How Business Leaders Can Support the Community Through Virtual Events

Business leaders of all levels realize that taking part in charitable and philanthropic initiatives helps to improve the community in which they operate. Both personally and professionally, it feels good to extend a hand, and it also demonstrates that you and your organization care about civic responsibility.  

During the current health pandemic, as we all know, many charity organizations and nonprofits are unable to hold in-person events they typically need to fundraise for their cause.  The silver lining in these current circumstances is that technology has allowed organizations to continue their missions through online fundraising and virtual events.

Despite social distancing obstacles, your business can still help.  Even during COVID-19 restrictions, there’s no minimum or maximum attached to the funding or volunteer help you donate. You can do what you’re capable of doing, whether as a corporate leader, company, or small business.  

This year, like in years past, My Place Realty was happy to support the Winnipeg Humane Society, Paws in Motion event and be part of their Virtual Vendor Village. The Winnipeg Humane Society is a local group that works to protect animals from harm and help them find forever homes.  

Paws in Motion is one of Winnipeg Humane Society's largest fundraising events of the year. Since it began 25-years-ago, it has grown into Manitoba's largest celebration of pets. The funds the WHS needs to care for thousands of animals each year doesn’t come from participant registration fees, but from the donations collected by participants. Fundraising is such an important part of this event and helps ensure that the WHS can continue to provide care for over 8,000 animals that come through their shelter doors each year.

This year, due to social distancing rules, would-be walkers and runners were encouraged to raise money through their own fundraising campaigns.

From June 15th thru June 27th, participants enthusiastically walked or ran with or without their pets safely in their neighbourhoods or yards.  They were also seen around town wearing their WHS merchandise while they walked, ran, biked or even danced, and then asked to share photos or videos using the hashtag #PIM2020.  

Even without being able to gather as a group like in past years, participants of the 2020 Paws in Motion were still able to make the event a success. I am so proud of our community for coming together to celebrate pets in our province and fundraise for  animals who need our help.  This event, and others like it, just proves that we can still come together to make a difference.

​