Part of crafting sustainable local communities that offer ecologically-friendly solutions also means giving back to local community organizations says David Chan, senior owner and branch manager for Aplin and Martin, a company known for its world-class team of civil engineers, architects, land surveyors and urban planners.
“Supporting a great cause like SOURCES allows us to give back some of the benefits we’ve gained through our own growth,” Chan explains.
Established 52 years ago, Aplin and Martin has experienced tremendous growth in the past 10-15 years, expanding from 65 employees to nearly 200. With offices in B.C., Alberta and Ontario as well as a headquarters in Surrey, B.C., the company decided five years ago to become a gold level SOURCES gala sponsor.
“We noticed some of our industry partners were also sponsors so we knew this would be a good community organization to support,” says Chan.
The SOURCES gala is an annual fundraising event that, typically, raises more than $200,000 to support various programs that help the homeless, hurt and hungry. This year, the funds will be used to support SOURCES COVID-19 “Comfort and Care” response fund during a time of unprecedented demand for services that include mental health counselling, food banks and the SOURCES rent bank.
“I’ve been to the SOURCES gala a few times…it’s always a great event,” Chan says. “I love trying my luck on the silent auction, although I don’t always win, and I love the Hazelmere golf course.”
“But, the most important part is knowing that we have helped others who are struggling or facing adversity in their lives because that is truly what it means to be part of the community.”