Give Amplify Connect

We explore how Ronald McDonald House Alberta keeps families together during pediatric treatment, turning the hidden costs of travel, food, and fatigue into manageable routines. Renee shares her son’s cancer journey, while Suzanne explains the province-wide network and the recent Calgary expansion.

• travel for specialized pediatric care across Alberta
• hidden costs of “free” healthcare and lost income
• Renee’s path from diagnosis to stem cell transplant
• the role of meals, shuttles, and caregiver support
• siblings’ memories shaped by crafts and community
• expansion in Calgary from 27 to 91 suites
• measuring impact with family health and saving...

Duration: 00:34:50

What happens when a professional magician becomes a foundation leader and helps steer a national network of grantmakers? We sit down with Simon Mallett, Executive Director of the Rozsa Foundation and long-time board member at Philanthropic Foundations Canada (PFC), to unpack how collaboration, research, and peer learning turn good intentions into real community impact.

We explore how networks turn isolated funders into effective partners for equity and community impact. Simon Mallett shares his path from theater to philanthropy, how Philanthropic Foundations Canada strengthens Canadian foundations, and why board engagement, research, and arts leadership training matter.

PFC’s...

Duration: 00:26:30

Michelle Kauenhoffen from the Action Coalition on Human Trafficking (ACT Alberta) joins us to shed light on a critical but often misunderstood issue affecting communities across the province. As the Manager of Community Engagement at the only organization supporting victims of all forms of human trafficking throughout Alberta, Michelle brings valuable expertise on prevention, education, and direct support.

Michelle shares how ACT Alberta provides support for trafficking victims while developing education initiatives to protect vulnerable youth from exploitation. Through innovative partnerships and tailored trainings, they're working to dispel myths and equip communities with the knowledge to recognize...

Duration: 00:23:56

Crime doesn't solve itself. Someone has to speak up. But what happens when fear, time constraints, or personal connections make direct reporting to police impossible? Enter Crime Stoppers – the anonymous bridge between what people know and what police need to solve cases.

Crime Stoppers Alberta recovered over $22 million worth of stolen property, drugs, and weapons last year through their anonymous tip system that protects informants while helping solve crimes across the province. Mark Holik, board chair of the Alberta chapter, explains how this 40-year organization works behind the scenes to make communities safer while expanding educational initiatives.

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Duration: 00:23:06

Gaby Estrada, Executive Director of Girls Forward Foundation (formerly Fast and Female), shares the organization's journey from its Canmore roots to becoming a nationwide charity empowering girls through sport, physical activity, and education.

Girls Forward Details

Founded in 2005 in Alberta by Chandra CrawfordEmpowered over 34,000 youth across Canada and internationallyRecently rebranded from Fast and Female after 20 yearsCreates brave and welcoming spaces for girls to try new sportsConnects participants with diverse women role modelsProvides evidence-based curriculum focused on transferable skills

Podcast Key Messages

Built to Run programs...

Duration: 00:25:47

Join Mike Grogan, President and CEO of Integral Org, to discuss the transformative power of conversations in nonprofit organizations and how they can fuel change and collaboration. Learn about the mission of Integral Org to support capacity building and organizational development in nonprofits across Alberta.

Key Messages

Exploring the role of conversations in facilitating nonprofit changeHighlighting Integral Org's capacity-building approach through education and support Strategies for nonprofit leaders to enhance organizational effectivenessInsights into the complexities of mergers and collaborations within the sector Discussing the importance of accessible resources for nonprofits  Encouragement for nonprofits to emb...

Duration: 00:25:35

The episode examines the evolving landscape of nonprofit collaboration in the Bow Valley, sharing insights from community leaders on how they are working together to address local needs. It highlights the importance of connection, resource-sharing, and the role of funding in supporting their initiatives.

Key Messages
• Exploring the impact of the pandemic on nonprofit organizations
• Overview of the Bow Valley Non-Profits and its web platform
• Insights from recent surveys addressing nonprofit challenges
• Initiatives for collaborative funding discussions among local funders
• Importance of collective events and asset mapping for nonprofits
• Details abou...

Duration: 00:28:05

What if charities and non-profits could operate rent-free, channeling more resources towards their mission? Join us as we welcome Diana Davis, the Executive Director of the Jerry Forbes Centre Foundation, who shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to spearheading a transformative model of shared workspaces. Discover how the centre's rent-free, collaborative environment is allowing organizations like Paralympic Sports of Alberta to thrive by redirecting financial savings into their vital programs. Through Diana's insights, we unlock the secrets behind the Jerry Forbes Centre's success in fostering an organic, problem-solving community that redefines efficiency in the nonprofit sector.
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Duration: 00:21:36

Discover the powerful impact that philanthropy can have on children's lives as we speak with Sue McCoy, Vice President of Philanthropy at the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation. Sue shares her heartfelt journey and connection to the Stollery, shedding light on the remarkable growth and innovative fundraising efforts that support children across Western Canada. Get inspired by their initiatives like the Lifecycle event and Radiothon, and hear the touching story of a new inclusive outdoor play area dedicated to healing through play.

Learn about the Meet the Match fundraising event taking place from Dec 2-7 2024, where...

Duration: 00:17:35

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Rebekah Hansen, the passionate Chapter Director for Shelter Movers Edmonton, who shares her journey in supporting those fleeing abuse. Discover the powerful impact of this volunteer-driven charity that provides essential moving and storage services to individuals escaping dangerous situations. Rebecca gives us an inside look at the challenges shelter systems face, including extended stays caused by economic and housing crises, and the strategic partnerships formed with organizations to offer comprehensive support. With Shelter Movers now expanding to cities like Edmonton, Calgary and Winnipeg, this episode uncovers the charity's ambitious plans to reach...

Duration: 00:22:54

Elsa Perry introduces us to Shelter Movers, a national organization providing free moving and storage services to people escaping domestic violence. Throughout the episode Elsa shares her own unique path from archaeology to activism and highlights the critical role of collaboration with businesses and community agencies, demonstrating how these partnerships pave the way for safer, brighter futures.

Explore the vital work being done at Shelter Movers Calgary that also touches lives in nearby towns . We explore the significance of November as Family Violence Awareness Month, underscoring the pressing need for education and community participation in tackling family...

Duration: 00:21:37

Can adaptive sports truly transform lives? Chloe Giroux is here to share her incredible journey, from a life-altering dirt biking accident to discovering a passion for adaptive sports that reignited her life. Just weeks after leaving the hospital, Chloe found herself on the slopes with Rocky Mountain Adaptive, where she not only embraced skiing but also ventured into mountain biking and kayaking. Thanks to the support of the Wolfe Pack Warriors Adaptive Sport Leadership Bursary, Chloe advanced from participant to certified coach and recreational programmer, highlighting the profound impact these accessible sports can have, not just on...

Duration: 00:19:42

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Josh Wong, a dedicated burns and plastic surgeon, and Owen Chatwin, a passionate firefighter and secretary of the Edmonton Firefighters Burn Treatment Society. We explore Josh's incredible journey from architecture to burn care, guided by his profound experiences in Southeast Asia, and Owen's unwavering commitment to supporting burn victims. The heroic efforts of these individuals, along with the heartwarming contributions of veteran nurse Laura Vey, showcase the powerful community bonds and mutual admiration between healthcare professionals and the patients they serve.

Experience the profound impact of camp programs designed...

Duration: 00:25:15

Meet Laura Vey, the dedicated Burn Camp Director from the Alberta Firefighters Burn Camp for Children. In this episode Laura shares the incredible journey and mission of the Edmonton Firefighters Burn Treatment Society. Hear from Shelley Cormier and her children Tristan and Savannah as they recount how the camp has profoundly transformed their lives. Laura walks us through the camp's empowering activities like high ropes courses and whitewater rafting, while Shelley highlights the remarkable boost in Tristan's self-esteem and emotional health. Tristan and Savannah open up about the strong friendships and invaluable sense of belonging they discovered at the...

Duration: 00:23:59

Have you ever wondered about the impact  Canadian Blood Services has on patient lives? Join us for a compelling conversation with Jhoanna Del Rosario as she walks us through the many ways you can support Canadian Blood Services beyond blood donation. From financial contributions to registering for stem cell and organ donations, there are numerous avenues to make a difference. Jhoanna shares details about the impactful, Assignment Saving Lives, bursary scholarship program designed to recruit new donors among post-secondary students and emphasizes the urgent need for donations, especially from diverse ethnic groups.  

During the episode Jhoanna opens up...

Duration: 00:19:40

Experience the ride of a lifetime with Laura Istead, Executive Director of Two Wheel View, as we pedal through stories of transformation and empowerment. On this episode, we're not just talking about bikes; we're revealing how these two-wheeled machines are unlocking potential and building independence in Calgary's youth. Laura takes us on a tour of the Earn-A-Bike program, an inspiring 10-week course for youth in grades 7-12, culminating in the ultimate prize—a re-furbished bike of their own, complete with the skills to keep it, and themselves, moving forward.

As the conversation shifts gears, we learn about th...

Duration: 00:29:24

Imagine a space where the voices of our youth don't just resonate, but actively shape the future of mental health care. That's the reality Meghan Provost has helped forge as a member of Kickstand's Youth Action Council, and in this episode, she sits with Katherine Hay, the organization's visionary Executive Director, to discuss Kickstand's transformative impact on mental health services for young people in Alberta. Katherine paints a future where access to mental health support is not a maze but a straight line, and Meghan reveals how her personal journey with the council has been nothing short of empowering.<...

Duration: 00:28:10

When DeAnn Hunter speaks, you feel the passion for her work echo through her words—a passion that's vitally important to every community. As the board chair of the Mental Health Foundation, she joins us to share the remarkable progress being made in Alberta's mental health landscape. DeAnn's path in mental health advocacy is as personal as it is professional, shaped by a deep understanding of the critical role that support systems play in our lives. Our conversation is a beacon of hope, illuminating how the Foundation is tirelessly working to make mental health care accessible for all and to...

Duration: 00:18:25

Ever wondered how we can combat food waste and food insecurity? Join us in an enlightening conversation with Cory Rianson, Executive Director of the Leftovers Foundation, an organization that has been tackling these pressing issues since 2012. Cory takes us on a journey from the inception of the Leftovers Foundation to its growth across Alberta and into Manitoba, debunks common misconceptions about food insecurity, and reveals the concerning issue of student food insecurity.

Discover how the Leftovers Foundation has harnessed the power of technology to improve the efficiency of food rescue, a practice with significant environmental...

Duration: 00:20:18

Get ready to be inspired as we sit down with Laurie Edward, the Executive Director of the Banff Canmore Foundation, on this episode of Give Amplify Connect. Join us as we explore the incredible work being done by the foundation in the Bow Valley community. From truth and reconciliation initiatives to supporting mental health, and providing funds for affordable housing, the Banff Canmore Foundation is making a real impact.

Discover how the foundation responds to urgent needs and unexpected challenges, and learn how you can get involved in creating lasting change. Plus, find out how small gifts...

Duration: 00:23:09

Get ready to be inspired by our remarkable guest, Kim Presser, CEO of Between Friends. Be moved by her journey from a camp counselor to the head of an organization that profoundly impacts lives. Kim passionately shares the values that drive Between Friends: connection, growth, and belonging, illustrating how they not only uplift members but also deeply touch the hearts of volunteers and staff. Discover the magic of Camp Bonaventure, a unique summer camp that creates an authentic experience for children of all abilities, ensuring everyone has an unforgettable summer.

Also, join us as we...

Duration: 00:19:19

Have you ever wondered how sports can transform lives and address equity gaps in Indigenous communities? Join us for this special episode of Give*Amplify*Connect where we share inspiring stories from Spirit North, an organization dedicated to creating sports opportunities for Indigenous youth. Meredith Bratland, Spirit North's director of communications, and a dynamic team of voices – Jennifer MacPherson, Robi Fish, Gabriel (Gabby) Hall, and Megan Imrie – discuss the incredible impact of land-based sports on their lives and the importance of including multiple perspectives in this conversation.

Get ready to be moved by real-life stories, such...

Duration: 00:26:57

When Kristy & Harrison Wolfe's son Kane needed help, the Stollery Children's Hospital was there for him. The impact this hospital has had on countless families is immeasurable, and raising funds for children's healthcare is a mission that closely aligns with the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation.

In this conversation, Kristy connects with Mike House, President and CEO of the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation, as he shares his personal journey in children's healthcare and the importance of fundraising efforts like Crescendo and Life Cycle, two fundraising events supporting both the Stollery and Alberta Children's Hospital Foundations.

Investing...

Duration: 00:42:58

Welcome to episode two of Give Amplify Connect. Today we are talking with Catherine Feenstra, a longtime champion of philanthropic fundraising. Catherine now oversees Community Initiatives & Events with the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation (ACHF). She shares some of the events the Foundation manages as the primary fundraiser for Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary. We also discuss the direct impact these events have on those who need it most— kids and their families, as these events enable world-class care for thousands of kids whose lives depend on it.

In this episode:

Alberta Children's Ho...

Duration: 00:22:53

In this, our first episode of Give Amplify Connect, we are talking with Glori Meldrum. As a survivor of child sexual abuse, Glori founded Little Warriors and the Be Brave Ranch, a first-of-its-kind, world-class, evidence-based treatment centre to help children, teens and families around the world who have been impacted by sexual abuse.  

Little Warriors is a national, charitable organization based in Alberta, Canada focused on the awareness, prevention and treatment of child sexual abuse. They also advocate on behalf of and with child sexual abuse survivors. The organization’s most recent project is the cre...

Duration: 00:32:47