Another successful Giving Forward campaign has come to a close, and the results are a testament to the power of community and gratitude.

Supporting Our Local Calgary Business Community

At the heart of this campaign was a commitment to Calgay's small business ecosystem. Participants selected gift carrds from local vendors, directing appreciation and resources to the entrepreneurs who make our city vibrant and unique. From neighbourhood cafés and restaurants to independent retailers, these businesses are the fabric of our communities - and supporting them has never been more important.

The Matching Gift Advantage

Through the generous partnership with the Norrep Foundation, every donation made during this campaign was matched up to $500. This dollar-for-dollar commitment effectively doubled the impact of each contribution, allowing participants to amplify their charitable giving to organizations focused on meeting local needs.

The Norrep Foundation, a privately held family run organization founded in 2012, and has been an invaluable partner in making this matching opportunity possible year after year.

Six Years of Giving Forward

The numbers speak volumes about the sustained impact of this annual tradition:

• $17,000+ given back to local Calgary community businesses

  
  

• $55,000+ donated to local charities through participant contributions and matching

  
  

• Six consecutive years of community engagement and support

These figures represent more than dollars - they represent relationships strengthened, families helped, and a local economy bolstered by intentional giving. Some of the Giving Forward business recipients have been Phil & Sebastian, Cassis Bistro, Luna Blue, Cold Garden and Richmond Hill Wines and charity beneficiaries have been Leftovers Foundation, Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation, Calgary Seniors Resource Society, The Mustard Seed, & Trades Guild.

Gratitude in Action

To everyone who participated in our Giving Forward campaign over the past six years: thank you. Your choices mattered. Whether you selected a local business gift card, made a charitable donation, or both, you contributed to a cycle of generosity that strengthens our Calgary community.

This campaign proves that appreciation isn't passive - It's an active force that, when channeled thoughfully, creates ripples of positive impact that extend faer beyond the initial gesture.

As we close the campaign after another successful year, we're already looking forward to continnuing this tradition next year. Here's to giving forward, together.