The holiday season is a time to give, connect, and reflect. This year, our Broking Services & Account Administration (BSAA) team at Axis Insurance embraced these values through a meaningful team-building event centered around giving back. Partnering with Union Gospel Mission (UGM) and the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau, we turned collaboration into impact, supporting two organizations that make a difference in our community.
Supporting Local Organizations
Union Gospel Mission (UGM):
For over 80 years, UGM has been a lifeline for people in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, providing meals, shelter, and addiction recovery programs. During the holidays, their wish list includes essentials like hygiene products and non-perishable foods. Contributing to their efforts was a rewarding way to help transform lives during a critical time of year.
Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau:
With more than 90 years of service, the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau ensures families in need can experience the joy of the season. They provide toys, food, and holiday essentials, allowing families to create lasting memories without financial strain. Supporting their mission was a perfect way to spread holiday cheer.
Making an Impact: Charity Shopping Challenge
Our first of two challenges for the day focused on UGM’s holiday donation wish list. Teams of 5-6 strategized to maximize $100 gift cards at Shoppers Drug Mart and IGA Market, aiming to stretch every dollar for essential items. The collaboration and creativity were inspiring, as teammates compared deals, divided tasks, and worked against the clock. Thanks to an additional $90 in gift cards donated by IGA Market, our combined efforts delivered $1,800 worth of essential items to UGM.
Spreading Joy: Build-a-Bear Challenge
The second challenge brought a playful team building twist with a purpose. Each team started with an unstuffed teddy bear, earning pieces to assemble it by completing tasks:
• Challenge 1: Teams earned stuffing by finishing the shopping challenge.
• Challenge 2: Trivia and puzzles unlocked a heart for the bear, symbolizing the care behind each donation.
• Challenge 3: Final tasks earned the packaging to prepare the bears for delivery.
While the competition added excitement, the real reward came in knowing these bears would brighten the holidays for children served by the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau.
Celebrating Together
The day concluded by reconnecting the team at Italian Kitchen, where the entire BSAA team reflected on the experience and impact of the day’s activities. Over a shared meal and a round of Holiday Jingle Jeopardy, we celebrated the impact we’d made together. It was a moment to connect, share stories, and take pride in what we accomplished as a team.
Looking Ahead
This year’s event was more than a team-building exercise—it was a chance to make a real difference. By supporting UGM and the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau, we were reminded of the power of teamwork and generosity. As we look to the new year, we’re excited to carry this spirit forward, finding more ways to support our community and each other.
