Help US
A time to reset and give back
In 2018, Neil introduced the 7 Days of Giving, a heartfelt initiative that embodies the spirit of generosity during the holiday season. Each year, team members at The Substance Group come together to select 7 different charities to support, creating a meaningful tradition of giving back to communities in need. Since its inception, this program has raised over $25,000 in donations, clothing, toys, and essential items—benefiting nearly 50 charitable organizations and making a tangible difference in countless lives.
Each day, a member of our team selects a charitable organization that holds special meaning to them. We then come together to contribute—whether through time, financial support, or essential resources—to make a positive difference. This initiative is our way of expressing gratitude and strengthening the communities we serve.
By concentrating our efforts into seven focused days, we’re able to deepen our impact, mobilize partners and volunteers, and respond more effectively to community needs.
Celebrating Success: The Impact of 7 Days of Giving
While the initiative takes place over seven days, its impact extends far beyond. The relationships built, the awareness created, and the support provided continue to strengthen communities long after the week is over.
Because when people come together with purpose, real change happens.
Our Journey
Celebrating 8 years of Giving
Holiday Party for Mississauga Williamsport YMCA Child Care Centre.
We helped facilitate a holiday party for the #MississaugaWilliamsportYMCAChildCareCentre. Two of Neil’s friends graciously joined us as we dressed up as Santa and a group of elves. It turns out, taking #polaroid pictures of the kids with Santa was just as much fun for the parents and ourselves as it was for the kids! We also donated a jam-packed car full of warm clothing and assorted items. We almost had to take two trips, but thankfully Neil figured out how to make it all fit!
CAMH Foundation Gifts of Light
Neil has chosen the initiative @CAMHfoundation. We are giving #GiftsofLight on behalf of our friends and family to help people in crisis on their journey to recovery. Recovering from mental illness is a tough road, and we don’t want them to do it alone.
Why did you pick this charity? Because mental health is a cause that hits close to home and I felt this could bring a little joy to people lives who would appreciate it.
What does it mean to you? It means a lot as I feel there is not enough support for people suffering from mental health. I wish I could do more.
How do you feel after giving back? I feel good, but I always feel I could or should do more. I try not to get too tough on myself, but I always want to help those who need help.
Paint Night at Trilogy Long Term Care
Leah brought up a really great idea to do a paint nite at Trilogy LongTerm Care in Scarborough! We had a nice turn-out, and every attendee left with a unique holiday-themed painting.
Everyone choose to donate blood
We decided to donate blood! It was the first time that each of us donated so you could expect we were a bit nervous, but in the end we all pushed through no problem! (Most of us that is.)
Out of the Cold Initiative
We supported an incredible initiative called Out of the Cold, where 2 organizations come together to prepare and serve over 100 meals to people in need. We were so touched by our interactions that we came back and did this more than once.
Pavan choose a Toy Drive
Our efforts spread across the country, this time in Montreal, where Pavan put together a HUGE toy drive for Kids in St. Martin. Big shout-out to him for having carts absolutely full of toys!
Amanda choose Save Our Scruff
Amanda wanted to donate as a team to our furry fella loving friends at Save Our Scruff. How could you not want all of our four legged friends to have warm, loving homes, especially during the holiday season?!
Brian choose Habitat for Humanity
We caught up with Brian to ask him a few questions about his choice. His answers are below!
Why did you pick this charity? I chose Habitat For Humanity because I love the idea that you’re not just donating money, you’re donating your time, and if it weren’t for the countless volunteers, none of this would be possible.
What does it mean to you? There are many families that don’t currently have a safe place that they can truly call home, and it makes me happy knowing that I can help make that happen.
How do you feel after giving back? It feels great! The families that move in a year or two from now won’t know that we helped build the framework for a couple of their 2nd floor rooms, but that’s ok! I’m happy we could make a difference. 😁
Organizations We’ve Supported
Every organization listed below reflects our commitment to meaningful, targeted community support. Together, we are helping amplify local impact and meet real needs where they matter most.
Getting involved is simple. Gather a few friends, choose charities or causes that matter to you, and commit to spending seven days spreading generosity and joy in your community. Whether it’s volunteering, donating, organizing small acts of kindness, or raising awareness, every action makes a difference. Together, we can amplify impact and strengthen the communities around us. If we all started a 7 days of giving group, imagine what we could accomplish.
7 Days of Giving is a community-driven initiative started by Substance Cares. Each day, a member of our team selects a charitable organization that holds special meaning to them. We then come together to contribute—whether through time, financial support, or essential resources—to make a positive difference. This initiative is our way of expressing gratitude and strengthening the communities we serve. We dedicate one week to meaningful acts of generosity.
