United Way of Calgary and Area (United Way) proudly works with two passionate volunteer co-chairs each year to help lead our fundraising campaign initiatives. Our co-chairs are prominent figures in Calgary’s business community who give their time, open their networks, attend events and work alongside our President & CEO, Karen Young, to drive meaningful change.
This year, we are privileged to have Susan O’Brien as one of our co-chairs. Susan is an Investment Advisor and Wealth Advisor with the Susan O’Brien group at Richardson Wealth. With more than 25 years of experience, she is a prime example of someone who leads with purpose and is deeply committed to helping Calgarians thrive.
We had the opportunity to sit down with Susan to learn more about her vision for Calgary and what inspired her to take on the co-chair role.
What do you think Calgary does better than any other city?
Calgary is a city of newcomers. People come here from all over Canada and the world, often leaving behind family and friends. Being new to the city, people are more engaged and eager to make connections, which makes them welcoming and friendly. They want to meet new people and have new experiences. They adopt Calgary as their own and their love for the city grows—just like mine has over the 40 years I’ve called Calgary home. People choose to be here.
What is your favourite inspirational philosophy, saying or mantra?
Be a good ancestor. Plant trees even though you won’t ever feel the shade. Seeds planted today, no matter how small, will change the world in ways we can’t even imagine.
Why did you decide to become a Campaign Co-Chair?
I’ve been fortunate that I have the time and energy to want to make a difference in the lives of Calgarians. I’m motivated to help people like me who may be facing tough times and need support to get back on their feet, rebuild relationships and strengthen their communities. I also want to inspire others, particularly young people, to make the world a better place. By planting small seeds of change, we can each make a difference.
What do you hope to achieve by volunteering for this role? What excites you most?
My hope is to rally Calgarians together to raise enough funds so that no one in need is turned away. No one should feel the despair of not receiving help. I want to show Calgarians that their community, and United Way, truly cares. Even in the darkest times, Calgary is a city of hope.
What does Hope is in Your Hands mean to you?
It means that it’s up to each one of us. No gift is too small. Be a good ancestor. Be the hope for others and one day they’ll be the hope for you, or someone you know. The future of Calgary, how we define ourselves, and how we care for others is in our hands. Every act makes a difference to the quality of life in our city. We have some big challenges in our community and we can’t hide from them. We need everyone to get involved.
Hope is in Your Hands
We are extremely grateful to work with passionate Calgarians like Susan O’Brien and her 2024 Campaign Co-Chair, Vivek Warrier. Their energy, drive and desire for change inspire us daily as we move through our campaign season.
Hands have the power to uplift, to teach and to support. One small gesture can create a ripple of change that spreads hope throughout Calgary. Supporting our Community Impact Fund helps drive this change. Your gift, no matter the size, provides critical support to address current challenges and create long-term change. United, we can create a Calgary where everyone can thrive.