When I first walked through Furniture Bank’s doors in 2008 as a new mom fresh off maternity leave, I was searching for more than just a job—I was looking for purpose. I’ll never forget that first interview in the cold, old warehouse. Despite the drafty space, there was an undeniable warmth in the people and mission that immediately drew me in. What started as a call center position would become a 16-year journey that would shape not just my career, but my entire family’s story.
One of my most cherished memories is bringing my then two-year-old daughter, Megan, to our Madison Avenue warehouse to meet the team. The office was cold, and space was tight, but there was something magical about those moments. Now, watching Megan volunteer at Furniture Bank while pursuing her studies at the University of Toronto, I’m struck by how we’ve grown together alongside this remarkable organization. Her evolution from a toddler playing in our warehouse to a passionate volunteer demonstrates how deeply our work can shape the next generation’s values and understanding of community service.