On April 27, 2024 we hosted our first-ever UnCommonly Good Celebration Dinner fundraiser at Knox United Church. With over 200 people in attendance, the event raised over $25,000 dollars to support the work of the Alliance.

Emcee's Katharine Hembigner-Tenor and Reverend Kersi Bird hosted the evening, and we had blessings from a variety of faith leaders including Reverend Sheena Trotter from Knox United, Rabbi Glickman from B'nai Tikvah, and our friends from the Anatolian Turkish Islamic Center of Calgary.

After an incredible dinner sponsored by the Anatolian Turkish Restaurant and served up by youth volunteers from Youth Central, the sold out room was buzzing with good energy as Lead Organizer Ryan Andersen took us through the story of the Calgary Alliance, remembering all the moments in our history when "the people got to work" and built the Alliance we have today. We also took an opportunity to publicly recognize some key supporters of our work in the city: Elizabeth McLellan our current board chair, and some local dignitaries: Mayor Gondek, Councillor Cara, and Councillor Walcott for the work they have done to advance compassionate and just services in the city, as well as the Calgary Police Service for their steps towards better interactions with Indigenous communities in Calgary. 

A highlight of the evening was honoring Dr. Deena Hinshaw with the UnCommonly Good Public Service Award, for the courage to lead us through a pandemic. We appreciated hearing her speak on the lessons she learned in public leadership, and what it takes to build a truly healthy society.

The event was held to celebrate our journey and also to raise funds for the work ahead. We invite you to consider joining us in that work by donating either a one-time gift, or by signing up to be a monthly donor. Our work is only possible because our members believe it is worthwhile to support with their time, energy and finances advancing the Common Good in Calgary. 

We look forward to the next time we can celebrate together!