HUB International: Building Stronger Communities with Thrive Youth

The HUB Customer Central team in action packing critical school and creative supplies.

At HUB International, giving back is more than a value, it’s a way of life. Through partnerships like the one with Thrive Youth Development Canada, HUB employees have had the opportunity to empower young people, build stronger communities, and strengthen team culture across the country. This summer, four HUB teams came together to source, pack, and deliver an incredible 350 kits filled with critical school and creative supplies.

We sat down with several HUB leaders to learn more about what drives their commitment to Thrive’s mission and how these initiatives inspire both employees and communities.

About HUB’s Commitment

HUB has been such a generous supporter of Thrive’s mission. Can you share what drives commitment to giving back to local communities?

“HUB International genuinely embraces a culture of giving back, which fuels our dedication to contribute to the community. I believe our employees possess a deep sense of compassion, and when your part of an organization that champions these initiatives, it encourages everyone to get actively involved.”— Jacquilynne Ellison, Director Talent Acquisition Canada

Why does youth empowerment, and creativity in particular, resonate with HUB as a cause?

“Empowering youth is crucial for the advancement of society, and our organization is passionate about collaborating with various generations. HUB actively engages with high schools, offers workshops, and supports significant initiatives such as Thrive Youth.”— Jacquilynne Ellison, Director Talent Acquisition Canada

HUB has supported Thrive in so many ways, from volunteering in programs earlier this year to packing Creativity Kits and joining creative workshops. What inspires HUB to invest time, energy, and resources into empowering youth through Thrive?

“What motivates HUB to dedicate time to these initiatives is the chance to participate in activities during work hours. The workshops hosted by Thrive were incredibly engaging and enjoyable, effectively encouraging individuals to step outside their comfort zones. Additionally, the immense joy that comes from empowering youth plays a significant role. Observing our employees come alive while giving back or participating in creative workshops, such as poetry, truly unites everyone with a shared purpose.”— Jacquilynne Ellison, Director Talent Acquisition Canada

About the Supply Drive & HUB’s Impact

This year, HUB employees packed 350 back-to-school bags for young people in Thrive’s network, an incredible impact! What inspired HUB to get involved in such a hands-on way?

“We have such an incredible team of people here at HUB! The teamwork and camaraderie that this organization has is reflected in the dedication we have to giving back to the communities we serve. When the opportunity came up to partner with Thrive Youth in hosting HUB’s inaugural Back-to-School Supply Drive—it was one that we couldn’t turn down. Insurance is a promise of safety and protection, a promise that points to the future. What better way to support our future than by supporting our youth with their education!”— Vivian Jung, Senior Human Resources Business Partner, HUB Coastal

The HUB Coastal team with their packed school supply kits.

What do you hope these materials will bring to the youth who receive them?

HUB's Quebec team posing with the school supplies they collected, packed, and delivered.

“We hope these backpacks and school supplies will provide children with the essential tools they need to succeed in school, while also giving them a sense of encouragement and belonging. Our goal is that each child feels supported, valued, and motivated to pursue their goals, knowing their community believes in their potential and future success.”— Nathalie Blu Auguste, Vice President Claim Services

How do initiatives like this align with HUB’s broader values as a company?

“The Thrive Youth Supply Drive is a clear example of HUB’s values in action. Service, teamwork, and community are at the heart of who we are, and this initiative brought all of that to life. Teams across Canada came together to make sure kids had the supplies they need to start the school year strong. It may seem like a simple act, but it reflects something bigger: HUB’s commitment to protecting aspirations, supporting growth, and investing in the next generation.

By stepping up to meet real needs, we create a lasting impact that goes beyond our clients and colleagues and reaches into the communities where we live and work.”— Ethan Marques, Talent Acquisition Partner, EBR&L

HUB's Employee Benefits and Retirement team volunteer to fill backpack full of school supplies.

On Employee Engagement & Culture

So many HUB employees showed up to volunteer their time and creativity. Why is employee participation in initiatives like this important to HUB?

“Employee participation is important to HUB because it reflects our values in action. When our people come together to give their time and creativity, it strengthens our culture of teamwork, compassion, and community engagement. Volunteering not only makes a direct impact on those we serve, but it also empowers employees to feel connected, proud, and united in a shared purpose beyond the workplace.”— Nathalie Blu Auguste, Vice President Claim Services

Looking Ahead

What excites HUB most about continuing to partner with Thrive in the future?

“We are thrilled with how our regions have embraced Thrive. In 2024 in partnership with Thrive, we piloted an initiative in one region to pack and deliver Creativity Kits to a local organization to benefit youth. To kick things off, employees took part in a Thrive-led team-building workshop, where an artist-educator introduced them to beatboxing. This not only gave them a chance to experience creative play but also to learn about Thrive and the impact their efforts would have. Building on that success, we expanded the initiative this year to four regions, allowing us to support even more communities. We are excited for the momentum we’re building together!”— Teresa Smith, Director, Talent Development Canada / Regional Talent Development Lead

What would you say to other companies considering getting involved in community-building initiatives like this?

“Don’t hesitate to get involved! It’s incredible to know that your organization is creating a promising future for deserving youth within the local community and, at the same time, fostering engagement, teamwork, and a true sense of purpose amongst employees. Thrive makes it easy and flexible—no matter your size, budget, or location, they’ll help your organization give back in a meaningful way.”— Teresa Smith, Director, Talent Development Canada / Regional Talent Development Lead

HUB has already made such an incredible impact. What’s next in your journey of empowering young people through creativity?

“We know we want to continue partnering with Thrive and have started discussing how we might increase employee awareness across all of our regions next year. As an organization with team members spread throughout Canada, imagine the impact we could make if we increased our level of engagement.”— Teresa Smith, Director, Talent Development Canada / Regional Talent Development Lead

Together, HUB International and Thrive Youth are showing what’s possible when companies and communities join forces: empowered youth, stronger teams, and brighter futures.