We’re CommunityWise!
CommunityWise is a nonprofit hub that, for 40 years, has existed to support and strengthen diverse grassroots groups and nonprofit organizations.
When the YWCA moved out of the original building in the early 1970s, the City of Calgary took possession and began renting offices to grassroots organizations. By 1979, the City scheduled it for demolition. The tenant groups formed an association to rescue it, negotiating the right to continue using the space in exchange for fundraising to maintain the building. This history reflects collective achievement, community resilience, and hope for the future.
After decades of serving as a vibrant hub, rising building costs led us to find a new home. CommunityWise now operates out of Deerfoot 17 (2710 – 17 Avenue SE, Calgary), where we remain dedicated to supporting Calgary’s nonprofit sector and fostering a collaborative, inclusive environment.
Accessibility Info
There is a ramp available to the main entrance, as well as a series of stairs and a handrail on both sides. The main floor (including our main kitchen, common room, and bathroom) remains the only wheelchair accessible floor. Members needing accessible main floor event/program space are given special consideration. Bathrooms are gender neutral and there is a wheelchair accessible stall
Getting here: TRANSPORTATION
BUS: Please visit Calgary Transit for the most up-to-date information. Buses stop at various points along 17th Avenue and along International Avenue. The max purple and 1 bus both have stops as close as 600m to CommunityWise. The Franklin C-Train station is also 1.6km or 20min walk away.
BIKE: For safety and cleanliness, bicycles are not permitted inside the building at any time. Outdoor bike racks are provided. CommunityWise and the property are not responsible for lost or stolen bicycles—please use a sturdy lock.
PARKING: CommunityWise provides 25 dedicated parking spaces at Deerfoot 17. Full members receive one free parking spot per office during their first year. Parking permits must be displayed visibly at all times. CommunityWise is not responsible for fines or towing due to missing or improperly displayed permits.
Visitors must provide their license plate number to reception. Members and staff may not park in visitor spaces. There is nearby street parking available on weekends. Please follow street signs and obey laws.