We don’t need to look far to see signs of the hardship being experienced by many in our community. From housing to groceries, keeping the heat on and the water running; from the social isolation of the pandemic to the social isolation of poverty; and from the mental health challenges of intergenerational trauma to the stress and anxiety brought on by constant change, the needs and the problems are all around us. But thankfully, so are the solutions.

At United Way of Calgary and Area, we and the agencies we partner with see every day the increasing complexity of the needs in our community. Rarely existing on their own, life challenges cross and touch on many areas of our lives; at the same time, often deeply affecting the lives of those around us.

The Community Impact Framework is based on four connected and interdependent Areas of Focus –Socioeconomic Well-Being, Mental Health, Social Inclusion, and Healthy Relationships – that contribute to a well-rounded, healthy life. When we ensure that the community-based programs and initiatives we work together on with our partner agencies to fund and develop are based on supporting these four pillars of happy, productive lives, we know that we are providing long-term solutions that improve life outcomes for many, now and in the future.

Along with aligning our funding and supported initiatives with the four Areas of Focus, United Way believes that by identifying and addressing the root causes of social issues, we can come together with partner agencies and the community to respond with more effective and coordinated systems of care for people. Explore the four Areas of Focus and find out how, by surrounding individuals with the supports they need, we create a community where all can thrive and contribute to a better tomorrow.

Elijah BeaverOur Work