Calgary is becoming increasingly recognized for its commitment to inclusivity and child trauma support, with local businesses like Milk Jar Candle Co. and the initiative by Cherie Fernando leading the charge.
Milk Jar Candle Co., founded by Holly Singer, is not just about creating delightful fragrances—it’s about creating opportunities. Singer's mission from the very beginning has been to establish an inclusive workspace. With one-third of her 22 employees living with intellectual or physical disabilities, the values of the company resonate both internally and with the wider community. "It’s been a mission of the founder, Holly Singer, to create an inclusive workspace since the very beginning," stated the company profile.
Singer’s dedication stems from her background. With training in kinesiology and experience working with children with disabilities, she saw firsthand the type of challenges many people face. This inspired her to accommodate employees with flexible start times and shorter shifts, along with establishing a buddy system for on-the-job support. She believes everyone deserves the chance to thrive at work, and her company reflects this belief.
Looking forward, Milk Jar plans to expand its operations. This includes launching major rebranding efforts, introducing expanded workshops, and increasing international sales, which will not only bolster production but also boost charitable giving.
Meanwhile, Cherie Fernando is making strides on another front. Facing personal challenges due to her daughter’s health diagnosis, Fernando has started designing what she calls ‘supportive little buddies’—a line of sensory-specific stuffed animals aimed at helping children navigate trauma. "The carefully-designed stuffed animals are intended to help both kids and parents process difficult emotions," reported coverage of Fernando's work.
Fernando’s initiative began four years ago, turned from the heart-wrenching experiences she navigated alongside her daughter during hospital visits. These stuffed animals are crafted with unique cues aimed at aiding recovery for children, effectively bridging the gap between therapy and home life. The initiative is more than just business for Fernando; it's about fostering connection and finding healing.
Both of these local efforts highlight the unique ways Calgary businesses are stepping up to support their communities. By establishing inclusive workplaces and creating therapeutic products, they not only contribute to the economy but also promote the health and well-being of vulnerable populations.
Businesses like Milk Jar Candle Co. and Fernando’s endeavor showcase how commerce can intersect with compassion. This commitment not only aids those directly involved but also sends out ripples of change within the community. It offers valuable lessons on the importance of creating spaces where everyone can contribute meaningfully.
These stories of resilience and innovation inspire the hope for more companies to adopt similar practices, ensuring inclusivity becomes the norm rather than the exception. With aspirations for broader outreach and increased visibility, these businesses are set to lead the conversation about inclusivity and support moving forward.
Calgary's approach to supporting inclusivity and dealing with child trauma is emblematic of how local enterprises can play pivotal roles in societal healing. By weaving support and empathy directly within their business models, they not only uplift individuals but also challenge the status quo, encouraging others to follow suit.
