They say charity starts in your own backyard, and we feel that’s absolutely true. We don’t just work in our communities; we live here too. And we feel it’s important to give back.

As part of the Weed Man HART Group, we're fortunate to live and work in:

• Kawartha Lakes

• Peterborough

• Port Hope/Cobourg

We’re proud to be a part of these communities, and we’re always looking for meaningful ways to give back and get involved wherever we can.

“As a family-owned business, our communities mean a great deal to us. They're where we live, work, raise our families, and build relationships. We know there are people right here in our communities who need a little extra support, and we care deeply about doing what we can to help,” said Shannon Urquhart-Coates, Sales & Marketing Manager / Co-Owner.

“It's not always about doing something extraordinary. It's about doing our part and hopefully encouraging others to do the same.”

After an extremely busy summer, let’s take a look at some of the incredible events we took part in.

Coldest Night of the Year - Lindsay

In February, we sponsored and participated in Coldest Night of the Year in Lindsay, supporting United Way Haliburton Kawartha Lakes and its work helping local people experiencing hunger, hurt, and homelessness.

Balsam Lake Cottagers' Association

In June, Dan Urquhart (President / Owner / Operator) had the opportunity to present to the Balsam Lake Cottagers' Association, sharing some of our family's Weed Man history locally and discussing:

• Pesticide regulations

• Application safety

• Mosquito and tick control

• Bee safety and other environmental considerations

What a great group!

The Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival

In June, we also rallied a Peterborough team for the annual Dragon Boat Festival and raised $2,142 for the PRHC Foundation in support of local cancer care. We also sponsored the Peterborough Thunder House League girls' softball program this season.

The United Way - Haliburton Kawartha Lakes

This summer, our Kawartha Lakes crew rolled up their sleeves to help United Way HKL move into its new home, lending some of our amazing team and a Weed Man truck.

The 3rd Annual Canadian Fire Fighters Museum Walk & Run

Pictured from left: Colin Urquhart, Operations Manager & Scott Urquhart, General Manager / Co-Owner

In July, our Port Hope/Cobourg team sponsored and participated in the 3rd Annual Canadian Fire Fighters Museum Walk & Run in Cobourg.

The 23rd Annual Kawartha Lakes Classic Cycling Tour

Pictured from left: Jody Urquhart, Customer Service Representative, Mia Royston, Assistant Office Manager & Kellyanne Urquhart-Lawrie, Regional Office Manager / Co-Owner

In August, we were once again a lead sponsor of the 23rd Annual Kawartha Lakes Classic Cycling Tour in support of A Place Called Home, contributing $1,000 in sponsorship.

Eighteen members of our team also volunteered throughout the day, taking the lead on registration, setup, serving lunch, cleanup, route sweeps, and wherever else help was needed.

Grassroots Giving Food Drive

Pictured from left: Fiona Swain (Field Supervisor), Shane Eyers (Operations Manager), Jody Urquhart (Customer Service Representative), Shannon Urquhart-Coates (Sales & Marketing Manager / Co-Owner)

Our 3rd Annual Grassroots Giving Food Drive is currently underway across all three territories. We've already raised $920+ for local organizations addressing food insecurity, with our food collection totals still to come. There's also some friendly competition between the branches!

Outside of team activities, Shannon said her family continues to stay involved personally as well.

“I'm coming up on three years volunteering on the United Way HKL Board. Dan is in his fifth year volunteering with A Place Called Home. And this year Dan and Maureen (Urquhart), Co-Owner, also started volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters.”

“We're really proud of our team and grateful for the opportunities we've had to get involved in the communities where we live and work. That's always been an important part of our family business.”