Blackbird Security Supports Charitable Organizations Across Canada

The role of security guards has evolved. Beyond protecting public safety and business property, security guards now create a peaceful environment, provide education and assistance, and make a positive impact within the communities they protect. Blackbird Security, with our extensive experience, stands at the forefront of this transformation.

We’re proud and honoured to give back to our communities in any way we can, whether through donations, fundraising efforts, or donated security services. Here’s an overview of how we support charitable organizations across Canada: 

The Breakfast Club of Canada

Every day, the Breakfast Club of Canada serves more than 250,000 nutritious breakfasts to children in 1,887 Canadian schools. Their work ensures every child has an equal chance to learn, generating positive changes in school communities and across our society.

Blackbird Security is proudly an official corporate partner of the Breakfast Club of Canada. So far, we have donated the equivalent of over 2,500 meals, with 50 per cent of these going to rural Indigenous populations. 

Makeway Charitable Society

In the heart of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, a community dedicated to helping vulnerable individuals find shelter and support has been making a significant impact: the Makeway Charitable Society. This not-for-profit organization uplifts those in need and offers them a chance to rebuild their lives. Blackbird Security provides customer service, staff support, and tactical security guards to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone who enters the facility.

Our security team takes on multiple responsibilities at Makeway. One of our primary roles is access control. This means monitoring entry and exit points to ensure that only authorized personnel enter the premises. They conduct bag checks discreetly, maintaining a friendly approach that ensures visitors feel welcomed, rather than scrutinized.

Canadian Tire's Jumpstart Program

Since its start in 2005,  Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart has been an ongoing resource for children facing financial and accessibility barriers to sport and recreation. Jumpstart ensures that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to be active, develop their skills, and pursue their dreams.

Jumpstart's mission to enrich the lives of kids in need through sport and physical activity aligns perfectly with our values. We are committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most, ensuring that no child is left out of the benefits of physical activity and the joy of team sports.

Our donation to Jumpstart goes directly to helping kids play, thanks to the generous support of the Canadian Tire Corporation, which covers all of Jumpstart's general and administrative expenses. This ensures that 100% of our contribution helps children access the sports and activities they love. As a longtime partner to Canadian Tire, supporting their Jumpstart program was a way for us to give back and support their important work.

Peel Regional Police Polar Plunge

Blackbird Security is proud to have been a Diamond Sponsor for the Peel Regional Police Polar Plunge since 2022. This annual event raises funds and awareness for the Ontario Special Olympics Canada, which organizes competitive Olympic tournaments for individuals with disabilities.

On March 23, 2024, our team again took the icy plunge, contributing to the collective effort that raised an impressive $184,539, surpassing the event's goal of $125,000. Our participation underscores our commitment to positively impacting the community and supporting meaningful causes.

Best Buy's Softball Tournament for the Surrey Food Bank

We partnered with our client, Best Buy, at the 6th Annual BC Classic Softball Tournament, where we helped raise over $5,500 for the Surrey Food Bank.

The Surrey Food Bank offers nutritious food to families living in Surrey and North Delta in a respectful and dignified manner. Knowing the impact of their work, we were excited to contribute to their cause.

The softball tournament was a wonderful day filled with family-friendly fun. Teams from various organizations came together not just to play ball, but to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. The spirit of camaraderie and generosity was palpable, reminding us all of the power of community.

Covenant House

We proudly donated our security services to Covenant House Vancouver, an organization dedicated to helping homeless and at-risk youth. Our partnership began with a shared commitment to safety and continues to this day because of the profound impact we see in the lives of the youth served by Covenant House.

Covenant House Vancouver addresses the urgent needs of homeless and at-risk youth aged 16 to 24 by offering essential services such as nutritious meals, showers, clean clothes, medical attention, and safe shelter. Their mission goes beyond immediate aid, as they work tirelessly to help these young people achieve brighter futures.

Our initial decision to donate security services was driven by the recognition that a safe and secure environment is fundamental for the well-being and recovery of homeless youth. By providing professional and reliable security services, we help ensure that Covenant House remains a space where youth feel safe, respected, and valued.

The Salvation Army's Dreaming in Colour Program

At Blackbird Security, we are deeply committed to making a positive social impact within our community. One of the ways we achieve this is through our active involvement in The Salvation Army’s Dreaming in Colour program, an initiative that provides support and training to individuals facing barriers to employment. 

We are particularly proud of our  Ontario Business and Development Manager, Anwar Bonimy, who not only participated in this program but continues to give back by volunteering his time and expertise. 

Dreaming in Colour is a transformative employment essentials initiative designed to improve the employability of its participants. This comprehensive 12-week program focuses on building life skills, enhancing self-understanding, and preparing individuals for the job market. Through a series of workshops, participants gain valuable insights into various aspects of personal and professional development.

The Tostitos Tasting Window Event for Second Harvest

We’re proud to have provided security for Tostitos’s Tasting Window Event in Vancouver. It was a fantastic experience to see everyone enjoying the fun and tasting the delicious new flavours while our guards ensured everything ran safely and smoothly.

The Tostitos Tasting Window collaboration with renowned Chef Susur Lee showcased a series of delectable bites that highlighted the culinary diversity of Vancouver, all using Tostitos tortilla chips as the base. 

Reminiscent of the wine windows of Florence, the Tostitos Tasting Window invited Vancouverites to ring a bell and receive a free three-bite flight created by Chef Lee. Each flight served at the Tasting Window also contributed to a charitable cause. Visitors were invited to press the "Chip In" button, which automatically generated a donation to Second Harvest. For every bite served, the Tostitos brand donated $1, up to a maximum of $50,000 combined from the Toronto and Vancouver events.

Our dedicated security team ensured the event was both safe and enjoyable for everyone. From managing crowds and ensuring smooth entry and exit to maintaining a welcoming atmosphere, our guards were on hand to support the event's success.

How Security Guards Support Vulnerable Communities

At Blackbird Security, we collaborate with shelters and government housing sites to ensure everyone feels safe and supported. We’re proud to support organizations including the Salvation Army, the Downtown East Side Market, BC Housing, and Ontario’s Operation Sharing. We recognize the importance of security in fostering a safer and more inclusive community for everyone. 

Security Guards Provide Help and Assistance

Blackbird Security takes a proactive approach to community safety by actively engaging with vulnerable communities and providing necessary help when needed most. Our security guards promote safety and facilitate positive interactions by acting as helpful members of the community. 

One essential element of a security guard’s role is providing First Aid. In emergencies, having on-site personnel trained in first aid can make a significant difference in medical emergency outcomes. At Blackbird Security, our guards undergo naloxone training, equipping them with the skills needed to help individuals suffering from overdose. Read more about Blackbird Security guards’ excellent responses to emergencies here. 

Security guards additionally provide help in non-emergency situations. By guiding individuals toward available services and information, security guards can help vulnerable people access the resources they need. 

Blackbird Security Guards Use De-Escalation Tactics

Blackbird Security guards prioritize peaceful de-escalation approaches in all scenarios, securing environments with empathy and compassion. This approach recognizes that many situations can be diffused without resorting to aggression, contributing to a safer atmosphere for vulnerable populations. By promoting de-escalation, we promote a relationship of trust with members of vulnerable communities. Blackbird Security guards undergo de-escalation training to ensure they’re properly equipped to handle any situations that may arise peacefully. 

Cultural Sensitivity Training

In addition to training around de-escalation tactics, our security guards take part in Cultural Sensitivity Training. One of the key strengths of Blackbird Security is our commitment to cultural sensitivity. Guards undergo specialized training to better understand and respect the diverse backgrounds of the communities they serve. Cultural Sensitivity Training equips security personnel with the tools to navigate nuanced situations involving mental health, diversity, and more to ensure a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone involved.

Guards undergo training through the Canadian Police Knowledge Network, enhancing their skills and knowledge in community safety through courses covering anti-racism, trauma, crisis intervention, and more. This commitment to professional development empowers our security personnel to adapt to evolving challenges and serve vulnerable communities more effectively.

Supporting Canada’s Charities, Non-Profits, and Vulnerable Communities from Coast to Coast

We’re honoured to have had the opportunity to support so many communities and good causes across Canada. As the role of security guards continues to evolve, Blackbird Security stands out as a champion of positive change. Our community-centred approach, emphasis on de-escalation, and commitment to cultural sensitivity showcase a holistic and progressive perspective on security. By supporting vulnerable communities with empathy and compassion, Blackbird Security exemplifies the transformative potential of security services in creating safer and more inclusive communities.

Looking to add security support to your non-profit organization? Get in touch with us at the form below.