Copyright langleyadvancetimes
When you shop, dine, or play local in Aldergrove, you’re doing more than making a purchase. You are helping build a stronger, more connected community. Across Aldergrove, small business owners are creating jobs, investing in local causes, and shaping Aldergrove’s character one purchase at a time. Langley Township mayor Eric Woodward said nearly 98 per cent of all businesses are small businesses in B.C. and that these businesses employ over 1.1 million British Columbians. This accounts for 54 per cent of private-sector jobs in the province. Beyond the numbers, their impact is felt in ways that can’t be measured, including through fundraisers, donations, and mentorship. For many business owners, that sense of connection is at the heart of everything they do. At Another World VR, owner Phillip Chang envisioned a place where families, friends, and local groups could come together for fun and connection. “Another World VR was built around the idea of community,” he said. “We host fundraisers, school events, and themed nights that bring people out and support local causes. I’ve also donated VR experiences for school raffles, youth programs, and local fundraisers. It’s my way of giving back to the town that supports us.” The VR arena, the largest free-roam facility of its kind in B.C., has quickly become a hub for local excitement and collaboration. Chang believes that community investment starts with being present. “For me, community investment means showing up, not just running a business, but being part of something bigger,” he said. “It’s about helping families make memories, supporting local causes, and keeping the energy in Aldergrove positive and connected. That’s what ‘local’ means to me — we grow together.” That cycle of growth and generosity is something Perfection Cleaning President and CEO Ashley Sturtevant knows well. For 18 years, her company has built its business on the idea that caring for the community is just as important as cleaning it. “We believe our role goes far beyond cleaning homes and businesses,” she said. “Each year, we proudly give back through initiatives like our annual Christmas giveaway, which last year provided over $4,000 in support to local families, and by providing meals to families in need during the holiday season.” Perfection Cleaning regularly partners with the Aldergrove Business Association, local schools, and businesses such as Aldergrove Home Hardware, and organizing through the Aldergrove Community Market. Together, they partnerships have supported projects ranging from inclusive playgrounds to seniors’ facility upgrades. “Whether it’s helping showcase local vendors, supporting youth entrepreneurs, or collaborating with artisans through the Aldergrove Community Market, we strive to create meaningful impact while fostering pride, unity, and connection,” Sturtevant said. She added that when residents spend locally, “Every purchase made within our community helps create jobs, keeps money circulating locally, and fuels the dreams of small business owners.” At Aldergrove’s popular Hive Donut Hut, owners Kim and Riley Davies share that same philosophy. “We try to give back whenever possible. Donating to local schools, fundraisers, sports teams, and community events,” they said. “We love taking part in local happenings like Little Lemonade Legends and Trick or Treat the Town, hosting gatherings for community groups, and collaborating with other small businesses.” The shop has supported a long list of causes, from the Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Drive to the Brookswood Secondary Breakfast Program, and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Canada’s Fraser Valley Walk. “Supporting local businesses is so important for Aldergrove’s growth and identity,” Kim said. “It keeps our small-town charm alive, helps money stay in the community, and strengthens the genuine connections that make this town so special.” For Hive Donut Hut, those connections are personal. “Because of our customers, we’ve been able to hire local youth, grow our team, and continue to be a place where people gather, laugh, and make memories,” Riley added. “Our staff has built amazing friendships with regulars. Honestly, that’s the best part of all, the people.” Each of these Aldergrove businesses continues to demonstrate how local spending creates a ripple effect that goes far beyond the transaction. A reminder to residents that when they support local, they’re not just buying a product. They’re investing in each other.
