#MyGreenwinLife is a series that highlights individual members of the Greenwin team by exploring their unique journeys, which have led them to become valued members of our company. Through the inspiring stories, memories and experiences of our people, we celebrate the connection and sense of community that is the backbone of our organization.

Today we would like to share the story of Melissa Green, Special Events Coordinator:

As a member of the LGBTQ2S+ community, it’s important to share our stories so that we can work toward a world where anyone, regardless of who they are, can feel free to be themselves and live without fear. Being gay has made me strong. It has taught me to stand up for other marginalized communities and to be an ally for everyone in need. It has also taught me to stand up for myself and to be who I am regardless of how people feel.

I feel so proud to have a career where I can bring these values to fruition every day. As a part of the Greenwin Cares team, I work first-hand with many community members, from all backgrounds and all walks of life. Offering our support and creating a community where each person is supported and uplifted is what the LGBTQ2S+ community is all about. I love being able to extend this into everything I do.

While the entire Greenwin community has always made me feel supported and valued, I feel the most uplifted by my colleague and mentor, Lily Wong. It is such an honour to work alongside someone who is so kind and selfless. Lily makes coming to work each day fun and exciting and I feel extremely lucky to have her as a friend and role model.

My role with Greenwin Cares began with a mission to help people and make changes in the communities we serve. Today, I do just that and more! From writing grants to meeting with dignitaries and developing programs for at risk-youth, I have seen undeniable growth in my career.

Being a part of an organization, like Greenwin, that is constantly evolving and improving its corporate practices demonstrates that the care is truly there. Recently, our Spirit Committee extended to include a dedicated Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) arm, with a commitment to celebrating the uniqueness of our people, 365 days a year, by bringing in speakers, supporting organizations and sharing our stories. What struck me is that Greenwin didn't just assume they knew what allyship was. Instead, they reached out to all team members, with a specific call-out to those from BIPOC and LGBTQ2S+ communities, to ensure representation. It is about learning and growing and supporting people in the ways they need to be supported.

It's so important for institutions to acknowledge the multifaceted history of the LGBTQ2S+ community and the horrendous hurdles we have faced. We must also think of the countries where it remains illegal to be a part of the LGBTQ2S+ community, some of which carry the death penalty for being gay. We can't just celebrate the successes of our own history, we must also stand up for the people who can't stand for themselves and are being oppressed for who they are.

I encourage allies to get involved today by supporting an LGBTQ2S+ organization such as

Rainbow Railroad, the 519, NWAC, and BindersOUT, which Greenwin has committed to supporting in the coming months.

Ready to leave your mark? Greenwin is hiring! We're hiring for a range of positions to join our growing team where there’s opportunity to learn and grow in a hands-on environment! Check out our selection of on-site and head office job openings here: https://www.greenwin.ca/about/careers