College students’ social enterprise to benefit local homeless men

KELOWNA – Business students at Okanagan College are turning a homeless shelter's surplus of donated soap into an opportunity to raise money — all while learning a little something about social enterprise.

Chandler House, Inn From the Cold's newest residence recently received a large donation of soap and connected with the college's Enactus team to generate income for the not-for-profit organization. In the process, students have an opportunity to put their business skills to the test by developing a plan for a legitimate social enterprise.

The team is launching their InnSpire campaign this weekend, having developed a business plan including packaging, marketing, advertising and sales. The soap will be available for purchase starting Saturday.

The soaps are made from all-natural ingredients and include tea tree, honey oatmeal, lemon grass and more. Partners Save on Foods, KLO Middle School and Okanagan College will help bring this product to the community.

The bundles consist of singles squares at $5 each or three-packs of ovals for $10 apiece.

Soaps can be purchased at the following locations:
K. L. O. Christmas Craft Fair at K. L. O. Middle School – Saturday, Nov. 29
A Touch of Christmas Fair at New Life Church – Saturday, Nov. 29
Christmas Shop and Swap at the Laurel Building – Sunday, Dec. 7
Save On Foods at Orchard Plaza – every Sunday between Nov. 30 and Dec. 14
Okanagan College Centre for Learning atrium – Dec. 2 and 4