Meet Blake Heynen, committed YMCA Calgary donor. As the Manager of Community Engagement for the Prairies and Northern Ontario at TD Bank Group, Blake is dedicated to giving back to the community. Working with local non-profits and charities fuels his passion because “it helps support and build a more inclusive world for all. All people from all walks of life have the opportunity to thrive and succeed."
Blake’s journey with the YMCA began as a child with swimming lessons and formative summers spent at Camp Chief Hector. These early experiences not only provided him with the opportunity to gain new skills and create meaningful relationships but also played a pivotal role in building his confidence. As an adult, he is genuinely excited to see how the YMCA continues to advance its mission of enhancing community spaces and improving the lives of Calgarians through. His appreciation for the YMCA's impact reflects both his personal journey and his admiration for the organization's ongoing commitment to igniting the potential of the community.
TD has proudly supported YMCA Calgary for 30 years. Their financial contributions over this time have enabled facility access through the YMCA Calgary subsidy program, the completion of capital projects both in Calgary and at Camp Chief Hector YMCA, and support for community programs such as the Brave Dogs Clan (HON) program. Through similar visions and the commitment to providing diverse and inclusive opportunities for all, this work has been a continued success.
Another pillar of this work is the commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. TD supports Indigenous initiatives and programs at YMCA Calgary like the Brave Dogs Clan (HON) program.
"The program stands as a place for hope.”
The Brave Dogs Clan (HON) program is a critical community resource, supporting young people and families when they need it the most. It stands as a place of potential for youth, transforming lives through meaningful experiences, self-development, cultural activities, connection to Elders, and school support. Youth are also provided with a YMCA membership to continue building community and enjoy physical activity.
In 2023, TD opened a branch in Tsuut’ina Nation, located in The Shops at Buffalo Run. It's the first branch on Indigenous land in Alberta and the first in the Bank's history to be entirely staffed by colleagues from Indigenous communities. TD’s commitment to listening more, learning more, and doing more on their journey towards Truth and Reconciliation is one of the many reasons we wanted to highlight their allyship and action in the month of September and the importance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Blake proudly explains that this collaboration continues to “empower individuals to be their whole authentic self and learn more about where they come from, particularly with this program, one that really inspires and works with Indigenous youth to learn about their history and heritage and how that can be reflected in everyday life.”
As Calgary youth face the complexities of the modern world, the relationship between YMCA Calgary and TD is a source of growth and opportunity, aiming to provide young Calgarians with the essential support needed to grow, both within the YMCA and beyond. This teamwork shows how working together can create positive change, helping Calgary's youth succeed. As it grows, it becomes a symbol of hope and opportunity for future generations.
When you give to the YMCA, you directly support your community to help everyone belong, grow, thrive, and lead. To learn more about ways to give, please click here.