February 2026 marks 30 years since Canada formally recognized Black History Month. This year’s theme, Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations, invites us to acknowledge the enduring contributions of Black Canadians, from nation builders to the next generation of visionaries. For centuries, Black Canadians have helped shape our social and economic fabric, despite facing systemic racism and exclusion.
Diverse Black communities in Calgary continue to strengthen our city and its sense of belonging. Recognizing this history and ongoing impact reflects United Way of Calgary and Area’s commitment to seeing the need in our community and responding with care.
United Way is proud to support and work alongside many Black-led and Black-serving grassroots organizations across our city:
Calgary African Community Collective
Photo credit: Calgary African Community Collective
Calgary African Community Collective unites grassroots Black and African community organizations to address systemic gaps, strengthen collaboration and advocate for inclusion across Calgary and surrounding areas.
Haiti Alberta Sports et/and Cultural Club
Photo credit: Haiti Alberta Sports and Cultural Club/Facebook
The Haiti Alberta Sports and Cultural Club preserves and promotes Haitian culture through sports, arts and community engagement. By hosting cultural events and engaging in advocacy, they foster identity, belonging and connection, enriching Calgary’s broader cultural landscape.
Photo credit: Wings of Hope for Africa
Wings of Hope for Africa is committed to empowering Black families and communities, fostering self-sufficiency, and alleviating poverty in East Africa and Canada. We believe in the potential of every individual to thrive when given the right resources and opportunities. Our mission is to provide these resources and opportunities, from essential school supplies to income-generating projects.
Iconic Community Healthcare Network
Photo credit: Iconic Community Healthcare Network/LinkedIn
Iconic Community Healthcare Network provides culturally responsive health care, mental health support and chronic disease management to underserved communities, with Black leadership represented across its work to improve access and equity in health care.
Photo credit: EthioCare/Facebook
EthioCare supports youth and families by addressing mental health stigma in local Black communities through culturally and linguistically appropriate education, programs and care.
Photo credit: Family Advocates Canada/Linkedin
Family Advocates Canada supports local immigrant families through relationship skills training, mentorship, coaching and community engagement, helping strengthen family connections and reduce stigma around seeking support.
Excel Family and Youth Society
Photo credit: Excel Family and Youth Society/Facebook
Excel Family and Youth Society is a local, Black-led organization serving Ethiopian and Eritrean communities through mentorship, education and leadership development programs that support youth and strengthen families.
Photo credit: Ruth’s House Society/Facebook
Ruth’s House Society provides safe shelter and long-term support for women, children and pets fleeing family violence. They offer stability, safety and pathways to healing for those most at risk.
Photo credit: Struggle Is Your Success
Struggle Is Your Success is a Black-led nonprofit supporting youth ages 14 to 25 from Black, Indigenous and People of Colour as well as those with newcomer backgrounds. SIYS supports these young people through entrepreneurial skills and entrepreneurial mindset development programs, mentorship, and innovation and financial literacy.
Photo credit: Bright Lights for Africa/Facebook
Founded in 2020, Bright Lights for Africa Foundation is a Calgary-based nonprofit supporting immigrants, low-income families and Francophones of African descent through community-based programs and services.
Photo credit: Hands Lifting Hearts/Facebook
Hands Lifting Hearts supports women and families through pregnancy and beyond while advancing equity, justice and well-being for African, Black and Caribbean communities in Canada.
Black History Month invites us to reflect on the contributions that have shaped our communities and consider how we carry that legacy forward. By supporting community-led work, we can continue building a more caring, resilient Calgary.
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