Jun 7th, 2024

Volunteer Project: Partnership with EDC Takes Root in Overbrook 

Despite the rain on June 6, approximately 200 Export Development Canada volunteers got a chance to get to know Overbrook and leave a legacy.   

Armed with ponchos and rain boots, volunteers braved the weather to plant nearly 60 trees in the community – which had lost several due to the Derecho Storm. They also replaced mulch in local playgrounds, cleared overgrowth and generally spruced up the neighbourhood.   

Many tenants were pleased with the work, venturing onto their porches to watch volunteers plant trees.   

There was a sense of excitement among the group as they got ready to do the work.   

“In 20 years, you will be driving by and see the tree you planted,” said OCH Property Manager Tom Kasouf.   

The project is part of a city-wide, large-scale collaboration between Export Development Canada and Volunteer Ottawa called Community Investment Day. The day aims to provide charities and non-profits in the greater Ottawa region to complete a big task or special project and raise awareness about their mission.  

OCH hopes the volunteers will return to complete projects in other communities.   

“When economic development is synonymous with community development! This large-scale, high impact project is a perfect example of the great things that can happen when partners work together to improve the lives of OCH tenants. We are proud to work with Volunteer Ottawa and EDC. Their work will increase pride in neighbourhoods and leave a legacy in our communities.”

Stéphane Giguère, Chief Executive Officer of OCH.