A purpose-driven day on Vancouver Island

On October 27, 2023, a wave of purple spread across Vancouver Island. That wave was created by a team of Grant Thornton colleagues in purple hoodies who collectively contributed 216 volunteer hours for their first-ever “Community Day”.    

Organized by Chad Toronchuk, Manager of Administrative Services, and supported by the Vancouver Island Business Unit Communities Committee, Community Day began with offices gathering virtually for a morning event called “A Greater Purpose on Vancouver Island.” Nominated by colleagues, four charities received Grant Thornton Foundation donations totaling $48,000: the BC SPCA, the Raincoast Conservation Foundation, You Are Not Alone, and Buddy Check for Jesse. Each of these recipients were invited to present their organization’s mission and community impact.  

“It was amazing to see charities that were chosen by our colleagues who had a personal connection,” says Chad. “We had a great mix of large and grassroots organizations. You Are Not Alone connects families with free, urgent travel to BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, as well as resources like apartments if families need to stay on the mainland longer. Mental health is also really important to our team—we invited Buddy Check for Jesse, an organization focused on mental health awareness for youth athletes. The team was touched by Jesse’s father, who gave a very emotional presentation and shared how our donation would help them reach more children.”   

In the afternoon, offices closed and split into six groups to volunteer their time in their respective communities at specific charities including: Soap for Hope, Quadra Village Community Centre, Loaves and Fishes Community Food Bank, and Nourish Cowichan. Others also volunteered their time outdoors cleaning up local beaches and trails.

Chad says the aim of the day was to connect the larger business unit together as well as have individual office participation and team building. Community Day was such a hit that the Vancouver Island team is already planning to hold another full-day event in the future.   

“There was such a great turn-out that day. It took a good amount of work to get everyone organized, but it was my favourite project because it was very meaningful. I heard from many colleagues that they want to continue supporting the organizations and volunteer on their own time.”  

-    Chad Toronchuk, Manager of Administrative Services, Doane Grant Thornton LLP