-up;
- Buy them a gift card, small item or treat (or supplies to create a homemade gift) from a Coquitlam business or restaurant;
- Drop if off on Wednesday, July 29 – anonymously if desired; and
- Share the experience on social media, tagging both the business and #CoquitlamSPIRIT to spread some cheer and help promote the business.
Residents can search www.wegotthistricities.com or www.visitcoquitlam.ca/shopping for local businesses that are open. Ideas include:
- A sweet treat;
- A handmade craft with supplies from a local store;
- A fun or quirky novelty item;
- A favourite wine, beer or spirit;
- A gift card for a local restaurant or café; or
- Supplies for a backyard barbecue.
Helping Local Businesses
Many Coquitlam businesses, especially restaurants, have been hit hard by the pandemic. The City has been working to promote local economic recovery with activities such as:
- Tourism Coquitlam initiatives such as the 75 Days of Summer campaign and local restaurant listings at www.visitcoquitlam.ca;
- Offering more online services and cutting red tape, such as relaxed outdoor space regulations;
- Promoting the Tri-Cities #SupportLocal initiative and building business support into civic events;
- Conducting business and consumer surveys to identify needs, attitudes and trends;
- Provided targeted business support through a pandemic economic development action plan and Community Support and Recovery Plan; and
- Sharing opportunities and resources through in-person outreach and a Business Support Portal at www.letstalkcoquitlam.ca/business.
Enjoy 75 Days of Staycation Fun
Be a tourist in your own town this summer with Tourism Coquitlam’s 75 Days of Summer campaign. Follow @visitcoquitlam on Facebook and Instagram from June 24 to Sept. 7 for prize giveaways and insider tips about things to do and great places to visit, eat or drink in Coquitlam. Watch for your daily dose of #SummerintheCQ inspiration and feel free to comment and share your own suggestions, tagging #ExploreCoquitlam and #SummerintheCQ. Get full details at www.visitcoquitlam.ca/75daysofsummer.
CoquitlamSPIRIT: Bringing the Community Together
CoquitlamSPIRIT, part of the City’s pandemic response, provides a free online library at www.coquitlam.ca/spirit to help residents of all ages have fun, learn something, work up a sweat, support local businesses, engage with others and connect to resources. New content and activities are continually added.
CoquitlamSPIRIT centres around the themes of caring, connections and community to support residents and businesses through these difficult times. The underlying goals are to support community well-being, create new bonds and build lasting civic spirit and pride.
Supporting Our Community During the Pandemic
The City of Coquitlam is here to help, with these resources:
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/csrp to learn about the City’s Community Support and Recovery Plan, which is providing immediate and long-term support for the non-profit sector, businesses and residents;
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/spirit for a free library of activities for all ages, including fitness, arts and culture, outdoor activities and ways to connect with your community; and
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/covid19 for updates on City services and initiatives and COVID-19 health resources.
Coquitlam residents and businesses are also encouraged to follow the City of Coquitlam on social media (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) and download the CoquitlamConnect mobile app for up-to-date City information. Links are available at www.coquitlam.ca/connect.