Silver and Gold Magazine Winter 2014-2015 | Page 18

‘Tis the Season for Giving. c 2) Acts of Kindness Network Caring, One Care Package at a Time Established in 2002, Acts Of Kindness Network (AOKN) is a grassroots non-profit organization which accepts donations of hard goods to distribute to clients in care of a local agency. In addition, AOKN also partners with schools in Halton Region who accumulate donations, items to assist families in need, or items for their “Care Packages”, in order to help deliver the spirit of the season. Some of these donations are for specific needs and wishes for an individual, while others support whole families. Over the course of the year some donors choose to knit sweaters and scarves, others offer wool, some collect travel-sized toiletries and then connect to coordinate a delivery or pick-up. Every bit helps! And every bit is an act of kindness. This season, the AOKN has received over 3,000 requests for gift packages to individuals and families with mental and health challenges, as well as poverty issues in Halton. Support is greatly appreciated and although it may seem small, many of these items are what will brighten the Holiday Season for our community members who need it most. Kindness Care Packages – most requested and needed items: • Soap bar/liquid, face cloths, shower scrub, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, paste, floss, brush, combs, deodorant sticks • Hats, mitts, gloves, lip balm, scarves, coats • Nail polish/remover, perfume/cologne, cosmetics bags, change purse • Hot chocolate, tea, coffee, thermos or mugs • Memo pads, pens, playing cards, calendars, puzzles, magnets • Gift cards, movie passes, chocolates/candy, etc. AOKN: 905-319-0035 or email Deborah [email protected] 3) Habitat for Humanity Halton: Building futures one home at a time CSR: It’s more than just a giant cheque We always hear about “Corporate Social Responsibility” (CSR) being a way for businesses to be charitable and support causes in their communities, but at Habitat for Humanity Halton, they believe that it is more than a business strategy to be discussed around board room tables. CSR is a way of doing business that aims to combine benefits to a company with benefits to the entire community, seamlessly. Habitat for Humanity Halton’s Adopt-A-Day program gives companies the opportunity to get involved directly on their home build sites: have a full day reserved for their employees to help build a home, learn construction skills from our experienced crew leaders, and gain team-building experience in ways beyond compare. They are currently looking for teams of volunteers to help complete 16 affordable homes, and a total of 75 homes by 2019. It is an unforgettable way to live out Corporate Social Responsibility and bring employees closer to their community. To learn more about Habitat Halton’s Adopt-ADay program visit habitathalton.ca, email Sandy at [email protected] or call 289-400-9459 18 For more articles, recipes & resources click here: www.silvergoldmagazine.ca