"Each one, help one and together we can make a significant impact."

Published on September 02, 2024

Jollette Thompson, CPA, CGA, finance partner at NAIT, is filled with inspiration and a deep sense of gratitude when she gives, partly because she has been fortunate to receive support throughout her life. She vividly remembers one teacher from elementary school who played a pivotal role.

“I’m from rural Jamaica so I had to move to Kingston and board with strangers to attend my first year of high school,” she says “My parents didn’t always have the resources to make this happen, but one teacher stepped in to help. Each month when my mom would visit me, she would give me a little envelope from this teacher, with whatever amount she could spare.”

That teacher continued her generosity throughout Jollette’s time in high school. “She was like a fairy godmother and a tower of strength for me.”

Years later – after successfully completing her schooling and professional accounting designations – Jollette pays forward the generosity she received as a student. She's been a loyal supporter of the NAIT Fund since hearing about it during the 2017 NAIT it Forward campaign.

“I have a passion for giving so when I read about NAIT it Forward on the staff intranet, I was immediately intrigued. I realized that it was an initiative aimed at helping students to succeed and taking care of some of their needs. That really resonated with me.”

After evaluating her budget, as any financial professional would, Jollette determined that biweekly payroll deductions was a practical option for her. She made her donation confidently, knowing that “no matter how small the amount it would create a ripple effect for positive change.”

Since that first gift, Jollette has continued to increase her donations each year. In addition, she contributes to the Canadian Red Cross and the Canadian Diabetes Association, aligning with her desire to help organizations raise awareness and improve the lives of people who are impacted by natural disasters or disease. “I truly believe in leaving a positive indelible mark. There's a quote that says, ‘it is in giving that we receive.’ It's true because I find that the more I give, the more the blessings come, and the more support I receive.”

Jollette remains committed to NAIT it Forward and says she will continue to give for as long possible.

“I encourage others to join in with NAIT it Forward. There’s a special warmth and joy that comes from giving and seeing the difference you can make on the lives of others.

"As I always say, ‘each one, help one and together we can make a significant impact.”

 

About NAIT it Forward 

NAIT it Forward is our annual staff fundraising campaign that provides an additional opportunity for staff to support students by giving a financial gift. Donors are encouraged to direct their giving to the NAIT Fund which supports student awards and emergency bursaries, enhances counselling services and learning spaces, and creates and maintains continually evolving student initiatives (such as tutoring, peer mentorship and the NAIT Writing Centre).