Making a Difference, One Bulb at a Time: How neob Lavender Supports Niagara
What started as a few acres of lavender in Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) has blossomed into a thriving business with five stores—and a mission that goes far beyond selling products. For 15 years, neob Lavender has grown alongside its community, crafting everything from soothing oils to fragrant soaps using locally grown lavender. But this family-run business is proving that their roots—both literal and figurative—run deeper, especially during the holiday season.
Business owners Melissa and Robert have always felt a deep connection to their community, a bond formed in the early days of neob when NOTL warmly welcomed their small venture. “We’ve always felt like giving back was the natural next step,” Melissa shares. “We’re just a small business trying to do our part in the most meaningful way possible.”
Their philanthropic journey took an innovative turn when they discovered an excess of garlic from their farm. “We thought it was a different, unique way to give back,” Robert explains. That idea blossomed into a new initiative: selling the garlic and donating 100% of the funds to United Way Niagara’s Backpacks for Kids program, which provides school supplies to children from families in need.
As parents of two young children, Melissa and Robert were moved by the stories of youth in their community lacking access to basic school supplies. “If we can give them the tools, then they can boost their confidence and share a similar experience with their peers,” Melissa says. Melissa shares that sentiment, as she experienced growing up in a family of four with a single mom, she knows firsthand the impact even a small gesture can make.
The benefits of their giving don’t stop with the community, say Melissa and Robert. The initiative also enriches their team.
“Not only is this important to us, but it allows our employees to feel good too,” Melissa adds. “Knowing that the company they work for is contributing to the community makes a difference—and who knows? Maybe someone they know benefits from programs that United Way funds.”
neob Lavender hopes their story inspires other small businesses to find unique ways to give back. “Even a small contribution can make a big difference,” Melissa says. “You never know what small niche you might find that allows you to give back. For us, it was the garlic sale. For someone else, it could be something completely different.”
The neob team believes that every business, no matter the size, has the potential to make a meaningful impact. “Although the effects of poverty may not always be visible, they exist in every community across Niagara,” Melissa notes. “Small businesses can help fill that gap in so many creative ways.”
As they reflect on the holiday season, Melissa and Robert are filled with gratitude for the support they’ve received over the years. “We like to think we make products that make people feel good,” Melissa says. “And philanthropy makes us, and our employees feel good, too—it’s a win-win.”
For other Niagara businesses looking for inspiration, Melissa has one piece of advice: “Find an area where you can do a little something that makes a big difference. It’s about supporting the community that supports you.”
From their fields of lavender to their heartfelt community initiatives, neob Lavender is embracing the spirit of giving in creative and meaningful ways. If you wish to support your community this holiday, a gift to United Way Niagara is an effective way to support local agencies that make up the social safety net in our community.
