There is a banner displayed at The Brick North Bay that reads “Proudly Supporting our Community.”
This is much more than a marketing slogan; at The Brick North Bay, giving back to their customers and neighbours is an ongoing initiative that staff, management and owners continuously work toward. And, it is one that will not be stopped – not even in the wake of a global pandemic.
Community support is reciprocal
The Brick has been a North Bay cornerstone since 2004 and is locally owned and operated by Annette and Paul Lalonde. The company enjoys a well-established relationship with the community, one that became even stronger despite the challenges of the past year.
Store manager Beth Jackson explains that throughout the pandemic, “Customers relied on us, and we relied on the community. We never closed down. We kept somebody here to continue deliveries, manage customer service calls and do sales over the phone. People still needed things, and we did the best that we could behind closed doors.”
For the staff and management of The Brick North Bay, ‘doing their best’ included an unwavering dedication to supporting local charities, teams and events through cash and in-kind donations.
The Lalondes and their staff take great pride in their ability to support so many local projects, including a recent $25,000 gift to the Renal Department of the North Bay Regional Health Centre.
“We have been very fortunate this year to be able to donate over $50,000 back into the community,” Beth says. The company supports a number of sports teams, golf tournaments, non-profits and charity groups. Owner Annette Lalonde actively participates in the Kidney walk along with her friends and family, especially her grandchildren. “It really is a family affair. Everyone gets involved.”
Teddy Bear Toss
The Brick North Bay will sponsor ‘A Night at the Battalion’ on Thursday December 16, the night of the North Bay Battalion annual Teddy Bear Toss. This yearly event gives fans the opportunity to throw stuffed toys on to the ice, which are then distributed by the Battalion to local children in need.
This year, The Brick North Bay is making it possible for Battalion fans to double their giving impact: “During the game, The Brick North Bay will be selling our bears for $20, proceeds go to the Children’s Miracle Network,” says Jackson. Fans can purchase a Brickley Bear to toss on the ice and for each one sold at the game, The Brick North Bay will donate ten dollars to the North Bay Santa Fund, a local organization that delivers Christmas hampers to those in need during the holiday season.
Brickley Bears are available at The Brick year-round, in support of their national partnership with the Children’s Miracle Network. Customers who are not able to attend ‘A Night at the Battalion’ in person may purchase a Brickley in-store until December 16, and have it designated for the Teddy Bear Toss.
The Brick North Bay is located at 34 Marshall Avenue.