Running the extra mile with the World Airline Road Race
Running the extra mile with the World Airline Road Race
On Sept. 24, 2023, the World Airline Road Race (WARR) held its 40th annual race and fundraising event in Calgary, Alberta. This event wasn’t just a competition; it was a beacon of hope and generosity, culminating in a fundraising effort, and LiveDifferent is honoured to be the chosen charity partner for this year’s race.
Beyond the finish line: A fundraising feat
Participants raised an incredible $14,233! These funds were designated for a special project: a Build in Mexico with our Academy student cohort.
Chair of World Airline Road Race, Jennifer Zimmer says, “After experiencing a LiveDifferent Build firsthand this year, I knew this organization was the perfect charity for World Airline Road Race’s yearly donation to a worthy cause. It is important to our membership, made up of airline employees from all over the world, to give back each year to those in need.”
A unique challenge, an unforgettable journey
The family selected for this Build was Olivia and her children, who had been living in a cramped, mouldy concrete block home with a leaky roof. The living conditions caused her children to frequently miss school due to respiratory illness.
In this scenario, the need for a safe, healthy and stable living environment was not just a matter of comfort, but a necessity. This Build was about providing a space where the children could grow, learn and thrive without the burden of illness and the constant anxiety of a deteriorating home.
A new home, a new beginning
Thanks to the generosity of the WARR participants and the hard work of our Academy students and staff, we were able to construct a new home alongside Olivia’s family. This home is not just a structure of bricks and mortar; it is a foundation for a healthier, brighter future.
The Build has been a testament to the power of community, generosity and hard work. Our Academy students have not only made a significant impact on a family’s life but also set an inspiring example for other young people to get involved. They have shown that with compassion and determination, we can make a world of difference.
“The group of rockstars at LiveDifferent make such a positive impact on people’s lives and we wanted to help them make this happen for another family. We are so honoured to support this Build and wish to thank the young volunteers who travelled to Mexico to help build this home and work within the local community,” Zimmer adds.
A heartfelt thank you
We extend our deepest gratitude to the World Airline Road Race organizers, participants, and everyone who contributed to this cause. Your support has not only changed the lives of Olivia and her family but has also reinforced our belief in the power of community and compassion.
Learn more
Interested in getting involved with LiveDifferent’s Builds Program? Check out our upcoming public Builds trips or organize your own private group Build.
About WARR
The World Airline Road Race (WARR) is an annual event held in September/October, attracting over 1,000 participants from 40+ airlines. Now in its 41st year, it’s one of the largest airline athletic events globally. Hosted by a different airline each year, in partnership with the International WARR Committee, it promotes team-building and company pride through a series of activities. Highlights include a meet-and-greet, a T-shirt swap party, and the main events – the 5K and 10K walk-and-run. The event concludes with an awards dinner and dance, offering networking opportunities with airline professionals worldwide. Visit worldairlineroadrace.com to learn more.
This ERCDF enables LiveDifferent to further support the communities in which we work by responding to urgent or critical challenges, assisting with community projects and providing emergency relief in the face of natural disasters.
Over the past several months, these funds have been instrumental in providing assistance to various individuals and community initiatives. Of the $7,080 raised, 80% have gone toward medical assistance and 20% of the funds have gone toward community development.
Here’s how the generous contributions have supported some of these cases.
Emergency relief
Cancer support
LiveDifferent aided the Mexican non-profit Isaac Everardo AC, providing crocheted and knitted blankets, toques and essential supplies like Pediasure for families with children battling cancer. This support helps families cope with the challenges of distant medical treatment and emotional strain.
Medical costs
This fund continuously supports individuals by giving them access to the medicine and healthcare they need. From helping children with allergies and asthma to supporting a young man who suffered severe burns, we’ve been able to help many people on their road to recovery.
Funeral costs
The fund has consistently supported families with funeral expenses during difficult times, including the passing of a young asthmatic girl and the mother of two staff members.
Community development
Community reading programs
LiveDifferent supported two community reading programs in Mexico, providing books that teach important values and foster a love for reading among children, contributing to their educational and personal development.
Community Centre
The fund made a donation to a community centre in Padre Kino, run by a Canadian woman who provides valuable programs like crafts, English classes and a low-cost nursing program. This financial aid helps sustain the centre’s operations and services.
Rallying around families when they need it most
In the face of such adversity, meet Rafael and Yeraidi—a couple whose resilience and love shine through even in the darkest of times.
Rafael, a hardworking carpenter, experienced a life-altering accident when he fell from the second floor while working, resulting in severe injuries to his pelvis, back, ribs and legs. Miraculously, he survived, but the road to recovery has been arduous.
Yeraidi, his devoted wife, stands by his side, carrying the weight of their family’s future. With a 16-year-old daughter to care for and a baby on the way, she bears the immense responsibility of supporting her injured husband and preparing for the arrival of their new bundle of joy.
Beyond the emotional strain, financial hardships have added to their struggles. Rafael’s inability to work has made it difficult to make ends meet. There are days when they struggle to put food on the table, and they’ve been unable to afford basic necessities like medications and electricity bills. The family owed three months of rent, and their fridge and front door were both broken. The simple comforts we often take for granted had become distant dreams for this family.
Through the Emergency Relief and Community Development Fund, LiveDifferent has been able to cover their medical expenses while also paying for a new refrigerator for the family. One of our staff members has also generously paid their electrical bills.
Now that they have a refrigerator, Sandra, one of the community leaders who works closely with LiveDifferent, has committed to teaching Yeraidi how to make ice cream to sell within her community. This donation will not only help the family in their current circumstances, but it will also give them a source of income that will help carve a more promising future.
A collective effort is required to extend support and kindness to families like Rafael, Yeraidi and their children. Even the smallest gestures can make an enormous impact on their lives.
How can you help?
By donating directly to LiveDifferent’s Emergency Relief and Community Development Fund, you can help uplift this family and many others by showing them that they are not alone in their journey.
Even a small donation can make a huge difference in the lives of those struggling to get by – $50 has fed a family for a week, $30 has provided limb-saving medical attention and $80 has given a mother the medicine she needs to care for her family.
Become the change a family needs to transform their lives for the better! Donate today.
Welcoming hope: Two sisters find a new beginning at Freedom Village
Welcoming hope: Two sisters find a new beginning at Freedom Village
At LiveDifferent, we believe in the power of change, the potential for transformation, and the importance of community. We are thrilled to share a heartwarming update that marks a significant step forward in our mission to make a difference in the lives of youth. We’ve welcomed the first two girls, sisters, into the Freedom Village in Haiti.
Emanuela, our dedicated house Mom at Freedom Village, has opened her heart to these brave young girls. Her nurturing and unwavering commitment to their well-being has already started to make a difference in their lives.
Life hasn’t been easy for these sisters. They’ve faced adversity that would have left most of us feeling defeated. But what sets them apart is their unyielding spirit, resilience, and the hope they carry in their hearts. It’s a hope that’s not only helping them overcome their past but propelling them toward a brighter future.
Thanks to our incredibly generous donors, this opportunity has become a reality. This support has created a safe haven for these girls and many more who will follow in their footsteps. The Freedom Village stands as a symbol of hope, a place where dreams can flourish, and lives can be rebuilt.
LiveDifferent’s Manager of Construction and Logistics and Community Liaison, Frantzo Begin says, “Today it is a pleasure to be here and to see the dream we had a long time ago and see the reality of the dream. There’s no words to say how appreciative we are for the work LiveDifferent is doing because of all the donors and the support from the LoveLegacy community.”
In the community of Calvaire, these sisters are discovering a new family, a loving environment, and the support they need to thrive. They’re not just learning, growing and living; they’re embracing a second chance at life.
Thank you to our donors for helping us make this new beginning possible for these two sisters. Together, we are creating a world where dreams are not just chased but caught, where lives are not just lived but celebrated, and where adversity is not a roadblock but a stepping stone to a brighter future.
Learn more
Freedom Village will soon have the capacity to house 28 girls who have experienced abuse through Haiti’s Restavek system.
Want to get involved? Become a monthly LoveLegacy partner and watch your contributions change lives.
Sign up for our newsletter to receive monthly updates about our Compassion Projects in Haiti.
With Love Gala: a night of inspiration, impact and connection
With Love Gala: a night of inspiration, impact and connection
We are overjoyed to share the heartwarming success of our annual With Love Gala, an event that truly embodied the essence of love, compassion and unity. It was a night filled with incredible generosity and an unwavering commitment to making a profound impact on the lives of youth in both Canada and Haiti.
A night to remember
On the evening of Sept. 28, 2023, we gathered at the Canadian Museum of Human Rights in Winnipeg for a gala that exceeded all expectations. The highlight of the night? The remarkable fundraising effort that took place.
Our With Love community raised $240,000 to bolster LiveDifferent’s youth programs in Canada and Haiti. These funds are instrumental in our mission to expand our programs, opening up more opportunities for young people who truly need them and empowering them to build brighter futures.
This year, we added some unique elements to the gala including an opening youth performance by Marquis Dance Academy, live tattooing by Kate Falk, owner of Long Live Tattoos, as well as Indigenous drummers Shannon and Gladys, Jazz musician Carter Graham, and singer/songwriter Catie St. Germain.
Thank you for making a difference
To all of you who joined us as – donors, partners, sponsors and volunteers – we want to extend our deepest gratitude. Your support was nothing short of extraordinary, and it showed us the incredible power of collective action. Your presence and contributions demonstrated that when we unite with love and purpose, we have the ability to create lasting change in the lives of young people. Your generosity left us truly humbled.
A special thanks to our event sponsor, Derksen Manitoba—your unwavering support for our cause has been absolutely invaluable.
Photos by Lindsay Winter Photography
Learn more
At LiveDifferent, we firmly believe in the power of love and compassion to ignite positive change. With your ongoing support, we will make even more dreams come true for generations to come.
For more information about LiveDifferent and our ongoing efforts, sign up for our newsletter to receive bi-weekly updates.
Once again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being an integral part of this incredible journey. Together, we are lighting up the world With Love, one act of kindness at a time.
At the heart of LiveDifferent Academy lies a transformative experience that transcends traditional classroom learning. Known as the “Week in the Life,” this pivotal week is an immersive encounter that exposes students to the realities faced by countless individuals around the world. It is a unique opportunity for Academy participants to step outside their comfort zones, push boundaries and develop profound insights into privilege, gratitude and human connection.
What is the ‘Week in the Life’?
The Week in the Life is an initiative that brings students closer to the daily struggles and challenges endured by many individuals in underserved communities. It involves living in a basic shelter, engaging in manual labour, and relying on meagre wages to meet essential needs. The goal is to bridge the gap between the privileged world many of us inhabit and the stark realities for many people living in developing communities around the globe.
Through the testimonials of our 2022 cohort, we gain a deeper understanding of the impact of this extraordinary week:
Caitlin: “The most challenging aspect was actually the food situation… Throughout the week, we struggled with what food to buy due to what we could afford, balancing individual preferences, and getting food that would fill us up but was still nutritious.”
Eddie: “The work days pushed me to my limit. Having to ration our food and budget made it a lot worse… It made me feel very defeated and deflated.”
Katelynn: “I left the week in the life feeling confused and overwhelmed… I was so concerned about my well-being for such a short time while there are people who live that way every day.”
Logan: “This past week I found myself regularly asking myself ‘why me?’… How come I was so much more privileged than most of our world?”
Aspen: “I recognized that I was born in a country where salary is an affordable rate and that this is not always the case… It’s heartbreaking that our world is so unfair.”
Expectations, rules and realities
Academy students are leave their phones behind during Week in the Life, they take public transportation to work, are given strarting money of only 250 pesos along with a daily wage of roughly 200 pesos, and drinking water. From there, they are expected to budget for food and additional water, and firewood, and any additional transportation.
Throughout the week there will be random scenarios which simulate real-life problems a family may encounter. Things like new school uniforms, an illness, or medical bills, may come your way and cut into your weekly earnings.
Most important takeaways from the Week in the Life
The Week in the Life is undeniably the most critical week of LiveDifferent Academy for several reasons:
Empathy and understanding: It fosters empathy and a deep understanding of the struggles faced by marginalized communities. Students not only witness but also experience the challenges firsthand.
Gratitude and humility: It instills gratitude for the privileges we often take for granted, such as access to clean water, nutritious food, and safe shelter. It humbles participants and encourages them to appreciate the little things in life.
Human connection: It reinforces the importance of human connection. The support and camaraderie within the group during this challenging week highlight the significance of community and compassion.
Social responsibility: It awakens a sense of social responsibility. Students are motivated to make a positive impact, no matter how small, in the lives of those less fortunate.
Personal growth: It pushes individuals far outside of their comfort zones and encourages personal growth. Facing this level of adversity and adapting to previously unfathomable circumstances can lead to profound self-discovery.
In conclusion, the Week in the Life is not just a week; it’s a life-changing experience that reshapes perspectives and cultivates empathy. It challenges students to question their privileges, appreciate the power of human connection, and develop a sense of social responsibility. It is a pivotal component of the LiveDifferent Academy, a testament to the program’s commitment to fostering global citizens who are compassionate, grateful, and determined to make a difference in the world.
8 mental wellness tips for creating an inviting classroom
8 mental wellness tips for creating an inviting classroom
In our books, there’s no job more important than teaching!
Teachers are the guiding lights that illuminate young minds and shape the future. From the early morning greetings to the late-night lesson planning, your dedication knows no bounds. You create safe havens where students can flourish, allowing them to embrace their unique talents and discover their passions.
Your impact extends far beyond the classroom walls.
Teachers have the incredible opportunity to not only educate students academically but also to nurture their overall well-being. By incorporating mental wellness education into classrooms, you can empower students with essential skills and strategies that will benefit them throughout their lives.
To help with this mission, we’ve provided eight practical tips to help teach students about mental wellness. Inspired by our Circles Program, these tips will help students develop empathy, resilience, self-care practices and emotional intelligence.
8 mental wellness tips to use in your classroom
By gathering around a shared set of values and agreements, students are invited to show up in ways that foster brave space. We use these tips when gathering to have meaningful conversations about things that matter, but they can also apply within your classroom and beyond.
Commit to kindness
Cultivate a culture of kindness in your classroom. Teach students to recognize and respect the emotions and experiences of others, and show them that caring for others contributes to their own well-being as well. Encourage acts of kindness, empathy-building activities, and opportunities for students to support and uplift their peers.
Classroom example: Create a “compliment chain”. Hang a string or chain along one of the walls and encourage students to write anonymous compliments on small pieces of paper and attach them to the chain. This could be something they appreciate about a classmate’s personality, a helpful action they witnessed or a talent someone possesses.
Desire to develop
Remind students that each of us has the potential to become a better version of ourselves, and increase eagerness to learn and grow. Encourage student growth through self-reflection and guide students in reflecting on their thoughts, feelings and actions.
Classroom example: Have students keep a daily gratitude, emotions or self-care journal, and help them identify patterns, triggers and areas of personal growth.
Connect in cause
Students benefit when they understand their life experience is not just about their individual selves, but how we as a group can make a meaningful impact on the world around us. Rally your students to get involved in the school or wider community through volunteering or acts of kindness.
Classroom example: Identify volunteer opportunities through school clubs or events, start a fundraiser or collect donation items for a local charity, or research one cause that students can start raising awareness about.
Enforce a judgment-free zone
When we encourage students to drop their judgments and simply listen with open hearts, that is where meaningful connections flourish. Create an environment where students can feel comfortable discussing their emotions and experiences. Encourage open dialogue about mental health and well-being, allowing students to share their thoughts, concerns and questions without judgment.
Classroom example: Use initiatives like LiveDifferent’s Peer Mentorship Program in the classroom. This program was designed to build community and develop both leadership and personal development in students. It includes videos, resources and material needed for students to have discussions around authenticity, empathy, growth mindset, resilience, values and altruism.
Honour personal stories and boundaries
Building trust among peers takes a lot of courage, and one way to honour that is by encouraging students to keep stories that are shared in the classroom experience within the classroom (unless it concerns anyone’s safety).
Classroom example: Collaboratively create a “Circle of Trust” agreement. Explain that this doesn’t mean students can’t talk about what they’ve learned or discussed, but rather they won’t share identifying details or personal experiences that others have shared without permission. This agreement can be written down and displayed in the classroom, serving as a visual reminder of the commitment they’ve made.
Choose to share, pass or come back to me
Any time you are asking students to be brave in the classroom space, employ options that make them feel OK to pass on a question, share as little as they are comfortable with, or if they need more time before answering, employ the choice to “come back to me.” Options, options, options!
Listen deeply one person at a time
Whenever possible, encourage students to listen deeply, without interrupting others. Encourage students to engage not to debate or argue, but to primarily make people feel heard, seen and understood.
Classroom example: Show students this video and have them R.A.P: Reflect, ask and posture. Have students pair up in this listening exercise, and have them reflect back on what their partner says to them, ask questions about it, and ensure they have good posture and look friendly to show they’re listening.
Normalize seeking help
Reduce the stigma surrounding mental health by normalizing the act of seeking help. Discuss the availability of support systems within the school, such as counsellors or psychologists. Remind them that they are not alone and teach students that reaching out for help is a courageous and essential step toward maintaining their mental wellness.
Classroom example: Invite mental health professionals, counsellors or individuals with lived experiences to speak to your students. You can also redirect students to the resources available at your school or the Crisis Text Line.
Dive deeper with Circles
By integrating mental wellness education into classrooms, you can empower students with lifelong skills to navigate the challenges they may face.
LiveDifferent’s Circles program can help you put the above tips into practice. It is designed to help young people explore important values, build stronger relationships and get activated in kindness, leaving your youth more compassionate, resilient and hopeful. Book a discovery call today to learn how Circles can work in your school or classroom.
As teachers, you have the power to shape not only students’ academic success but their overall happiness and resilience. Let us embrace our roles as mental wellness advocates and guide students toward a brighter, healthier future!
We’re shining a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible individuals on LiveDifferent’s board of directors!
Each person plays a pivotal role in guiding LiveDifferent’s vision, strategy and impact—fueling our mission to create positive change in the world. Their unwavering dedication, expertise and boundless compassion have been instrumental in transforming countless lives and communities.
Prepare to be uplifted as we uncover untold stories, wisdom gained and the passion that drives this team to make a difference.
Meet Kerry Brandt, Chairman of the Board
Kerry lives in Rosenort, Manitoba, where he and his lovely wife Barb, raised three wonderful children.
Kerry and Barb dreamt of being a part of hope and change in a tangible way, and when they heard about a friend’s kid going on a life-changing humanitarian trip, they realized they wanted to do the same thing with their kids. Another friend mentioned crossing paths with a LiveDifferent staff member in Mexico, so Kerry called up the office in Hamilton to learn more.
Coincidentally, LiveDifferent’s CEO, Charles Roberts, was in Winnipeg when he called, so the two met up at a truck stop and from there planned the family’s first Build. That initial trip resulted in many more Builds and eventually led to Kerry accepting the Chairman position on our Board of Directors.
When he’s not busy leading the charge for LiveDifferent, Kerry wears multiple hats as a co-owner of Brandt Trucking—a family-run business that has been a partner of LiveDifferent since 2008. As the head of sales and marketing, he spends his days connecting with potential customers, all the while daydreaming about the next time he can visit our LiveDifferent communities.
His heart is truly invested in the cause, and his unwavering support shines through in his kind words, thoughtful gifts and mouthwatering steak BBQs!
Q: What inspired you to join the LiveDifferent board?
A: My whole family fell in love with LiveDifferent during our first Build. As I learned more about the organization, I wanted to get involved in guiding and protecting the organization, and my background equipped me to help in this way.
Q: What is your favourite thing about being a board member?
A:Always the people! The board members, the staff, the road teams, everyone!
Q: How has your experience with LiveDifferent changed you as a person?
A: LiveDifferent has opened me up to a different level of empathy and a desire to do all I can to make the world a better place for others. I’ve learned that time is currency, that you only get to spend it once and I want to be strategic with how it is spent.
Q: If you could pick one project or initiative that you are most proud of, what would it be and why?
A: I’ve thought about this question a lot and it’s very tough to choose, but the work that has been done within Indigenous communities and with their youth wins. I was able to visit Oxford House with Sheila [North], it’s where she grew up – that was an unforgettable day.
It’s such a complex issue with no easy answer and so people often avoid it, but LiveDifferent doesn’t shy away from people. They just want to make a difference and so jump in, do what you can with what you got.
Q: How have you seen LiveDifferent’s work positively impact people’s lives?
A: I have so many examples, but after our first Build trip in Mexico, we went back again the next Christmas and visited the family from the first trip. Seeing the transformation a house made to the family, seeing the difference, the family said the house was the catalyst to change for improving their lives.
Q: How do you hope to contribute to LiveDifferent in the future?
A: I’d love to contribute in whatever ways I can. My goal is to get to a place where Barb and I can spend extended time in Haiti or Mexico or the Dominican Republic; maybe even travel on the ice road tour!
Learn more
We are immensely grateful to the extraordinary individuals like Kerry who make up our board of directors. We are privileged to have such an exceptional group who wholeheartedly believe in our vision and generously share their time, skills and resources to ensure our success.
Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with the incredible minds behind the scenes. Learn more about our team and get inspired to create change alongside them.
20 creative fundraising ideas to help you make an impact
20 creative fundraising ideas to help you make an impact
Are you looking for a creative and unique way to raise funds for your favourite charity? Then look no further! We’ve compiled a list of 20 creative fundraising ideas to help you reach your goals.
These activities are a great way to raise money, bring people together and have fun. From bake sales to trivia nights and everything in between, there’s something to suit everyone’s interests and skill sets.
Ready to make a difference? Let’s get started!
Fundraising for a LiveDifferent Build
At LiveDifferent, we believe that everyone can make an impact, no matter how big or small.
Fundraising for a LiveDifferent Build may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. You’ll be able to point people to your own personal fundraising page and when they donate $20 or more to your Build, we’ll be able to issue them a tax receipt. This means donors will be able to claim up to 100% of their donation on their tax return. This is a nice perk to mention when asking friends and family for support.
The sooner you start fundraising the better. It’s important to set goals to make sure you meet the fundraising requirements in time for your Build. So before you start, be sure to ask yourself:
How much money needs to be raised?
When do I need to raise it by?
What resources do I have available?
What kind of fundraiser will my community support?
How much money will I realistically raise with each fundraiser?
These questions will help you plan and focus your efforts. With LiveDifferent, you have the freedom to choose how you raise funds: you can create your own unique fundraiser or use one of our pre-made templates, such as Fund-a-Flight, Fund-a-Project or Fund-a-Vacation.
Whatever your goal is, we can help you get there.
20 creative fundraisers
These creative fundraising ideas will help you rally your community to support your cause.
The more people who know about your fundraiser, the more successful you’ll be, so be sure to use social media, email, flyers and even local newspapers, radio and television to help spread the word. And whatever fundraiser you choose, highlight that all proceeds go towards a charity—this will encourage even more people to come!
Ready to make your Build a reality? Here are some of our volunteers’ favourite ways to fundraise:
Yard sale
Declutter your home and make some cash at the same time. Go through your house and find anything you no longer want or need, ask your friends and neighbours to do the same, and set up a sale in your yard. You’ll be surprised at how much you can raise from second-hand items!
Bake sale
If you’re handy in the kitchen, now’s your time to get creative and whip up all sorts of delicious treats, from cakes, cupcakes and cookies, to pies and pastries. Plus, it’s a great way to get the community involved, as people can donate their baking skills and time to make something special. You could even take this to the next level and sell a community cookbook. Not only is it a great way to raise money, but it’s also an opportunity to bring people together and share a little sweetness.
Lori Nitah and Shirley Christiansen baked a few pies for their trip.
Craft sale
Are you crafty? You can sell handmade items such as jewelry, cards, paintings, knitwear and more, or you can even showcase products from local artisans. With a craft sale, you can also set up activities like face painting, balloon animals and other fun activities to make the event more entertaining.
Barbecue
Enjoy delicious food with friends and family at a good old-fashioned BBQ! You can make an entire day of it with lawn games, water fights and maybe a hot dog eating contest or two.
You can also partner with a local business for an even bigger impact—they can match donations or donate food and drinks to support the event (your local Boston Pizza might be a good place to start!). They’ll get brand exposure and you’ll be able to amplify your fundraising efforts; it’s a win-win.
Shave a head
Is there someone your school would love to see without any hair? This fundraiser has the potential to raise a large amount in a short period of time. You can ask your friends to donate an amount for each inch of hair your volunteers are willing to shave off, or shave someone’s entire head by reaching a fundraising goal (maybe even their eyebrows!).
Car wash
Get your friends on board and set up a car wash at your local gas station (with the manager’s approval of course). Create big signs and have volunteers on the street directing people your way. You could have a set price or request donations. With the right planning and a little bit of elbow grease, a car wash can be a great way to make a difference!
Raffles and 50-50 draws
Find or make something of value and sell tickets for that item. It might be an autographed picture of someone famous, season tickets, gift cards or even a weekend getaway! You might even be able to get things donated to the raffle from local businesses.
To make it simple, sell tickets for a 50-50 draw letting everyone know 50% of the money raised goes to the name pulled in the draw, and 50% goes towards your fundraising goal. Remember to check if you are required to obtain a license to host a raffle.
Barb Moore Crowson’s horseshoe art.
Something-a-thon
A “marathon” style fundraiser is a great way to have fun and raise money. To get started, decide on an activity such as a walk-a-thon, dance-a-thon or read-a-thon, and set a goal for the amount of money you would like to raise. Invite friends, family, and community members to join in the fun, and have participants collect pledges based on the number of miles walked, hours danced, pages read, etc.
Tournaments
Bring people together for some friendly competition! Whether it’s a three-on-three basketball tournament, a mini-golf tournament or even a video game tournament, there’s something to appeal to everyone. If you want to take it a step further, reach out to your school’s athletic department to see if any upcoming tournaments are looking for a cause to donate their proceeds.
Sell a kilometre
People can help fund your trip by purchasing kilometres. To do this, calculate the cost of the entire trip to your destination. Then divide this cost by the number of kilometres you will be travelling. This will tell you the cost per kilometre. People can then choose to fund as many kilometres as they like at that cost.
You can also keep track of your fundraising progress with a map of your round-trip route. As you raise money, mark off the distance covered by the sponsors. FYI: Toronto to Sosua, DR, is approximately 3,200 km; and Toronto to Vicente Guerrero, MX, is approximately 4,200 km.
Bottle drive
Ask your family, friends and neighbours to donate their used bottles and cans for redemption. You can even have a friendly competition to see who can bring in the most recyclables. A bottle drive is an easy and effective way to raise money—it’s also environmentally friendly!
Paint night
Bring people together to create something beautiful. Invite a local artist to lead the painting session to make the night even more memorable. You can also provide snacks and drinks while you create your unique masterpieces. No experience necessary—all you need is a brush and a sense of adventure!
Trivia night
Put your smarts to the test and compete with friends and family in a series of rounds of trivia. Create a variety of trivia categories, such as pop culture, current events, sports and music—bonus points If you include some trivia about the place you’re travelling to for your build. You can also offer food, drinks and even prizes for the top teams.
Silent auction
Guests can bid on items of their choice and the highest bidder will take home the prize. You can offer a variety of items like gift baskets, gift certificates, experiences or custom artwork. You can even get local businesses to donate products for a tax receipt equal to the goods donated. Jazz it up as much as you like: Have food for sale, a band and even a multi-media Builds presentation.
Benefit concert
Do you know a band that would be willing to donate their time and talent for a free concert? Or a theatre troupe that is ready to take the stage for a memorable musical performance? Find a local venue to host the concert and put on a fun event for your friends, family and community. Be sure to select a venue that is licensed for this type of event.
Tyler Leighton and friends worked tirelessly to bring together the Music of the Night benefit concert. Photo Credit: Kayla Gordon
Fine dining
Invite friends and family to come together for a delicious meal. You can offer a variety of options for dinner, from a potluck-style dinner to a more formal sit-down dinner. To make it easy, you can provide a suggested donation amount for guests to contribute.
You can also make it extra special by researching local foods from the area you’ll be travelling to for your Build and including them in the meal. This is great as a way to give more information to your guests about what you are doing as well!
Community work
Offer to do odd jobs around town. Think gardening, pet sitting, babysitting, housework, car repairs or even carpentry; whatever people need doing that suits your skill set. You can advertise online or post flyers around your community; the fee would be whatever people would like to pay.
Local businesses and community groups
This is a great way to find corporate or community sponsorship opportunities in your area! Many local businesses and community groups are willing to support charitable efforts and may be interested in partnering with you. You can also leverage their networks to spread the word about your Build.
City and school council
Tap into the resources of your city and school! Oftentimes, local town councils have a stockpile of grant money available to support fundraisers such as this and may be able to offer sponsorship. School councils also host a ton of events throughout the year and may be willing to donate some of their proceeds. Connect with your local council members to see if this is an option.
Birthday or holiday fundraiser
Celebrate your special day by giving back! On an occasion when you would normally receive presents from friends and family, let all the gift-givers know that you would appreciate a donation to your trip instead. This is a great way to show everyone that it’s better to give than receive!
Learn more
No matter what type of fundraiser you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and be creative! With a little bit of planning, you can come up with a successful fundraiser that will help you reach your goals.
Now that you’ve gotten some great ideas for your upcoming fundraiser, it’s time to get started. Set a goal, create a plan and start reaching out to friends and family to help you make it happen. With the right attitude and a bit of hard work, you’ll be well on your way to making the world a better place, one fundraiser at a time!
We’re shining a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible individuals on LiveDifferent’s board of directors!
Each person plays a pivotal role in guiding LiveDifferent’s vision, strategy and impact, fueling our mission to create positive change in the world. Their unwavering dedication, expertise and boundless compassion have been instrumental in transforming countless lives and communities.
Prepare to be uplifted as we uncover untold stories, wisdom gained and the passion that drives this team to make a difference.
Meet Paige Derksen
Paige is the newest member of the LiveDifferent team and a dedicated realtor residing and working in Winnipeg. With a heart for community involvement, Paige’s journey with LiveDifferent began around ten years ago when her aunt, uncle, and cousins – who were already engaged with the organization – shared their experiences of participating in various Builds. Inspired by their stories, Paige and her immediate family started attending LiveDifferent galas and providing financial support from the inception of the event.
Driven by a personal desire to contribute on a deeper level, Paige took the initiative to involve her work team at Marcia Bergen Group in supporting the Freedom Village. Every year, a portion of their commissions from each transaction goes towards ensuring the safety and well-being of a girl living in the village. Given her profession as a realtor, Paige recognizes the importance of secure housing and finds it fulfilling to give back to the community in this manner.
Q: What inspired you to join the LiveDifferent Board of Directors?
A: I was motivated to join the board at LiveDifferent because I wanted to give back uniquely, beyond just money. I planned to invest my time and energy to make a real impact and help improve the lives of others. By actively engaging with the organization, I aim to use my skills and dedication to make a meaningful difference and support its mission.
Q: What is your favourite thing about being a board member?
A:Since joining the board, I’ve loved two things: making new connections and getting an inside look at how the organization really works. It’s given me a better understanding of how I can help out and encourage others to give back too. I’m excited to explore more ways to support the cause and inspire a culture of giving.
Q: If you could pick one project or initiative that you are most proud of, what would it be and why?
A: One achievement that fills me with pride is the Freedom Village in Haiti. Witnessing its growth and development since my initial involvement with LiveDifferent has been truly remarkable.
It is incredibly exciting to see the village open its doors, and even more so to have the opportunity to support a girl, providing her with a safe living environment and access to education. I am thrilled and deeply excited to watch the girls in the Freedom Village heal, recover and grow. Their safety and well-being are of paramount importance, and knowing that they can now live in a secure environment fills my heart with joy.
The Marcia Bergen Group, the team I am part of, is excited to be partnering with LiveDifferent and eagerly anticipates the incredible work that lies ahead at the Freedom Village. We are committed to witnessing the positive impact and transformation that will shape the lives of these girls in the future.
Q: How has your experience with LiveDifferent changed you as a person?
A: My experience with LiveDifferent has enhanced my empathy, compassion and commitment to making a positive impact. I have gained a broader perspective, developed resilience and deepened my sense of purpose. Overall, LiveDifferent has transformed me into a more socially conscious and proactive individual dedicated to creating positive change by living differently every day.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering getting involved with LiveDifferent?
A: Just do it! Even if you think your contributions won’t make a difference, know that they will. Every bit helps and it doesn’t always have to be financial, it can be your time and energy – but everything helps!
Learn more
We are immensely grateful to the extraordinary individuals like Paige who make up our board of directors. We are privileged to have such an exceptional group who wholeheartedly believe in our vision and generously share their time, skills and resources to ensure our success.
Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with the incredible minds behind the scenes. Learn more about our team and get inspired to create change alongside them.
Why every parent should consider a LiveDifferent Build for their kid
Why every parent should consider a LiveDifferent Build for their kid
If you’re a parent considering sending your child on a humanitarian build, it’s likely you have a few questions.
We understand that sending your kids off to a distant country and entrusting them with the responsibility of helping build homes alongside people facing hardships can be both exciting and nerve-wracking.
Rest assured, safety and security are LiveDifferent’s top priorities, and we make sure that each volunteer is well cared for from start to finish.
But beyond safety concerns, there’s something truly special about participating in a Build with LiveDifferent.
A Build reinforces all of the important lessons you’ve taught your kids growing up. It’s an incredible opportunity for your child to gain valuable insight into their world, make life-long friends, discover their capabilities and understand the immense power they have to make a difference.
Can you trust LiveDifferent with your kid?
We at LiveDifferent have been running humanitarian travel projects since 2005, and have had over 5,000 participants with no serious incidents.
We have carefully planned our programs and routes to ensure a safe and culturally enriching experience. We recognize there are always safety measures and risks when travelling to any developing country, and with this in mind, we pay close attention to what is going on in local communities and along the routes we travel.
“Any parents that are considering this, I would just say put your trust in the LiveDifferent crew,” says Lucy Gibson, a parent who recently joined a LiveDifferent Build as a chaperone for her daughter’s school. “They really watch out for the kids – safety is first and foremost – and it’s just really, really well organized. … It feels safe with the LiveDifferent group.“
We maintain excellent community relations and work diligently alongside community leaders, other NGOs working in the area, and often government officials in each country that we work in. All of our staff are first aid certified, well-versed in safety protocols and we always have access available to quality medical attention if needed.
And if any safety concerns come to our attention before or during the program, we communicate this immediately to registered volunteers and their parents or guardians.
“Right from the get-go, there was a lot of information,” says Lucy. “You know, part of the LiveDifferent crew actually lives here, knows the communities, and that’s part of the culture that they try and bring; that culture of trust within the communities.”
How does a LiveDifferent Build benefit your kid?
Aside from maintaining strict safety standards, there are many reasons why sending your child on a Build can be beneficial for their growth and development.
LiveDifferent focuses on shaping the future of each of our volunteers in a profound way while unleashing their potential to make a difference. A Build gives them the opportunity to explore new interests, create valuable experiences, gain independence and work towards a meaningful career. It also teaches important life skills such as problem-solving, effective communication and the importance of teamwork.
Our volunteers also learn about social justice issues from local experts, providing them with an understanding of why their work is so essential in helping communities break out of poverty cycles. We believe that everyone has a responsibility to help those in need and stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves, and we are proud to provide our volunteers with this opportunity.
“I thought it would be a great experience to have with [my daughter] before she goes off to university,” says Lucy. “And also to create awareness within herself to know how privileged we are just to be born in Canada and have what we have, and just give a glimpse of what’s out there in the world and how we can help.”
What’s more, our Builds are incredibly fun! Participants can expect to take part in awesome activities during their free time such as cooking local food, beach days, zip-lining adventures and much more.
“Every day is a new day,” says Lucy. “The itinerary that LiveDifferent puts together is, you know, that of a great balance of work and play. There’s a lot of play on the worksite, but then the kids get to go back and play some football in the pool, play cards, have a movie night; so there’s a great balance.”
What are you waiting for?
At LiveDifferent, we provide a safe and valuable learning experience for your child, while giving you the ability to stay connected throughout. Most of all, we will strive to help your child make the world a better place and change their lives forever.
But don’t just take our word for it …
We would love to have LiveDifferent be a part of your family’s journey! If you have any questions about our Builds or safety procedures, please don’t hesitate to contact us or visit our Builds page to learn more.
And if you’d like to join your child on a Build, the more the merrier! We love having families join us in making a difference, and know that the experience will be equally enriching for everyone involved.
