Western Financial Group Communities Foundation is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its national charity walk, set to take place from May 19 to 24.
Since its inception, the event has raised over $1 million for local projects such as playgrounds, scholarships and community space improvements.
This year, the walk is rebranded as the National Walk for Safe Places, with a focus on building communities that are resilient in the face of growing risks, including those related to insurance and climate change.
“The role of insurance is crucial in helping communities adapt to increasing risks, whether it’s from climate disasters or other challenges like rising housing costs and mental health pressures,” said Grant Ostir, CEO of Western Financial Group and foundation board president.
“As a proudly Canadian company, we understand the value of providing security and stability, both in terms of coverage and in the communities we support.”
During the event, thousands of Western team members, partners and community members will walk together in more than 150 communities across Canada, advocating for safe places to live, work and play.
The initiative aligns with the growing need for resilience in communities, highlighting the critical role that insurance can play in mitigating risks posed by extreme weather events and other local challenges.
In the context of rising climate-related risks, insurance companies are increasingly called upon to provide coverage that ensures homes, infrastructure, and communities are protected from the financial impacts of natural disasters. Western’s renewed focus on building safe places emphasizes not just community engagement but also the importance of fostering environments where insurance can play a protective and stabilizing role.
“Our new focus on safe places underlines the need for communities to be not only connected and engaged but also financially protected,” said Nancy Green-Bolton, Western Communities Foundation board chair and Western Financial Group COO. “By supporting resilient neighbourhoods, we are helping ensure that insurance coverage can be better applied, allowing families and businesses to recover faster from unforeseen events.”
The company also launched the #StepUpAndShare Photowalk Challenge from May 1 to 24. Each post enters the participant for a chance to win a $1,000 donation for their charity.
“Through initiatives like this, we not only create stronger communities but also demonstrate the ongoing need for insurance solutions that support long-term resilience,” said Michelle Mak, director of Western Communities Foundation.
