For any oil and gas company, finding the right balance between the bottom line and being the neighbour of choice by working with local communities is a priority.

At Canadian Natural Resources Limited, community is part of the foundation that maintains the success of the business, and its significance is outlined in the company's mission statement: To develop people to work together to create value for the company's shareholders by doing it right with fun and integrity.

As one of the largest independent crude oil and natural gas producers in the world, Canadian Natural keeps their community involvement top-of-mind. Working together with stakeholders and communities where we operate is crucial to ensuring Canadian Natural and our industry delivers energy needed by the world in a safe, effective, efficient, and environmentally responsible way, says Alishia Klein, communications coordinator.

We have a strong commitment to invest in the communities where we live and work, she says. Canadian Natural is proud to support initiatives that help improve the quality of life and economic health of the communities where we operate. This is accomplished through education and training, employment and business development programs, and civic and community investment.

All eyes on community

Working closely with the community, Canadian Natural takes on a number of initiatives by supporting projects and organizations both financially and through volunteer work. Our corporate giving program includes community donations and sponsorships, field matching, and scholarship programs with a focus on health and wellness, education and training, cultural events, and traditional practices, says Klein.

One way Canadian Natural gives back to the community is through its long-standing support of the United Way. With the generosity of the company's employees, in addition to the corporate matching program, Canadian Natural has raised over $6 million in the past five years.

Adding to its efforts, Canadian Natural is also dedicated to investments for hospitals, schools, multiplex and recreational facilities, family support projects, and community outreach programs. In local communities, Klein explains, we also support community events including trade shows, career fairs, science and student fairs, winter festivals, and Aboriginal cultural celebrations.

Bringing community back to Canadian Natural

While having the goal to employ individuals in the areas where Canadian Natural operates, there is also a strong belief and commitment to the development of each employee once they have entered the company's doors. This internal sense of community and the external support offered through the many company-wide initiatives are viewed as part of the new standard for job seekers.

By working together, Canadian Natural and stakeholders create value through opportunities that generate mutual benefit.

Photo: Canadian Natural