NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
One Source Advantage™ Don’t settle for less! You, your business and your employees are the heart and soul of our communities. You want the best and we want the best for you. $V D &KDPEHU 0HPEHU %HQH¿W SDUWQHU Cowan’s One Source Advantage program can help you succeed!
What’s in it for you? *URXS %HQH¿WV
Group Home and Auto Insurance Group RRSP
Don’t ask why. Ask why not! Save money by being part of a group program.
Less administration means you can focus more time on your business.
Receive reliable and professional advice so you can make informed decisions for your business.
Employee Assistance Program
Individual Financial Planning & Insurance Business Insurance
Contact the One Source Advantage team today to discuss your business and personal insurance needs. 1-888-333-6337 | chamber@cowangroup.ca | www.cowangroup.ca/chamber
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
features COVER STORY
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:
John Neufeld
EDITOR:
16 Businesses Are a Critical Part of the Solution FEATURE
23 Entrepreneurial Spirit Engages the Non-profit Community Rose Greensides
FEATURE
25 Giving Back: Corporate Philanthropy and the Power of Investing in Our Community
Darren Gilroy
Art Sinclair
Heather Hutchings
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
M&T Printing Group
PHOTOGRAPHY: Adamski Photography
ADVERTISING AND SALES:
David MacLellan – dmaclellan@greaterkwchamber.com Don Critelli – dcritelli@greaterkwchamber.com Karen Cross – kcross@greaterkwchamber.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
FEATURE
Stephanie Catcher, Darren Gilroy, Rose Greensides, Ian McLean, John Neufeld, Jenna Petker, Renata Rusiniak, Art Sinclair
27 The Challenge of Giving Stephanie Catcher
CONTRIBUTORS:
Aislynn Cooper and Teri Egerdeen
ADVERTISING AND COPY DEADLINES:
November 17, 2017 for January-February 2018 January 19, 2018 for March-April 2018 March 16, 2018 for May-June 2018 July 20, 2018 for September-October 2018 September 21, 2018 for November-December 2018
SUBSCRIPTION AND BACK ISSUE INQUIRIES:
Darlene Jones djones@greaterkwchamber.com
SUBMISSION POLICY:
departments MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
4 Small Actions, Big Impacts Renata Rusiniak
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
5 Waterloo Region Charities Lead in Innovation Ian McLean
ADVOCACY
7 Business Building
Communities Locally and Nationally Art Sinclair
PERSPECTIVE ON HEALTH CARE
8 Still a Pressing Need
for Family Physicians Jenna Petker
NEW MEMBERS
10 August 1, 2017 to
September 30, 2017 NETWORKING
12 Fall Networking
Proposals and articles are accepted via mail or email c/o Editor - Advocate. Please do not send originals. All contributors articles must be accompanied by a head shot in a jpg file and a 40 word author’s bio.
PUBLICATIONS PERMIT:
#40026716
FOR PERMISSIONS AND REPRINT REQUESTS
Heather Hutchings - hhutchings@greaterkwchamber.com
PRINTED IN CANADA BY:
PUBLICATION OF:
HI-LIGHTING MEMBERS
15 Member to Member Special Offers
EVENTS
20 Mark Your Calendar MEMBER NOTABLES
28 Chamber Members Achieving Success
POSTMASTER ADDRESS CHANGES
C/O
ADVOCATE - PUBLICATIONS OFFICE 80 QUEEN STREETE NORTH, PO BOX 2367 KITCHENER, ONTARIO N2H 6L4 519.576.5000
The Advocate is a bi-monthly membership benefit publication of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce. Advertising content and the views expressed herein are those of the contributors and do not constitute endorsement by the Chamber. The Advocate follows the Canadian Code of Advertising Standards (1990), copies are available through the Publisher. The Chamber cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur and has the right to edit material submitted. The Chamber will not accept advertising with competitor comparison claims and has the right to refuse advertising that is deemed to be false, misleading, or inappropriate.
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
3
message from the chair
Small Actions, Big Impacts
BY RENATA RUSINIAK
Some years ago, upon graduating from University of Waterloo, I didn’t know that careers in corporate giving existed. I was unsure of what my future career path looked like but I was lucky enough to join a company that believed, from the very beginning, in giving back to community. Hence began my journey in corporate giving. Kitchener-Waterloo is well-known for being a community of barn-raisers who ban together for the good of everyone. As a Chamber member, you likely experience this through the services the Chamber provides as a true advocate for business, providing networking and educational opportunities that support the success of your business. Whether your business is just getting off the ground or more established, there are so many ways to give back to the community that supports you. And the best part? Your business will benefit too! When it comes to corporate giving, there should be beneficial returns to your business. This is what differentiates corporate giving from personal giving. While some of the intrinsic motivators are the same, the outcomes can and should be quite different. We may like to believe that doing good is the only outcome that matters but really, when it comes to business, does it make sense to engage in activities that don’t somehow support positive business return? For the sake of this article’s length, let’s look at two (of the many) impacts of shared value to businesses and the community at large.
Building your employer brand
Recruitment and retention of high performing employees is a competitive landscape for businesses of all sizes. Companies compete to offer the best compensation, vacation, and innovative perks to differentiate themselves. Current and next generation employees are also looking to work for companies that care about community, set environmental reduction targets, conduct ethical business practice across their entire supply chain, hire diversely and inclusively, and the list goes on! Team-based volunteering, time off for volunteering, and sabbatical projects are certainly popular options that allow employees to give back to community while building a sense of pride in their employer and often long-term loyalty. Not to mention that employees who are connected to their community, are 3 times more likely to stay here. The gift of
4
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
time and skilled resources plays a very important role for nonprofits across the region. It can address skill gaps and resourcing issues that affect charities and non-profits from reaching their goals. For the business owner, there is certainly a cost to employee volunteering but I believe if it’s done within the right context for your business, the benefits outweigh this cost.
Building your reputation
Stop for a minute and think about your business or your employer’s products and services. How can what you do benefit others? Quite likely, there is a very clear extension of your business to deliver positive impact to society. Once you can identify this, you can explore what kind of alignment can be forged within your local community. Partnering with non-profit organizations can bring very positive brand recognition to both your business and the non-profit. The donation of products or services (donations in-kind) can bring your brand to new groups of consumers and open the door to new markets that perhaps you never anticipated. It’s human nature to gravitate towards good news stories and even to build affinity to a brand you haven’t tried before. It’s never too early to think about your business values and how you can best give back to community through volunteerism, inkind donations, or monetary contribution. Don’t worry about how much or what scale because every impact matters in building a supportive, collaborative community. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to take that first step and explore how your business can give back.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Renata Rusiniak
CHAIR, BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Renata Rusiniak manages corporate giving at Manulife and believes businesses are set-up for success in Waterloo Region. Renata is an advocate for community giving and lives this value in both her career and personal volunteer commitments.
message from the president
Waterloo Region Charities Lead in Innovation
BY IAN MCLEAN
The recently published 2017-2018 edition of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce Membership & Business Directory – one of the most impressive local business directories in Canada – includes 57 organizations under the category of Charitable and Community Organizations.
Many of these organizations are highly visible and recognizable to local businesses. They deliver services to the economically disadvantaged, support local and national health care, assist with youth services and education, and provide settlement services to recent immigrants.
One of the many factors that separate Waterloo Region from other communities across Canada is the unique cooperation between local charities and local business. Staff and volunteers from the 57 aforementioned organizations serve on the GKWCC board of directors, committees, and assist with event planning along with other regular functions. Our Chamber is an organization of employers of all sizes and in all sectors, public, private and non-profit across the Region and collectively our capacity to make a difference is immense. The relationship between Waterloo Region business and local post-secondary institutions has been well documented nationally and internationally. Through cooperation and collaboration, the local economy is well positioned for the emerging global economy both in terms of products and skilled employees.
The same principles that have driven and guided Waterloo Region businesses towards forming Canada’s most prosperous regional economy have been translated to the non-profit sector through Capacity Canada. The local organization, lead by Cathy Brothers, was founded on the belief that social innovation should benefit from the same type of resources that have helped cultivate our for-profit sector‘s culture of innovation. By building an enabling environment that strengthens, connects and celebrates our social leaders, we can help them realize their full potential.
The Chamber’s on-going efforts in family physician recruitment and local health care advocacy are greatly enhanced by the outstanding staff and boards of directors at the Grand River and St. Mary’s Hospital Foundations. Fiscal restraints at Queen’s Park over the past decade have required increasing financial support from the community to maintain excellent patient care and the two local foundations have been strongly committed to
ensuring our hospitals can deliver services for our expanding population and economic base.
Our Region is well known across Canada for the tremendous community services we provide to immigrants arriving from around the world. When the federal government required communities to assist with Syrian refugees, Waterloo Region through our commitment to collaboration and cooperation has been and will continue to be there for support. Our Chamber membership, including charities, not for profits, professional advisors and businesses, have all expressed significant concern with the proposals by Finance Minister Bill Morneau to change the taxation of private corporations. Quite simply the proposed measures will decrease the money that small businesses will have available to support activities and programs which they consider a huge benefit for their community. Locally, one of Waterloo Region and Canada’s most prominent community support services, the United Way, completed a major restructuring to better serve individuals in need. The new United Way Waterloo Region Communities, an amalgamation of former Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge entities, has established aggressive fundraising targets for current and future campaigns. The federal proposals to increase taxes for small businesses could hurt efforts to meet these targets which are critically important after the former United Way organizations could not meet their objectives.
The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber and our membership believe in business supporting the community however support is also required from all levels of government. Increasing taxes on business is not the solution for local business addressing local problems.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ian McLean
Ian is President and CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
5
feature
Helping Us Make Our Vision Possible A special Thank You to each of these Chamber Sponsors.
CHAMBER CHAIR’S CIRCLE
CHAMBER PATRON
12@12 Chamber
Academy TITLE SPONSOR
CHAMBER TRUSTEE
6
MEDIA PARTNERS WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
advocacy
Business Building Communities Locally and Nationally
BY ART SINCLAIR
The current logo of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC), which has been utilized since 2011, notes the focus of the organization is “business building community.” This adage reflects the growing influence of our Chamber, and the national business sector, on the formulation of public policy.
A former GKWCC board member often noted that the impressive post-secondary education system across Waterloo Region and Ontario is the beneficiary of the taxes paid by the large provincial post-war manufacturing base. This individual always believed that if business paid for public services then business should be active in the public debate around how their taxes should be allocated.
Many years ago a senior executive from the provincial mining sector told me at a Queen’s Park reception that northern Ontario built Bay Street – not the other way around. The province’s resources – mining, forestry and agriculture – provided the economic and financial base that made Ontario the envy of Canada not only in terms of private sector wealth at Bay and King Streets but also the financial resources for publicly administered social services. Universal health care is the most prominent example.
Traditionally, the Canadian business sector has been an advocate for tax reform (but not the changes proposed by the federal government on private corporations), trade liberalization and infrastructure development. However, the list of resolutions debated at the 2017 Canadian Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting held last September in Frederiction included reforming the Canada Health Act, rural and northern policing/law enforcement, and workplace mental health.
Our Chamber, with assistance from staff at the City of Kitchener and Region of Waterloo, submitted a resolution in 2013 proposing a series of measures to address the national homeless and affordable housing crisis. As the moderator for the debates mentioned, how can you vote against ending homelessness? Clearly the business agenda is shifting to a wider portfolio of concerns. The agenda of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is also reflective of this advocacy transition. At the 2017 OCC Annual General Meeting this past May in Sarnia, our Chamber passed a resolution asking the provincial government to place a moratorium on rural school closures until an assessment of the current accommodation review guidelines is complete. In late June Minister of Education Mitzie Hunter announced the government would act on our recommendation and implement the proposed moratorium.
Traditionally, the business sector has been an advocate for skills training at the post-secondary level to match employer requirements. In rural areas of Ontario, businesses and municipalities have realized that attracting investment and maintaining their tax bases is dependent on the presence of elementary and secondary schools where students of employees can enroll.
Along with business taxes supporting public services, Canadian corporations have always maintained a commitment to advancing international, national and local services through philanthropy. Imagine Canada, an advocacy and support organization for charities, has estimated through their research that over 80 percent of all businesses agree that it is very or somewhat important to contribute to the community because it is the right thing to do, irrespective of the financial returns to the company.
As many GKWCC members are aware, the federal government has proposed major changes to the taxation of private corporations. We have heard clearly from our constituencies in the local charitable sector that if implemented these reforms could reduce the available financial resources across Waterloo Region to support the services provided by not for profit and related delivery organizations. The message has also been advanced by individuals in professional services such as accounting and law that one of the “unintended consequences” of the changes is the impact on charities and social service delivery. And finally, many small businesses have simply indicated they will not have the resources for the organizations they have supported for decades.
In the final analysis business does build communities and increasingly want to be active in the decision-making process. It is, as an entrepreneur would say, good business.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Art Sinclair
Art is Vice President Policy and Advocacy for the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
7
perspective on health care
Still a Pressing Need for Family Physicians
BY JENNA PETKER
Health care is a significant issue for all of us and having access to health care professionals is critical to the well being of families living in our region. Unfortunately, many families, locally and across the province, do not have the benefit of being under the care of a family practitioner. This is why the Chamber’s physician recruitment program is such an important community health care initiative, not only for our residents’ well being but for the health and prosperity of our business community looking to attract the best and the brightest talent.
With the generous investment and support of our corporate and municipal partners, the Chamber Health Care Resources Council is able to oversee a number of programs throughout the year to attract new family physicians to serve the health care needs of the community. Since this critical initiative was launched in 1998, the Chamber, working with community interests, has successfully attracted over 200 family practitioners. This year alone, we have had seven physicians who have made community practice commitments here in Kitchener Waterloo. We could not have achieved such great results without your commitment. Aside from our Annual Physician Recruitment Weekend, our corporate and municipal partners’ generous annual investment also helps the Chamber to recruit physicians throughout the year. We have been working with new family medicine physicians who just graduated this summer as well as established family practitioners from across Canada. Personal community visits have been arranged for these practitioners – meeting with local family physicians and a number of other practice opportunities within Kitchener-Waterloo.
Our need for family physicians is still a pressing need for our community. We have been working with a number of physicians nearing retirement and are in the process of looking for prospective physicians to take over their practice. We encourage these physicians to start searching for a replacement well in advance and provide them with the necessary resources to ensure for a smooth and stress free transition.
8
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
Many of the newer graduate physicians are looking for more of a work/life balance and are often starting their practice small (800-1000 patient roster) and gradually increasing it over time. With many retiring doctors having a patient roster size of 2000+, we are in need of 2-2.5 doctors per retiring physicians practice to account for all of the patients. This can cause some challenges. The majority of newer doctors are interested in practicing in a group setting, with other established doctors for mentorship, whereas many retiring physicians practice within their own private office.
We are continuing to aid the local hospitals in their efforts to recruit and retain emergency doctors. As emergency doctors do not have a roster of patients, it is less complicated and more simple for them to move anywhere in the country and practice. It is crucial that we are able to retain these doctors and ensure that Kitchener-Waterloo is a desired place to live and work. Again this year, we will be including Emergency Medicine residents at our Annual Recruitment Weekend in November. We are hopeful that someday they will call Kitchener-Waterloo home. Our successes and efforts would not be possible if it wasn’t for our generous corporate, municipal and personal sponsors and supporters of this program. The Chamber Health Care Resources Council sincerely thanks our partners for their generous and continued support as we strive to eliminate the physician shortage in Kitchener-Waterloo.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jenna Petker
Jenna is Physician Recruitment Lead for the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
Photography by Adamski Photography
advocate November | December 2017
9
new members
August 1, 2017 to September 30, 2017 Ark Newcomers Settlement Organization
Charitable & Community Organizations
Redie Nerayo, 3289 King St E, Unit 16 Kitchener, ON N2A 4A6 info@arksettlement.org arksettlement.org Phone: (519) 998-8392 Fax: (519) 900-9075
Bader Mediation & Counselling Services Mediation Services
Daniel Bader, Owner 10 Duke St W, Suite 314 Kitchener, ON N2H 3W4 daniel.bader@baderservices.com www.baderservices.com Phone: (226) 647 1592 Ball Brothers Machinery Ltd. (Homer Watson Medical) Medical Centres
Jody Ball, Co-President jason@homerwatsonmedical.com homerwatsonmedical.com Phone: (416) 333-6714
BBQ Tank Express
Propane Gas Sales & Service
Jason Wiles, Owner 42 Maplecrest Drive Breslau, ON N0B 1M0 jason@bbqtankexpress.ca bbqtankexpress.ca Phone: (705) 345-9899
10 King St
W Kitchener,
10
ON
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
Cambridge Mill
Restaurants
Vanessa Davis, Senior Special Events Consultant 130 Water St N Cambridge, ON N1R 1P1 info@cambridgemill.ca cambridgemill.ca Phone: (519) 624-1828 DistribuCloud
Information Technology
Joseph Grimaldi Owner/IT Solutions Architect 22 King St S, Suite 300 Waterloo, ON N2J 1N8 Joseph@DistribuCloud.com DistribuCloud.com Phone: (519) 577-2972 Hilary Lehman 185 Appalacian Cr, Kitchener, ON N2E 1A3 hilary.lehman@freedomsolutions.ca freedomsolutions.ca Phone: (519) 588-9741
Gold Sniffer Inc. Mining Equipment
Jim Kendall, President jkendall@agoldsniffer.com goldsniffer.com Phone: (289) 388-1310
local food
Jessica Garant, Consultant 1119A Gordon Guelph, ON N1L 1H2 garant@uoguelph.ca Phone: (418) 264-3300
Kathy Bazinet, Owner kathy.bazinet@gmail.com kathybazinet.com Phone: (519) 591-1153 Lot 42 Inc.
Entertainment
David Brisson, President/CEO 41 Ardelt Place, Kitchener, ON N2C 2C8 patrick@lot42.ca lot42.ca Phone: (519) 603-5700 Restaurants
Jordan Alexander, Director info@growinvestmentcompany.com growinvestmentcompany.com Phone: (519) 616-4769
Fresh
Business Consultants
Nando's
Grow Investment Company
craft beers
Synergii Team Solutions
Counselling
Freedom Solutions
Rotation of local
Josh Bancic, Registered Kinesiologist jbancic@humanscale.com humanscale.com Phone: (647) 270-5638
Kathy Bazinet (Life Strategies and Design)
Business Services
Investments
Humanscale Consulting
Health & Wellness
Candice Harji, General Manager 569 Fairway Rd S, Unit M1 Kitchener, ON N2C 1X4 kitchener@nandoscanada.com nandos.ca Phone: (519) 896-7374 Fax: (519) 896-3336
(519) 742-2337 Bthemuseum@gmail.com www.bhere.ca/themuseum
new members
August 1, 2017 to September 30, 2017 O Consulting
Human Resource Consultants
Lisa Deguire, Principal Consultant & Owner 397 The Country Way Kitchener, ON N2E 2S3 lisa@oconsulting.ca oconsulting.ca Phone: (519) 835-7422 Ostwall Contracting Ltd.
Contractors - General
Torsten Huhse, President torhuhse@holden.cnet Phone: (519) 729-9673
Part Time CFO Services Inc Management Consultants
Paul Kroetsch, Associate 5115 Oak Hills Rd Hamilton Township, ON K0L 1E0 info@parttimecfoservices.ca parttimecfoservices.ca Phone: (905) 376-3025
Penske Truck Leasing Canada Inc. Transport Services
Jamie Diegel, Lease Sales Representative 105 Saltsman Dr Cambridge, ON N3H 4R7 jamie.diegel@penske.com gopenske.com Phone: (519) 624-4380 Fax: (519) 653-0841 Plan A Healthcare Staffing & Recruitment
Staffing Solutions
Lori Waller, Owner lori@planahealthcarestaffing.ca planahealthcarestaffing.ca Phone: (226) 336-7526
Rincroft Consultants Inc.
Business Consultants
Carson O'Neill, Principal 5-420 Erb St W, Suite 107 Waterloo, ON N2L 6K6 coneill@rincroft.com rincroft.com Phone: (519) 747-2532 Fax: (519) 747-2837 Rosa Lupo
Honorary Member
Rosa Lupo c/o Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP 50 Queen St N, Suite 1020 Kitchener, ON N2H 6M2 rosa.lupo@gowlingwlg.com Phone: (519) 575-7511
Sun Life Financial - Northfield Financial Services
Tee Talent Inc.
Promotional Products
Carlos Martins Head of Marketing/Co-Founder 230 Blackhorne Dr, Unit 31 Kitchener, ON N2E 1Z4 hello@teetalent.com teetalent.com Phone: (647) 654-0515
TELUS Communications Telecommunications
Sarah Adnan, Marketing Specialist Direct to Consumer 25 York St Toronto, ON M5J 2V5 sarah.adnan@telus.com telus.ca Phone: (647) 268-2597 Vaandal Creative Inc.
Geoffrey Ollson, Financial Centre Manager 180 Northfield Dr W, Unit 6 Waterloo, ON N2L 0C7 geoffrey.ollson@sunlife.com sunlife.ca Phone: (519) 772-5195 Fax: (519) 772-3371
Advertising Agencies & Consultants
Schools - Academic - Elementary & Secondary
Jeff Grimwood, President 250 Woolwich St S, Unit 3 Breslau, ON N0B 1M0 operations@wood-hall.com wood-hall.com Phone: (519) 213-1000 Fax: (519) 213-1005
Sunshine Montessori School
Nancy Joyce, Director, Administration & Community Relations 10 Boniface Ave Kitchener, ON N2C 1L9 njoyce@mcleaneducationgroup.org smsschool.ca Phone: (519) 744-1423
Angela Bourne, CEO 25 The Esplanade, Suite 1515 Toronto, ON M5E 1W5 info@vaandal.com vaandal.com Phone: (647) 808-6779 Wood-Hall Logistics
Transportation
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
11
networking
Fall Networking
JOHN FERGUSON FROM GHD AND DAVID OUTA FROM COWAN INSURANCE GROUP JOIN MS. OKTOBERFEST IN THE OFFICIAL KEG TAPPING AT THE 7TH ANNUAL CHAMBERFEST EVENT AT CONCORDIA CLUB.
A FULL HOUSE OF CHAMBER MEMBERS ENJOY SOME COLD BEER AND TASTY SCHNITZEL AT THE 7TH ANNUAL CHAMBERFEST EVENT AT CONCORDIA CLUB.
PANELISTS OF EXPERTS DISCUSS THE POSSIBLE TAX CHANGES THAT WILL IMPACT SMALL REGION DURING A POINT OF VIEW LUNCHEON IN SEPTEMBER.
BUSINESS IN THE
12
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
EMCEE AND NETWORKING BREAKFAST COMMITTEE VOLUNTEER BILL PEGG FACILITATES A Q&A WITH ASHLEY CHALLINOR FROM THE OCC AND CHRIS ANDREE FROM GOWLING WLG LLP, WHO SPOKE TO BILL 148 AT THE MNP NETWORKING BREAKFAST SERIES.
AMANDA LINDHOUT, KIDNAP SURVIVOR AND BESTSELLING AUTHOR SHARES HER INCREDIBLE STORY OF RESILIENCE WITH ATTENDEES AT THE 11TH ANNUAL INSPIRING WOMEN EVENT HOSTED BY BINGEMANS.
MEMBERS TOURING THE IMPRESSIVE EVENT SPACE AT LOT 42 HOME HARDWARE BUSINESS AFTER 5 SERIES KICKOFF HOSTED BY CONSOLIDATED LEARNING AND LOT 42. DURING THE
THE 2017-2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ARE INDUCTED AT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HOSTED BY CIGI.
Photography by Adamski Photography
networking
PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE GKWCC IAN MCLEAN LEADS A FIRESIDE CHAT WITH ONTARIO’S NDP LEADER ANDREA HORWATH DURING A PROVINCIAL LEADER SERIES LUNCHEON AT THE CROWNE PLAZA K-W.
GUESTS VISITING MEMBER EXHIBIT BOOTHS AND MAKING CONNECTIONS AT HOME HARDWARE BUSINESS AFTER 5 SERIES KICK-OFF HOSTED BY CONSOLIDATED LEARNING AND LOT 42.
THE
MEMBERS LEARNING FROM A PANELIST OF EXPERTS ABOUT HOW THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSED TAX POINT OF VIEW LUNCHEON IN SEPTEMBER.
CHANGES MAY IMPACT THEIR BUSINESS DURING A
MEMBERS ENJOYING SOME QUALITY NETWORKING AT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HOSTED BY CIGI.
THE
EVENT GUESTS GATHERED FOR A FULL DAY OF STORYTELLING, MOTIVATION, AND INSPIRATION AT THE 11TH ANNUAL INSPIRING WOMEN EVENT.
THE 11TH ANNUAL INSPIRING WOMEN EVENT STARTED WITH A SOPHIE GREGOIRE TRUDEAU ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF WOMEN IN BUSINESS AND ADVOCACY.
PERSONALIZED MESSAGE FROM
GUESTS EXCHANGE BUSINESS CARDS AND MAKE CONNECTIONS AT THE FIRST MNP NETWORKING BREAKFAST SERIES EVENT OF THE SEASON FOCUSED ON BILL 148. Photography by Adamski Photography
Tickets on sale now! ɵ 29(5 (;+,%,7256 ɵ )$6+,21 6+2:6 January 13–14, 2018 Bingemans Conference Ctr.
ɵ 35,=( *,9($:$<6 025( WWW.THEWEDDINGTRENDS.COM
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
13
14
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
hi-lighting members
Member to Member Special Offers
Clean-State Painting 645 Albert St, Unit 2 Waterloo 519-721-1695 info@clean-state.com www.clean-state.com
Elite Training Facility / Elite Registered Massage Therapy
Clean-State Painting Kitchen Cabinet Painting Special for Chamber Members Limit one per member, 15% off our regular price. Updating your kitchen cabinets? Painting is only 25 - 35% the cost of new cabinets. Call Clean-State Painting and mention you are a Chamber Member.
Elite Training Facility / Elite Registered Massage Therapy
1253 King St E, Unit 1A Kitchener 519-603-4223 dorothy@betterbodyexchange.com www.betterbodyexchange.com
Shoulder Tension? Stress Induced Headaches? Sore Back from Bad Posture? Office related stress can be managed with registered massage therapy from Dorothy Sinding, RMT. Try aromatherapy or Hot Stone Massage. Chamber members receive 15% off. Insurance direct billing available.
The Sign Depot Inc.
The Sign Depot Inc.
51 Borden Ave S Kitchener 519-894-0890 sales@sign-depot.on.ca www.sign-depot.on.ca
We believe a good sign is the sign of a good business. We know a good sign is good for your business. For over 20 years we have honed our sign craft and pursued excellence in our work. Contact Lisa for your 15% Chamber Discount
V.I.P. Limousine Service KW Ltd
V.I.P. Limousine Service KW Ltd
15 Wanless Crt Ayr, ON 519-221-5466 info@viplimos.ca http://viplimos.ca
VIP offers luxurious transportation and is the premier choice for comfort and style. Our fleet of Limousines includes the finest passenger super stretch luxury Lincoln town car, Mercedes, Caddillac's, Lincoln Navigators SUV Limousines. Chamber Members are eligible for the 15% Discount on Wedding Limousine services for Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge.
St. Clements Heart and Home
St. Clements Heart and Home
1011 Industrial Crescent St. Clements, Ontario 519-699-5411 Fax: 519-699-5412 Email: heartandhome@cyg.net
Blind Ambition Design Galleria
Make St. Clements Heart & Home your first choice in the Kitchener-Waterloo area for your decorating dreams; including Flooring, Kitchen & Bathroom Cabinetry, Custom Window Blinds & Paint. Chamber members can enjoy a 15% or more discount on selected products.
Blind Ambition Design Galleria
Chicopee Tube Park
1600 River Rd E, Kitchener 519-895- 2322 Samantha Weber sweber@chicopeetubepark.com www.chicopeetubepark.com
Ride the Zip Line, climb the ropes, slide on down our tubing slopes! Chicopee Tube Park boasts fun for every season .Chamber members can now enjoy two hours of winter tubing for only $15.00 per person (that’s 40% off regular adult admission). Bundle up and slide on down to Chicopee Tube Park.
TH
GROUP
Chicopee Tube Park
LEY
For over 30 years Blind Ambition has been supplying beautiful, functional custom window treatments for home, office and commercial properties. Serving Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Elmira, St. Jacobs and neighbouring regions since 1985, we proudly combine an exemplary work ethic with a genuine commitment to our clients. Offering 22% discount on all our products to Chamber members.
AL EV
Gretta Kilpatrick - Interior Decorator 6-25 Industrial Dr Elmira, ON N3B 3K3 519-489-0103 Email: gretta@blindambitiondesigns.com www.blindambitiondesigns.com
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
15
cover story
Businesses Are a Critical Part of the Solution in Waterloo Region
BY JOHN NEUFELD
Recently, a group of concerned stakeholders from downtown Kitchener were called together for a meeting.
It wasn’t an ordinary meeting. It included a cross-section of leaders from different backgrounds –downtown business, social service, justice, and property development. We were all invited there with one purpose – to seek innovative solutions to the various social challenges that are found in our community. The most intriguing part about this is that Waterloo Regional Police convened the meeting. WRPS invited everyone to the table, creating a community forum of downtown stakeholders with one purpose – to build a healthy downtown, where everyone can belong and thrive.
It’s an innovative approach, one that ignores the boundaries we have traditionally set for ourselves. It is thinking differently, realizing that solutions can come from anywhere. It is also realizing that solutions to these complex issues will not be found until we do more than simply throw money at a problem, hoping it will solve itself.
Traditionally, corporate philanthropy has been seen as a simple transaction. The charitable organization presents its need to the business community and the business community responds by making a financial donation. Everyone stays within their own, individual silos. Charities use gifts to address needs, and the business community continues with its day-to-day affairs, until another need arises. The cycle continues.
This old, traditional model isn’t working anymore. There is a better way, one that involves collaboration, connection and community. It’s an approach that is starting to take hold in Waterloo Region. And one in which the corporate community will play a vital role.
Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting the fine folks of Piinpoint, a tech startup in downtown Kitchener. I brought Clarence Cachagee with me, a former resident of the Charles Street Men’s Shelter and current support worker at House of Friendship. We were there because Piinpoint had asked us to come; we were there because the employees wanted to educate themselves. They wanted to understand poverty and addiction; they wanted to understand homelessness. They listened and learned as Clarence shared his lived experience.
16
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
It was a great moment of connection and compassion. Finding solutions to complex issues like homelessness begins with the desire to be educated on an issue, to gain understanding and perspective. Understanding leads to community solutions, like Downtown Kitchener’s Discovery Team, a pilot project that is the result of the combined forces of the Kitchener Business Improvement Area (BIA), Waterloo Regional Police, and the Working Centre. The idea is an innovative way of addressing concerns around behaviour of some of the “regulars” who call the streets of downtown Kitchener their home.
The traditional response has been to call police when altercations or disturbances break out; now, with the Discovery Team, a less confrontational approach is in place. Men and women with mental health and addiction issues get support and a listening ear, police are called less often, and downtown Kitchener is a more welcoming, inviting place for everyone, including business owners, employees and customers. When community members step outside of their traditional roles to work together, that is when solutions can be found.
We all have our areas of expertise. Some of us are great with numbers, others can see wide-ranging implications for the latest advances in technology. As members of this community, we have worked hard, driven by our passions, interests and skill sets to become the lawyers, entrepreneurs, accountants, social workers and tech geniuses that make this community flourish. Our interest, our hard work and our dedication have been our “tickets” to become leaders in Waterloo Region. Now, as leaders, we have the opportunity to become community builders as well. When it comes to finding solutions to issues like hunger, poverty, homelessness or addiction, we need to bring our expertise to the table while leaving our titles at the door, working collaboratively as a community. We need to think about the impact we desire to see, the difference we want to make. As members of the business community, you are used to finding solutions to business challenges. First, you look to clarify the real problem; second, you investigate solutions to the problem; third, you leverage your assets; and fourth, you take decisive action to create solutions.
cover story
Similarly, you can apply this same process to our community challenges:
a) Clarify the Problem – read, listen and learn from those closest to the problem to understand the causes, meet with front-line workers or those with lived experience, or ask experts in the field;
b) Investigate Solutions – research and collaborate on solution alternatives, brainstorm new, innovative ways of making a difference and test the ideas with those most informed about or impacted by the issue; c) Leverage Your Assets – engage your various assets to rally around a solution, assets such as your employees, experts in your community, your financial resources, your personal passion for a particular community issue, and partnerships with those closest to the issue; d) Take Action – whether by volunteering, donating, investing in community discussions, inviting others to collaborate or advocating for change, you can be part of the solution.
This process is underway today in Waterloo Region in response to the opioid crisis that is plaguing Canada and our own Region. Collaborative conversations and leadership initiatives have been created to investigate solutions together. One such solution is more addiction treatment services. Aimed at transforming men’s residential addiction treatment programs as well as day treatment for men and women, our Close to Home capital campaign (www.houseoffriendship.org/closetohome) will be part of that solution. Consider how you could engage in these conversations and participate in an existing project such as this one. The business community has a vital role to play in creating the future of this Region. Change can come about when we pool our expertise, our energy and our enthusiasm – all that makes us great at what we do in our respective fields.
More and more, we are realizing that as a society, we can no longer look at these issues as someone else’s problem. When we walk past someone who is living on a street corner on our way to work, when we hear yet another ambulance responding
to an overdose, we know that this problem belongs to all of us. This is our community. This is our home. Whether it is a place where all can belong, where all can enjoy healthy, fulfilling lives, is up to us.
And the reality is this – a healthier community benefits us all. Employers that focus on community building are more likely to attract and retain quality employees - employees who want to work at an organization that prioritizes being a force for positive change in the community that surrounds them. A stronger community, where more men and women are able to actively be part of the work force, is a community that will flourish. A community where children are given every opportunity to learn, in homes that are safe and secure, is a community where the best minds will be ready to take hold of the innovative, creative world we are in the midst of creating.
We all want the same thing. We want a healthy, strong community, a vibrant Waterloo Region where businesses and individuals thrive. We won’t get it if we remain in our own silos, worried only about our own piece of the world. By working together, we can accomplish a great deal more. We can build a community where everyone belongs – a community that will make us all proud.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
John Neufeld
John Neufeld is Executive Director of House of Friendship. Serving Waterloo Region and founded in 1939, House of Friendship works with those who need food, housing, community resources or addiction treatment. For more information, visit: www.houseoffriendship.org.
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
17
RBC Dominion Securities Inc.
RBC Dominion Securities Waterloo is hiring new Investment Advisors RBC Dominion Securities in Waterloo is seeking motivated individuals for a fulfilling career in the wealth management industry. If you’re looking for the support you need to build a successful career, RBC Dominion Securities offers several advantages:
O O O O
Strength and stability Independence with support Powerful tools and technology Top-calibre training
With an independent focus that encourages and rewards initiative, industry-leading investment and
wealth management support, and the backing of Canada’s largest financial institution, RBC Dominion Securities is the premier choice for investment professionals who want to build a successful wealth management practice.
For more details, please contact Vice-President and Branch Manager Mark Hodson at 519-747-7790 or mark.hodson@rbc.com.
We value diversity in the workplace, are committed to Employment Equity and will provide reasonable workplace accommodation to applicants with disabilities. RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©2017 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 17_90561_001
Integrity is timeless. Integrity is the foundation of our company, the cornerstone of our relationships with our clients. For over 25 years we have been providing private wealth management solutions for individuals, corporations and charities. Our portfolios of stocks and bonds are the road map for tailoring your investment holdings to achieve your longterm objectives. Call or visit us online today. Trust. Experience. Integrity.
Rae & Lipskie Investment Counsel Inc. • Waterloo • Burlington • 1 888 578 7542 • www.raelipskie.com
18
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
At Libro, the growth and prosperity of your business is also our business.
Libro exists to grow prosperity throughout southwestern Ontario. Visit one of Libroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 31 branches or libro.ca to find out how we can help you focus on whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important. Beechwood Branch 420 Erb Street West Waterloo 519-725-6060
Waterloo Branch 55 Northfield Drive East Waterloo 519-744-1031
Williamsburg Branch 100 - 1170 Fischer Hallman Road Kitchener 519-570-9955
events
Mark Your Calendar November 7, 2017
November 15, 2017
11:30am-1:30pm Location: Golf ’s Steak House and Seafood Member: $47 • General Admission: $60 • Table of 8: $375
8:00-9:30am Location: Kitchener Public Library Member: $25 • General Admission: $35
Economic Development Speaker Series presents Grow Your Business with the European Free Trade Agreement
Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, will discuss the new trade deal between Canada and Europe. Learn how it will provide significant benefits for the Waterloo Region and national business communities.
Event Sponsor:
November 16, 2017
November 9, 2017
MNP Networking Breakfast Series presents ION Rapid Transit & LRT
7:15-9:00am Location: Holiday Inn Kitchener-Waterloo Member: $35 • General Admission: $45 • Table of 6: $205
Join us for an update from Rod Regier, Commissioner of Planning, Development & Legislative Services for Waterloo Region, on the ION Rapid Transit system and how it will impact the Region and your business.
Event Sponsor: Marketing Sponsor:
Now, more than ever, the concept of “design” is making its way into every part of a business. For all business owners your company’s brand is what represents you externally, and this is something you should care a lot about. During this session we will review the importance of brand, design and provide some tips and tricks as to how to manage and invest in your brand. Title Sponsor:
Title Sponsor:
Title Sponsor:
Cober Marketing Series – The Power of Design: Company Brand & Message
Heffner Women’s Leadership presents Finding Your Voice & Acknowledging Empowerment
11:30am-1:30pm Location: Cambridge Mill Member: $45 • General Admission: $55 • Table of 8: $350
With the fast changing social and political climate, it can be difficult to navigate how we can channel our energy and make a positive impact in our community and abroad. This unique fall event will leave you feeling empowered and enriched as you learn from the panelists of leading ladies about how you can find your voice and how they’ve found theirs. Title Sponsor: Supporting Sponsor: Marketing Sponsor:
Media: Record
Insurance is the last thing business owners think of when times are good. But, when there’s a claim it’s their first call. You should have the best coverage possible. Get an expert opinion on your commercial insurance needs.
insure@erb-erb.com 1.800.265.2634 www.erb-erb.com 20
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
events
Mark Your Calendar November 21, 2017
Libro Chamber Young Professionals Foolproof Networking
5:30-7:30pm Location: Proof Kitchen + Lounge Member: $10 • General Admission: $15
You are invited to join us for casual networking to develop key relationships, build your business network and connect with other young professionals and business leaders. Title Sponsor: Event Sponsor: Marketing Sponsor:
(Continued on Page 26)
November 29, 2017
Cober Marketing Series presents Direct Mail – How Does it Work?
8:00-9:30am Location: Kitchener Public Library Member: $25 • General Admission: $35
In the world of digital marketing, direct mail is frequently left by the wayside. However, statistics are showing that the use of direct mail is allowing business to stand-out from the crowd and get better results. In order to gain these results, business owners need to understand where direct mail can fit into their business. During this session, we will be working with you to identify how Direct Mail might play into your company’s marketing and communication strategy. Title Sponsor:
November 23, 2017
December 6, 2017
11:30am-1:30pm Location: Crowne Plaza Kitchener-Waterloo Member: $47 • General Admission: $60 • Table of 8: $375
8:00-9:30am Location: Kitchener Public Library Member: $25 • General Admission: $35
Provincial Leaders Speaker Series with Patrick Brown, Leader of Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
Join us for the final event in the Provincial Leaders Speakers Series with the Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario as we approach the provincial election scheduled for 2018. Title Sponsor:
Cober Marketing Series presents Digital & Traditional Marketing – How Do They Work Together?
We all remember when email marketing was “new” and started to take away from the traditional marketing spend; posters, flyers, radio etc… While digital marketing plays an important role in the marketing mix, marrying it with traditional marketing practices can make your company’s marketing strategy even more powerful, if done correctly. Title Sponsor:
Platinum Sponsors: Gold Sponsors:
Your donation will help transform men’s residential addiction treatment services in Waterloo Region.
GREG
JP
DAMIEN
Visit www.houseoffriendship.org/closetohome to watch Greg, JP, and Damien’s stories of hope and recovery.
Addiction Is Close to Home So Are We.
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
21
Providing Exceptional Care to Homeowners in Their Time of Need
7KLV LV 1R 7LPH IRU 6HFRQG %HVW 1-877-570-0438 kitchener-waterloo.pauldavis.ca
Richard Ventura BA, AMP Mortgage Broker M08004037
President and Principal Broker 110 Frobisher Drive, Unit 3 Waterloo Ontario N2V2G7 (226) 666-7301 x101 TF 1-866-401-3763 1-888-908-7029 richard.ventura@mortgageingenuity.ca http://www.mortgageingenuity.ca
Mortgage InGenuity Mortgage Architects Brokerage #12468
22
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
I will give you: • CHOICE • ACCESS • ADVICE & EDUCATION • MORE THAN A MORTGAGE!
feature
Entrepreneurial Spirit Engages the Non-profit Community
BY ROSE GREENSIDES
A few weeks ago I spent some time with the senior leadership team of a local nonprofit organization. They do amazing work, providing much-needed services to thousands of families in Waterloo Region each year and taking pressure off already overloaded essential public services. As I spoke with the group about their organization and some of the challenges they are facing, I heard a lot of things I’ve heard many times before from other local charities: funding restrictions, increasing service demands, and declining volunteerism. I feel privileged to work for an organization that addresses these (and other) common challenges facing our charitable sector. True to our location, Social Venture Partners Waterloo Region (SVPWR) is a public foundation that applies an entrepreneur mentality to nonprofits. Besides offering multiyear unrestricted financial grants, which is rare in its own right, we support our Investees with the hands-on support, network connections and business knowledge of our individual donors. We have been lucky to work with six local organizations and watch them scale-up to make a greater impact on the populations they serve.
Sexual Health Options Resources and Education (SHORE) Centre is an obvious recent example. Since partnering with them in 2015, Social Venture Partners has helped them rebrand, host a new website, develop a client portal platform, gain access to new funding opportunities, and has provided hundreds of hours of our donors’ consulting time. All this has turned each dollar of our financial grant to SHORE Centre into the equivalent of seven dollars in support. And it shows. In the past year alone they have doubled the impact of their kids, teens and young adult sexual health education programs, serving over 10,000 individuals, and had a 40% increase in community clients. Local community leaders Tim Jackson and Jacqui Murphy cofounded Social Venture Partners Waterloo Region seven years ago in an effort to address what they experienced as a lack of philanthropic mentorship in Waterloo Region, specifically in the tech sector. It’s no secret that the number of Canadians giving back to charities is on the decline. Some barriers facing donors are not knowing whether their money is making a difference, and wanting flexible, personalized opportunities to directly
support organizations. Rather than blaming individuals for a lack of community involvement, Jackson and Murphy thought, let’s look to our community to foster philanthropic engagement. Social Venture Partners’ model is unique because there is considerable reciprocal value for our donors. They tell us that they get a better understanding of the social needs in our community, are more involved and connected in their community, and see first-hand the impact Social Venture Partners is having on the organizations we support.
In a Region that is on an upward trajectory - in industry, culture, and population – now is an amazing opportunity to set the tone for the community we want to become. When we talk about development it’s usually along the lines of business development, or personal and career development. I propose, that as business leaders in Waterloo Region, we start also considering our philanthropic development. How are we giving back to the community? How are we encouraging a community that truly values and enables, as the Kitchener Waterloo Community Foundation (KWCF)’s 2016 Vital Signs Report urges, a sense of belonging for everyone who lives here? How are we modelling our giving values to our colleagues, neighbours and family? For Social Venture Partners Waterloo Region donors, their giving of money, skills and time allows them to tap into their own power and potential to serve and transform our community. They feel that they are making a difference. They are, and you can too.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rose Greensides Rose Greensides is the Executive Director at SVPWR, where she attracts and engages donors in supporting Waterloo Region’s charities. She has been a nonprofit leader for over 10 years and is passionate about family, well-being, and her community
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
23
take my card
The Power Power of of Education Education The BY JOAN FISK
WE DO IT ALL!
BY JOAN FISK
Chamber Members Save 10%* *Limited Time Offer
Printing • Signage • Promotional Products Call for your FREE Catalogue!
Kitchener 519-571-0101 • Waterloo 519-886-6800 Cambridge 519-621-6611 • Guelph 519-836-4441 Offices also in London, Brantford and Welland
www.mtprint.com
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK OR FOLLOW US ON TWITTER FOR THE LATEST SPECIALS AND PRINT IDEAS!
597 Colby Dr. Unit #6, Waterloo, ON
519-603-9916 info@steadfastgasservices.com / www.steadfastgasservices.com
24
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
feature
Giving Back: Corporate Philanthropy and the Power of Investing in Our Community
BY DARREN GILROY
This is a time of year that naturally leads to thoughts of giving, support, family and community. We can do so much in our personal lives, as individuals, but the power of investment and change made possible when many come together can be truly transformative. At Sun Life, we care about what matters most: for over 130 years, the company has supported initiatives across Canada and the Globe to help advance our vision of building sustainable, healthier communities for life. As part of this commitment to sustainability, we’re proud to actively support the places where we live and work by helping build a positive and healthy environment for our Clients, Employees and communities. Taking on the role of chair of our 2017 United Way Campaign in Waterloo has only made me more acutely aware of how passionately our people and leaders believe in this commitment. In Canada, in 2016, Sun Life’s corporate donations supporting community organizations coast to coast totalled $8.6 million, and a further $223,610 was allocated to sponsorships of cultural and community initiatives. We're proud to hold the Caring Company designation from Imagine Canada.
I was born in the Waterloo area, but moved away at the age of five. When I returned to live here in 1998, I was immediately struck by the sense of vitality, activity and growth present across the region. I felt it was a wonderful place to live and raise a family, but building and sustaining a community like this one requires more than appreciation – it requires investment. Businesses, neighbourhoods, culture, education, and wellness: these are all critical elements of a healthy and vibrant community. Local government and community organizations can do a lot, but it is an important responsibility for a company to help build a positive environment in the areas its Clients, Employees, advisors and shareholders call home. Sun Life employs nearly 4,000 people in its Waterloo offices, and has made a commitment to being a good neighbour and model corporate citizen. Some of Sun Life’s investments in the community include: • Our annual United Way campaign that last year raised over $1.9 million, including over $400,000 in the Waterloo Region
• Sun Life Financial Uptown Waterloo Jazz Festival: A widely anticipated summer jazz music event, this festival draws more than 35,000 people over 3 days for free live performances
• Annual United Way Days of Caring in which Employees collaborate with United Way to donate their time to local agencies • Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library: In collaboration with the Kitchener Public Library, this program is the first of its kind in Kitchener-Waterloo and the fifth investment by Sun Life in a Canadian public library. This innovative program helps put musical instruments into the hands of more Canadians • Partnership with Sustainable Waterloo Region
Winston Churchill said “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” I see this philosophy in action every day from our leaders and our employees here in Waterloo, who approach their work and roles with a desire to give back to our clients, and our community. We're not just thinking about today, tomorrow, or the time of year... we're thinking about the next 150 years. And beyond.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Darren Gilroy Darren Gilroy is Vice President, Group Benefits Operations at Sun Life Financial. He is the 2017 Chair of Sun Life’s Waterloo United Way Campaign, and holds a BA from University of Waterloo and an MBA from Rotman School of Management. He lives in Waterloo with his wife and son.
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
25
events
Mark Your Calendar
(Continued from Page 21)
December 7, 2017
December 19, 2017
Home Hardware Business After 5 Holiday Party
Economic Development Speaker Series presents Immigration: A Lifeline to Your Workforce
5:00-7:00pm Host: POI Business Interiors Member: Complimentary • General Admission: $10
11:30am-1:30pm Location: Golf ’s Steak House and Seafood Member: $47 • General Admission: $60 • Table of 8: $375
Join us for a festive evening of celebration and networking!
Join us as we explore how immigration and related programs can fill your business talent needs!
Title Sponsor:
Title Sponsor:
Marketing Sponsor: Media:
G
&
I
N
Print:
Event Sponsor: PRINT
December 12, 2017
Point of View Luncheon presents Best Practices in Immigration: Recruiting & Retaining Talent
11:30am-1:30pm Location: Inn of Waterloo Member: $47 • General Admission: $60 • Table of 8: $375
Join us and the CEO of Danby, Jim Estill, as he discusses why it’s important to hire immigrants for your team and what you need to know when hiring, recruiting and retaining talent from abroad. Title Sponsor:
We buy & sell over 100 foreign currencies $ Now buying and selling: SILVER AND GOLD coins/bars/jewellery
.00 fee for all Business or Personal wires
We will beat our local competitors rates on foreign currency exchange Mention
Exchanging Money Just Got Cheaper ~ No Service Fees
this ad for a better rate
355 Erb Street West, Waterloo (between University and Fischer Hallman) 519.884.0043 ~ Toll Free 877.237.4340 ~ www.currencyconvertersinc.com
26
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
feature
The Challenge of Giving
BY STEPHANIE CATCHER
Giving back to your local community is something that many small business owners wish they could do more often. We all see the value of giving back, but often don’t have the time or the resources to get a charity drive started. For this reason, I started a group charity challenge called 12 days of Christmas in 2014. 12 days of Christmas is a Charity Challenge, it takes place over 12 days, is located a 12 different local businesses and it supports 12 charities. Participants in the challenge are asked to go to a different business location each day to drop off an item for that day’s charity, which the local business chooses. At each location the participant is given a ballot that goes into a draw for a prize that day from the participating business and in the end, all ballots are collected and we draw for a television. Some of the businesses who have joined us in the past include: Gascho Automotive, Fairway Divorce Solutions, Groundhog Divers, Pioneer Insurance Brokers, Adventure Rooms Canada, Mortgage Ingenuity, Home Care Assistance, TA Appliances, Gibson Sound & Vision, Relish, Breadheads, Living Fresh & Artals Promotions. While this challenge began as something for our Chamber Plus Networks breakfast group to participate in, we’ve expanded and we’re happy to welcome anyone who’d like to participate One of our successes is that we don’t ask the donation participants to donate money. We’re looking for items that will help charities and not be too much of a burden on our participants, including canned goods, used clothing, bus tickets, hats and coats, puzzles, books, leashes, and sports equipment. We also ask for some new items including toiletries for local shelters and unwrapped toys for the Angel tree. People who participate can get their children involved and they often use it as an exercise to give back to others in need while showing their children that they can help too.
The fun part of this charity challenge is that it gains momentum, we use social media to get people involved and we announce the daily prize winners. We also offer bonus ballots for people who participate for multiple days and we often have a handful of fantastic people who donate each day of the 12-day challenge.
One of our challenges can be finding different local charities who need household items, if you work for or are involved with a charity in need, we welcome your suggestions and I will pass them along to businesses who need ideas. This year, 12 days of Christmas will begin on December 6th and end on December 17th. If you’d like to participate and donate in our charity challenge we’d welcome anyone who wants to join. If you’d like to join us in becoming a collecting business, please feel free to email me at stephanie@catcherteam.ca. More details on this year’s collecting businesses and receiving charities will be available at: facebook.com/12daysofchristmaskw.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stephanie Catcher
Stephanie Catcher has been a proud active Chamber member since 2009. She specializes in residential home sales in Waterloo Region and prides herself on her fun spirit that is infectious at both her chamber group and in her business.
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
27
member notables
Member Notables David Johnston Departs as Canada’s Governor General
Former University of Waterloo President David Johnston officially ended his term as Canada’s 28th Governor General on October 2, 2017. His seven year appointment commenced in October of 2010.
In September of 2006, then UW President Johnston delivered a presentation on his ten goals to make Waterloo Region the Knowledge Capital of Canada at a Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce event. Subsequent updates were provided in October 2007 and January 2010.
Our Chamber and the Waterloo Region community thank Mr. Johnston for his many years of exemplary local and national public service and wishes him and his spouse Sharon all the best in their future endeavours.
Photo courtesy of the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General
Local Bookkeeping Firm Receives National Recognition
At the 2017 Annual Conference of the Institute of Professional Bookkeepers of Canada (IPBC) held in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Kitchener and Guelph-based Mulrooney & Associates was awarded the prestigious Bookkeeping Firm of the Year award for 2017.
Owner Carrie Mulrooney opened her firm in 1999 which specializes in bookkeeping, accounting, payroll and taxation. Ms. Mulrooney also provided a presentation on Business Pain Points to her colleagues from across Canada at the recent IPBC conference.
Manulife Announces Senior Management Changes
Manulife President and Chief Executive Officer Roy Gori announced two organizational leadership changes in September of 2017.
Former Manulife Canada President and Chief Executive Officer Marianne Harrison is now President and Chief Executive Officer of John Hancock, Manulife’s U.S. business. John Hancock’s former interim President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Doughty has assumed Ms. Harrison’s position at Manulife Canada. Manulife Canada, headquartered in Waterloo, employs approximately 4,700 people in offices across Waterloo Region. Ms. Harrison is the first woman to lead Boston-based Hancock in its 150 years of operation.
Warm Embrace Elder Care Tenth Anniversary
Kitchener-based Warm Embrace Elder Care is celebrating their tenth anniversary. Founded in 2007 by mother Brenda Hamilton and daughters Chloe and Avery, Warm Embrace has grown to include an entire care team to provide 24/7 support to clients in need. Warm Embrace offers homecare to seniors in the community, as well as companionship services to residents in retirement and long-term care. The organization would like to express their gratitude to everyone who has supported their journey, including their wonderful team of caregivers, their valued clients, and the community at large.
28
WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
-Elder Care-
member notables
Member Notables Cowan Charity Golf Classic Provides Support for Habitat for Humanity
On September 6, 2017, the Cowan Insurance Group and Cowan Foundation announced that $125,000 was raised at their Cowan Charity Classic golf tournaments in support of Habitat for Humanity Canada’s Every Youth Initiative, of which Cowan is the founding partner.
Habitat Canada’s new Every Youth Initiative empowers youth, including at-risk youth, to build a strong self and community through the Habitat for Humanity experience, and equip Canadian youth with the required skills and experience to strengthen communities while contributing to the mission of addressing the affordable housing crisis in Canada.
For the past 16 years, Cowan Charity Classic golf tournaments have raised more than $1.4 million for non-profit organizations across Canada including the Heart and Stroke Foundation, House of Friendship, KW Counseling Services, and Lutherwood.
Chameleon Business Centres- New Name
The Intelligent Office business centre located at 22 King St S in Uptown Waterloo, under the same management and professional staff, has rebranded to become Chameleon Business Centres. The new name is indicative of Chameleon’s ubiquitous ability to adapt to their client’s needs.
The centre continues to provide a prestigious Uptown Waterloo business address and professional office space for discerning businesses, but with a renewed emphasis on supporting their clients with specialized phone and office support services utilizing highly trained staff.
With this change Chameleon has adapted their service offering to better reflect the needs of its entrepreneurial clients and help them grow beyond their current size without the pain typically associated with scaling a business.
Signs Galore marks 35th Anniversary
After twenty-five years in Breslau, Signs Galore Inc. has moved to Kitchener at 25 Beasley Drive, off Homer Watson and across from Budd Park.
Family-owned and operated by Garry and Laurie Fitz-Henry and their four sons, Signs Galore began in a basement apartment in 1983 and will be celebrating 35 years of service in 2018.
Specializing in custom design and in-house manufacturing of pylon signs, channel letters, fascia signs, vehicle lettering and banners, Signs Galore looks forward to continuing to build landmarks that stand the test of time and improve your business image.
advocate NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017
29
INTRODUCING CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD WATERLOO REGION, LTD.
BUSINESS BROKERAGE & ADVISORY WORKING ALONGSIDE CLIENTS TO FACILITATE OWNERSHIP TRANSACTIONS. Whether it is through succession planning, management buyout or an outright sale of your business, our team has the experience and resources required to effectively support confidential ownership transitions.
Our approach leverages the experience of Accountants, Lawyers, MBAs, former Investment and Commercial Bankers, and involves becoming intimately familiar with your business operations and its financial state.
Through our analysis we are able to identify, mitigate and expedite concerns that may arise during due diligence. This is why we spend the time to generate an internal valuation and pricing model for the business, which allows us to advise on pricing expectations, and identify purchasers that will find the most value in the business.
C O N TAC T U S T O M OV E I D E A S I N T O AC T I O N
30
Cushman & Wakefield Waterloo Region, Ltd. Brokerage 4295 King Street East, Suite 101 Kitchener, ON N2P 0C6 519 585 2200 | info@cushwakewr.com WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM cushwakewr.com | @CushWakeWR
text
The Power of Education
BY JOAN FISK
advocate November | December JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 2016 advocate
31