Give Amplify Connect

Imagine a space where the voices of our youth don't just resonate, but actively shape the future of mental health care. That's the reality Meghan Provost has helped forge as a member of Kickstand's Youth Action Council, and in this episode, she sits with Katherine Hay, the organization's visionary Executive Director, to discuss Kickstand's transformative impact on mental health services for young people in Alberta. Katherine paints a future where access to mental health support is not a maze but a straight line, and Meghan reveals how her personal journey with the council has been nothing short of empowering.As the conversation unfolds, you'll be inspired by Kickstand's innovative strategies, like their "More Good Days" text service, which sends a jolt of positivity to subscribers daily. Learn how a partnership with the Mental Health Foundation is not just a handshake but a powerful alliance that elevates Kickstand's mission to new heights. And if you're moved to take action, discover the myriad ways to contribute to the cause—be it through advocacy, participating on the Youth Action Council, or steering donations to fuel progressive mental health initiatives. This is more than a podcast episode; it's a call to join a movement that's redefining what it means to support our youth.Key MessagesMeet Meghan Provost & Katherine HayWhat is Kickstand? How youth can get involvedWho is Kickstand for?Get daily messages by texting “More Good Days” to 393939The story behind KickstandPrograms, services and providersWhat can you do  Share Kickstand posts on InstagramMental Health Foundation connection  Book an appointmentGet involvedInspiration: Access Open Minds & Kickstand PartnersAbout Our Guests Katherine Hay (she/her/hers) has worked in the mental health and substance use services field since 1997.  Katherine has been a tireless advocate for recovery oriented, person centered care, that focuses on the whole person and the environments in which they want to live, work and play.  Meghan Provost (she/her/hers), a first-year Communications student at MacEwan University, serves as a dedicated Youth Action Council member at Kickstand, passionately advocating for youth mental health.  What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com Podcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun

When DeAnn Hunter speaks, you feel the passion for her work echo through her words—a passion that's vitally important to every community. As the board chair of the Mental Health Foundation, she joins us to share the remarkable progress being made in Alberta's mental health landscape. DeAnn's path in mental health advocacy is as personal as it is professional, shaped by a deep understanding of the critical role that support systems play in our lives. Our conversation is a beacon of hope, illuminating how the Foundation is tirelessly working to make mental health care accessible for all and to shatter the stigma so often attached to mental illness.This episode is a journey through the interconnected worlds of mental health across various sectors, with an unexpected detour into the construction industry, revealing the profound need for dedicated mental health programs. DeAnn's heartfelt work with Big Brothers Big Sisters serves as a testament to the power of volunteerism, a gentle reminder of the human capacity for kindness and the transformative impact of community involvement. You're invited to get to know the groundbreaking work of Kickstand, a youth-led virtual wellness hub, and the Mental Health Foundation's upcoming events, including their annual fundraising breakfast, that champion mental well-being. Together we explore the serious, often underestimated responsibility of board service and how aligning your skills with an organization's needs can lead to fulfilling service. Join us to understand the steps being taken towards a future of mental wellness and the importance of fostering both personal and community health.Get your ticket to the Mental Health Foundation Breakfast on February 27th, 2024. About Our GuestDeAnn Hunter is the Board Chair of the Mental Health Foundation and also the CEO of Edmonton John Howard Society. DeAnn is a seasoned executive with more than 20 years in business, health care and the community sector. She is known for driving transformational change, maximizing operational excellence and building collaborations to enhance the lives of individuals. DeAnn is passionate about mental health and community development. She has held numerous community board appointments including Board Chair for Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters, Board Chair for Terra Centre and her current Board role with the Mental Health Foundation. DeAnn holds an undergraduate degree in Criminology & Criminal Justice and a MBA in executive leadership. In her spare time, DeAnn enjoys playing and watching sports and running in Edmonton’s beautiful river valley.What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com Podcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun

Ever wondered how we can combat food waste and food insecurity? Join us in an enlightening conversation with Cory Rianson, Executive Director of the Leftovers Foundation, an organization that has been tackling these pressing issues since 2012. Cory takes us on a journey from the inception of the Leftovers Foundation to its growth across Alberta and into Manitoba, debunks common misconceptions about food insecurity, and reveals the concerning issue of student food insecurity.Discover how the Leftovers Foundation has harnessed the power of technology to improve the efficiency of food rescue, a practice with significant environmental and social benefits. We discuss their innovative app, Rescue Food, that connects volunteers with businesses looking to donate food. But that's not all, Cory also introduces us to the world of their Home Harvest program, a unique initiative aimed at reducing food waste by redirecting good food from landfills to tables.Our conversation takes an inspiring turn as we learn about other organizations and individuals making waves in their respective communities. Tune in, be informed, and most importantly, be inspired to take action against food waste and insecurity in your own communities.If you'd like to get involved with Leftovers we encourage you to volunteer. Visit their volunteer page here and download the app to give volunteering a try! Or sign up for their newsletter to stay up to date with what's happening. About Our GuestCory Rianson is the Executive Director of Leftovers, and has worked for the past seven years leading organizations focused on reducing food insecurity. Prior to running the Leftovers Foundation, he managed a small food bank, growing the organization from a source of crisis food for those in need to a food security hub delivering a wide range of programming focused on reducing food insecurity. His goal is to take Leftovers even further in its food rescue mission, rescuing more and different types of food. Why should good food be rotting in landfill and emitting greenhouse gases, when it can go to those who need it? Good food should not go to waste!"Who Inspires Cory? Multicultural Health Brokers & Saffron What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com Podcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun

Get ready to be inspired as we sit down with Laurie Edward, the Executive Director of the Banff Canmore Foundation, on this episode of Give Amplify Connect. Join us as we explore the incredible work being done by the foundation in the Bow Valley community. From truth and reconciliation initiatives to supporting mental health, and providing funds for affordable housing, the Banff Canmore Foundation is making a real impact. Discover how the foundation responds to urgent needs and unexpected challenges, and learn how you can get involved in creating lasting change. Plus, find out how small gifts can make a big difference and how you can create a donor-advised fund to support projects that matter to you. Don't miss this insightful conversation on activating community potential and building a better future for everyone through your local community foundation.Visit the Banff Canmore Foundation's brand new website www.banffcanmorefoundation.orgAbout Our Guest Laurie Edward is passionate about philanthropy, inclusive community and collaborating to achieve shared aspirations. Laurie brings to her work many years of experience in program innovation, community engagement, and strategic management in many sectors including post-secondary education, national retail, financial services, and public land policy advocacy. She has held program management roles at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity and Mountain Equipment Co-op. Laurie has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from McGill University and an MBA from the Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary. She recharges by getting outside and loves to backcountry ski, run, bike, paddle and climb. Laurie and her partner and young son live in Canmore.Email: ledward@banffcanmorefoundation.orgWhat is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com Podcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun

Get ready to be inspired by our remarkable guest, Kim Presser, CEO of Between Friends. Be moved by her journey from a camp counselor to the head of an organization that profoundly impacts lives. Kim passionately shares the values that drive Between Friends: connection, growth, and belonging, illustrating how they not only uplift members but also deeply touch the hearts of volunteers and staff. Discover the magic of Camp Bonaventure, a unique summer camp that creates an authentic experience for children of all abilities, ensuring everyone has an unforgettable summer.Also, join us as we shine a spotlight on Between Friends' fundraising feats, including their annual golf tournament that raised an astounding $107,000. Get insights into their other successful initiatives like the year-end campaign and the Friends in Motion event. Kim also expresses her deep appreciation for the Calgary Adapted Hub and their significant role in providing city-wide program training for kids. Get Involved with Between FriendsAbout our GuestKimberley Presser is a dedicated visionary and trailblazer, currently serving as the CEO of Between Friends; an organization committed to providing quality social, recreation and development opportunities so that people with disabilities can connect, grow and belong.In 2006, Kimberley's unyielding passion for making a difference led her to Calgary, where she joined the team at Camp Bonaventure as a group leader. Little did she know that this move would not only change her career trajectory but also shape her lifelong purpose. Between Friends quickly became more than a workplace—it became her second home, igniting her dedication to fostering equal opportunities and transforming lives.As the CEO of Between Friends, she has spearheaded initiatives that challenge societal norms and perceptions, aiming to dismantle barriers that hinder the full participation of people with disabilities in recreational activities. Her tenacious drive to bridge gaps and cultivate an inclusive environment has touched the lives of countless individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.Kimberley's influence extends beyond the boardroom. Her advocacy efforts have sparked collaborations through the Alberta Abilities Network with community partners, government agencies, and like-minded organizations, amplifying the impact of her mission.With a remarkable ability to inspire, innovate, and lead by example, Kimberley Presser continues to be a guiding light in the journey towards a more inclusive and compassionate world.What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com Podcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun

Have you ever wondered how sports can transform lives and address equity gaps in Indigenous communities? Join us for this special episode of Give*Amplify*Connect where we share inspiring stories from Spirit North, an organization dedicated to creating sports opportunities for Indigenous youth. Meredith Bratland, Spirit North's director of communications, and a dynamic team of voices – Jennifer MacPherson, Robi Fish, Gabriel (Gabby) Hall, and Megan Imrie – discuss the incredible impact of land-based sports on their lives and the importance of including multiple perspectives in this conversation.Get ready to be moved by real-life stories, such as Robi's account of a student's journey learning to ride a bike at Nakoda Elementary School and the joy it brought to the entire community. Hear about Gabby and Megan's passion for giving back through sports and how their experiences have shaped their outlook on life. Learn about the power of community and the lessons they've gained through working with Spirit North, from listening to youth and co-creating with communities, to respecting Indigenous traditions and fostering healthy connections. Don't miss the chance to discover the transforming power of sport and the incredible work being done by Spirit North to create access and opportunity for all.About Spirit North:Spirit North is a national charitable organization that uses land-based activities to improve the health and well-being of Indigenous youth, empowering them to become unstoppable in sport, school and life. Working in partnership with schools and communities, Spirit North delivers programs to over 10,000 Indigenous youth in 83 communities and 134 schools in Western Canada and the Northwest Territories. Learn more about Spirit North hereSign up for their newsletter hereCheck out their job postings hereView the Photo Voice exhibit here About our Guests:Meredith Bratland - Director of Communication @11:15 Meredith talks about Spirit North's youth leadership programMegan Imrie - Program Development Manager @7:53 Megan shares about listening and co-creating with communityJennifer MacPherson - Regional Coordinator @13:31 Jennifer discusses multi-week programs building confidenceGabriel Hall - Spirit North Leader @3:40 Gabby explains how he first  got involved with Spirit NorthRobi Fish - Spirit North Leader @18:13 Robi tells a story about the bike program at Nakoda Elementary In this Episode:0:15 Learning From Spirit North Voices3:40 Spirit North Connections6:16 Lessons earned11:58 Biking with Spirit North15:56 Empowering Youth Through Photo Voice24:52 Give Amplify Connect  What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com Podcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun

When Kristy & Harrison Wolfe's son Kane needed help, the Stollery Children's Hospital was there for him. The impact this hospital has had on countless families is immeasurable, and raising funds for children's healthcare is a mission that closely aligns with the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation.In this conversation, Kristy connects with Mike House, President and CEO of the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation, as he shares his personal journey in children's healthcare and the importance of fundraising efforts like Crescendo and Life Cycle, two fundraising events supporting both the Stollery and Alberta Children's Hospital Foundations.Investing in children's health is essential, and that's why the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation is working to build a new children's hospital in Alberta. Mike and Kristy discuss the challenges that come with operating within an adult hospital, and how collaboration with other organizations is crucial in overcoming these obstacles. Mike also shares ways you can contribute to this meaningful cause and support the Stollery Children's Hospital right now. Learn more at  stollerytomorrowandtoday.comLastly, we delve into the impact of philanthropy on children and their families, exploring how teaching the value of generosity can start at a young age. We celebrate the work of a variety of nonprofits organizations across Alberta, including the 70+ healthcare foundations,  the Alberta Cancer Foundation  and MyKickstand.ca with its wraparound care services.In this episode:Crescendo: A John Cameron Experience  (0:40)Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation (3:05)Mike's Personal Health Journey (5:25)Stollery Tomorrow & Today (11:27) How can you Give Amplify Connect? (19:01)Life Cycle: Cycling Challenge (22:51)Impact on Kids (26:55)Who inspires Mike? (37:18)About our guestMike House is the President & CEO of the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation, committed to funding excellence at the Stollery Children’s Hospital, located across four hospital sites in Alberta.  In addition to supporting children’s physical and mental health across the province, the Stollery is also heavily involved in pediatric research, indigenous health, and helping to recruit and train the next generation of medical professionals for our community.  Mike’s commitment to kids is echoed in the Foundation’s vision to give kids the best chance at a long and healthy life.  That resonates deeply with him, as he himself had life-saving surgery as a baby and toddler and beat the odds of survival.What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com Podcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun

Welcome to episode two of Give Amplify Connect. Today we are talking with Catherine Feenstra, a longtime champion of philanthropic fundraising. Catherine now oversees Community Initiatives & Events with the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation (ACHF). She shares some of the events the Foundation manages as the primary fundraiser for Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary. We also discuss the direct impact these events have on those who need it most— kids and their families, as these events enable world-class care for thousands of kids whose lives depend on it.In this episode:Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation. (Intro)What inspires the work of the Foundation? (2:49)Get involved—help kids. (5:55) Life Cycle Virtual Cycling Event. (7:35)Join the Wolfe Pack Warriors Life Cycle Team! (9:55)Crescendo and other events (12:35)How can you Give Amplify Connect? (16:30)About Our GuestCatherine Feenstra is the Community Initiatives & Events Manager with the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation. She oversees all the Foundation's signature events, including Life Cycle and CRESCENDO and has over 20 years of fund development and event planning experience. She is the proud mom to two adult daughters who have shaped her non-profit work at organizations focusing on children and families. Catherine invites you to join other generous participants for Life Cycle, CRESCENDO and any of the other outstanding events that support kids and families who rely on care at the Alberta Children's Hospital. Visit childrenshospital.ab.ca.About Life CycleEvery year, thousands of children and families rely on the Stollery Children’s Hospital and the Alberta Children’s Hospital for expert pediatric care. Together, we can ensure that, in addition to providing the best treatments possible for kids’ injuries and illnesses, specialists have the resources to care for their spirits as well.This June, we're riding to move kids' health forward!Join the Wolfe Pack Warriors team here OR Donate to a rider here  CRESCENDO info & tickets https://www.childrenshospital.ab.ca/event/crescendo/What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com Podcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun

In this, our first episode of Give Amplify Connect, we are talking with Glori Meldrum. As a survivor of child sexual abuse, Glori founded Little Warriors and the Be Brave Ranch, a first-of-its-kind, world-class, evidence-based treatment centre to help children, teens and families around the world who have been impacted by sexual abuse.  Little Warriors is a national, charitable organization based in Alberta, Canada focused on the awareness, prevention and treatment of child sexual abuse. They also advocate on behalf of and with child sexual abuse survivors. The organization’s most recent project is the creation of Our Lighthouse – a treatment centre for adult survivors of child sexual abuse.Who do you know that could benefit from knowing about Little Warriors? In this episode:Little Warriors and The Be Brave Ranch. (Intro)God’s whisper. (6:00) Mental health: surrender, grit, and resilience. (12:19)Our Lighthouse. (20:09)How can you help? (24:22)Who inspires you? (28:26)About Our GuestGlori Meldrum is a business leader, sexual abuse survivor, mother, author, motivational speaker, and non-profit founder, with a driving passion to protect our children and advocate for sexual abuse survivors. A charismatic catalyst, Glori has an undeniable gift for cutting through the noise and unearthing opportunities to create positive change.Her ability to channel her experiences into life-changing initiatives for others demonstrates the resilience and greater purpose of her soul. Her work at Little Warriors and the Be Brave Ranch has led to ground-breaking, science-backed, and trauma-informed treatment for child sexual abuse survivors and their families. One of the lessons that Glori’s experience has taught her is to be more present and to allow herself to be vulnerable. By sharing her story and vulnerabilities it has allowed her to feel more whole, happy, and content in life. It is in that vulnerability and leading from a place of love that she started to build beautiful things. What started off as a dream, has changed the course of so many lives and it continues to for future generations.Find out how you can help Little Warriors. What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com Podcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun