Being a community partner means different things for different organizations – and for Portage Mutual Insurance, it means that when they see challenges in the community, they want to be a part of the solution.

Portage Mutual Insurance is generously supporting Indigenous nursing students at RRC Polytech’s Portage la Prairie campus through a new endowment fund. The Portage Mutual Insurance Award for Indigenous Nursing Students was recently established with a $31,000 gift to RRC Polytech and will award one student with $1,000 every year.

“We care deeply about our community and want to give back in a way that encourages education and supports the needs of Portage la Prairie,” says John Mitchell, President and CEO of Portage Mutual Insurance. “This award supports our long-term commitment to provide access to post-secondary education for Indigenous learners, while supporting the community need for nursing students.”

A supporter of RRC Polytech since 2021, Portage Mutual Insurance strives to make a difference in the community of Portage la Prairie. The award is available to Indigenous students who reside in the city and surrounding community and are enrolled in the Nursing program at RRC Polytech. To qualify, students need to have a good academic standing and demonstrate financial need. Preference will be given to students who attend RRC Polytech’s Portage Campus.

“This partnership truly showcases the difference Portage Mutual Insurance wants to make in the community and how RRC Polytech can play a role in that goal,” says Isabel Bright, Dean, School of Indigenous Education. “Our Nursing program at the Portage Campus is growing and we are thrilled to be able to offer an opportunity for Indigenous students to excel in the program by removing some financial burden.”

RRC Polytech’s 32-month Nursing degree program at the Portage Campus begins a new cohort every three years, with seats open to residents of Manitoba’s Southern Health Region. Graduates are qualified to apply to become Registered Nurses (RN) and are eligible to work in all areas where the expertise of a professional RN is required.

“We really appreciate the relationship with RRC Polytech and what the College offers across the province,” said John Mitchell “We are thrilled to be a part of the future of nursing in Manitoba.”

Learn more about Awards, Scholarships and Bursaries, including how to apply.