Former Valley First Credit Union building on Shuswap Ave. in Lumby. (Submitted photo/Monashee Community Investors Group)

By Pete McIntyre

New use for building

Building creates economic opportunity for community

Mar 8, 2021 | 1:38 PM

A new use is being pitched for a commercial building in Lumby in a proposal that residents are being invited to invest in.

The Monashee Community Investors Group (MCIG), which is made up of local people excited by the commercial opportunity of the former Valley First Credit Union building, believes it would be the perfect new home for the Monashee Community Co-Op.

“For the last seven years, the Monashee Community Co-Op has been an important part of our community. Its original aim was to support and encourage local sustainable agriculture while providing healthy produce and groceries. Its clientele grew; they wanted more groceries and year round produce. The Co-Op responded, has now expanded to bursting, and needs to move to a larger locale,” Dr. Judith Gavin/Olson, on behalf of the MCIG, stated.

The Co-Op, which is a non-profit community service, has been looking for a larger site, at the right price, which hasn’t been easy, but that changed when the former credit union building at 2109 Shuswap Avenue went up for sale.

“It’s in a high traffic area in the centre of the retail hub of Lumby. Unfortunately, the Co-op does not have the liquidity required to buy the building,” Gavin/Olson said.

Possible firearm involved

One person apprehended in connection with suspicious activity in Coldstream

Dec 13, 2025

Fatal Collision, Highway Closed

One person dead in crash near Revelstoke

Dec 13, 2025

Salaries

Vernon Council to discuss lesser pay increases

Dec 12, 2025

This is where the Investors Group comes in, proposing to incorporate and provide a competitive return on investment (4 to 5 per cent), while helping the community grow.

The building is zoned C1, general commercial, and has 7,200 sq. ft. on two floors.

Gavin/Olson said with a committed tenant for the main floor, residential accommodation in short supply, and office space in demand, it’s a great opportunity for people to invest locally and watch their asset appreciate in value.

“All potential investors, or interested individuals, are invited to contact the group for more information or to join the conversation,” Gavin/Olson stated.

To find out more about the Investors Group, go to monasheecic.ca/ or email monasheecic.group@gmail.com.

For more information on the Co-op, visit Monashee Community Co-op