Kendra Lawson, Assistant to CEO and Founder Jordan Guildford, represents Gems for Gems, a Calgary-based charity working to end the cycle of domestic abuse by empowering survivors through innovative, action-driven programs. What began in 2014 as a heartfelt jewelry drive has since evolved into a national movement impacting tens of thousands of women across Canada. From scholarships to emergency resources like Hope’s Cradle, Gems for Gems is focused on creating long-term solutions for survivors by helping them rebuild with dignity, purpose, and economic independence.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Gems is a non-profit charity that is committed to ending the cycle of domestic abuse by focusing on economic recovery and empowerment of survivors. Gems is aware of the increasing needs for action in the domestic abuse sector as the number of victims continues to climb. Our organization is focused on scaling our current initiatives (The Jewelry Drive, Ambassador Program, Scholarship Program, Thrive and Hope’s Cradle)
What problem does it aim to solve?
Our goal is to do everything to end the cycle of abuse for as many women and their children as possible. Empowering these women to empower themselves ignites the spark needed to create lasting change. Through our initiatives, a spark grows into a fire used to light the way to a new life for all. We move our mission forward by delivering initiatives that foster economic recovery and personal empowerment.
When did you start/join it?
I have been a part of this organization for 4 years now. Gems First initiative was The Jewelry Drive that Jordan started in 2014. Gems became a registered charity in 2018.
What made you want to get involved?
Gems holds a special place in my heart. I had watched and supported Gems from the sidelines for a couple of years and seeing the ripples of change and awareness roll through the world around them, young and old… I knew I wanted to be a part of the bigger picture and help in our community, in any way that I could. I had absolutely no idea how much it would teach and empower me to become a better version of myself!
What I love about Gems is that the initiatives Gems offers, are innovative in the sense of providing a solution of how to move forward from tough experiences in our communities while also supporting the growth to “empower women to empower themselves”. It’s truly life-changing for all involved. Gems finds holes in the community where support is not yet available and comes up with a way to help those who may need it.
Gems is bold in that it chooses initiatives that aren’t run of the mill; they may stir up some belief systems, but the end goal is always to make a difference, no matter what they are up against, because they truly believe in them!
What was the situation like when you started?
GEMS was founded in a gesture of love – to give women who survived domestic abuse a boost by reconnecting them with their community and to show them they have not been forgotten. This is where the Jewelry Drive started with 437 packages of 3-5 items of like-new cleaned jewelry donated by the women in Calgary, to be dropped off at the shelters. That love continues to grow into life-changing opportunities and initiatives for women to empower their lives. The Jewellery drive has touched over 28,000 women across Canada. From Stats Canada, “In 2015, almost 92,000 people in Canada were victims of intimate partner violence, representing just over a quarter (28%) of all victims of police-reported violent crime. Four out of five victims of police-reported intimate partner violence were women (79%)—representing about 72,000 female victims.”
How has it changed since?
Gems has continued to grow and provide more initiatives like Thrive and the Scholarship Program, as well as Hope’s Cradle.
As of the end of 2023, the stats have increased.
From Stats Canada, “123,319 victims (aged 12 years and older) of intimate partner violence that came to the attention of police—a rate of 350 victims of family violence and 354 victims of intimate partner violence per 100,000 population.”
What more needs to be done?
Discussions in schools so that kids/teens know what to look for, how to protect themselves and what resources are available. Changes to the legal system for survivors, proper DV training for Police Officers, more support offered after the survivor’s time in the shelter is up, to prevent them from needing to return to the abuser.
How can our readers help?
We are looking for sponsors for “The Gems Cup“.
We are always looking for connections for host locations for Hope’s Cradle’s.
Lastly, donations are always appreciated and go back into our initiatives!
Do you have any events coming up?
We do! Our big fundraising event of the year is on August 9th, 2025, and it’s called “The Gems Cup!” The Gems Cup is not just a polo event; it’s an unforgettable fusion of sport, sophistication, and entertainment. Immerse yourself in a day of unparalleled athleticism and glamour as international polo stars converge for a riveting tournament. From the prestigious Title Sponsorship to VIP extravagance, every facet promises luxury and excitement. Be part of the celebration with celebrity allure, an exclusive After Party, and a talented group of local musicians!
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
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