November 15, 2014
Michael Dren, owner of Big Mike Landscape Design in Oakville, says he is committed to making a difference in his community.

This fall the LO member took on a project in Oakville, donating his design and landscaping/paving services to Habitat for Humanity Halton. The project included a driveway, patio, walkways, fencing, trees, plants, sod and soil mixtures.

This is the second year the company has assisted with a Habitat for Humanity project. “The latest project was valued at about $20,000,” says Dren. “My goal as a company is to give back to the community.”

Big Mike Landscape Design also held a tree sale to help fund Habitat for Humanity. The sale featured 20 per cent off Japanese maples, with the money used to finance the Oakville landscaping project.

“We want to demonstrate our appreciation, and use our resources to help create experiences for everyone. As a built-in business fundraiser, we will donate a portion of our profits that are collected in a community fund each season. These funds will be used to finance certain landscapes projects in both public and private sectors, which may not otherwise be possible,” says Dren.

The projects will target playgrounds, parks, community centres, churches, charity rebuilds, and the overall revitalization of neighbourhoods.

A graduate of Fanshawe College, Dren earned a Landscape Design Diploma, as well as a Bachelor of Applied Arts Degree in Integrated Land Planning.  “Before establishing my own business, I acquired several years of invaluable experience working at the RBG and for various commercial and residential design firms.”