We are proud to support our members through charitable partnerships that create meaningful change. In 2025, the Parkhill Community Association, in partnership with the Friends of the Federation of Calgary Communities, successfully applied for a Calgary Foundation Neighbour Grant to bring their community garden to life. Thanks to this funding and the efforts of more than 40 dedicated volunteers, the team not only built the eight garden beds they planned but also added four more—expanding the project in ways they hadn’t expected. The City of Calgary’s donation of free soil and compost helped reduce costs and made this growth possible.
Today, the garden includes 12 garden boxes and a new tool shed. Leontine, the project leader, shared how meaningful the space has already become for neighbours: “The Parkhill Community Association (PCA) engagement has been incredible. Many members are visiting the garden in the evenings to view the project, creating a meeting place.” With a few old picnic tables and chairs placed in the center, a temporary seating area has already encouraged connection—and box owners have even started an online community.
This garden is showing how community‑led projects can enhance food security, recreation opportunities, and neighbourhood belonging. Leontine shared a touching story about a young boy who said he “had the best day of his entire life” building the garden. Build day brought incredible energy and a “new vibe” to Parkhill, leading to positive messages, ad‑hoc donations, and a noticeable jump in PCA membership. About half of the new garden boxes are now owned by new members.
The community looks forward to expanding the garden this spring with patio furniture and a pergola.
The Friends of the Federation is honoured to support grassroots projects like this. To help us bring more community initiatives to life, consider donating through Rogers Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink, where your gift is matched up to 50%.
Together, we can grow even more.
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