Toronto is a city with the world at its doorstep, and the welcome mat says “Bienvenue” in hundreds of different languages. It’s a city of diversity and dynamism – an ever-changing network of people who keep the country on its toes.

Toronto is also a place where change is not only needed, but necessary. I imagine a city with people who stand shoulder to shoulder, equal, instead of one behind another.

I imagine a city where children grow up with access to education, both in the classroom and in the community.

I imagine a city where poverty isn’t a way of life and social problems don’t leave people shrugging their shoulders.

I imagine a city where marginalization, abuse and discrimination aren’t the themes of our daily news stories.

Toronto can be an example for the world – we can show others that active engagement of citizens, governments and corporations can help drive real change in our city. Let’s open the door to a new identity for Toronto, and have the courage to walk through it, together.

Lisa Donnelly works in emergency management for Enbridge Gas Distribution.  She is a proud advocate for United Way and has gotten involved by volunteering as a Team Lead for her department’s fundraising campaign and at this year’s CN Tower Climb.