S2 EPISODE 7: The Power of Community, Connection and Uplifting Youth with Linda Bruins

Be part of the impact.I’m joining Podcasthon: Podcasters United for Impact this week to shine a light on a cause that truly matters. In this episode, I sat down with Linda Bruins, Executive Director of Evergreen: A United Neighbourhood, a grassroots organization making a real difference in Thunder Bay’s Simpson-Ogden community.Evergreen is more than a safe space for youth—it’s a second home where they find support, respect, and belonging. Linda shares how consistency, trust, and the power of community help young people navigate challenges, build resilience, and create a better future. This one is full of heart and hope.Key Takeaways:The Power of Showing Up – Sometimes, the biggest impact comes from simply being there.Respect Over Everything – Kids at Evergreen learn life skills through everyday interactions—sharing meals, taking turns, and supporting each other.Breaking the Cycle – Young people are stepping up to be the change they want to see, supporting their peers in ways that will ripple into the future.Safe Spaces Matter – Evergreen provides a place where kids can just be kids, without fear or judgment.How You Can Help – Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, small efforts can create big change.Resources MentionedEvergreen: A United NeighbourhoodPodcasthonRocking Spring Fundraiser Event – March 29thConnect with Linda on LinkedInIf you have any thoughts you'd like to share about this episode, or an idea for a future episode topic, email me at: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.Find me on the socials:⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠.⁠⁠If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!