Growing up on Montreal’s south shore and later moving to Ontario, Anne Crowley, Commercial Customer Support Manager, credits her upbringing for shaping her commitment to community. “We didn’t have much,” she recalls. “We went through some really hard times. That’s why I’ve always felt a strong desire to help those in need—because now, I can give back. And if I can rally my colleagues to do the same, even better!” 

Finding Purpose Through Work 

That desire to pay it forward began early in her career when she worked for an organization with an active volunteer program. From then on, Anne knew she wanted to work for companies that made an impact beyond business. When the opportunity to join Danone came along, “it felt like the perfect fit.” She was drawn to the company’s mission of bringing health through food to as many people as possible because it “was a chance to work for a business with purpose.” 

Building a Volunteer Movement in Ontario 

That sense of purpose truly came to life through Danone’s role as a founding corporate partner of Breakfast Club of Canada. For years, the company championed a strong in-school volunteer program in Quebec. But when Anne joined Danone, there was no presence in Ontario. Inspired by Quebec’s success and driven by the impact she could make, Anne recalls: “I immediately put my hand up and said, I’ll take on that challenge. I had no idea what I was walking into.” 

What began with just a handful of volunteers has since grown into a team of over 30 dedicated employees, contributing nearly 400 volunteer hours annually across two schools. 

Overcoming Challenges to Make an Impact 

Launching an in-school volunteer program was no small feat. Anne met with BCC representatives and agency partners to define the partnership and create opportunities that promote work-life balance, personal development, and social engagement. 

After nearly a year of planning, Anne saw the impact firsthand and recalls the overwhelming emotion of that first day of volunteering: 

“There was a shy boy who came to breakfast every week wearing shoes that were too big and layers of sweaters instead of a coat. He would grab water and yogurt and sit in the corner by himself. After months of consistent volunteering, he started talking to us. We learned that he was moving from foster home to foster home and that this program was his safe place. At the end of the year, he made us a card with a yogurt cup and a big Danone logo with a heart. This is why we do what we do.” 

Mobilizing Hearts and Feet to Fight Hunger 

Anne’s stewardship of the BCC cause extends beyond volunteer programming. In 2021, during the height of COVID-19, she pitched a physical activity challenge to mobilize employees:. “We were working from home and feeling isolated. Staying active was more important than ever, so we created a challenge: walk, run, or bike, while raising money.” From that idea, the Feed a Child Challenge was born. Now in its fourth year, this peer-to-peer fundraising challenge spans a full month and has expanded to include charity auctions and raffles. “What makes this initiative so special is that it’s employee-led—created by us, with the goal of helping feed children in need across Canada.” Since its launch, employees have raised an impressive $246,767—a contribution recognized with a 2025 Canadian Grocer Community Impact Award.  

Anne’s story is a powerful example of our mission in action—bringing health through food to as many people as possible. Her commitment shows how living our purpose can deliver tangible benefits for communities and inspire others to use business as a force for good.