Publisher’s comment
Doing Good Starts Close to Home
One of the things that continues to impress me about Emery Village is how much quiet, meaningful work happens here every day. We are a business district, but more importantly, we are a community — and communities are strengthened when people take time to help one another.
Businesses have a unique role to play in this. Sometimes it’s as simple as allowing employees the flexibility to volunteer, encouraging staff to support a local cause, or helping spread the word about initiatives that are already doing good work. These decisions don’t always make headlines, but they matter deeply to the people they help.
We saw a great example of this recently with MillerKnoll, which was featured in the November issue of the Emery Village Voice. The company took the initiative to allow staff the time to volunteer on an important community day, demonstrating how workplace support can translate directly into meaningful local impact. It’s a reminder that when businesses invest in their people, they also invest in the communities where they operate.
There are many organizations in and around Emery Village that rely on this kind of support. The Weston Area Emergency Support (WAES) Food Bank continues to serve individuals and families in our area, while the Alpha Centre and numerous local churches quietly provide meals, outreach, and support to those in need. These organizations depend on volunteers, partnerships, and awareness to keep their doors open.
Looking out for seniors is another area where small gestures can make a big difference. Many residents in long-term care homes value social connection just as much as practical support. A conversation, a card, or a visit can brighten someone’s entire day.
One initiative worth highlighting is the Garland Initiative, which is currently seeking volunteers for a Valentine’s Writing and Decorating Project. The event takes place on February 11 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at a long-term care facility near North Finch and Finch Avenue. Volunteers of all ages are welcome, and it’s a great opportunity for students who need volunteer hours. Those interested can reach out directly at garlandinitiative@gmail.com. Even sharing this opportunity within your own network can make a difference.
We also want to remind readers that our community coat drive, first highlighted in the December issue of the Emery Village Voice, continues through the end of March.
Whether it’s supporting a food bank, helping seniors, allowing staff to volunteer, or simply spreading the word, doing good truly starts close to home.
Publisher,
Sean Delaney