Oaken Update
At Oaken, we’re not embarrassed to be thought of as “tree-huggers”. You can see it in our name and our logo. Trees, and oak trees in particular, represent strength and stability and these are key attributes you can find at Oaken. In recent months there is one particular Red Oak tree in Toronto’s west end that has been in the news. Known by the locals as Zhelevo , it is named after a tree in a Macedonian folk tale. Our Zhelevo is estimated to be 300 years old and is one of the oldest trees in the region. And while Zhelevo may not exactly be a spring chicken, it is not uncommon for Red Oaks to live for 450 years or more. Nevertheless, time could soon be running out for this magnificent tree.
Saving Zhelevo for future generations
Even though the tree could well live another hundred years or more, the privately-owned house where Zhelevo is located is currently for sale and the concern is that new owners could have the tree removed. That’s because the tree’s massive limbs have completely spread over the house and it was recently discovered that the roots are causing damage to the home’s foundation. To protect the tree and preserve it for future generations, the City of Toronto has agreed to purchase the property. The plan is to remove the house and turn the entire property into a public space. The catch is that the City must first fundraise $430,000, and that amount must be raised by December 12, 2020.
How you can help
Unfortunately, the goal is still about $200,000 short of the target and with only weeks to go, we’re here to spread the news about this worthy goal. In addition to a financial contribution to the fund, Oaken is actively promoting the campaign on our social media and in our newsletter. If you’d like to learn more about the efforts to save Zhelevo or even donate to the fund, please see the City of Toronto website.
Oaken’s Minutes2Money contest update
Have you been playing Oaken’s Minutes2Money contest? And if not, then why not? You could win a share of $4,500 in total prizes including a $2,000 GIC for our first prize winner. To learn more head on over to the Oaken Minutes2Money website to register and get playing today. But you’d better hurry as the contest ends December 17, 2020! For those that have been playing, the following secret codes have been revealed so far. Be sure to use these codes to increase the number of entries you can earn and increase your odds of winning.
• PersonalFinance
• TFSA
• Oaken
• GIC
Oaken celebrates 7 years
November marks Oaken’s 7-year anniversary and we owe it all to you! Thank you for your support and we look forward to continuing to help you plant for your future for many more years!
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