Supporting Community Initiatives in Ontario

Businesses depend on their communities: the customers who walk through the door, the employees who show up every day and the neighbourhoods that give a business its home. Karan Devgan believes business people have a responsibility to give back to those communities, and that doing so makes everyone stronger.

Why business people should be involved

Business owners have skills, networks and resources that community organizations often need: experience managing budgets, planning events, building teams and making connections. Volunteering those skills can have a big impact.

There are good business reasons, too. Communities with strong social support, vibrant culture and engaged residents are better places to live and to do business. Customers notice which businesses show up for their community.

Karan's community involvement

Karan's community work in Brampton includes:

• The Saath Foundation. Saath means "together" in Punjabi and Hindi. The foundation brings people together to support members of the community.
• Community food programs. Food insecurity affects many families in Brampton and across Ontario. Community food programs help make sure people have access to healthy meals.
• Preserve Arts and Culture Canada. Supporting the arts and helping keep cultural traditions alive for future generations.
• Flower City Bhangra and Flower City Gidha. Supporting Punjabi folk dance traditions and giving young people in Brampton a place to learn and perform.

Learn more about Karan's community work.

How volunteers and local businesses can help

Supporting community initiatives doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some ways to get involved:

• Volunteer your time. Food programs, events and cultural organizations always need helping hands.
• Share your skills. Offer accounting, marketing, legal, design or event-planning help.
• Donate or sponsor. Financial support, in-kind donations or event sponsorships help organizations do more.
• Spread the word. Use your business's platform and social channels to promote community events and causes.
• Encourage your team. Give staff time to volunteer, or organize team volunteer days.

Building community together

No single person or business can meet every need. But when many people each do something, the result can transform a community. That spirit of working together is at the heart of the community work Karan supports.

Interested in partnering on a community initiative? Get in touch with Karan.