PROUD TO SUPPORT Houaida and Izzy WESTERN RECIPIENT 4th QUARTER 2023

Brokers Who Care • December 21, 2023

Brokers Who Care voted and we are pleased to announce that we will be sending a cheque in the amount of $3,500 to Houaida and Izzy, our Western Recipient of the 4th Quarter 2023 vote.


Thank you to Crystal Mamchur for bringing this Cause to our attention.


The Nomination Story:

I am writing to nominate Houaida, a remarkable woman whose compassion and dedication have profoundly impacted the life of a young girl, Izzy (Isabelle) 12 years old.

Houaida’s journey with Izzy began in the summer of 2016, when Izzy’s family moved next door. Houaida quickly bonded with Izzy, then five years old, and her mother, Brandy, who struggled with mental health issues and alcoholism. Despite Brandy’s efforts, her situation deteriorated, leading to multiple relocations and eventual homelessness.

In January 2021, a critical moment arose when Izzy, in distress due to her mother’s condition, sought refuge with Houaida. What was planned as a temporary stay extended indefinitely as Brandy’s struggles continued. Houaida, recognizing the dire circumstances, stepped in to provide a stable and nurturing environment for Izzy, even securing legal guardianship to protect her.

During this time, Izzy faced immense personal loss, including the passing of her grandparents and, tragically, her mother took her own life June 1st of this year. Through these hardships, Houaida has been a constant source of support and care for Izzy, who is now navigating the challenges of adolescence.

Houaida’s commitment extends beyond emotional support. As an Indigenous child, Izzy faced the risk of being placed with an unfamiliar family if entered into the social services system. Houaida chose to care for Izzy independently, ensuring she remained in a familiar and loving environment.

The challenges have been significant. Houaida lost her primary source of income earlier this year and has been striving to build a small business from home. Despite financial struggles, she prioritizes Izzy’s wellbeing, even at her own expense, and continues to care for their dog Bane, who has health issues.

Houaida’s selflessness, resilience, and dedication to Izzy’s wellbeing make her an exceptional candidate for support from your organization. Her story is a testament to the power of compassion and the difference one person can make in the lives of others.

By Brokers Who Care June 24, 2025
Brokers Who Care voted and we are pleased to announce that we will be sending a cheque in the amount of $10,000 to Brodziak Family our Recipient of the 2nd Quarter 2025 vote. Thank you Crystal Mamchur for bringing this Cause to our attention. On August 13, 2024, Ryan Brodziak’s life changed forever. While walking with his 11-month-old son, Ozzy, and their puppy, Gouda, an out-of-control vehicle struck them on the sidewalk. Ryan suffered a severe spinal cord injury, resulting in quadriplegia, while Ozzy sustained a skull fracture and a broken arm. Six months later, Ryan remains in intensive rehabilitation after months in the ICU and multiple surgeries. His journey is uncertain, requiring daily effort to regain strength and adjust to life with a spinal cord injury. His wife, Bailey, has been his unwavering support, balancing new motherhood with being Ryan’s primary caregiver and advocate. She has put her career on hold, navigating hospital stays, rehab programs, and financial stress—all while ensuring a loving home for Ozzy. Ryan has always given back. As the former owner of The Local Omnivore, Gravy, and Gorilla restaurants, he built community spaces and organized charity events, including an annual Bikeathon to support Edmonton’s unhoused population. He has always stepped up for others—now, he and his family need that same support. A Brokers Who Care grant would be life-changing, helping with critical home modifications, rehabilitation costs, and mobility equipment. Just as importantly, it would provide financial relief for Bailey, allowing her to focus on their family’s well-being without overwhelming financial strain. This isn’t just about helping one person—it’s about lifting a family who has given so much to their community.
By Brokers Who Care June 24, 2025
Brokers Who Care voted and we are pleased to announce that we will be sending a cheque in the amount of $3,000 to Andrea Gibson our Recipient of the 2nd Quarter 2025 vote. Thank you Katy Mackenzie for bringing this Cause to our attention. Andrea Gibson is a Self-Compassion and Mindset Coach, Dance Educator, and Mental Health Advocate who has dedicated her life to helping others thrive. Recently, Andrea received a life-altering diagnosis of breast cancer, requiring her to undergo chemotherapy, an upcoming double mastectomy, and radiotherapy continuing into 2025. As a self-employed professional and mother of two, Andrea will be unable to work during her treatment, creating significant financial strain for her family. Andrea’s work has empowered countless women to reconnect with themselves and live intentionally. As a leader in the dance community with over 30 years of experience, she has inspired young dancers to embrace their inner champion and develop mindset tools to navigate challenges both on and off the stage. Andrea’s authenticity, vulnerability, and humour have been instrumental in creating meaningful change in her community. Unfortunately, her cancer diagnosis temporarily halts this incredible work. Without the ability to earn income during her treatment, Andrea faces a challenging road ahead. A $10,000 donation would help alleviate the financial burden on her family, providing critical support during this difficult time. It would allow Andrea to focus on her recovery without the added stress of lost income, ensuring she can heal and ultimately return to her mission of empowering others with the same passion and dedication she’s always shown. Andrea has spent her life giving 1,000% of herself to her clients (including me!), her students, and her community. Now, she needs support to navigate this challenging chapter in her life. Your help will make an immediate and profound impact, providing the relief she needs as she faces cancer with courage and grace.
By Brokers Who Care June 24, 2025
Brokers Who Care voted and we are pleased to announce that we will be sending a cheque in the amount of $10,000 to Daniel Natareno our Recipient of the 2nd Quarter 2025 vote. Thank you Anthony contento and Michelle Campbell for bringing this Cause to our attention. Daniel Natareno, a well-known and deeply respected figure in the mortgage industry, is currently in the fight of his life against cancer. For the past 1.5 years, he’s faced this battle with strength and grace while receiving treatment abroad—far from work, but never far from hope. The financial toll is growing, and his family is struggling to keep up with mounting medical bills. A devoted father to Daniel Jr. (21), Damellys (20), and Allesandra (5), Daniel’s heart of gold, warm smile, and unwavering love for his children continue to shine through even the darkest days.  Your support can help ease the financial burden and bring healing, hope, and stability to a man who has given so much to others. Let’s stand with Daniel and his family in this critical time.
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