When local businessman and long time Holland College supporter Jeff Cooke, President of Cooke Insurance Group, was asked to make a leadership gift to the Holland College Foundation’s Thrive campaign, he was so inspired by the initiative that he stepped up both corporately and personally.  The campaign is a $2.5 million fundraising effort to establish a centre for student wellness, resilience, and success at Holland College.

“When I heard about this project, something clicked for me,” said Cooke. “One of the aspects of establishing this centre that hits home for me, is that it will help fill some gaps in terms of the limited access to healthcare that our province is currently facing, and that is going to greatly support students.”

In addition to his $50,000 personal gift, Cooke Insurance Group has committed $100,000 and The Insurance Company of Prince Edward Island has committed $50,000 to the project.

Jeff Cooke commented on the importance of investing in today’s students, noting their impact on tomorrow’s success.

“Holland College is an amazing place,” said Cooke. “The depth of impact that the institution has in businesses and industries throughout the province is unmatched anywhere else in the country. As a community we need to do everything we can to ensure that our students are encouraged, inspired, and supported.”

Eddie Childs, President of the Holland College Student Union, noted the anticipated outcomes of the project. "The addition of this center will have a positive impact on thousands of students, and will play a major role in the academic success and well being of our student population for years to come."

“Jeff’s personal support, along with the generosity of the Cooke family group of businesses, will significantly enrich our student experience,” said Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald, Holland College President. “In addition to academic and mental health supports, increasing access to primary health care and healthy living resources is a vital component in helping students achieve success, both professionally and personally.”

A broad, integrated suite of services will be offered through the centre. These include mental health supports, a health clinic, academic support services, and career and academic counselling. Lifelong determinants of health such as sleep, diet, exercise, and social interaction will also be emphasized. Satellite offerings will ensure all students have access to resources, regardless of their location.

To learn more about the Thrive campaign, and about how you can contribute, visit hollandcollege.com/foundation.