“While the last year has included unprecedented loss and suffering, Beloved aims to use this as a catalyst for change. We want to encourage our communities to reflect on our interconnectedness. We aim to create awareness in hopes it reminds everyone of what is truly important, our beloved ones.” - Mark Stoddart –
It is safe to say that for some time, we as a people have been focused on the wrong things. Our: assumptions, traditions, and self-interest have made us lose sight of what is truly important, which is the amelioration of our community.
Our focus must go back to serving humanity and giving people what they need, not what we think they need. To see the changes we want to see in our communities, we need to make significant adjustments to our: attitudes, ways of thinking, motivations, and even our business models.
The BELOVED team has decided to be that example by giving back to the community through this project. Our communities thrive because of the efforts of people who work on the frontlines. We are taking social responsibility to a much higher level by donating all of the sales of the Black Family Matters t-shirt back into our community. We know that positively impacting a person’s life through donations is a life-altering experience that must not be taken lightly.
Our chosen community businesses, and organizations are a natural extension of the BELOVED project, and we know that you will be just as excited about contributing to their success.
A Different Booklist Cultural Centre (The People’s Residence) The mission of this cultural organization is to provide a safe space for activities and innovative programs that promote literary and cultural expression. They are a collective group of community advocates that understand the importance of providing opportunities to experience the rich culture and history of Canadians of African and Caribbean ancestry.
They are located at 777-779 Bathurst Street in Toronto’s iconic Bathurst-Bloor neighbourhood, and throughout the pandemic have continued to provide online streaming, and book deliveries for the community.
Zero Gun Violence Movement For over 30 years, Louis March (founder of the Zero Gun Violence Movement), has been a volunteer community worker and advocate in the African-Canadian community. He has focused his attention on engaging with youth and developing mentorship initiatives that address the gun violence issues in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The movement has picked up traction over the last few years, and they are currently collaborating with over 40 different community organizations and programs across the city. They have united people from all walks of life, who are sick and tired of hearing daily reports of shooting deaths, and the havoc these shootings have on the community.
Louis March remains committed to addressing structural and socio-economic conditions that contribute to the cities issues with gun violence.
R.I.S.E EDUTAINMENT Randell Adjey had a vision. In his vision, he saw a safe space that encouraged self-expression and self-reflection. This space would provide an opportunity for youth to experience the power of community healing through art and vulnerability.
This was the genesis of R.I.S.E. Edutainment (Reaching Intelligent Souls Everywhere), a youth-led movement that encourages the development of a person artistically, professionally, personally, socially and spiritually.
R.I.S.E. programs provide our youth with platforms to learn, perform and develop leadership skills. Youth have an opportunity to safely dive deep into their stories using art to explore their vulnerabilities, and create room for healing.
We share these organizations stories because of the LOVE, and dedication that they continue to show to the community. With your help, we can ensure that their tireless work is supported. Your gift will be put to work immediately providing them with the resources they need to increase their visibility in communities that desperately need them.