September 21st is a special day, my birthday.

A time to celebrate another year of life, growth, and gratitude.

Over the years, I’ve created a tradition of giving instead of receiving on my special day. Each year, I ask friends and family to donate to my GoFundMe page, and at the end of the month, I take the full amount raised and donate it back to the community.

Together, in the last 10 years, we’ve raised and donated nearly $45,000 to organizations such as The Mississauga Shoebox Project, Peel Children's Aid Foundation, The Mississauga Food Bank, Incubate Institute, Breakfast with Santa, EDEN Food for Change, EMBRAVE Agency to End Violence, Armagh House, a medical mission for the Philippines, and even helped build a home for a family in Mexico.

This year, as I celebrate my 40th birthday, I’d love to continue this tradition. My goal is to raise another $5,000 so we can keep making a difference together.

Instead of a “Happy Birthday” to me, let’s celebrate by lifting up those in need right here in our own community.

Let’s make an impact, one small act of kindness at a time.

From my family to yours, thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to turning 40 and making it meaningful.

Olivia Torun