Building Community Across Canada

A key part of our Travelers Promise is taking care of the communities in which we live and work. Each year, Travelers Canada partners with Habitat for Humanity to bring this Promise to life, providing colleagues with the opportunity to participate in “build days” across the country.
In 2024, more than 90 employees took part in eight builds across six cities in Canada. Here’s a look back at what our teams accomplished in 2024.

Montreal, QC – May 14

The first build of the year took place in Montreal, where 10 employee volunteers adapted to wet weather by constructing planter boxes to adorn the exterior of a Habitat home. For Angela Mastro-Baril, an Operations Account Specialist who joined Travelers in October 2023, this was her first volunteer experience with the company. “The emphasis that Travelers puts on volunteerism is really something special,” Angela said. “I really enjoyed the experience because it allowed me to connect with my coworkers and work on something together outside of the office.”

Oshawa, ON – May 30

Later in May, 10 more volunteers attended a build day in Oshawa. The team installed drywall in multiple townhouse units, learning new skills during a quick training session at the start of the day. “It was amazing to see everyone come together and make such a positive impact,” said Renee Clarke, AVP, Property Claim. “Volunteering means a lot to me because it’s all about giving back and connecting with our community.”

Hamilton, ON – June 4, September 19, September 24

Travelers Canada sent a total of 37 employees to three build days in Hamilton. Volunteers painted interior walls, installed and finished drywall, and set up temporary safety fencing around the job site. “It was an incredibly fulfilling experience to know that I played a part in building a house for a family to call home,” said Paula Roe, Manager, Billing Operations. “I feel so privileged to work for a company that empowers its employees to engage with the community and make a meaningful impact in someone’s life.”

Ottawa, ON – June 10

In Ottawa, 10 employee volunteers helped with general site cleanup and prepared for fence installation by digging holes and placing fence pickets.
“Volunteering at events like this definitely provides a feeling of accomplishment,” said Tim McLean, Major Case Specialist, Claim. “It feels great to help those in need.”

Winnipeg, MB – June 21

A team of eight employees and brokers attended a build day in Winnipeg, where they worked on multiple townhouse homes. Despite the summer heat, they moved beams, placed floor trusses and constructed window frames. “Volunteering is important to me as it allows us to connect with and support those in need, fostering a sense of unity and purpose,” said Samantha Ylagan, Account Executive Officer, Business Insurance – Middle Market. “I am proud to be part of a company that values giving back to the community.”

Calgary, AB – October 8

The final build of the year took place in Calgary, with 16 employees—the largest group—participating. The team worked on interior framing, including bathrooms, pantries and closets, using power tools to cut and fasten planks. “I ended the day with a few aches and pains but also a deep sense of fulfillment, knowing I had made a significant contribution to someone’s life and family,” said Renuka Mohan, Business Development Manager, Inside Sales, Business Insurance. “Participating in these initiatives and volunteering alongside my colleagues fosters a greater sense of our shared values of supporting the places we live and work.”

Across all the builds, employees not only supported their communities but also gained new skills, strengthened bonds with colleagues and experienced a renewed sense of purpose. Their efforts exemplify the Travelers Promise in action—making a meaningful impact both personally and collectively. As Tommy Voong, Underwriting Manager, Select, Business Insurance, shared, “Travelers Canada is great at mobilizing in the community and continuously puts it at the forefront of what we do here—taking care of the communities we serve. The impact of each volunteer hour, although small, adds up in the grand scheme of things.”