How you can contribute to a better world

It’s hard to believe that another summer has passed. I hope you had an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends and take advantage of the great weather we had.

As we shift into September, it’s always a busy time for us and this year is no different. We continue to be counted upon to assist with many important initiatives.

One thing that I enjoy about the month of September is the launch of the WSIB’s Annual United Way Campaign. It’s an opportunity to contribute to a cause that helps so many people in the communities we live in and serve.

Last year, our organization raised a record $281,000 which was a tremendous accomplishment. Once again, our team was a strong supporter of the campaign, which I truly appreciate.

Any amount that you can contribute is helpful and you can direct your funds to the charity of your choice if you wish. Even if you donate just $1 or $2 per pay, it will add up over time. To learn more, visit the United Way's website: http://www.unitedway.ca/

Our team also has some great events every year, including this year's Putting Challenge, which occurred on September 13 . I showcased my skills at the event which were the envy of even Brooke Henderson (well, maybe not).

On a more personal note, I take great pride in supporting organizations in our communities such as the United Way. They have the expertise and ability to identify and direct funds to individuals, organizations and programs that can make a real difference in the lives of so many people. And it doesn’t take much. Did you know:

·        $50 provides a meal to 10 people who are homeless

·        $100 provides a senior living with Alzheimer’s with a weekly visit for three months, or

·        $260 provides 10 people with 10 weeks of programming on how to support a family member or friend struggling with mental illness.

I encourage you to consider expanding horizons and think of creative ways you can give on a year-round basis – now or in the future. This includes providing what I call “creative capital” – the transfer of knowledge and expertise to organizations through a volunteer role.

I’ve found my role as an Advisory Council Member with The Prince of Wales’s Accounting for Sustainability Project over the past two years to be deeply rewarding. It’s provided me with an opportunity to join in the discussion on how we can create more sustainable economies throughout the world.

I find it comforting to know that people from all walks of life find giving just as rewarding as I do, including billionaires Bill and Melinda Gates. Asked in a recent Business Insider interview why they started their foundation, Melinda Gates said “we both come from families that believed in leaving the world better than you found it.”

That’s a great sentiment and one that I think we can all embrace in our own, unique way.