Turning Compassion into Action

The Dade Portfolio Team in the Condo/HOA Division at FirstService Residential came together with a shared goal: to turn compassion into meaningful action for families affected by devastating earthquakes in Colombia and Venezuela.

We chose to support Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), a humanitarian organization providing critical disaster relief to communities in need, including families impacted by the recent earthquakes in Venezuela and Colombia.

Our efforts began by collecting gently used items that could be given a second life while helping families in need. Our team also raised more than $220, which we used to purchase much-needed supplies to support GEM’s ongoing relief efforts. We wanted our contribution to go beyond donations.

On Wednesday, September 30, our team will volunteer our time with GEM, working side by side to support their humanitarian relief efforts and help prepare essential aid for families recovering from disaster.

For us, this Summer of Service is about more than the items collected or the dollars raised. It’s about recognizing that service can take many forms coming together as a team and giving what we can, and, most importantly, giving our time.

We are proud to represent FirstService Residential while putting #FirstServeOthers into action. By coming together as a team, we hope our contribution can become part of something much larger—providing hope and support to people when they need it most.

Submitted by Paula De La Salas, FirstService Residential

FirstService Residential NY Team’s Back-to-School Donation Drive Supporting Friends of Karen

The New York team recently held a donation drive in support of Friends of Karen’s 2026 Back-to-School initiative, helping provide school supplies to children whose families are facing the financial challenges associated with caring for a terminally ill child. For these families, the cost of back-to-school shopping can add significant financial pressure during an already difficult time. The donated supplies provide children with the tools they need to start the school year prepared while helping ease some of that financial burden for their families.

The response from associates was tremendous, with more than 200 brand-new school supplies collected through donations made directly to the HR office. Associates also supported the initiative through monetary contributions and by shipping school supplies directly to Friends of Karen. Through these combined efforts, the New York team helped ensure that children supported by Friends of Karen could begin the new school year with the supplies they need, while giving their families one less expense to worry about.

Submitted by Temo Primrose Gare, FirstService Residential

Volunteer Trip to Costa Rica

I had the opportunity to participate in a volunteer trip to Costa Rica, where I worked alongside others to help build a community center designed to serve local families and children. This trip was especially meaningful to me because it marked my **fourth international volunteer trip**, continuing my commitment to giving back to communities in need. On my previous trips, I helped **build homes for families in need**, providing them with safe and stable places to call home.

In Costa Rica, our work involved hands-on construction and teamwork to help create a safe and welcoming community center that will continue to serve local residents long after our trip. The center will provide a space for community events, educational programs, and training opportunities for children and families. It will also support **mental health initiatives**, providing a dedicated place where community members can access resources, participate in programs, connect with others, and receive support.

Each of my international volunteer experiences has reinforced the importance of service, teamwork, and giving back. Whether helping build a home for a family or creating a community center that can positively impact generations of residents, these experiences have allowed me to contribute to something bigger than myself. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve communities abroad for the fourth time and to play a small part in creating lasting, positive change.

Submitted by Joseph Capo, First Onsite

Paws, Purpose & Team Spirit: Baltimore Gives Back at the Maryland SPCA

Several members of our Baltimore team, along with my husband and son, recently spent a few hours volunteering at the Maryland SPCA, located just minutes from our California Closets showroom.

We had the chance to learn more about the incredible work the organization does while helping with morning walks, treats, and plenty of love for the dogs currently in their care. From energetic pups eager to explore to those simply looking for some extra attention, it was a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

The morning was filled with tail wags, happy faces, and lots of teamwork. It was also a great opportunity to step away from our day-to-day routines, spend time together, and give back to an organization that makes such a positive impact in our community.

By the end of the visit, we were already talking about our next volunteer opportunity. We’re grateful to the Maryland SPCA for welcoming us and for all they do to help animals find safe, loving homes.

Thanks also to Connie Johnson, our HR business parter, for joining us.

Submitted by Joy Zapanta, GM, CalClosets Baltimore

FIFA World Cup 2026 Toronto Volunteer

As a Hospitality Volunteer during the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Toronto, I had the opportunity to welcome fans from around the world and help create a positive and memorable experience at the stadium. My responsibilities included assisting guests with directions, answering questions, providing event information, and ensuring visitors felt comfortable and supported throughout their time at the venue. Being part of such a globally recognized event allowed me to work with a diverse team, connect with people from different cultures, and contribute to the success of an unforgettable international sporting event.

Submitted by: Gillian Young, FirstService Corporation

Power of the Purse

Residents and management staff from Valencia Shores, Valencia Lakes, Four Seasons and Miralago Master Associations recently came together to support Dress for Success through a “Power of the Purse” collection. Together, the communities donated more than 300 purses to the organization, which helps women achieve economic independence by providing professional attire, career development resources and a network of support. The donated purses will help women feel prepared and confident as they pursue employment opportunities and take important steps toward a brighter future. It’s a wonderful example of how a simple donation—multiplied across a community—can make a meaningful difference.

Learn More

Submitted by Dawn Czarnecki, FirstService Residential

Cooking Up Comfort

Our Kentucky team spent an afternoon at the Ronald McDonald House Louisville preparing egg bites and fruit yogurt parfait cups for the families staying there while their children receive medical care nearby. We also took a tour of the facility, which gave us a deeper understanding of the support system the House provides – a place for families to rest, regroup, and stay close to their kids during possibly some of the hardest moments of their lives.

Preparing food may seem like a small gesture, but for families navigating medical crises, having one less thing to worry about – a ready meal, a healthy snack – can make a real difference in their day. Our hope was to offer a moment of comfort and normalcy, and to show these families that their community sees them and cares.

This experience was a meaningful reminder of how volunteer efforts, even ones centered on something as simple as breakfast, can have a lasting impact on people during difficult times.

Submitted by: Carissa Sexton, California Closets

Paul Davis Animal Lovers Come Together to Support Jacksonville Humane Society

We had OODLES and OODLES of donations coming in during August at the ITC and here are some photos of our donations!  Based on some of the gift receipts that were available in the shipments, I’m estimating that we had well over $1,000 worth of items for the Jacksonville Humane Society!! What an amazing accomplishment! 😊

Submitted by Anita Thomson, Paul Davis