Children’s Foundation is a Calgary non-profit organization that raises and distributes funds for small children’s charities. We spoke with Susan Holzman, Administrator, to find out more about them.
Describe your charity/non-profit in a few sentences.
The 770 CHQR and Westin Calgary Children’s Foundation raises and distributes funds for small children’s charities in the Calgary area. The children’s programs we fund help support kids with physical, mental, financial and/or social challenges.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Many of the charities we support just need a small amount to see a big result. For example, this year we funded a freezer for Northern Star Mothers Milk Bank, having that freezer meant having a place to store milk that goes to sick babies in hospitals or homes. We also funded adaptive cars to help children with their motor skills. Pictured above you’ll see young Daniel Lee using a car provided through Variety – the Children’s Charity of Alberta’s Go Baby Go program. It was made possible through donations to the Calgary Children’s Foundation.
When did you start/join it?
The foundation officially started in 1992, but our very first Pledge Day radio-athon was back in 1974 when CHQR radio created “Light Up a Child’s Life” in support of the Cerebral Palsy Association.
What made you want to get involved?
Seeing the difference it makes in the lives of children and families who use these critical and meaningful programs. Also knowing that 90% of the money raised goes directly to the charities.
770 CHQR and Westin Calgary absorb most of the overhead.
What was the situation like when you started?
The foundation started in order to fill a need that wasn’t otherwise being met. Many of our recipients are not in a position to do large-scale fundraising. We can reach a large number of children-in-need and kids who would otherwise fall through the cracks.
How has it changed since?
The initial motivation behind the foundation wanting to help children is the same. The change is in our ability to reach more children with more funds. Last year we broke records in terms of fundraising on Pledge Day – we raised over $303 000.
What more needs to be done?
We continue to strive to help as many children’s charities in the Calgary area as possible.
How can our readers help?
We really appreciate a donation of any size. 770 CHQR and the Westin absorb most of the operational costs and overhead so 90% of the money raised goes directly to the charities. Any amount makes such a difference in the lives of children in our community. We also have a Hero of the Month program, for businesses looking to get involved, with their donation, they will get air time on 770 CHQR as well as promotion through social media and on our web page.
Do you have any events coming up?
On Friday, December 3 rd we have our big fundraising event. We are broadcasting live on 770 CHQR from 6 am to 6 pm, speaking to the charities who have received funding from the Calgary Children’s Foundation and taking pledges from listeners and donors.
Where can we follow you?
You can find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or our website.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
I can’t choose. So many amazing children’s charities in our community are doing incredible
work!
