In their pre-Okanagan lives, Alistair Taylor and David Chatterson were well aware that opportunities and resources are not evenly distributed in society. After moving to Kelowna and becoming friends, they began exploring ways to give back and contribute to the future well being of our community. They decided to focus on the far too many hard-working high school students that might not be able to stay in school and make it to graduation without some financial support. From this, the Okanagan Student Support Society was created.
The Society provides these students with recognition and financial assistance to help them graduate from high school. The organization was incorporated under the B.C. Societies Act in 2024 and received its charitable status from the Canada Revenue Agency in March, 2025. The two founders provided the initial funding of $30,000 and members of our Board have contributed to ongoing funding.
The OSSS program is similar to one in Ottawa started in 2010 that now provides over $400,000 annually in awards to over 250 students - https://helpourstudentsprogram.com. Our program was developed in partnership with local schools, principals and guidance counsellors and is built upon their enthusiastic support. 100% of the donations we receive go to the students as all administrative expenses are paid by the Society’s Directors.
Our Directors have varied backgrounds and experiences but are united in their desire to contribute to our community and to help students obtain their educational goals
David Chatterson
President - David worked for Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs in Ottawa, Tokyo, and Paris and as Ambassador in Saudi Arabia and South Korea. Since moving to Kelowna in 2014, he has been busy building a house, skiing, trying to golf, exploring BC on a motorcycle, and finding ways to give back to the community, including as an adjunct professor at UBCO. He co-founded the OSSS with Alistair as a way to make a positive difference to the youth in our community.
Alistair Taylor
Vice-President- Alistair practised law in Alberta, England and British Columbia and served as a Councillor for the Municipal District of Foothills while in Calgary before retiring and moving to Kelowna in 2016. He has been a long-time volunteer including coaching hockey and soccer, mentoring Calgary high school students, lecturing on fraud and related topics, and serving as a Director on the Boards of various environmental, police and seniors’ organizations. From his involvement in these organizations, Alistair learned of the challenges facing many young people and how small acts of assistance can change the course of a young person’s life. He is excited about OSSS and the opportunity to help high school students in the Okanagan.
Ruth Benedict
Director of Funding - Ruth is delighted to put her extensive background in finance and sales to work in support of the Okanagan Student Support Society. With more than 20 years as a member of the Canadian Real Estate Association and the Calgary Real Estate Board, Ruth has a strong foundation in client service, leadership, and strategic growth. After relocating to the Okanagan, she worked with CIBC to develop and manage a mobile sales force serving communities throughout the region. Ruth is passionate about supporting local high school students in achieving their dreams of completing their education and becoming confident, contributing members of their communities. She brings energy, dedication, and a deep belief in the power of education to create lasting change.
Brian Steeves
Treasurer - Brian joined Crowe MacKay’s Yellowknife office in 2007 and enjoyed the true north before moving to Kelowna in 2015. As a Tax Partner at Crowe MacKay LLP, Brian works closely with businesses of all sizes and is known for his practical mindset and thoughtful guidance, and for building strong relationships to help organizations thrive. Outside of work, Brian spends most of his time with his wife Meghan and their four children, whether camping in the summer months or taking them to their many activities.
Richard Lussier
Director at Large - Richard is a graduate of the Royal Military College and served in the Canadian Forces until 1975 when he joined the National Arts Centre and became the Managing Director (Operations). Since 2009, he has devoted himself to the Help Our Students Program which was created by him and a close friend to provide financial support to hard-working students living in difficult financial circumstances.