Social Inclusion
Why do we invest in social inclusion?
Social isolation has serious physical, mental, and emotional consequences. People who are socially isolated are at higher risk of experiencing health problems, mental health challenges, and poverty. By investing in removing barriers to social inclusion and creating more opportunities for people to participate meaningfully in their community, form new social relationships, and establish inclusive communities to live, play, and work, we are creating communities where everyone belongs.
The Stats
- Nearly 1 in 4 Calgarians say they don’t feel a sense of belonging.
- More than 80% of racialized Calgarians feel out of place because of their religion, ethnicity, skin colour, culture, language, accent, gender or sexual identification.
- Only 50% of Canadians under the age of 35 feel a sense of belonging in their neighbourhood.
- 50% of Indigenous adults surveyed in Calgary report feeling fearful and challenged when accessing school system.
Impact Stories
Meet a few of the people whose lives have been improved thanks to support from people like you.
Liam
Joanne embraces and celebrates her son, but there have been challenges. Balancing full-time work with Liam’s needs while trying to find the right support has often felt impossible.
Theresa
Through Hull Services’ Patch program, Theresa found more than practical help—she found people who believed in her. “I was introduced to employment and educational programs, and they offered me necessities for my everyday needs,” she says.
Savita
After Savita’s son was born, life at home became unsafe and isolating. With no close connections in a new city and new country, she turned to her computer—her only lifeline—to reach out for help.
Impact in Action
Community Hubs
A city-wide initiative that provides access to vital supports and services, and turns strangers into friends.
Healthy Aging Alberta
Learn how this rich network is helping to make Alberta one of the best places in the world to grow older!