YMCA Calgary Sponsor connectFirst Credit Union is all about building thriving communities and a prosperous Alberta.
We want to thank our donors for all that they do. They are community-builders, opening doors and opportunities, creating a greater sense of belonging for all. Donations are a critical part of the YMCA that helps us run programs and offer financial assistance to people who otherwise wouldn't be able to participate.
Meet connectFirst. For nearly 80 years, connectFirst Credit Union has been supporting Albertans. As a credit union, they are a cooperative, which means connectFirst has deep community roots. At connectFirst there are members instead of shareholders, and these members own a piece of the credit union, making them Alberta focused and locally owned. For connectFirst, it is all about banking on brighter futures and staying true to their community roots.
YMCA Calgary has been fortunate to partner with connectFirst for the past 5 years, working directly with our YMCA Youth Achievement program (YMAP). YMAP is a fully funded, inclusive program that supports over 325 high school youth and young adults who now call Canada their home. Through weekly after-school sessions and special events, YMAP youth develop in all areas essential to a positive and healthy integration into Canada, all while maintaining and celebrating their cultures of origin. Outside of the program, YMAP provides youth with the opportunity to partake in Canadian cultural experiences and give back to the community through volunteering and leadership development. Click here to learn more about YMAP.
“Newcomer, refugee, immigrant and new Canadian youth are so brilliant. Even if we just lend a hand in helping them feel confident, develop leadership skills, and authentically be themselves in every space in society, then we're doing something right.”
– Cindy Nguyen, Community Investment & Communications Specialist, connectFirst Credit Union
More than just a donor
From the onset, our partnership has been strong, reciprocal, and filled with impact. We have been able to identify synergies and opportunities together, making this a transformational relationship for all involved. connectFirst really believes they have a role to play in building thriving communities and a prosperous Alberta, and to achieve that, they go beyond the traditional confines of philanthropy and contribute so much more.
Throughout 2023, connectFirst had approximately 40 staff engaged in the YMAP program. Whether that was just hanging out ice skating with the participants, teaching financial literacy skills or engaging in mock interviews to help the youth prepare for their future, connectFirst volunteers were there. From these experiences, connectFirst employees identified they had also grown and benefited from their time with the youth. This really speaks to the reciprocity of the partnership with both the YMAP participants and connectFirst employees connecting with each other and their community.
YMCA Calgary is grateful that the YMAP youth were able to benefit from their time with the connectFirst employees. Whether it was feeling confident in navigating job interviews and the new emerging employment landscapes after their mock interviews or feeling informed and empowered with knowledge and choices to take control of their finances, connectFirst made a significant impact.
YMCA Calgary is fortunate to be working with such a community focused and impact driven organization like connectFirst Credit Union. In partnership with our donors, we are removing barriers, activating leaders, and addressing community needs to ensure newcomer youth achieve their full potential. Thank you connectFirst!
"YMAP changed my life forever. When I first joined, I was at a very low point in my life and YMAP has helped me make many friends and gain confidence while being able to give back to my community.”
-YMAP Participant
To learn more about connectFirst Credit Union click here.
If you would like to donate to YMCA Calgary, please visit https://www.ymcacalgary.org/ways-give. Your gift will ensure countless other Calgarians have the opportunity to grow and thrive.