about us

We Empower Volunteers Provide Education Support Community

We build the capacity of volunteer-led nonprofits in Calgary and surrounding area by supporting passionate people who give back to their community, no matter the cause. Through our growing network of community-based organizations, we support our member’s work in a variety of sectors, including arts, culture, education, the environment, recreation, crime prevention, social services and Community Associations.

Our Vision:

We are cultivating a network of nonprofit organizations that are able to thrive, collaborate, and make an impact on their communities

Our Mission:

We build the capacity of volunteer-run organizations by delivering resources, workshops and professional services. Through our work, people gain the skills to guide their organizations with confidence and clarity.

Community

Leadership

Inclusion

Commitment

Volunteerism

Integrity

Who we Support

Community Associations

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Community-based organizations

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Resident Associations

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Rural Community Associations

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Community-based nonprofits have a unique ability to mobilize, support and interact with their communities to improve neighbourhood life in Calgary. By connecting neighbours, acting as a voice for their area, and offering their residents opportunities close to home, you make significant contributions to the health and well-being of all Calgarians.

What we Do

Through our advocacy, support and educational resources, we increase our member’s ability to meet their organization’s needs, and build their capacity to support their members and communities. We provide our members with support and resources in key areas, such as volunteer engagement, board governance, political advocacy, fund development, and financial literacy, so that they can govern their organization with confidence and clarity.

Our History

Our roots began in the community association movement in Calgary and our name is part of our legacy.

The earliest community associations were formed during the 1920’s to provide Calgarians with formal recreational and social programs and facilities. The first official incorporation of a community association took place in 1930 [Elbow Park] and two more [Mount Royal and Scarboro] were registered prior to World War II. Post-war Calgary saw a dramatic population increase, and the number of community associations grew accordingly. These grassroots groups attempted to fill the needs of an expanding demographic.

During the 1950’s, communities faced common concerns, and wanted one unified voice to coordinate and liaise with community services. Initiated by 47 community associations in 1961, The Federation of Calgary Communities emerged with the mandate to develop and utilize its collective resources to respond to a variety of needs of the community associations. This new umbrella gave the associations a way to combine their voices, and increase their effectiveness, while remaining autonomous.

We believe in the power of these grassroots nonprofits, who have the unique ability to create a small town feeling in a city of over one million people.

Our Impact

While we may not be the ones filling community gardens, running after-school programs, or maintaining facilities, our services empower grassroots nonprofits to create lasting and meaningful impacts on their communities: