United Way of Calgary and Area

When you give to United Way, you're not just making a donation—you're offering hope to neighbours, families and friends who need it most. Hope exists in many ways—a counsellor comforting a woman in pain, hands sharing donated basic needs items, the healing act of wiping away tears and more. Through Hope Is In Your Hands, we're shining a light on the responsibility we share to change lives and shape a better Calgary for everyone. The economic challenges of recent years have shown us that anyone can find themselves in need, often unexpectedly. United, we hold the future of our community in our hands. ❤️ We are very grateful for several of our partner agencies who allowed us to film and capture the work they do in serving our communities every day. A big thank you to WINS (Women In Need Society), Distress Centre Calgary, Calgary Counselling Centre and the Sunalta Community Association for ensuring we represent the essence of their work that fuels our mission. #HopeIsInYourHandsYYC #JointheMovement

Calgary Surge brought some holiday cheer our way this week with thoughtful gifts for the holiday season and even a visit from Surgio! Being part of the Surge over the past year has been a highlight for United Way and we can’t thank you enough, Calgary Surge, for your partnership, support and community spirit! Together we have sparked change and inspired hope for Calgarians. Here’s to making more wonderful memories and continuing to make a positive impact in our beloved city! #HopeIsInYourHands #UnitedWeCan

Hope is everywhere in our community, and it starts with YOU! We asked Calgarians what hope in our community means to them, and you answered. From acts of kindness and creating support systems for everyone to youth stepping up as leaders, your visions of hope are truly inspiring. Join the conversation! What does "Hope Is in Your Hands" mean to you? Share your thoughts and tag #HopeIsInYourHandsYYC to keep the conversation going. Let’s show Calgary what hope in action looks like! 🙌❤️

We were honoured to join the Rotary Club of Calgary, Downtown's luncheon this Tuesday, December 17, to share exciting updates about Community Hubs! Seven years ago, United Way, the Rotary Club and the City of Calgary came together with a vision: creating spaces where connections flourish, needs are met and neighbours can strengthen community. Today, that vision continues to grow. Since 2017, over 453,000 people have connected through these spaces. Last year alone, more than 75,000 residents accessed vital support or participated in programs. This transformative work is a testament to the Rotary Club's leadership, the City's partnership and the generosity of many Calgarians who believe in this mission. To Howard Shikaze, joseph Fras, George Brookman and all the incredible Rotarians, thank you for your compassion and dedication to building a stronger, more united Calgary where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. #HopeIsInYourHandsYYC #UnitedWeCan

Did you know you can get your donation to United Way matched dollar for dollar? Thanks to the generosity of local Calgary families, we’re offering three unique matching programs to amplify your impact. When you donate, you’re not just giving; you’re fuelling change—helping create a future where every Calgarian has the chance to thrive, not just survive. Explore our matching opportunities today and make your impact go the extra mile! https://bit.ly/3RyYLYv #HopeIsInYourHandsYYC

Indigenous voices have been fundamental in Planet Youth Calgary's journey, guiding us toward meaningful reconciliation and connection. This year's annual pipe ceremony, held on October 31 at Tsuut'ina Nation, brought together Elders, Youth Elders and community members to honour traditional practices, share wisdom and strengthen the ties between Indigenous and settler communities. These ceremonies are vital steps toward decolonizing spaces and fostering understanding. This effort is supported by the inspiring work of Planet Youth's Indigenous Parallel, a collaboration between Miskanawah and United Way Planet Youth that aims to assist young urban Indigenous people in Calgary. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4fqOgAr #UnitedWeCan

Giving to United Way is more than just a donation. It's about offering hope to those who need it most right here in our community. Hope manifests in so many ways—an ear to listen, hands sharing essential items, the healing power of support and more. With #HopeIsInYourHandsYYC, we’re illuminating our shared responsibility to create positive change and build a better Calgary for everyone. We’re incredibly thankful to our partner agencies—WINS (Women In Need Society), Distress Centre Calgary, Calgary Counselling Centre, and the Sunalta Community Association—for helping us tell their stories. United, we can continue to make lasting change locally. Donate today at: https://bit.ly/3ZVEK2D #UnitedWeCan

The Culbert Family Award for Philanthropy celebrates young and emerging leaders in Calgary and Area shaping the future through charitable giving and work in the community. Nominees could receive $2,000 to support their professional development or philanthropic endeavours. Applications are open until midnight on January 15, 2025, so don't wait to apply: https://bit.ly/44mh0oO Winners will be honoured at United Way's Community Impact Awards on March 13, 2025. Get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/3DelJk1 Know someone making a difference? Share this incredible opportunity and help recognize the next generation of changemakers!

Rising living costs are hitting our community hard, especially as the cold weather sets in and resources grow more limited. Many of our neighbours are facing challenges like poverty, mental health struggles and social isolation, with some individuals and families quietly struggling to make ends meet. Hope Is In Your Hands reminds each one of us that we all have the power to create change. Whether donating, spreading the word or getting involved in your community, every small act makes a difference for those who need it most. You can make a lasting impact today. Join us in building pathways for a better future for everyone in our city. Learn more: https://bit.ly/40UlQv4 #HopeIsInYourHandsYYC

Are you looking for a meaningful way to leave a lasting legacy? Donating a life insurance policy to United Way can help create real change right here in our city for years to come. In our latest blog, 2024 Campaign Co-Chair Susan O’Brien shares how this simple yet powerful gift can offer significant tax benefits while supporting critical community needs through United Way’s Tomorrow Fund. Whether it’s a new or existing policy, your contribution can be a lifeline for vulnerable Calgarians and bring hope to those who need it most. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4fclun4