At the beginning of every year, when establishing goals and targets, one of the priorities at Popowich & Company, is how we would like to give back. Whether it’s giving blood donations,  volunteering at Habitat for Humanity, or providing lunches for Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids; we take some time to brainstorm and we make a plan. This simple action helps foster the passion for what we do! This year we sold over $75,000,000.00 of real estate in Calgary but no one will remember that. What makes an imprint, is contributing to those families that needed a break, or sponsoring Simporé and his Family in Burkina Faso who have experienced things that we can’t even fathom in Canada.

It is so important to look beyond the day to day whirlwind, or rat race, or whatever corporate jargon you would like to use, and just think for a moment how we can give more, and do it joyously. This is of utmost importance to me, my company and my family.

By giving, you are not just providing a tangible gift, whether material, financial or time, but you give the gift of inspiration- or the “pay it forward” mentality, where the recipients wish to joyfully give to someone else, and on it goes. Some of my greatest mentors in business and in life are the most generous people I have ever met.

Last week I saw a news report that the Calgary Food Bank use has risen 8%. These are not all repeat users, these are new single folks as well as families. The spokesperson James McAra, said that Calgarians are having a hard time – even if you don’t know it.

We may not know the crisis of our neighbours, but I encourage everyone to consider if it’s in your capacity to give to others in need this year. My family and team have always had a heart for the Calgary Food Bank, Compassion Canada, Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids, Samaritan’s Purse and many others. We would encourage you, if you can share any of your blessings, please join us in helping others this season. Just as important, (if not more) when setting personal and business goals for 2018, set some goals for how you can make a difference in your local community, city, country and world. There are always great ways to give back.

For an easy link to more ideas check out this link! Non-Profit Charitable Organizations in Calgary