CFSEA: Inspiring initiatives for a brighter future

Posted on November 21, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

As we delve into Part 4 of our series on the Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta (CFSEA), we invite you to explore the impactful initiatives driving positive change in our communities. If you missed the first three parts, feel free to catch up by reading the paper’s previous print or online editions.

CFSEA is committed to fostering community well-being and ensuring a vibrant future for Southeastern Alberta. With a focus on philanthropy, community engagement, and leadership, their initiatives are as diverse as they are impactful. Three of the main initiatives are: Youth in Philanthropy, Top 7 Over 70, and Vital Signs.

Youth in Philanthropy

Through the Youth in Philanthropy program, CFSEA is building tomorrow’s leaders today. This initiative empowers young individuals to engage deeply with community issues by researching local charities and awarding grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. The program cultivates leadership and teamwork skills and instills a lifelong appreciation for philanthropy. As a participant from Redcliff Youth Centre shared, “I learned stuff I didn’t know before and now I am happy to donate. I’m glad I had this opportunity.” Learn more at: cfsea.ca/youth-in-philanthropy. 

Top 7 Over 70

Celebrating the remarkable achievements of individuals over the age of 70, the Top 7 Over 70 program highlights their significant contributions across various fields. From publishing compelling family histories to pioneering environmental stewardship programs, these inspirational seniors exemplify lifelong learning and commitment to community service. Notable recipients such as Jacob Eckert and Deborah Forbes remind us that age is no barrier to making a difference. Learn more and read their stories at: cfsea.ca/top-7-70. 

Vital Signs

Vital Signs (cfsea.ca/vital-signs-2) acts as a community health check-up, providing valuable insights into social and economic trends affecting Southeastern Alberta. 

Lauren Sanlav, the Vital Signs Research and Project Coordinator, says, “Vital Signs is a periodic check-up that assesses the vitality of our communities by gathering data and initiating discussions around significant social and economic trends. The data from Vital Signs helps guide CFSEA’s annual granting priorities. Last year, we published the 2023 Southeast Alberta Vital Signs report, which covers seven key issue areas impacting community vitality and well-being throughout our region.”

She continues, “Our ongoing goal over the coming months is to keep these conversations active by engaging directly with the communities we serve, with a special focus on amplifying rural voices and addressing the unique needs of rural areas. We host ‘Vital Conversations’ that bring people together in their everyday spaces to discuss these important topics.”

The findings of Vital Conversations will be published in the coming years.

Beyond these major initiatives, CFSEA also leads projects such as Board Leadership Training, the Charity Hub, and the Food Systems Mapping Project, each designed to enhance community resources and collaboration.

Join CFSEA in their mission to create a brighter future for all. Whether by participating in programs, volunteering, or simply sharing stories, every action contributes to a stronger, more connected community.