Linda Olsen is no stranger to Calgarians. She has been a prominent, trusted figure in Calgary’s broadcast journalism scene for more than three decades, telling the stories that matter to Southern Albertans.
This year, Linda will be joining United Way of Calgary and Area (United Way) as the emcee of the Community Impact Awards on March 13. We had a chance to sit down with her to learn more about her passion for community and how, through United Way, we can uplift and spread hope through our city and surrounding area.
Linda’s commitment to making a difference has been evident throughout her impactful career, where she’s worked tirelessly to tell the stories of the people who have shaped Calgary. Her passion for community shines brightly as she reflects on the power of collective action, and she’s excited to play a part in United Way’s big annual event.
“The Community Impact Awards recognize just some of the people and organizations who are putting hope into action. Immediate action,” Linda says. “It’s a great way to celebrate and to see the outcome of those efforts.”
A born and raised Calgarian, Linda has a deep appreciation for the city’s growth and resilience. She highlights the city’s ability to balance global aspirations with local compassion and Calgarians’ strong sense of community and volunteerism. But with those aspirations, she’s also seen the challenges that lie underneath the gleaming downtown office towers.
“As the city grows, people’s needs become more complex and that just takes extra support from people and through United Way,” Linda says. “I’m all for opening the door to new possibilities and welcoming more people to the city. But that can come with more challenges and I think that needs extra attention.”
Linda’s journalism career has given her firsthand insight into the challenges faced by Calgarians and opportunities for community support. Inspired by her parents, who were immigrants and community builders, she believes in United Way as a key organization in addressing pressing needs and fostering new possibilities.
Linda is also passionate about supporting women through her work. From 1998-2013, she hosted and produced Global TV’s “Women of Vision” series, highlighting the stories of inspirational women in Calgary. She believes in the ripple effect of positive change, where empowering one individual can impact families and communities.
“It’s hard to think of a person who is more connected to the issues that have shaped our city in the last 30 years,” says Karen Young, president and CEO of United Way of Calgary and Area. “Linda’s dedication to telling the stories of Calgary is unmatched and we are so lucky to have her involved in this year’s Community Impact Awards.”
See hope in action this March 13 at United Way’s Community Impact Awards. United, we will celebrate the changemakers at the core of our work and come together to create a brighter future.
About United Way of Calgary and Area
United Way of Calgary and Area (United Way) is celebrating 85 years of innovation and impact. Since 1940, we have united individuals, workplaces, community partners and government to create lasting social change.
Rooted in a global movement more than a century ago, United Way has been dedicated to improving lives through the power of collective community action. We invest strategically, partner with purpose and mobilize agencies to work together and solve complex social issues like poverty and mental health. Our work and investments stay local.
Join us in shaping the future. Visit hope.uwca.ca to be part of the change. Thank you for 85 years of inspiring hope and strengthening our community.