At J.D. Irving, we believe in supporting our employees who make our communities stronger. When employees volunteer, it not only gives them a sense of accomplishment, but it also strengthens the communities.

An example of how JDI encourages employee volunteerism is through our Emerging Talent Career Development Program. An important feature of this recent graduates’ program focuses on community giving and includes a session on how to support the needs of a community.

“One of the most significant ways for employees to experience a stronger sense of engagement with their company and colleagues is to volunteer and realize the profound impact of giving of one’s time to improve the lives of others,” said Wayne McDonald, Vice President of Corporate Relations, J.D. Irving, Limited.

To apply what they learn in the program, participants lead a community event that can positively impact the people surrounding them.

Josh Sampson, Associate Business Analyst with J.D. Irving, Limited.

“My peers and I created a Volunteer Expo to promote opportunities for employees to make a positive and meaningful impact in our community,” said Josh Sampson, Associate Business Analyst with J.D. Irving, Limited and Emerging Talent Program participant. “For me, giving back through work allows me to show my team I can do more. I also get to meet new people and make a difference in their life.”

The strong J.D. Irving culture of giving back comes from the values which have made the organization a success for 137 years.

“Employees value working for an organization that encourages a community centric approach as part of its formal development programs,” said Raj Saroop, Manager and Career Coach, Emerging Talent Program. “As the next generation of talented employees, participants learn a lot from being able to give back to their community through work.”

Left to right: Wade Murphy, Midland Transport; Emmanuella Djama, J.D. Irving, Limited; Samantha Bujold, Cavendish Farms; Evan Fitzsimmons, J.D. Irving, Limited; Stephanie Johnston, Irving Consumer Products; and Josh Sampson, J.D. Irving, Limited - all Emerging Talent Program participants.