Whether it’s a new arena, improvements to the hospital or making sure the local hockey team has jerseys for the upcoming season, Muskokans have each other’s back.
Over the past four decades, Phil Sifft says he’s seen the best Muskoka offers in terms of giving back to the community.
“Whether that’s a local business or an individual giving back, there’s really something special about the community spirit you see here in Muskoka,” says Sifft, the founder of SIFFT Electric, which now has offices in Port Carling and Huntsville.
With more than 60 employees working throughout the Muskoka – Parry Sound Region, Sifft says it’s important for his company to ensure they’re also doing their part.
Over the years, SIFFT has contributed to multiple causes in the region.
Whether it’s working with the West Muskoka Food Bank, sponsoring local hockey teams or contributing to Christine’s Place pregnancy and family support center in Huntsville, Sifft says it’s just as important to give as much as you get from the local community.
Over the past 12 months, the company has been able to see the results of their contributions front and center. In partnership with 11 other Muskoka Lakes companies, SIFFT Electric contributed a share of more than $115,000 in in-kind donations towards the Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North (OGN) housing in Bala.
“Seeing these businesses come together in partnership is the true spirit of community,” said OGN CEO Kimberley Woodcock, at the time of donation. “Twelve local companies have donated critical services and products – everything from grading, excavation, and transportation to framing, electric, heating, fixturing, and window and doors. These gifts are transformative, for the families we serve, and the local community.”
One of the best examples of the charitable spirit Sifft hopes to embody is with their sister company, The Artisan Trading Post, which shares its Port Carling location with Sifft at 156 Medora Road. Artisan Trading Post is a social enterprise that works to have a positive impact on global communities through handcrafted art. Their products are ethically sourced and fairly traded for customers in North America.
“When you buy one of our products, we donate to local and global charity partners that support important causes,” says Jon Juane, general manager of Artisan Trading Post. “Examples of work we support include mental health initiatives in Muskoka, and youth programs by Youth for Christ, serving in Ecuador and cities throughout Canada.”
SIFFT recently set up a new office in Huntsville, hiring more than 15 employees from the area. They’re hoping to become as involved as possible with the many exceptional causes and organizations already working for the good of north Muskoka.
“It’s always been extremely important to us as a company to give back but there’s nothing special about SIFFT, it’s Muskoka,” says general manager Curt Moore. “When you live local you support local, and when there’s a need you jump in. That’s just what we do here in Muskoka.”
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Wow! So wonderful to see local business give some much back to the community. Thanks to SIFFT and all business who support our communities!