Solving social problems is a critical part of any democratic society. And what can be the best way to do so if not philanthropy? There are thousands of issues that need to be addressed and there countless social problems that require attention and solutions. For that matter, philanthropy supports projects and endeavours from which we all benefit, such as libraries, museums and scientific research; and it also supports efforts that may be too unpopular or controversial to gain the widespread support of the general public or the government.
Toronto is lucky to have a few dozen philanthropists but today we’d like to focus on Christine and Cyrus Rezvanian, owners of My Storage. Cyrus, CEO of My Storage and Christine met 13 years ago and have been inseparable ever since. Christine was a model for several years and a teacher, she also was a finalist in Miss Universe Canada. She has since taken on the role of Vice President with My Storage. Cyrus, a successful entrepreneur has focused on the development of My Storage and continues to develop self-storage facilities in the GTA and across Ontario.
Having three children of their own, Cyrus and Christine value the importance of teaching children empathy, how crucial it is to help others and to be kind. In order for someone to develop a truly caring nature, they need to be taught and nurtured from a very young age. Cyrus and Christine have focused their philanthropic endeavours to support charities that help children. Some of these charitable organizations are SickKids Foundation, Camp Oochigeas (Camp Ooch), Boost for Kids, and Starlight Children’s Foundation. “We’ve been supporting SickKids for a long time, as we feel like it’s a very important place to help kids get better”, says Christine. Fundraising events like ‘Scrubs in the City’ inspired them to do their own fundraising event last year at their house called ‘Scare to Care’ in support of the Sick Kids Foundation. Christine felt there was an opportunity to bring children to an event with their parents, a more active gala-type party, which brought children and families together on Halloween and inspired kids to learn about the cause and its importance. “Children are our future”, says Cyrus, “and because we have this opportunity to give back, it’s important that we use it to help others“. To raise kids with a sense of giving back, it is important for parents to demonstrate these values of care and kindness with their own behaviour and words. They must show care towards the community and take actions to make a positive difference in the lives of others and the environment. It is also important to start at a young age. “Every birthday party our children have with their friends they collect donations for their chosen charity”, says Christine, “this is just one way to get them involved from a young age. They share this experience with their friends and it spreads. It’s wonderful!”.
Talking about advice to other parents, Christine mentions that “You literally enjoy every moment and not take it for granted, as kids grow so fast”. Also being involved with SickKids and Camp Oochigeas, they see how fragile life can be.
You can donate to SickKids Foundation here
