The Lions Club of Bearspaw has been supporting YMCA Calgary since 2007 with philanthropic donations towards children and youth access and programming in northwest Calgary. With the aligned belief in empowering others to live healthier, happier lives, the Lions Club has fostered opportunities for kids to belong, grow, thrive and lead at YMCA Calgary. The Lions Club of Bearspaw has been actively making a difference in the community for over 70 years.
Ken Kalynchuk has spent a lifetime giving back to his community, and his work with the Lions Club of Bearspaw is a testament to his unwavering commitment. Now retired since 2016, Ken has dedicated his time and efforts to numerous charitable causes, including Brown Bagging for Calgary's Kids, Kids Up Front Calgary, and, of course, YMCA Calgary. As an active volunteer, Ken is known for his support of curling events, which he participates in seasonally, alongside his involvement in key community-driven projects.
Ken's leadership shines through his eight years of service with the Lions Club of Bearspaw, where he served as president in 2020/21. Established in 1953, the Lions Club of Bearspaw holds a strong vision: to be a dependable and respected service organization focused on community and international projects. Ken echoes this vision, noting, "Youth programs in the YMCA are something we feel is valuable to the overall well-being in the community." His deep belief in the YMCA's ability to support young people aligns with the Lions' dedication to helping where it's needed most.
One of Ken’s proudest moments came when he worked with a committee to help save a city project that took seven years to complete. As the project progressed, Ken had the opportunity to work closely with YMCA Calgary, who took the lead in bringing what is now the Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot to life. Ken was thoroughly impressed with the organization’s expertise, saying, "The YMCA knows what they are doing." His admiration for the YMCA’s seamless execution reflects his lifelong philosophy of giving back, which was also instilled in him by his mentor, Jim Gray, a major community leader.
The Lions Club of Bearspaw, which Ken proudly serves, has long supported YMCA Calgary due to its strong, community-driven approach. "YMCA is seen as a strong organization with the support of their community," Ken states. "It doesn’t have any major barriers to provide support programs. This is something we value and will continue to support as the Lions Club." For Ken, his passion for community service runs deep—his two sons share this mindset, and together, they continue to make a positive impact in Calgary.
Ken’s dedication to the Lions Club and YMCA Calgary exemplifies his belief in giving back to the community, a legacy he hopes will inspire future generations. Through his volunteer work, leadership, and community spirit, Ken Kalynchuk and the Lions Club of Bearspaw remain vital contributors to the betterment of the Calgary community.
Your support of the YMCA helps build a stronger community where everyone can belong, grow, thrive, and lead. To discover the many ways you can make a difference, learn more about giving today.