Open House – Thank You
Dear Friends, Members, Partners, and Community,
On March 25th, we held our Open House at our new space at Deerfoot 17. Despite a March winter storm and roads that tested every ounce of determination, more than 30 of you showed up. You bundled up, navigated the ice, and came anyway, and in doing so, you reminded us exactly what community means.
Our Open House was a celebration of two things: a new chapter and a rich legacy. For over 40 years, CommunityWise has had the honour of walking alongside small, grassroots nonprofit organizations doing vital, often unseen work in Calgary’s communities. Yesterday, we got to reflect on what that means.
We were moved by the stories shared by our tenants, hearing firsthand how CommunityWise has helped advance their missions reminded us why this work matters so deeply. The energy in the room was alive with purpose, pride, and possibility.
We are especially grateful to the organizations who took the time to set up and showcase their incredible work:
• Bridges Social Development
• Chew Project Calgary
• The Romanian Canadian Cultural Association of Calgary
• Street Sisters
• Filipinos Rising
• Venezuelan Canadian Cultural Association
Your presence gave our guests a window into the remarkable diversity and strength of the community we are privileged to serve. Your attendance enriched the entire experience.
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the representative from Ward 9 City Councillor Harrison Clark, our guests from the City of Calgary, and fellow agencies like The Alex, whose commitment to this community was felt in every conversation. Your attendance speaks to the shared belief that when we invest in community, everyone rises.
To our members, our board, and every person who walked through our doors yesterday, thank you. You didn’t have to come. The storm gave everyone a perfectly reasonable excuse to stay home. But you chose celebration and you chose us. That means everything.
We step into this new space at Deerfoot 17 with full hearts and renewed energy, excited about what the next 40 years will hold, and deeply grateful that we don’t have to build it alone.
With immense appreciation and gratitude,
The CommunityWise Board and Team
Open House @ Deerfoot 17
You’re Invited — CommunityWise Open House Celebration!
Come celebrate a new chapter with us! After 40+ years as Calgary’s nonprofit hub, CommunityWise Resource Centre is thrilled to welcome you to our new home at Deerfoot 17.
Join us on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 from 2:00–5:00 PM at 2710 17 Ave SE, Calgary, AB for an afternoon of community, connection, and celebration.
The afternoon kicks off with a welcome reception — light refreshments, informal mingling, and a chance to explore displays from our diverse member organizations. At 2:30 PM, we’ll gather for a brief opening ceremony featuring remarks from our Board Chair, a Land Acknowledgment, an Elder’s Blessing for our new space, and an inspiring story from one of our member organizations.
From 3:00–5:00 PM, explore at your own pace. Tour our modern, accessible facility — including the Main Common Room, Dance Studio, Boardroom, and shared amenities. Chat with tenant organizations, connect with funders and community leaders, and visit our “Ask Me Anything” stations where board members and staff are on hand to answer questions about membership, office space, programs, and more.
Whether you’re a longtime partner, a curious neighbor, or someone looking for a home for your nonprofit, we’d love to see you there.
Together, we create spaces where mission-driven organizations thrive.
📧 info@communitywise.net | 📞 403-261-9660 | 🌐 www.communitywise.net
CommunityWise Resource Centre is located on Treaty 7 territory, home to the Kainai, Piikani, Siksika, Tsuut’ina, and Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, and the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3.
Free Workshop – Your Digital Front Door: Website and Outreach Basics for Nonprofits
Confused about website hosting? Not sure if you need WordPress or Wix? Wondering what to actually say on your homepage? Bring your questions to this practical workshop for nonprofits navigating their digital presence.
- Website basics—domains, hosting, and realistic costs
- Tools for nonprofits: WordPress, Wix, Canva, Carrd…?
- Messaging that connects with donors
- Real examples from nonprofit websites—what works and what doesn’t Whether you’re starting from scratch, working with a shoestring budget, or trying to refresh an outdated site, bring your questions. This is a practical, collaborative session where we’ll tackle real challenges together.
Whether you’re starting from scratch, working with a shoestring budget, or trying to refresh an outdated site, bring your questions. This is a practical, collaborative session where we’ll tackle real challenges together.
Recruiting Board Members!
We’re seeking committed, community-minded volunteers to join our Board of Directors.
This role offers the chance to help guide strategic direction, strengthen governance, and advance social equity in Calgary.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Planning: Shape long-term goals aligned with CommunityWise’s mission and values.
- Financial Oversight: Review budgets and policies to support responsible resource management.
- Community Advocacy: Act as an ambassador within the community, building meaningful relationships.
- Governance & Compliance: Ensure strong policy, legal, and ethical standards are upheld.
- Fundraising & Resource Development: Support funding initiatives by connecting networks and sharing opportunities.
Who We’re Looking For
We value diverse perspectives and experiences. Ideal candidates bring experience or interest in areas such as governance, financial management, anti-racism, or community engagement. A commitment to equity, inclusion, and collaborative work is essential.
Time Commitment
Approximately 3 – 5 hours per month
How to Apply
Please send your resume and a short cover letter to Board@communitywise.net by March
31, 2026. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
About CommunityWise
About CommunityWise Resource Centre
CommunityWise is a non-profit hub and shared space in Calgary that fosters equitable and
inclusive communities by supporting grassroots organizations. We provide affordable space, shared resources, and collaborative opportunities to diverse groups working toward
anti-racism, equity, and community well-being.
FREE Grant Writing Workshop Jan 28th, 4-6pm!
Funding and grants make the non-profit world go ’round! Secure more funding for your mission! Our free grant writing workshop next week will cover how to write winning proposals, identify ideal funding sources, and build a strong foundation for grant success. Come ask questions, network, and hopefully learn something that will help make your next grant application a success.
Join us for a comprehensive grant writing workshop hosted by Dennis Lee, Co-Founder/Director at The Alcove Centre for the Arts, in-person at Unit #200, 2710 17 Ave SE
FREE sign up here: https://communitywise.getcommunal.com/parent_programs/2757