In our Tenant Spotlight series, we’re featuring the tenants who help shape our neighbourhoods and communities. In honour of Black History Month, we sat down with Yic Camara, the Deputy Executive Director of FRAP, a Francophone Settlement Agency based in our Northgate Centre property in Edmonton, Alberta. Keep reading to learn more about Yic’s story, how FRAP has impacted the Francophone community, and the importance of education and awareness during this special occasion.

What is FRAP, and what do they do? 

FRAP, which stands for Francophonie Albertaine Plurielle, is a Francophone Settlement Agency that specializes in welcoming Francophone newcomers to Canada, specifically Alberta. The agency’s goal is to help Francophone immigrants feel at home and integrated throughout their journey of settling in Canada. FRAP is based in Edmonton, with locations across the province of Alberta, and covers a portion of Western Canada, including Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories.   

Humble Beginnings: How FRAP Has Progressed Throughout the Years  

FRAP was established in October 2014. At the time of its founding, FRAP specialized in ensuring that Francophone newcomers and families were well integrated into the Francophone school system. The agency, however, noticed a lack of diversity in the Francophone school system, specifically among the teachers and supporting school staff. For the next 4 years, FRAP advocated for more diversity within the Francophone school system, entering various negotiations with the Alberta Provincial Government and the Francophone school board to bring about change.  

In 2018, the Federal Government decided to halt funding for the main Francophone agency (at that time), which FRAP highly disagreed with. FRAP stood up for this agency, speaking up about the value and significance of assisting Francophone newcomers in settling into their new homes. To carry on the need for Francophone settlement services, FRAP took over for the previous agency, broadening its focus from ensuring diversity in the Francophone school board to now servicing Francophone newcomers as well. Since then, FRAP has expanded to multiple cities and provinces within Western Canada. 

Finding the Ideal Location 

FRAP’s first office was located on the South side of Edmonton near the University of Alberta, but this location was not ideal for the agency. Most Francophone families live on the North side of the city, making it difficult for Francophones and clients to travel to FRAP.  

In 2021, FRAP reached out to First Capital to open another office closer to their target clients. Coincidently, the First Capital team was moving out of one of its offices Northgate Centre, located in Northern Edmonton. FRAP took over this space for their new office, as this location was very convenient and accessible. Most importantly, FRAP had now relocated to an area that was closer to its clients and Francophone families. Since then, FRAP has been serving over 300 people, and their client base is still growing today. 

“We’re so fortunate to have First Capital as a business partner… They are there for us any time we need them.”

Just ten months ago, FRAP opened another office with First Capital in the West side of Edmonton. Even though FRAP mainly served Francophones, the agency felt very welcomed by the local community and businesses were thrilled to see the first Francophone-focused agency in that area.

Working at FRAP: A Rewarding Career for Yic    

As a Francophone immigrant himself, Yic understands the experiences and hardships faced by Francophone newcomers. One of the things he enjoys the most about his job is working closely with his clients, guiding them through every step of their journey, and watching them thrive. 

“People who share the same background as me are the ones who are seeking our [FRAP’s] services. That’s why I feel so proud to be here to serve our people, to serve Francophones… I can imagine being a Francophone immigrant in Alberta – you belong to a visible minority, you don’t speak English, you’re coming from another country… It’s very challenging for them. And being part of their solution, being a light for them to while going through everything – I’m so proud of that because when I see people I worked with become successful and living their dream, it’s priceless.”

– Yic Camara, Deputy Executive Director of FRAP

For Yic and his colleagues, working at FRAP has been nothing short of a fulfilling and rewarding experience. 

“I love what I am doing right now because I like being there for people…I feel so grateful to do what I am doing. What I do as a job is very meaningful to many people.”  

– Yic Camara, Deputy Executive Director of FRAP

Yic also proudly notes that it is his colleagues who drive the agency forward and make the work worthwhile. Yic is extremely grateful for all the meaningful work they do together, and he knows they always give their best to take care of clients. 

Without them [my colleagues], nothing is possible – for myself, our agency, and our clients.”

The Meaning of Black History Month to Yic   

Black History Month plays a huge role in Yic’s heritage, background, and family. To Yic, Black History Month is more than just a celebration, but an occasion to educate others about Black History in Canada. His goal is to bring more people together and raise awareness to what Black people have experienced and accomplished throughout Canadian history. Yic also notes the importance of educating the new generation, including his children, about Black History.  

Black history is also Canadian history… Black History Month is not just for Black people, it is for everyone, for all Canadians. We need to get everyone engaged to learn about Black History – that is the main goal. My hope is that everyone in Canada can live as one.

– Yic Camara, Deputy Executive Director of FRAP

Any Words of Advice for Young Black Professionals Who Want to be a Business Owner like Yourself?    

Never give up! You can do it! Believe in yourself and believe in what you want to achieve because it’s possible… Don’t let someone else convince you that you’re not able to achieve it… Be proud of yourself and what you are, be proud of your history, no one decides who you have to be.

– Yic Camara, Deputy Executive Director of FRAP

A Recap of Black History Month Initiatives Organized by FRAP   

During Black History Month, FRAP organized several programming and activities for Francophone and French Immersion schools across Alberta. Through these initiatives, FRAP aimed to educate and bring awareness of Black History Month to the young generation. This included Black History-centered workshops, games, videos, and arts/culture performances that showcased Black culture and identities.  

FRAP also held an opening event for Anglophones and the Francophone community to learn about Black History Month in Alberta. Here, attendees learned about what Black people have achieved in Canada through testimonials, performances, and presentations. 150 people attended this event, along with the Mayor of Edmonton and various politicians. 


Here at First Capital, we’re glad that we can showcase what our tenants do and share their inspirational stories! We couldn’t be prouder of FRAP’s success, and we look forward to seeing what’s next for Yic and the rest of the team at FRAP! 

Check out our social media posts on LinkedIn & Instagram, and click the links below to learn more about FRAP: 

FRAP’s Main Website 

Instagram  

YouTube  

Facebook  

Our intern applications for 2024 are currently closed. Click here to apply and explore our other positions today!

Since the first cohort joined us in 2017, we’ve had many talented young professionals come through our Summer Intern Program, kick off their careers, and ultimately make their mark in the Canadian Real Estate industry. We’re looking for the next generation of Real Estate professionals to revolutionize and push our industry forward. Do you have what it takes?  

About FCR’s Unique Intern Program 

Our Intern Program gives young professionals access to enriching opportunities to start and accelerate their careers. Through this program, First Capital Interns gain real, meaningful work experience through hands-on activities, working alongside our leaders on exciting projects and strategies. In addition to day-to-day assignments, Interns have access to a series of learning and networking events, mentorship sessions from our leaders, and an end-of-term Capstone Project. Our goal is to provide all program graduates with a solid understanding of our business, the Canadian Real Estate (CRE) industry, and a wealth of valuable connections. 

The program spans from May to August and we offer positions in many departments including Asset Strategy, Real Estate Services, Development, Information Technology, Marketing & Communications, People & Culture, Finance & Accounting, Legal, and many more across our offices in Canada. There’s truly something for everyone! 

A Recap of our 2023 Summer Intern Program 

Our 2023 program, which consisted of 18 interns, featured role-specific projects, weekly Learning and Mentorship Sessions, Intern Socials, Networking Events, and the end-of-term Capstone Project. 

The Capstone Project Presentation  

Our Interns also take part in the Capstone Project that ties all the foundational elements of the internship program — practical work experience, collaboration, research, and innovative problem-solving. Interns from across their disciplines work together and look for ways to drive creativity and innovation within our portfolio of mixed-use real estate. This project spans the entirety of the program and is presented to our Executive Leadership Team at the end of the four-month term. Talk about real work experience! 

Testimonials From Past Interns (and Interns turned Employees!)  

What’s it like to intern at First Capital? Check out some testimonials below and get a glimpse into what your experience could be like: 

I joined First Capital as a summer law intern in 2023. During this time, I had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in real estate and leasing law while developing an understanding of the CRE industry. I also had the benefit of working under exceptional mentors who made a point to prioritize my education and growth as a legal professional. I have come to appreciate First Capital’s welcoming culture and have developed lifelong personal and professional relationships with my peers. First Capital’s summer intern program is a valuable springboard to any student’s career, and I cannot endorse it enough.” 

– Brody Zuckerman, Summer Law Student (2023) 

“FCR promotes the growth of every employee, regardless of position. As a young professional, being challenged and tasked with higher-level responsibilities is a unique way to learn that most internships don’t provide. While I learned how to tackle real-life problems in the CRE industry, I also learned the value of surrounding oneself with professional and personal mentors who want to see you succeed. Thank you to everyone who imparted wisdom and patience over the past 16 weeks, it goes a long way for us!” 

– Mafe Angeles, Marketing and Communications Intern (2023)

“In the Summer of 2023, I began my internship with First Capital as a Property Management Intern. FCR’s intern program was exactly what I was looking for, and the skills I gained in correspondence/project management and ESG analysis are all going to be indispensable as I go on to complete my studies. In operations, I wasn’t just an intern; I was a future property manager, and my mentors did everything they could to get me ready for when I find myself working alongside them. The feeling of genuine teamwork is something you can’t find in many workplaces, but everything First Capital did has really made me feel like I’m a part of a family.” 

– Nathan Baggs, Property Management Intern (2023) 

“This summer I had an amazing time working as a property accounting intern at FCR. I really value that my managers have given me guidance and support, which allows me to develop both personally and professionally. Aside from acquiring a wealth of practical knowledge within my own field, I’ve had the invaluable opportunity to delve into various other departments, fostering connections with professionals across the company and gaining a holistic understanding of its operations. I am truly grateful for such a great experience to contribute, learn, and evolve within FCR’s dynamic and nurturing environment.” 

– Angela Wang, Property Accounting Intern (2023)

Over eight years ago, I began my professional journey as an intern at First Capital. This role served as a solid foundation from which to build my career by immersing me in a wide range of projects at a company renowned for its best-in-class portfolio and platform. The invaluable experiences I gained and the guidance of my mentors within the company allowed me to transition seamlessly into a full-time position following my graduation, and I have continued to grow with the company ever since. I would encourage any aspiring professional to explore an internship at First Capital REIT!” 

– Jeff Farbman, Vice President of Investments at First Capital 

“In the summer of 2022, I began working at First Capital as a marketing intern, and it has been a fulfilling experience ever since. The warm and welcoming work environment provided an excellent introduction to the professional world, allowing me to develop new skills and grow in more ways than I could have imagined. During my internship, I honed a diverse skill set, including collaboration, communication, and organization, and was able to apply much of what I had studied during my academic experience.  

After being offered a full-time position in 2023 and getting more involved in the company, I had the opportunity to refine my graphic design skills and work collaboratively across various departments. The exceptional work culture at FCR, coupled with my incredible mentors, has been a valuable asset that has guided and supported me throughout my journey here. I look forward to an exciting future here at FCR. 

– Kristian Murphy, Junior Graphic Designer at First Capital 

Why First Capital?  

At First Capital, we offer a dynamic and diverse environment that allows for all our employees to grow and be successful. We invest in those who are passionate about what they do, are always willing to put their best foot forward, and are dedicated to working together to drive innovation and achieve success.  

We’re passionate about empowering the next generation of professionals in the real estate industry, and we aim to continue growing and implementing our yearly intern program to achieve this goal. Challenging, exciting, dynamic, and rewarding; FCR’s workplace offers enriching opportunities to grow and contribute meaningfully to our neighbourhoods.   

Interested in joining our intern program this year? Click here to apply and explore our Summer 2024 openings! 

We will also be hosting a virtual Coffee Chat on February 7th, 2024, at 2:30 pm EST, where you can learn more about First Capital, the Intern Program, and ask any questions you may have. Sign up for the virtual Coffee Chat here.    

Need help with your resume? Check out our blog on resume trends, tips, and tricks you should be thinking about here 

Keep updated on all FCR job opportunities by subscribing to our Recruitment Newsletter here 

Before today’s vibrant grocery-anchored shopping destination with a variety of notable retailers, Loblaws Plaza in Ottawa had a limited number of retail tenants. Before FCR took ownership, there was one primary reason community members would commute to the intersection of Baseline Road and Merivale Road: to dance. This ritual continues today, thanks to the Greta Leeming Studio of Dance (GLS), a world-renowned institution that has been serving the community for 61 years and counting.

Dance for Tami-Lynn, the current owner of Greta Leeming, is as essential as breathing. Her career began when she was just 4 years old, and given her family’s legacy, she might have always been destined to own her own studio.

Only, Tami-Lynn didn’t anticipate she would run a studio as established as Greta Leeming Studio of Dance.

Her mother was a dance teacher, who opened her own studio called the Bonnie Lynn Armstrong School of Dance, and later her cousin opening the Holtz Studio of Dance, where she did her training.  Tami-Lynn began  teaching when she was 14 years old and has never stopped.

At the age of 17, Tami-Lynn joined the CFL as a cheerleader for Ottawa Rough Riders and continued working in the dance community with as a teacher and choreographer with local theatre companies. When a friend recommended her to Greta Robinson to take over as a dance teacher at her studio, the rest, for Tami-Lynn, is history.

Dancing Their Way to the Top 

Greta Leeming was the place to go for ballet training in the 60s, and through the years to provide premiere dance training in a multitude of disciplines including tap, jazz, hip hop and contemporary dance. Tami-Lynn recalls that Greta was always focused on getting the best talent and staff to provide the highest quality of training to expand in each discipline and often source staff and talent internationally.

Tami-Lynn observed the studio over the years as it modernized and grew under Greta’s ownership and became a pillar of the community, where Tami-Lynn eventually took over in 2011.

She also explains that the majority of the staff that currently work at Greta Leeming in fact were Greta Leeming students, Tami-Lynn claims the staff hold themselves to a high level of excellence “(they) understand the quality of training that is expected from experience, whether you are two years old or an adult, you are going to get quality training”.

Tami-Lynn continued to evolve her dance career while working at Greta Leeming, and she supported Greta as the studio grew, which led to Greta offering her more responsibilities. Tami-Lynn eventually approached her and asked if she could take over the studio, and once Greta was ready to retire, she happily handed over the keys to the kingdom. She worked closely with Greta during this transition to ensure the studio would continue under the same principles.

“I thought about changing the name (of the studio), but there’s prestige behind the name Greta Leeming that benefits our students, dancers from Greta Leeming are recognized internationally for their talent”

  • Tami-Lynn Caloia, Owner/Director of GLS 

The GLS Community & Importance of Mentorship 

Dozens and dozens of dancers have moved on from Greta Leeming to professional jobs whether it be opening their own dance studios, to performing on Broadway, TV and movie sets. Some notable movies and shows include The Radio City Rockettes, The Music Man, Jersey Boys, and Hairspray.

Tami-Lynn believes at her core what sets this studio apart from the rest is her dedicated staff, and their expertise for each area of dance “There are no generalists here, only experts that specialize in every lane of dance.” When Tami-Lynn gained ownership there were 18 staff, and she had to immediately carry the dance studio as well as the competitive program, while learning to navigate those relationships and keep the community strong around her.

Tami-Lynn summarizes the studio as providing “… quality instruction, a professional and positive atmosphere, and a place for everyone”. She recognizes that dance class teaches kids many skills other than just dancing, building on their collaboration, time management and discipline.

  • Tami-Lynn Caloia, Owner/Director of GLS 

“Kids need life skills more than anything to learn how to collaborate and build their confidence.” She notes on the mentorship her studio provides for young children, citing that Greta Leeming teaches “…life skills just as much as dance”.

Today, they host approximately 130 dance classes every week, with 500+ dancers registered. Not all these dancers are children, there are over 100 adults registered at her studio and Tami-Lynn has introduced adult intensives and bootcamps for beginners, intermediates, and advanced dancers.

“When people take on dance as adults, they have a new zest for life and expression of self. It’s amazing that we can facilitate and encourage that.”

  • Tami-Lynn Caloia, Owner/Director of GLS 

Dance is a special community outside your everyday life, and Tami-Lynn has witnessed an endless number of life-long friendships and bonds formed at Greta Leeming. If there’s one thing she can’t emphasize enough, it’s that dance can benefit everyone.

“The biggest misconception is when people say they are not good enough to dance at Greta Leeming… we’ve expanded our curriculum so there is something here for everyone.”

  • Tami-Lynn Caloia, Owner/Director of GLS 

Location and Community Is Everything  

Tami-Lynn is extremely grateful for everything First Capital has done for the surrounding neighbourhood, bringing some amazing retail tenants and neighbours.

“Since First Capital has come in, we have everything, we have Starbucks, Pet Valu, Nando’s. I worked here for 25 years with nothing… Tim Horton’s being a 20-minute walk was the closest we had, and the Loblaws.”

  • Tami-Lynn Caloia, Owner/Director of GLS 

Tami-Lynn loves the diversity of the tenants and feels that the surrounding stores give her great exposure to potential new customers and vice versa.

What’s next, you might ask? She is looking forward to evolving in the space they are currently in and expanding their classes offerings even further.

“I’d like to work with seniors next, there’s so many things I’d like to do within the perimeters of my current location. I don’t want to run the risk of losing the quality we’ve maintained all this time.”

  • Tami-Lynn Caloia, Owner/Director of GLS 

Since its inception, GLS has helped thousands of young dancers reach their full potential, with many moving on to become company dancers, entertainers, as well as dance education professionals. If you’ve always been curious to take up dancing, this might be your sign to start. For those who live in and around Ottawa, stop by Greta Leeming Studio of Dance located in Loblaws Plaza.

To learn more about the studio, head to their website linked here and follow them on Instagram linked here.

For the fourth time in five years, we are honoured to have been named one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers by Mediacorp Canada and The Globe and Mail. This prestigious award recognizes organizations who demonstrate excellence and best practices in the workplace for employee support and success. Each year, applicants are evaluated on leadership in employee culture, benefits & total rewards, communication, training & education, and community involvement. 

Across our portfolio, our people are our most valued asset – they are at the core of everything we do. Their efforts, passion and willingness to help out each other, our tenants and those in our communities shape the FCR culture. 

 We invest in our team. Examples of the programs we’ve created to better the opportunities for our staff include: tuition subsidies to further employee’s education, an exceptional and well recognized summer internship program, substantial mental and physical health benefits, as well as flexible work schedules and extensive wellness packages to fit the diverse needs of our employees.  

Through the work of our Equity Diversity and Inclusion Council, we are creating a safe and respectful work environment that embraces different perspectives and lived experiences, as we strive to inspire everyone to become their best selves. As a Canadian company, we understand the importance of ED&I in the workplace as it reflects the diverse communities in which we operate. We’re continuing to evolve, educate ourselves and build on our understanding of ED&I and do better.  

Our FCR Thriving Neighbourhoods Foundation has also made huge strides since its launch in 2020. We are proud to report, with the conclusion of our 2023 fundraising season, over $900,000 in funds raised for charities across Canada. Through our various events, including our signature CRE softball tournament, charitable programming, and volunteerism, we’ve supported great charities like Kids Help Phone, Second Harvest, Food Banks across Canada, and many more!  

Being recognized as one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers is a testament to the excellence, commitment and talent among our 350+ employees nationwide. Our employees are at the core of our success, and we wouldn’t be where or who we are today without them. 

THANK YOU FCR TEAM! 

To learn more about this recognition click here

Welcome back to First Capital’s Climate Action Video and Blog Series. Throughout the series, we’ve focused on major climate change contributors and how we can make positive environmental impacts. In our fourth and final installment of this series, we’ll be discussing biodiversity and how we can preserve it. 

Biodiversity is essential for the health of our planet, but sadly human activity is gradually killing it off. Thankfully, there are ways we can preserve it and stop the destruction of it before there’s none left. The time is now to take action that will have a positive impact for the future and health of our planet. Whether you’re at home or work, your efforts can help preserve the biodiversity of life on Earth.  

What is biodiversity? 

Biodiversity represents all the various kinds of life on earth that make up our natural world – including the endless varieties of animals, plants, fungi, and even microorganisms such as bacteria. Each of these species and organisms work together in ecosystems, like an intricate web. 

Biodiversity is essential for the survival of our planet. It provides the air we breathe, the food we eat, medicines that keep us healthy, and so much more. We rely on biodiversity to support all life on Earth. 

Unfortunately, human activity, both intentional and unintentional, affects the biodiversity of the planet and poses a serious threat to its livelihood. Historically, the most significant threat to biodiversity has been the alteration and ongoing deterioration of natural habitats for agriculture and resource extraction. However, as climate change continues to intensify, its impact on ecosystems will become an increasingly pressing concern. As it stands, the degradation of biodiversity on our planet is occurring at an alarming rate and we need to work together to preserve it for generations to come. 

Intentional vs. Unintentional Human Activity Biodiversity Destruction 

A perfect example of habitat and biodiversity destruction from intentional human activity includes the vast deforestation and excavation of land to build homes, commercial buildings, and farms. Currently, forests cover 31% of the land on our planet – a number that sadly used to be much higher. In Canada, extracting natural resources such as gas, oil, and other minerals is a big part of our economy. Not only does the extraction process emit harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, but it also negatively impacts our intact forests. Extractions require roads, pipelines, seismic lines, and open pits – all of which cause deforestation. 

Land use change is the primary driver of biodiversity loss, accounting for approximately 30% of the decline worldwide. Overexploitation, such as overfishing, overhunting, and overharvesting of resources like food, medicine, and timber, is the second leading cause of biodiversity loss, contributing to around 20% of the decline. 

Biodiversity loss, however, is not just confined to land. To that effect, an example of unintentional human activity that causes biodiversity destruction is the gradual loss of our coral reefs. Coral reefs are some of the most important and precious ecosystems we have on earth as they provide necessary habitats for fish and other aquatic life, protect coastlines from storms and erosion, provide jobs for local communities, and produce a grave amount of oxygen that keeps aquatic species alive. As an indirect result of human activity (emissions of harmful pollutants and greenhouse gases), our oceans’ carbon dioxide levels and overall temperature are continuing to rise. Unfortunately, this creates an environment where coral cannot survive and as a result, many around the world are dying at an alarming rate.  

Our Wilderton Centre property, located in Montreal, QC, contains a moss-filled roof that reduces energy use in the building as it provides a natural cooling barrier. It creates a habitat attracting surrounding wildlife. This helps the neighbourhood’s biodiversity thrive. 

So, how can we preserve biodiversity? 

There are multiple ways we can preserve biodiversity, but in order to make a significant impact, both individuals and organizations alike must do their part. At First Capital, we are committed to sustainability and reducing our impact on the environment. We have implemented various initiatives to help biodiversity thrive.  

During the summer of 2022, we partnered with MircoHabitatto transform an outdoor patio space into an urban farm. We grew a variety of vegetables and harvested over 500 edible plants and 104lbs of vegetables, edible flowers, and herbs – all of which was donated to a local food charity.This initiative contributes to the greening of spaces; helps create local, ecological, and resilient food systems; helps support our local community; and encourages biodiversity in our urban area. Click here to learn more about this initiative.  

In 2020, we launched our Beehive program and have installed a total of 11 beehives at various properties across our portfolio. Bees play an instrumental role in the survival of the Earth’s ecosystems and biodiversity. Their importance lies in the ability to transfer pollen between flowering plants which ultimately leads to their growth and reproduction. Click here to learn how we’re growing our sustainability initiatives one beehive at a time. 

What you can do 

Preserving biodiversity is not just the responsibility of corporations and governments; it’s also up to individuals. Here are some practical steps you can take to help preserve biodiversity:  

  • Make sustainable food choices: food production remains extremely high due to human overconsumption and excess food waste. Our food choices can have a significant impact on biodiversity. Eating a plant-based diet, choosing sustainably sourced local foods, and even reducing our meat consumption can all help preserve biodiversity. 
      
  • Reduce food waste: food waste is a significant issue that contributes to biodiversity loss. Nearly 60% of the food produced in Canada is thrown out every year. That’s about 35.5 million metric tons, equaling the weight of 300 CN Towers. When we waste food, we waste the resources used to produce it, including the water for crops to grow and the fossil fuels used to harvest and transport it. Try to plan your meals and shop for only what you need. Composting is also an excellent way to reduce food waste and create nutrient-rich soil for plants.   

    Create a wildlife-friendly garden: creating a garden that supports wildlife can help increase biodiversity in your local area. Try planting native species, installing birdhouses and feeders, and avoid using pesticides and herbicides that harm wildlife. A garden is also a great way to save money on rising grocery costs and promote pollination.  

    Educate others: one of the most effective ways to preserve biodiversity is by educating others about its importance. Share what you’ve learned with friends and family, participate in community events, and support organizations that are working towards a better, more sustainable future. 

As we’ve outlined thus far, biodiversity is essential to maintaining the health of our planet and its inhabitants. It’s up to all of us to take action and preserve it. Whether it’s at home, work, or in our communities, every effort counts. As we work towards our overarching goal of achieving net-zero by 2050, improving the biodiversity in our neighbourhoods is one of the many ways that will help us get there. Learn more about our long-term goals in our 2020-2024 ESG Roadmap here

That’s it for our Climate Action Video & Blog Series! We hope this has inspired you to take action and do your part in protecting our environment. Climate change is a journey, and it affects us all. Let’s work together to create a promising future for our planet and generations to come.  

Missed the first three installments of the Climate Action Video and Blog Series? Check them all out below: 

 

  • Episode 1: Climate Change & Taking action – link here 
  • Episode 2: Energy Conservation – link here 
  • Episode 3: Transportation – link here 

Welcome back to First Capital’s Climate Action Video and Blog Series. In the third installment of this four-part series, we’ll be discussing transportation, its environmental impact, and what we can do to create a more sustainable future. So, buckle up and get ready to learn how our transportation habits are affecting the world we live in.

Climate Change and taking Action

Transportation is an essential part of our daily lives, from driving your car to go visit friends and family to biking along your city’s streets to taking the airplane to your next beach vacation. However, transportation comes at a serious cost to our environment. From the emissions that come from our vehicles to the resources required to produce and dispose of them, transportation is a major contributor to environmental degradation. In fact, the pollutants released by gas fuelled cars and trucks contributes to a fifth of the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions (GHG).  

Transportation Habits 

First, let’s talk about transportation habits. Every day, we make choices about how we get from one place to another, and those choices can have a significant impact on our environment. This can include walking, biking, driving, or taking public transportation.   

Unfortunately, the most popular form of transportation is single-occupancy car trips and there are several reasons why. For one, cars provide a sense of freedom and convenience, allowing people to travel wherever and whenever they want without having to rely on public transportation schedules. Additionally, in many parts of the world, infrastructure and urban planning have been designed to prioritize cars over other forms of transportation, making it difficult or even dangerous to get around by bike or on foot.  

Did you know that light-duty vehicles (cars, SUVs, and trucks) produce more than four times the GHG emissions of all domestic aviation in Canada? They account for nearly half of all GHG emissions from the transportation category. 

So, what can we do to change this? 

To start, the environmental impacts of widespread car use have become increasingly apparent. Many cities and regions are taking steps to promote other forms of transportation, such as biking, walking, and public transit. By promoting these alternatives and creating more walkable and bike-friendly cities, we can reduce our dependence on cars and create a more sustainable future.   

Imagine… a future without sitting in traffic.  

Now, we are not saying to stop driving altogether, but reducing how much you drive is a great place to start. A few ways you can better your transportation habits include: 

  • Taking public transportation to and from work when possible  
  • Shopping locally to reduce the distance you drive  
  • Carpooling 
  • Walking or biking to your destination – this not only helps the environment but also promotes a healthier lifestyle. On average, you burn roughly 100 calories (about 8 minutes of running) per 1.6 kms 

We understand that taking public transit isn’t always an option, especially for trips up to your cottage and other more remote areas. To supplement this, we suggest investing in vehicles that produce less GHG emissions including hybrid and fully electric vehicles. 

King High Line Toronto

We know that organizations like ours play a big part in making cities more accessible and making it easier to travel more sustainably. 

Businesses have also begun taking steps to promote other forms of transportation, like upgrading their fleet to electric vehicles, providing proper storage for bikes at offices, and installing EV charging stations at the workplace. In fact, we have installed over 250 EV chargers across our portfolio and are committed to having EV stations across our entire portfolio by 2024. Along with EV chargers, our portfolio has an average walk score of 71 and 99% of our properties are within a 5-minute walking distance of public transportation. We’re committed to fostering a greener future and this is one of the ways we’re doing so. 

Read more about our EV charging station implementation program here

Choosing alternative forms of transportation can significantly reduce an individual’s carbon footprint and have a positive impact on the environment. Studies have shown that shifting from single occupancy car rides to public transportation, biking, or walking can reduce an individual’s carbon footprint by an average of 30%.  

So, the next time you’re deciding how to get from point A to point B, consider choosing an alternative form of transportation. Making these important choices can have a significant impact on the environment and help create a better future. Let’s all do our part to reduce our carbon footprint and create a healthier planet for future generations. 

Missed the first two installments of the Climate Action Video and Blog Series? Check it out the first one on Climate Change & Taking Actionhere and see the second one on Energy Conservation here

Welcome back to First Capital’s Climate Action Video and Blog Series. In the second installment of this four-part series, we’ll be discussing energy consumption as it is one of the largest contributors to climate change. Luckily, there are ways we can conserve it.  

We’ll be exploring the concept of energy conservation, what we’re doing to help, and providing practical tips for individuals and businesses to reduce their energy consumption. Together, we can transition to cleaner, more sustainable sources of energy. Join us on this journey to a more sustainable future. 

Every day, we consume energy to power our homes, businesses, and lives. From enjoying your morning coffee, charging your cellphone battery, warming and cooling your home, to binge watching your favourite TV show, we’re constantly consuming energy. But have you ever stopped to think about where that energy comes from, and how it impacts our planet?  

Fossil fuels, a non-renewable energy source, are the second largest source for electricity production in Canada – we rely on them very heavily. It is created through the extraction and burning of hydrocarbon-containing materials that are naturally formed in the Earth’s crust such as coal, oil, and natural gas. The process of burning fossil fuels to generate energy (most commonly for electricity and transportation) emits harmful greenhouse gas (GHG) pollutants into the atmosphere. Further to which, the extraction, transportation, and burning of fossil fuels can lead to water and air pollution, habitat destruction, and other environmental issues. Did you know that burning fossil fuels is one of the leading causes of climate change? 

Today, residential, commercial, and institutional buildings contribute to 17% of Canada’s GHG emissions. These emissions come from the electricity used to heat and cool our buildings, as well as to power them and all the appliances inside. Additionally, when we consider building materials and construction, the number jumps from 17% to 30%, making the building sector Canada’s third-highest carbon emitter.  

The truth is, our reliance on fossil fuels and other non-renewable energy sources is taking a toll on the environment, contributing to climate change and other harmful environmental issues. The good news is that there are things we can do to make a difference – and that starts with energy conservation.  

map of Canada and chart

What is energy conservation?  

Energy conservation is the practice of reducing the amount of energy used while still achieving the same outcome. In other words, it’s about doing more with less. Don’t worry, you don’t have to stop your morning coffee routine; we just have to find ways to make it more efficient.   

Both businesses and individuals have an important role to play in energy conservation. For businesses, energy conservation can reduce operational costs and help with sustainability efforts. For individuals, energy conservation can save money on monthly bills and reduce their carbon footprint. Even better, making your home more energy efficient will likely increase its value.  

So, what can you do at home to conserve energy? Here are three simple things:

  1. Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs: these light bulbs (i.e., LEDs) use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. This is an easy upgrade with a huge benefit.  

  2. Draft proofing & installing weatherstrips: Adding weatherstrips around doors and draft proofing windows can keep warm and cool air inside your house. By doing so, it reduces your energy consumed to heat and cool your home, which also results in lower energy bills and overall comfort in your home. This reduces the impact on your HVAC equipment and preserves its longevity.  

  3. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances: When replacing old appliances, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which are certified to use less energy than standard models. These energy-efficient appliances will reduce the energy required by 10% to 50% and can save you 20% to 50% on your monthly energy bills. 
     

For those who own businesses or want to reduce energy consumption in their workplace, here are a few great ways to do so:   

  1. Conduct an energy audit: This involves analyzing energy use in the workplace and identifying areas where energy can be saved. An energy audit can help businesses determine which systems and processes are using the most energy and where improvements can be made. This is a great starting point to conserve energy.  
     
  2. Use energy-efficient equipment: Businesses can reduce their energy consumption by using energy-efficient office equipment such as printers, computers, and copiers. Additionally, switching to energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can result in significant energy savings and provide cleaner and better air quality.  
     
  3. Encourage employee participation: Businesses can promote energy conservation by educating employees on ways to save energy. This can include turning off lights and equipment when not in use and using natural lighting and ventilation when possible. This spring, we’re launching our Green from Home initiative that will encourage our staff to do their part as well. 

How can we introduce clean and renewable energy in our daily lives? 

Clean energy comes from systems that produce energy without emitting any pollutants. Systems like solar, wind, geothermal and hydropower are all examples of clean energy that substantially reduce GHG emissions and help eliminate the need for fossil fuels. 

Businesses and homes are continuing to implement clean energy systems to help combat GHG emissions and reduce energy costs. For example, at First Capital, we are implementing geothermal technology into some of our newest developments. Geothermal energy is a type of renewable energy that takes the heat from the earth’s core and uses it to heat and cool buildings. Not only does it have a very long lifecycle, but it can be harvested and used for everyday energy consumption and provides healthy indoor air, eliminating the use and combustion of fossil fuels all together. 

A rendering of our 1071 King Street West development – this Liberty Village development has incorporated several modern architectural elements that conserve energy and are sustainably focused. Learn more about this development here 

At First Capital, we recognize the impact our properties have on the environment and are committed to improving our sustainable efforts until we achieve net-zero by 2050. As leaders in the commercial real estate industry, we believe it is our responsibility to drive sustainability efforts and are committed to doing our part. We’ve taken steps towards reducing our energy consumption at our properties, including our portfolio-wide LED parking lot lighting retrofit. While this was significant, we understand that there is more work to be done and are in the middle of conducting energy-audits at every single one of our properties to identify where we can conserve energy.  

Energy conservation is everyone’s responsibility. By taking simple steps at home and work, we can help protect the environment, reduce our carbon footprint, and save money.  

Visit our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) page for more information on how we’re taking action to combat climate change – click here. 

Missed the first installment of the Climate Action Video and Blog Series? Check it out here

Welcome to First Capital’s Climate Action Video and Blog Series. In this four-part series, we’ll be discussing the climate crisis facing our planet, identifying the three largest contributors to climate change, and talking about how we can take action in both our homes and in the workplace to create positive change.  

Since 2006, First Capital has committed to corporate sustainability through a variety of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. As leaders in the commercial real estate industry, we believe it is our responsibility to drive sustainability efforts and are committed to doing our part.  

Ever wondered how you can take action to help offset climate change? Climate change is a journey, and it affects us all. Let’s work together to create a promising future for our planet and generations to come.  

Climate Change & Taking Action

What is climate change? 

Climate change is the long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns due to human activity. It is one of the most pressing challenges humanity currently faces. In looking at the state of our environment, we can see the effects of climate change all around us such as extreme weather, rising sea levels, melting glaciers, and more. The push for global climate action has never been greater and we are in a defining moment. Now is the time to take action before climate change becomes irreversible. 

So, what can we do? 

The good news is that no matter who you are or where you live, there are actions you can take to make a difference. Did you know that buildings and homes account for 40% of global energy consumption and 30% of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs)? By making small changes in our buildings, homes, and workplaces, we can make a positive impact. Something as simple as turning off the lights and unplugging appliances when not in use can save up to 25% on our energy bills and reduce our carbon footprint by 1 ton per year

A common misconception we hear often is that people believe making minor lifestyle changes such as cutting out meat one day a week or opting to bike to work every so often won’t make a difference. While this may be an accurate assumption on a singular scale, the truth is that if everyone (or a large group of people at least) adopts these practices, together we can improve the livelihood of our planet.  

Transportation 

Transportation is another significant area where we can make a difference. Did you know that transportation is responsible for 23% of global energy-related GHGs? Replacing single occupancy car rides with walking, biking, or public transit can significantly reduce air pollution and subsequently better our carbon footprint. In fact, taking public transportation instead of driving a car can save you an average of $9,000 per year on vehicle-related expenses and reduce your carbon footprint by up to 30%

Infographic
Chart of GHG contributors

Food Consumption & Diet Changes 

Another way we can make a significant positive impact on our carbon footprint is by changing our diets and focusing on preserving the biodiversity of our planet. Large scale food production and overexploitation are the primary drivers for biodiversity loss. Did you know that livestock production accounts for 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions? 

Eating more plant-based meals, reducing our meat consumption, choosing locally grown foods, as well as planting a small garden at home can greatly reduce the emissions associated with food production and transportation. By adopting a plant-based diet, you can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 50%. Now, we understand a plant-based diet isn’t for everyone, but even just reducing your weekly meat consumption makes a difference. If everyone cut out meat one day a week it would have the same impact on GHG emissions as taking 240 million cars off the road each year.  

Climate change is a complex issue, but taking action doesn’t have to be. In our next three installments of our Climate Action Video and Blog Series, we’ll be identifying the three largest contributors to climate change, and how we can take action in both our homes and in the workplace to create positive change: energy consumption, transportation habits, and our diet/biodiversity. 

This spring, we’re participating in Project Neutral’s “Green From Home” program where we’ll be challenging all First Capital employees to reduce their own carbon footprints. By making small changes in our daily lives and practices, we can all work together to create a more sustainable future for our planet and generations to come. 

Visit our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) page for more information on how we’re taking action to combat climate change – click here

Late last year, we introduced our Best & Brightest Awards Program (or “Besties” for short) that celebrates our employees who demonstrate and embody our five core values: Collaboration, Innovation, Excellence, Accountability, and Passion. Each of the five winners receive $2,500 worth of FCR units, an official certificate, and 5 additional vacation days.  

All employees were given the opportunity to nominate their colleagues and the winners were chosen by our carefully appointed selection committee. The five winners were announced at our Celebrating Our People Townhall that took place in late November.  

This Besties came as an expansion of our longstanding Values Awards Program where we’d historically focus on one value for the year and award a single individual who showcased that value best. Here at FCR, we don’t let hard work go unnoticed and the goal of this expansion is to improve upon and grow our efforts in recognizing our best and brightest people.  

2022 Best & Brightest Awards Winners: 

Collaboration

We believe in having one team with one cohesive purpose that works toward achieving a common goal. We know that our best work is done with the help of our peers, and we recognize those who champion collaboration within their own team and across the business. Our Besties Collaboration Award went to Lisa Takahashi, Senior Property Manager.

Lisa has been a great support. She truly embodies the collaboration and one team value. She can be called at anytime for advice, bounce ideas off her or just vent. Lisa has joined the ED&I council and has played an active part in spearheading our ED&I mission with others on the council. She is a great example of a collaborative team player at FCR.

Innovation 

We give our staff the freedom to challenge the status quo and drive innovation in the workplace. They are given the opportunity to create positive change and we celebrate those who are always looking for new ways to modernize and progress our business forward. The Besties Innovation Award went to Lucas Durofil, Marketing & Communications Assistant Manager

“Whether it is about finding new and innovative ways for FCR to lease space to driving efficiencies in the Marketing department, Lucas’ innovation is known by everyone who has worked with him. One in particular was bringing the concept of virtual staging to FCR where he’s created an efficient and inexpensive process to get the job done. He’s a terrific candidate for this award, and incredibly deserving of the recognition.” 

Excellence 

We encourage our people to strive for excellence and we value those who are the absolute best at what they do. We’re proud of the quality of our people, especially ones who exhibit greatness and merit in their role and area of expertise. The Besties Excellence Award went to Dimitra Papadopoulos, Director, Operations – Eastern Region

“Dimitra is not only a great team leader but an awesome co-worker. She always makes people in her team feel appreciated for the work they do and is excellent at connecting people in her team. Dimitra always gives her 110% at any project she works on. As a Director, she always makes sure the work is well done and that everybody is happy. We can count on her good work ethic.” 

Accountability

Part of being an excellent team member means your peers can count on you and trust that you’ll deliver what you promised. We highly regard those who hold themselves accountable and are responsible for meeting deadlines, hitting targets, and achieving goals they committed to. The Besties Accountability Award went to Alexandra Cork, Senior Manager, Accounts Receivable.  

“Alexandra most definitely exemplifies the value of Accountability. She is so efficient at her job that it seems no matter what you throw at her, she can handle it and will provide exactly what you need and will deliver when promised. She takes care of so many things, and somehow, she is able to stay on top of every single one of them. You can always count on Alex, no questions asked and no need to follow up!” 

Passion 

We celebrate those who are passionate about their role and love what they do. These individuals lead with enthusiasm, have strong motivation, and go above and beyond the standard. A passionate employee is one who genuinely cares and is positively dedicated to their work. The Besties Passion Award went to Brittany Yong, Assistant Project Manager

“Brittany has been a key part of the Central Construction team for over 8 years. She has been instrumental in coordination of new technology & innovation such as Procore and Open Space. Brittany plays a significant role in ensuring everyone in the department feels welcomed, included, and celebrated. She works with enthusiasm, motivation, humour, humility, and a great desire to continually learn and do the best job possible. She is a pleasure to work with and continues to be a rising star while demonstrating the FCR values.” 

Our five values govern everything we do, guide our actions, and inspire us to be our best and brightest. As a leader in Canada’s commercial real estate industry, we strive for excellence in all aspects of our business, and it starts with our people. 

We’d like to congratulate all five Best & Brightest Awards recipients on this well-deserved achievement. Their hard work and commitment to showcase our values has not gone unnoticed and we celebrate those who have gone above and beyond to do so. We’re extremely proud of our team – congratulations to our “Besties”! 

Looking to be a part of our dynamic team? Explore careers at First Capital here

From early spring to late fall 2022, we partnered with MircoHabitat to sustainably transform an outdoor patio space into a green urban farm. Taking place at our head office in Liberty Village, we set up several planting pots lining our top floor terrace, growing over 15 varieties of vegetables and herbs, including Oregano, Thyme, Mint, Rosemary, Cucumbers, Eggplants, Peppers, Beans, Tomatoes, Arugula, Swiss Chard and more. We’re proud to share that our Urban Farm harvested over 500 edible plants and 103.64 lbs of vegetables, edible flowers, and herbs. All were donated to Second Harvest (Canada’s largest food rescue organization) and redistributed to local food banks to help combat food insecurity in our neighbourhoods. 

This sustainable initiative contributes to the greening of spaces; creates local, ecological, and resilient food systems; helps support our local community; and encourages biodiversity in our urban area.  

Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability at FCR encompasses all aspects of our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices. Our values and our sustainability program guide our actions and supports our strategy of creating thriving neighbourhoods to generate value for businesses, residents, communities, and our investors. This project is a part of our 2020-2024 ESG Roadmap and is the next step in continuing our long-term sustainability goals and initiatives of achieving net zero by 2050. 

Image of the garden the gardener and our logo on the building

Beginning in April 2022, our ESG team began their partnership with Microhabitat and kicked off planning for our first-ever urban farm that would take place from June to late October. Once the planting pots were installed and assembled, the Microhabitat team held in person and virtual workshops for our staff that provided an overview of the project, outlined the importance of urban farms, educated them on sustainable consumption awareness and the environment around food, and how they could make their own urban farms from home. By doing so, we were able to cultivate further sustainable change by informing, inspiring, empowering, sharing skills, knowledge, and building meaningful collaborative relationships with our staff by reconnecting them with nature. 

Over the course of the season, our urban farm grew an abundance of vegetables and herbs for those in need. MicroHabitat’s team provided weekly visits, tended to the crops, harvested them, and winterized the garden at the end of the season.  

Impacts of our MicroHabitat urban farm 

  • The Environmental impact includes:

  • Greening our outdoor spaces

    Reducing our environmental footprint

    Reducing heat island effects (Cities have an average temperature of 5 to 10 degrees Celsius higher than the outlying areas. This phenomenon, known as a “heat island”, is due to the high concentration of built-up areas that absorb and re-emit heat from the sun)

    Improving local biodiversity

    Supporting pollinators with the presence of melliferous (honey producing) plants

    100% ecological cultivation

    Holistic approach with natural fertilizers, ecological automatic irrigation system, no use of chemicals

    Ultra-local production that reduces food loss and greenhouse gas production by limiting transportation

  • The Social impact includes:

  • Mobilizing teams around a sustainable development project

    Raising awareness and promoting healthy, local, and sustainable food

    Improving the feeling of well-being and performance at work

    Supporting Second Harvest – Canada’s largest food rescue organization

  • The Economic impact includes:

  • Added value to the property

    Employee engagement

    Team-building opportunity through education workshops

    Innovative and sustainable positioning

    Improvement of eco-responsible practices

MicroHabitat believes in urban farming for change. Their mission is to build a healthier society and world by reconnecting people with nature and their food. They do this by transforming unused spaces into urban farms. MicroHabitat believes in creating greener and more resilient cities through urban agriculture. Their ultimate goal is to cultivate cities to consume better and live better. 

First Capital would like to thank MicroHabitat on the success of this sustainable pilot project. With over 500 crops harvested in a single season, our urban farm exceeded our expectations and provided an abundance of fresh produce and herbs for Second Harvest; giving back to the communities in which we operate. Since 2021, we’ve carried out several additional fundraising initiatives in support of Second Harvest donating over 939,000 meals. Click here to read how we achieved that.   

We recognize and understand the importance of preserving our world and improving the environment we live in, and our urban farm is just one step on our ESG journey. Read more about our ESG goals and initiatives here and be sure to check out our 2020-2024 ESG Roadmap here