Allstate Canada Group and its employees care deeply about the wellbeing of people and organizations across Canada, and we are proud to support them as they give back to their communities.

Although the current pandemic has not always allowed our employees to volunteer in a traditional manner, many have decided to get creative. These Big Small Acts of Kindness are examples of simple things that many people can do and might make a big impact for those in need. As an example, here is the story of one of our employees:

Name of Employee: Martena Estabrooks
Job Title: Business Development Agent
Number of Years at Allstate Canada Group of Companies: 1
Charity/Organization Supported: Edmonton Homeless and Little Warriors

1. Tell us the story of how you started knitting scarves for the homeless. I was interested in learning more about how I can give back to my community; however, I wasn’t aware as to how I would be able to volunteer without being at an organization in person. After speaking with a colleague, we discussed some of my talents that I may have as a way to give back. It was through my skills of knitting that led me to want to knit scarves for the homeless.
2. Why are you passionate about this cause? I have never experienced such harsh winters as they are in Alberta. Every winter, I see people sitting outside against buildings, under highways and living in our “tent cities”. No one looks very happy or comfortable. This is a small way that I hope helped make someone’s winter just a bit more comfortable and to let them know that someone cares and is thinking about them.
3. What does volunteerism mean to you? Volunteering lets me reach out and lift up those that could use a hand. Right now, our world is so full of inconsistencies. Being a volunteer lets me find that consistency while using my skills to give back to those in need.
4. How has your volunteerism adapted to COVID? Without being able to leave the house, I’ve certainly had to reimagine how I volunteer. For me, it’s become a process of finding ways without leaving my house and being innovative. Last year it was knitting scarves. This year, I’ll also be including hats and mittens to my new project.
5. What advice would you give to people looking to volunteer but don’t know how to get started? I recommend thinking about what you already enjoy doing and how can it be integrated into giving back to your community. If you enjoy it, you will be successful and you will make it a very special part of your life.
6. What are you hoping to accomplish in 2021 with other businesses/organizations? I’m hoping to reach out to other businesses and build a stronger network of helping hands. I would like to meet new people and learn new skills that may open new avenues of support to others that may lack the resources to obtain it.