Posted on August 1st, 2025 by Anoushka Puri

This summer, the Arup Toronto office came alive with color, laughter, and the buzz of friendly competition at the CAF Toronto Carnival.

As Community Engagement Lead for the Toronto office, I helped organize this year’s event alongside an incredible team of colleagues and volunteers. My passion for community impact extends beyond work through ISF, so bringing that same mission into my role at Arup felt natural and deeply rewarding.

Planning began months in advance, with coordination between our Canadian offices, outreach for volunteers, and plenty of brainstorming to design activities that would both entertain and raise funds for CAF’s important work. Every detail, from securing raffle prizes to setting up game stations, was handled with one goal in mind: to create an event that was as meaningful as it was fun.

The carnival day was full of variety and excitement. A table tennis tournament brought out a competitive spirit in many, while the baking corner showcased delicious homemade treats from our colleagues. Guests enjoyed a caricature artist, a henna station, a tarot card reader, and the ever-popular “Spin the Wheel” game. Other games like bean toss and ring toss kept the action going, while free food and activities ensured everyone could join in. The raffle prizes generated huge anticipation, featuring items such as a Nespresso machine, a scenic boat ride, an Air Canada status pass, and tickets to several major sports events.

The results were truly inspiring. Across all Arup offices in Canada including Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Calgary, we raised a total of CAD 12,200 (INR 7,44,000). Toronto led the way, contributing nearly 60 percent of the total with CAD 7,112 (INR 4,34,000). Arup will be matching every dollar raised, bringing the total contribution to CAD 24,400 (INR 14,88,000). These funds will go directly toward supporting children in care and helping them further their education through scholarships.

A personal highlight for me was being invited to the CAF Stand Up for Kids event earlier this year. Hearing directly from young people whose lives have been transformed by CAF’s programs, and learning about their ambitious five-year plan, made our fundraising efforts feel even more impactful.

The CAF Toronto Carnival proved once again that when creativity, teamwork, and a shared purpose come together, the results can be extraordinary. Not only did we raise significant funds, but we also strengthened bonds within our office and across the Canadian region. It was a day filled with laughter, generosity, and a strong reminder that we can all play a role in creating meaningful change.