Celebrating the Power of Connection at YMCA Calgary’s 124th Annual General Meeting
On May 12, YMCA Calgary welcomed staff, volunteers, donors, board members, partners and community members to our 124th Annual General Meeting at Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge. The evening centered around this year’s theme, The Power of Connection, bringing together reflection, celebration and meaningful conversation about how connection continues to shape stronger communities across Calgary.
The program began with a blessing from Elder Randy Turning Robe Sr. and a land acknowledgement from co-emcees Brigitte Dionne-Bourassa, General Manager of Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot, and Jennifer Walker, Vice President of Philanthropy. Together, these opening moments set the tone for the evening and reflected The Power of Connection through respect and shared responsibility to the community.
During our business meeting, we reflected a year of continued strength and momentum, including YMCA Calgary’s ongoing strategic investment in programs and spaces, recognition as one of Alberta’s Top 80 Employers for the second consecutive year and our role as one of Calgary’s leading employers of youth. These milestones reflect our continued dedication to strengthening communities and responding to evolving needs across our city.
A highlight of the evening was a panel discussion led by our President and CEO, Shannon Doram, joined by Karen Young, President and CEO of United Way Calgary, Joanne Pittman, Chief Superintendent of the Calgary Board of Education, and Andy Melton, 2024 YMCA Fellowship of Honour Medal Recipient.
Together, the panel reflected on what connection and hope mean in their work and communities, and the importance of creating and protecting third spaces across the city where people can come together and build a sense of belonging. From schools and community organizations to neighbourhood spaces and partnerships, the conversation highlighted how these environments play a critical role in reducing social isolation and strengthening community life.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening came from Janet Kurka, YMCA Calgary’s longest-serving volunteer, who reflected on her 50 years of service and shared, “The YMCA has been a safe place to call home.” Her story of belonging, friendship and purpose spoke to the lasting impact of showing up for community over time. Janet then brought the AGM’s theme to life by leading a movement break that filled the room with energy and laughter.
The evening concluded with a powerful performance from YMCA Calgary’s Indigenous Drum and Dance program, guided by Elder Randy Turning Robe Sr. and Knowledge Keeper Randy Turning Robe Jr.
As Indigenous Programs Supervisor, Dakotah Northcut shared, "Our Indigenous Drum and Dance program is a culturally grounded, Indigenous-led initiative that strengthens cultural identity, fosters reconciliation and creates meaningful opportunities for connection across generations.” Those teachings were brought to life as the performance moved into a round dance, inviting guests to join in and closing the evening in a shared moment of celebration.
In 2025, more than 250,000 Calgarians connected with our facilities and community programs, supported by 130,605 volunteer hours and more than $5 million provided in financial assistance. Together, these numbers demonstrated the power of connection in communities across our city.
As we mark 124 years of service, this year’s AGM highlighted that The Power of Connection is the foundation of everything we do. Connection is present in every story shared, every partnership formed, and every person supported through YMCA Calgary.
Thank you to our board members, partners, volunteers, donors, staff and community members for the role you play in strengthening communities and helping build a Calgary where everyone belongs.
To learn more about our impact in 2025, view our Report to Community here.