Connecting Community and Care as the Title Sponsor of this Year’s Smart & Caring Golf Classic: CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford 

CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford has long been part of the fabric of the community. With deep roots in Abbotsford, the team views the Smart & Caring Golf Classic as more than just an event; it’s a way to bring people together while supporting the important work this event helps fund. 

Their support of the tournament runs deep—CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford has been sponsoring the Golf Classic for nearly as long as the event itself has existed. This year marks a special milestone as the firm steps into the role of Title Sponsor for the first time, building on years of steady commitment and partnership with ACF. 

“Our office has been part of Abbotsford for decades,” says Michael Ramos, Financial Advisor, “and we saw this as a wonderful way to bring people together while supporting the important work ACF does. ACF is building a stronger, more caring community, which aligns perfectly with our values. We feel a responsibility to give back to the community where we live, work, and raise our families.” 

Commitment to Community Engagement 

Community engagement is at the heart of CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford’s work. Each team member contributes in meaningful ways, through volunteering, donations, and active participation in local initiatives. 

“Many of us live in Abbotsford and are raising our families here, so we want to see our community thrive,” Michael explains. Their office has a long-standing connection with ACF, with multiple team members actively or previously involved. Mark Driediger, Senior Wealth Advisor with Driediger Wealth Planning, part of CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford, sits on ACF’s Board of Directors and serves as Chair of the Planned Giving Committee. Steve Willems, Wealth Advisor with Willems Wealth Planning Group, part of CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford, provided six years of support to ACF as a Director and five years as the inaugural Chair of the Marketing Committee. Their leadership highlights the firm and their advisor’s deep commitment to community and philanthropy. 

Supporting Programs That Make a Difference 

Sponsorship of the golf classic also reflects CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford’s commitment to programs that make a tangible difference. 

“For more than 20 years, we’ve proudly served as the title sponsor of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Fraser Valley golf tournament,” Michael shares. “The Smart & Caring Golf Classic often benefits their important work, and we’re excited to now support an event whose impact reaches across so many additional areas of our community.” 

Active Participation on the Course 

The team’s involvement on the day of the golf classic goes beyond financial support. CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford will be represented on the course with two foursomes as well as a booth at hole one. “It’s a chance to connect with thought leaders in the community and see how we can directly or indirectly support them—whether through financial management or contributing to ACF via sponsorship,” Michael notes. “We’ll be located on hole one, connecting with golfers and sharing the excitement of the day.” 

Meaningful Community Service 

CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford’s history of meaningful community service is matched by the personal contributions of team members. Steve Willems was directly involved with initiatives such as the Abbotsford Disaster Relief Fund, which demonstrated the city’s dedication to helping neighbors in need, raising over $4.4 million in a time of great need. 

“The funds raised spoke volumes about our community’s commitment to supporting each other,” Michael says. “Seeing the impact of community members like Steve firsthand here in Abbotsford has been incredibly inspiring.” 

More Than Just a Golf Event 

For CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford, the golf classic represents much more than a day of golf. “It’s about relationships, collaboration, and supporting causes that impact all of Abbotsford,” Michael says. “This event allows us to shine a light on ACF and encourage others to get involved.” With board members like Mark Driediger and Steve Willems actively or previously contributing, the team sees this partnership with ACF as ongoing and looks forward to future opportunities to contribute to the city’s growth and wellbeing. 

Michael shares a simple yet powerful reflection: “It’s wonderful to see everyone come together for a common cause. Events like this remind us of the power of community.” 

Through CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford’s long-standing support, the Smart & Caring Golf Classic continues to raise funds, foster connections, and celebrate the generosity that makes Abbotsford a vibrant, thriving community. 

To learn more about CI Assante Wealth Management Abbotsford, click here.