R Emily introduced Yuri.
Yuri A. Castillo
Education Bachelor of Science, Cornell University
Graduate Studies, Accounting and Finance, Dalhousie University
Professional Background
Spent most of my career in investment banking with BMO Capital Markets in Toronto. In 2011, moved to Ecuador with my family. From 2012 to 2019, I worked for a small Canadian engineering consulting firm part of a consortium working on a waste water treatment plant in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
Presently work as a Financial Securities Advisor for a large multinational insurance company.
I am also one of the founders and shareholders of Infinite Harvest Technologies Inc. (www.infiniteharvesttech.com). Infinite Harvest Technologies transforms organic waste into animal feed/protein, using Black Soldier Fly Larvae. We are launching our first commercial size production facilities in the regions of Quindio, in Colombia, and Maule in Chile.
Goals and Aspirations
Professional - To make Infinite Harvest Technologies into a major supplier of animal protein/feed, globally.
Personal - Best dad in the world to my two kids
Impressive and Relevant Achievements
Under 16 Canadian National Soccer Team which played in the Under 16 World Cup in Mexico (1985). Made it to the cut of 32.
In 1987 was awarded a Fellowship by Cornell University to complete my undergraduate studies there.
Quirky Facts
Although I have never fished, I can skin, de-gut and fillet fished.
The Salvation Army
This will be my 3rd year as Christmas Kettle Coordinator with The Salvation Army, Cobourg Church. I have absolutely loved my experience and have been touched by the stories I have heard from different people whose lives have been affected by The Salvation Army.
Yuri presented with a power point presentation which is attached.
Yuri was introduced to the Salvation Army while he and the family were living in Ecuador when an earthquake occurred and the Salvation Army were the first on the ground with support for the people.
Yuri got involved with the Salvation Army and has been impressed by the stories people tell of the support and work of the Salvation Army in their lives. These people remembered the support and work in their lives and as a result continue to support the Salvation Army today.
The Salvation Army work for the Soul.
The Salvation Army Church in Cobourg has offices in Cobourg and Port Hope. Due to the closure of the Trenton offices of the Salvation Army, the Cobourg Church is looking to expand to service Brighton and Campbellford.
94 cents of each dollar raised in a community stays in the community. They are looking to organize kettle campaigns in Brighton and Campbellford this Christmas season. The Salvation Army is set up like a corporation with a CEO and Clerics at the local level. the CEO only makes about $400,000 and they have minimal staff.
The Salvation Army has a relationship with Rotary in Port Hope and Cobourg and R Joyce has volunteered to be a liason with the Salvation Army and Brighton Rotary.
Services they offer include:
Food cupboard (food bank)
Health Bank - Low income households who need emergency prescriptions, dental and optical needs which are not covered by government programs can receive assistance through the Health Bank Program.
Rent, Utilities and household Repairs assistance
Christmas Assistance in conjunction with the Giving Tree providing gift cards and food to low income families
Homeless Supports -
For at risk and homeless
•Pay utility bills
•Assist with rent arrears
•Transportation
•Household supplies – diapers, cleaning products
•Food – food vouchers
•Clothing
•Blankets/sleeping bags
•Backpacks with personal hygiene products
Community Mobile Outreach Program - working with community organization to provide meals to families
Coats for Kids
Baby Formula Program
Back Pack Program
Celebrate Recovery - We provide a safe place for people to be real about things they struggle with in order to experience the life changing power of Jesus Christ.
Coffee with Friends program
Community Meals / Lunch program
Disaster Relief
Emergency Housing
Seniors Wellness Check in Program
Summer Camp Program for kids
Yuri said they don't compete with local programs but look to support and build on local programs.
R Emily thanked Yuri for joining us.