Responsible Giving; The Key to Positive Change Ending Chronic Homelessness in Ottawa is Good Business

SHEPHERDS OF GOOD HOPE spent time with five local businesspeople, asking them, straight up; “Why, as a business leader, is it important for you to give back?” “Someone experiencing homelessness today must be seen for who they are, without judgement,” says David Gourlay, CEO of Shepherds of Good Hope Foundation. “In Ottawa, we believe that people help people, and we must be there throughout their journey and be ready to help no matter their circumstances. Local business leaders like Ashley, Solange, Nik, Sofia and Devinder turn their words into action, seeing people as people, knowing that homelessness should only be a temporary experience.” “All of us deserve acceptance and tenderness,” Gourlay says. “And when businesses consciously decide to make a difference, they’re saying, ‘we see you, we hear you, we’re here to help’.”

In Their Words – Why We Give Back

“Ottawa has supported our businesses for nearly forty years, and in turn, it’s our duty to reciprocate. Institutions with a holistic approach, like Shepherds of Good Hope, are vital in directing resources where they’re most needed, whether for meals, addiction treatments, counseling, or healthcare.

Reducing homelessness benefits the broader community by decreasing public health risks and improving the overall quality of life for all residents.

To Shepherds staff, volunteers and donors, your contributions are the backbone of our progress. Your generosity goes beyond mere help; it is transformative. Every moment you invest and every donation you make creates a ripple of hope and change within our community.”

SOFIA SANTISO BORSTEN
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & ADVERTISEMENT,
THE GRAND PIZZERÍA & RESTAURANT GROUP

“Responsible giving is key to fostering positive change.”
— SOFIA SANTISO BORSTEN

“Giving back isn’t a choice—it’s a responsibility.”
— DEVINDER CHAUDHARY

“Ending chronic homelessness is a daunting challenge, but it is a challenge that we, as a community, must face head-on. The toxic drug crisis, coupled with the residual impact of the pandemic and soaring costs of living, has indeed created a perfect storm. Yet, the solution does not lie in pushing these issues to the margins of society.

As a business owner, I believe private enterprises, in collaboration with government and social organizations, must invest in tackling the root causes—substance abuse, mental health crises, and lack of affordable housing.

When I first arrived in Canada with less than $100 in my pocket, I experienced firsthand the opportunities that this country offers. Canada gave me more than I could ever have imagined, and it is now my duty, as a business leader and a member of this community, to pay it forward.”

DEVINDER CHAUDHARY CPA
OWNER, AIÃNA RESTAURANT

“Regardless of each of our current circumstances, life is unpredictable; an economic downturn, an injury followed by a challenging recovery, or a mental health crisis can put any of us, or our loved ones, into homelessness.

While there are organizations, like Shepherds, working tirelessly every day advocating for both immediate and long term change, we must recognize that the responsibility to sustain a supportive community is ours, too. By believing it could never affect us, we risk not only the futures of those who need help today but also of those we love in our community.

As business leaders, acknowledging our responsibility to support those with fewer resources doesn’t detract from overall prosperity. It strengthens our community by creating an environment where everyone can contribute and thrive.”

ASHLEY HOPKINS
PRESIDENT AND CEO,
PARADIGM COMMERCIAL

“Acknowledging our responsibility to support those with fewer resources doesn’t detract from overall prosperity.”
— ASHLEY HOPKINS

“Look beyond the immediate act of giving and truly recognize the meaningful and inspiring difference you are making.”
— NIK LEMIEUX

“I believe collective action strengthens our communities, creating a shared sense of purpose and support, building stronger, more resilient neighbourhoods. Together, we can tackle complex challenges of chronic homelessness and move toward a more compassionate approach. Collectively, we must humanize the issue and foster empathy to encourage individuals to seek the help they need without fear of judgement.

Everyone should look beyond the immediate act of giving and truly recognize the meaningful and inspiring difference you are making. Embracing this understanding allows you to feel the depth of your contribution, to foster positive sentiments within your community.

It’s about leadership with purpose, and, I believe, it’s one of the most important responsibilities we have as business leaders.”

NIK LEMIEUX
STRATEGIC CONSULTANT,
CEO, MIRABEL MANAGEMENT INC.

“We must understand; homelessness is not just a lack of shelter—it is the loss of safety, dignity, and hope, stripping people of their identity and worth. Our shared humanity demands we act, not out of pity, but out of a deep sense of justice.

Homelessness is a mirror reflecting the cracks in our society. If we are to thrive as a community, we must first ensure that no one is left behind in the shadows. Ending homelessness is not just possible—it is our moral obligation.

I’ve come to realize the gifts I’ve received— whether financial, intellectual, or relational— are not mine to keep. They are entrusted to me because the universe believes I will use them wisely for the benefit of others. My journey has taught me that we are merely stewards of these blessings, and with stewardship comes the duty to ensure we share our resources wisely and generously.”

SOLANGE TUYISHIME KEITA
PRESIDENTAND CEO,
ELEVATE INTERNATIONAL INC.

“Ending homelessness is not just possible—it is our moral obligation.”
— SOLANGE TUYISHIME KEITA

Read the full responses provided by each business leader by visiting www.sghottawa.com