Our History

The roots of Calgary Foundation started in the early 1950’s when Grant MacEwan, Doug Hawkes and Edward Bredin, saw a problem. Large amounts of money from estates was sitting idle, unable to be used as the donor intended because the designated causes, such as a home for sailors without a vessel and a fund for destitute settlers who had lost their covered wagon, had become obsolete. These visionary leaders imagined an enduring organisation where people could leave some of their wealth, trusting in the knowledge that it would address the needs of those they could not yet see and help people they would never meet.

The vision of a community foundation was led by Doug Hawkes. As a soldier serving in WWII, Doug had never forgotten the generosity shown to him by Red Cross Agencies and he vowed to return the favour when he returned home after the war.

With an asset base of $100,000 from twenty generous donors who each contributed $5,000, the humble beginnings of Calgary Foundation began. The first grants were made to the United Way of Calgary and Mount Royal College totalling $1,500.

We honour the pioneers of the movement for their leadership and foresight to see the value of a community foundation for Calgary and an area that builds a community where everyone belongs, now and forever.

In 2023-24, Calgary Foundation saw $81.1 million in new contributions, 51 new funds established, had an asset base of $1.4 billion, and granted $75.4 million to 1,221 charitable organizations.

It is the strategic partnerships with our generous fundholders and effective nonprofits that enable us to do great work and build a vibrant community. The strength and value of a community foundation is reflected in a strong and sustainable charitable sector.