LiveDifferent

We're hiring a Manager of Operations in Haiti! We're looking for a bilingual (English, French/Creole) individual who is passionate about serving others and supporting a diverse team. To apply or learn more, visit https://livedifferent.com/join/manager-of-operations-haiti/

We can't wait until high fives come back into style . But until then we're giving out digital high fives! We miss our in-person programming but we are grateful that Circles has been able to empower youth across Canada to have meaningful conversations while encouraging them to complete actions of compassion in their schools and communities. For more about Circles visit here: https://livedifferent.com/circles/

Every year we take a look back at the past year, and we can say with certainty that this last year was one that we'll never forget. Our 2019-2020 annual report is filled with highlights of our program reach, program impact, stories, and an overview of finances. You'll hear all about how we pivoted this year, postponed all international travel, brought our teams off the road, and began working with schools and students online. If you want to check it out, it can be found here: https://livedifferent.com/reporting/

We have been working with Digital Natives since 2019, and we are so grateful to continue our partnership with them. Their support helps us to continue on our shared mission to make a positive impact in the world and inspire youth to live a life of compassion and service.

As we wrap up one whole year of pandemic life, we're thinking about how we miss your smiling faces on Build sites, on the road teams, and in schools all over Canada. But we've also seen you continue to make a difference from a distance. You've raised money for the Emergency Relief and Community Fund and helped bring 642 food packages to families (45k meals!). You've brought families home during the pandemic and virtually participated in Builds while homes were built by the local staff and community members. You've supported the students at Ecole L'Union. And you've participated in meaningful conversations and projects in your schools and communities through the Circles Program. It's been a year we'll never forget, but we're continuing to remember that #lifeisaboutpeople, and not even a pandemic can change that.

Today we're celebrating the strong, kind, and inspirational women who are out here changing the world. We're so lucky to get to work alongside so many incredible women around the globe. Happy International Women's Day. #IWD2021

Even in these difficult and uncertain times, there are still so many things to be thankful for. Covid has temporarily changed the way we operate our Builds program, but we are so grateful that we were able to find a way to help make these families' dreams of having their own home come true. Thanks to the students at Valemount and Oak Bay High School, as well as volunteers from the Penticton community, we have completed five houses in three months for deserving families who ha...ve been waiting patiently for the day when they could enter their new home. We don't know exactly when we'll be back on the worksite, but we'll be back. There are still families in need of safe shelter and a place to call home! Did you know that we are eyeing our return to Builds and that you can be one of the first to know when we're taking registrations? To learn more visit https://livedifferent.com/upcoming-builds/

If you’ve got a bit of spare time right now, consider nerding out on the power of gratitude! Or better yet, find a minute to practice it! Volunteers, interns, partners, supporters, educators, board members, billets, staff we are grateful for each and every single one of you who put your heart into caring for others! #happythanksgivng #livedifferent

Enjoy a cup of coffee. Connect with a friend online. Do something you love. It’s #WorldMentalHealthDay so let’s come together to care for ourselves and everyone in our bubble and beyond.

If you are on our newsletter already, you will have heard more about this story but after waiting a bit longer than expected, Sara, Doroteo, and their boys are home A few months ago, we swung by to deliver urgent relief and let them know that they were not forgotten. Now, thanks to the group of volunteers from Penticton, British Columbia, they are finally settling into their new chapter. To sign up for our newsletter, visit https://mc.livedifferent.com/news-signup

Last week, we were all smiles under our masks. Being back on worksites in both the Dominican Republic and Mexico felt great! It had been a while since projects were happening in two countries at the same time and everyone was excited to come together to finally bring families into their new homes. #livedifferent #livediff #builds #dominicanrepublic #mexico

Speak up and play a part in our Circles program! Were looking for people (around 1620 years old) to answer a few questions on webcam that will be used throughout our Circles program. These discussions are meant to spark dialogue, so if you or anyone you know might be interested in adding to the conversation, send us a message for instructions! The earlier the better, but submissions are due this Sunday at the latest.

Well admit things are weird right now. But this #YouthDay, know that the world needs you to keep working, fighting, and staying engaged to make a difference by caring for people. #internationalyouthday #iyd2020 #livedifferent

Teachers we see you You’re working extremely hard to bridge learning gaps while doing all you can to create an environment for connection during this difficult time. The care you have for your students is inspiring ... #worldteachersday #worldteachersday2020 #livedifferent See more

Give the youth in your lives something to rally around! What amazing things will happen when you create a space for people to be committed to kindness, grow in their desire to develop, and become connected in cause to make a positive impact on the world? Let's find out.... To start, watch this video. And if you have any questions or would like to connect, fire us a message and we will get in touch. The program has been designed to work in schools and youth organizations. Learn more at LiveDifferent.com/circles

Music on the worksite is a must! Weve put together a collection of songs that we play to bring the energy needed for that last cement mix of the day. Were pretty confident that youll enjoy this playlist even if you havent had the pleasure of joining us in the Dominican Republic for a Build. All youll need is a Spotify account if you dont have one (the basic one is free). And for those of you whove been there, heads upthese songs may take you back to those sweat-fill...ed afternoons in the hot Caribbean sun. Think weve missed a song? Let us know in the comments. To find the playlist, visit https://livedifferent.com/ld/spotify-builds-mix-dr/

Five months later and it has finally happened! Every day when Jorge, Olga and their two children walked out their door, they would see the cement pad that was poured in front of their house from back in March. A group of volunteers from Valemount, BC were supposed to come down and work alongside the family to build their house but the pandemic shut down the world as we know it. Over these past few days, the worksite has looked a little differentwith small teams, no ...volunteers, and the need to maintain physical distancing as much as possiblebut like every Build, friendships were formed as the house was made with love. On Tuesday, after months of waiting, a handful of us were able to celebrate with the family and welcome them home. #livedifferent #livediff #dayoffriendship See more

Our With Love online auction is now LIVE! Experience a little friendly competition for a good cause, with 100% of the proceeds going towards supporting youth in Canada and Haiti! The auction closes on October 22nd at midnight, so spread the word and get bidding over at LiveDifferent.com/auction

Were looking for a collaborative team player who is familiar with Premier Pro to join us this summer as a video editor/assistant. Working for 40 hours a week through August, youll be playing a significant role in helping us create videos for our brand-new Circles program that is launching this fall! To learn more and apply, visit https://livedifferent.com/join-our-/video-editor-assistant/

When on the road, our teams are constantly giving through small acts of kindness and by sharing their stories. You might default to something physical when thinking of participating in #GiveSomethingAwayDay but it could be as simple as spending a bit of time helping a neighbour or texting a few compliments to people you havent talked to in a while. There are endless ways to make the world a better place by giving a bit of yourself away! ... #livedifferent #lifeisaboutpeople See more

Every child matters. Today is Orange Shirt Daya day to raise awareness about the dark history of Indigenous residential schools in Canada. For years, Indigenous children were taken from their families, stripped of their culture, and suffered all kinds of abuse (and in many cases, even lost their lives). Reconciliation will take some time, but understanding and acknowledging what happened at residential schoolsand the ongoing ripple effects they have causedis a good place to start. #everychildmatters

Its true that not all of us have equal opportunity. Its true that harmful biases hurt people every day. Its true that systemic racism exists. Over the last month, many of us have been using our voice, listening, learning, and protesting in hopes of creating a better world that is more compassionate. Your voice matters and is needed now more than ever. Keep caring for others and advancing equality at every turn. #blacklivesmatter

It’s that time of year againwhen a $5 donation gets you five free kids meals Boston Pizza. All proceeds support the Boston Pizza Foundation and go to support some pretty great charities. ourselves included ;) To get yours online (before October 4th), visit https://bostonpizza.com/en/kids-card-purchase.html

This was no small feat. Sunday, we were able to distribute over 30lbs of food to the families of our little learners in Haiti. As case numbers continue to rise sharply in Haiti, were grateful to have such an amazing community of supporters who have helped make this happen. #lovelegacy #livedifferent #lifeisaboutpeople

Speak up and play a part in our Circles program! We’re looking for people (around 1620 years old) to answer a few questions on webcam that will be used throughout our Circles program. These discussions are meant to spark dialogue, so if you or anyone you know might be interested in adding to the conversation, send us a message for instructions! The earlier the better, but submissions are due this Sunday at the latest.

This week, some of our ground staff in the Dominican Republic were able to deliver 200 more food packages to families in need while over in Mexico, our distribution efforts continued with more visits into the nearby communities. Were grateful for each of you rallying around families and communities that are in need. To learn more about our relief efforts, visit https://livedifferent.com/covid-emergency-relief/

From checking in with family members here at home to helping ones in the communities that we love, supporting our families during the pandemic is soooo important. In 2017, volunteers worked alongside the Leon family and celebrated with them as they entered their safe, dry house for the first time. Recently, they were one of the families to receive a much-needed, relief food package in Mexico. Were grateful for everyone whos chosen to be part of our family. Keep caring f...or each other! #internationaldayoffamilies #lifeisaboutpeople

We’ll admit things are weird right now. But this #YouthDay, know that the world needs you to keep working, fighting, and staying engaged to make a difference by caring for people. #internationalyouthday #iyd2020 #livedifferent

Music on the worksite is a must! We’ve put together a collection of songs that we play to bring the energy needed for that last cement mix of the day. We’re pretty confident that you’ll enjoy this playlist even if you haven't had the pleasure of joining us in the Dominican Republic for a Build. All you’ll need is a Spotify account if you don't have one (the basic one is free). And for those of you who’ve been there, heads upthese songs may take you back to those sweat-fill...ed afternoons in the hot Caribbean sun. Think we’ve missed a song? Let us know in the comments. To find the playlist, visit https://livedifferent.com/ld/spotify-builds-mix-dr/

Thanks to you amazing people, weve blown past our goal The communities we work in have been hit hard as a result of the pandemic, so weve been using the Community Development Fund to provide much-needed food to families who were in need. We were hoping to raise enough money to provide another round of relief and it all came together with a few days to spare! Were feeling the love and will be passing it along to the families and communities that we all cherish. Thank you!

We love you moms #happymothersday #livedifferent #kindnesslooksgoodonyou

Know a student in high school? Were hosting a free Own Your Story online event next Thursday, May 14th at 2PM (EST). These past few months will probably be one of those big, defining moments in our lives. Through our Own Your Story online interactive presentation, well be giving students the chance to connect with peers who are also going through this challenging time together while talking about how difficulties can help us grow. To sign up, visit https://livedifferent.com/ld/own-your-story-online/

The communities we all love need our help In the Dominican Republic, widespread job losses have hit the communities hard while over in Mexico, families that were already struggling to get by have seen their income drop while food prices rise. Were hoping to raise enough money by May 15th to provide another round of urgent food relief to families that are in need. $20 helps support a family for one week. ... To give or learn more, visit https://livedifferent.com/covid-emergency-relief/ #givingtuesdaynow #livedifferent #lifeisaboutpeople

Want to try something with us? Lets move past quick responses like good or fine and open up a little when someone asks us how were doing. So, how are things? Let us know. #lifeisaboutpeople #livedifferent #livediff #getreal #mentalhealthweek

The moment they received news that their futures were changed forever. Students from Seycove Secondary School had already made a connection with the Garcia Vasquez family, which made it extra special that they were able to welcome them homefrom a distance. To see more on the familys past living situation and to learn how a group of students made a difference this past March, visit https://livedifferent.com//welcoming-the-garcia-vasquez-f/

This years National Volunteer Week brings us some mixed emotions. But outweighing the tiny sting from needing to stay home and not working in schools and communities with you amazing people is our love and appreciation for each of you who have partnered with us over the years. Were nothing without you and our hearts are full of gratitude.... #livedifferent #lifeisaboutpeople #cheerstovolunteers #NVW2020 #livediff See more

Recently in the Dominican Republic, we teamed up with the local military to provide 194 families with one weeks worth of food. If youve been on a Build with us, youll know all about the special communities we work with and the fund that we have to help in times of need, known as our Community Development Fund. Typically, families who experience hardship can apply to receive assistance but these arent normal times. Existing poverty and widespread job losses because o...f the coronavirus had left one of the communities quite vulnerable. We were receiving some pretty desperate pleas for help so, as a result of the urgent need, we arranged to distribute food to over 600 people from the community. Wed like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to the Community Development Fund over the years. Since delivering these packages, weve received songs and messages of thanks and would like to pass that along to each of you. Keep looking for ways to help others during this hard time because we truly are all in this together. And if youd like to help us replenish our Community Development Fund, visit https://livedifferent.com//give-to-the-community-developm/

Help us out today at 2pm EST! Were in the middle of adapting our inspirational programming to bring a message of hope and purpose to a social distancing audience and are looking for a few more volunteers to participate in a test run this afternoon! If youre between the ages of 14 to 22, wed love to have you join us as we present an online version of our Own Your Story presentation. There will be a live host, empowering video stories/content, and smaller breakout groups wh...ere six or so participants will be led through a discussion with one of our facilitators. Not only will your participation and feedback be instrumental in helping us create a great experience for others, but were confident youll get a lot out of it too! Register now (and feel free to pass it along to anyone else whos between the ages of 14 to 22 as well!) Heres the link https://livedifferent.com/own-your-story-registration/

What can you do right now that would help you enjoy your day? Helena left everything to bring hope to students across the country. Now as a result #COVID19, she finds herself back caring for her seniors during this difficult time. We asked her where shes been finding inspiration and if shed like to pass along any encouragement. To hear what she had to say, visit https://livedifferent.com//from-reaching-youth-to-being-b/... #lifeisaboutpeople #worldhealthday2020 #worldhealthday See more

Were in this together. But as the list of things that are getting cancelled grows, some days can feel harder than others. Lets make sure were taking care of ourselves so we can be in a good spot to help others. And if you find that its all too much, promise us youll reach out to someone? To read more, visit https://livedifferent.com/blog/take-care-of-yourself/ #lifeisaboutpeople

Its in our nature to be hopeful. In many ways, Covid-19 is forcing us all apart for a bit, which is why coming together is more important now than ever. If you have stories of connection through distancing, compassionate acts or hopeful encouragement, Message us! Wed love to hear them. The world needs your kindness.... And if youd like to read a bit on where were at right now, visit https://livedifferent.com/blog/our-hope-for-tomorrow/ #lifeisaboutpeople #livedifferent #stayhome See more

Now is the perfect time to revive that group text, call up a loved one or start tagging friends in comments to let them know that youre thinking of them.

Weve watched you travel across the country to empower youth, sweat to bring people into safe housing, and constantly look for creative ways to lift people up. Youre making a difference in the world and were lucky to have a front-row seat! Happy International Womens Day #internationalwomensday #IWD2020 #eachforequal

But no matter where life takes me, I hope that I never forget that the greatest thing in life is joyand that people are the best way to find it. Emily went on a group Build with friends and then decided to experience it by herself. We asked about her two Builds, what it was like visiting the family she had previously built with, and what she hopes shell never forget. You can read her thoughts by visiting https://livedifferent.com//from-going-with-friends-to-exp/ #kindnesslooksgoodonyou #livedifferent #livediff #volunteerabroad #internationalvolunteer #volunteer

Reach out, be kind and fearlessly connect to the people around you. #lifteachotherup #livedifferent #pinkshirtday

One out of every five workers live in some form of poverty and millions of children across the globe lack access to education. Like most of us, Tyler was fortunate enough to grow up in Canada and was not only given opportunities to succeed but he was taught a responsibility to help others. From going on several Builds with his family to spending 13 weeks in Mexico with us in the Academy, his commitment to lifting up people has only gotten stronger over the years. To learn more about his story, visit https://livedifferent.com//changed-in-the-baja-tylers-exp/ #worlddayofsocialjustice #findyourselfinmexico #volunteerabroad #gapyear #gapsemester

Different cities? Doesnt matter. Bianca and Sarah met on a Build back in 2009 and have been friends ever sincetaking part in all of each others significant milestones. Last summer, they celebrated their 10-year Friendaversary, so we asked them a few questions. To hear their story, visit https://livedifferent.com//10-years-of-friendship-qa-with/ These types of friendships may sound unique to some, but if youve ever experienced a Build, youll realize they are act...ually quite common. Have a BBF (best Build friend)? Tell them that youre thinking of them by firing them a text or tagging them in the comments And feel free to message us your story, wed love to hear it. #kindnesslooksgoodonyou #livedifferent #friendship #internationalvolunteering #volunteerabroad #servicelearning See more

The Award is closing tonight at midnight! From shenanigans to emotional moments, we are always excited to see a Build through the lens of the Benjamin Cole Memorial Award winner. Dont put it off any longer. To learn more and apply, visit https://livedifferent.com/benjamin-cole-memorial-award/ #livedifferent #volunteerabroad #internationalvolunteering

The Award closes this Friday at midnight. Apply today. Maiya was last years winner. This year, it could be you. One passionate photographer will win the Benjamin Cole Memorial Award and join us this summer in either the Dominican Republic or Mexico. To learn more and apply, visit https://livedifferent.com/benjamin-cole-memorial-award... #kindnesslooksgoodonyou #livedifferent #volunteerabroad #internationalvolunteer #photography See more

Find your passport because its not too late to join! In under three months, well be visiting our friends and helping with renovations around their home! If we had to describe a Build to Thailand in one word, it would be inspiring. Youll experience the culture in a very special way while meeting some of the most incredible people. To sign up, visit my.livedifferent.com/event/thailand-2020 #kindnesslooksgoodonyou #livedifferent #volunteerabroad #internationalvolunteer #servicelearning

When you help us bring hope to a student living in a remote community, well help you see all the good its accomplishing! Give (or gift) a virtual seat on our Ice Road Tour and receive weekly updates from the team. In three weeks, well be visiting our first community. Donate today by visiting https://livedifferent.com/virtual-ice-road-tour/

Only two weeks left to apply for the Benjamin Cole Memorial Award! If youre a photographer between 16 and 24, enter for your chance to join us on a Build this summer! Youll have the chance to make a difference and capture some incredible photos along the way. To apply, visit LiveDifferent.com/Benjamin-Cole-Memorial-Award ... : Maiya Chan See more

We hope youre having just as happy of a start to your new year! #kindnesslooksgoodonyou #livedifferent #volunteerabroad #internationalvolunteer #servicelearning

As 2019 comes to a close, consider helping us bring a message of hope and purpose to youth who need to hear it! When you give $40 to reach a student from a remote community, well save you a (virtual) front-row seat to see what is happening during our Ice Road Tour. To learn more and make a difference, visit livedifferent.com/virtual-ice-road-tour/

Happy Holidays! From your big, diverse Live Different fam! #happyholidays #livedifferent