First Calgary Savings

When it comes to corporate giving and volunteer programming, First Calgary Savings is one of this city’s leaders. According to Dani DeBoice, First Calgary’s manager of corporate citizenship, the company’s mandate can be summed up in one simple phrase: “Leading, learning, living in our city. Anything that pushes us to take a risk.” This philosophy is implemented in a generous and very hands-on fashion, making First Calgary an exemplary corporate citizen.

First Calgary is essentially a credit union based on the principle of helping people. The company supports a myriad of programs and initiatives, providing either financial or volunteer support, and sometimes both.

Avoiding a top-down system, First Calgary encourages individual branches to create their own volunteer and giving opportunities, so many programs are unique to a particular branch.

However, First Calgary concentrates on arts and culture educational programming (such as their partnership with WordFest for kids’ programs), and providing opportunities for people to take a step in a different direction (such as their support of Mary Dover House). This even applies to intergenerational programs, which see seniors mentoring elementary school students.

Grisell Amaro Galvan, director of arts learning and creative city programming at the Epcor Centre, says First Calgary does more than simply donate money. “They are great supporters of our programs and other programs in the city. There’s obviously financial support, but also moral support. They share the values we hold, such as education and community vision.”

Whereas some companies focus on creating partnerships with more established non-profit groups, First Calgary recognizes the importance of supporting new and developing groups and individuals, as well. This philosophy was behind First Calgary’s association with Ground Zero Theatre (GZT), specifically the GZT First program.

“This program provides up-and-comers with a professional opportunity,” says GZT artistic director Ryan Luhning. “It helps bridge the gap between the educational and professional worlds. It’s about taking someone out of their comfort zone and taking on a new challenge — moving in a different direction.”

Amaro Galvan sums up the support this company offers: “The fact that they promote volunteerism among their employees makes a difference. You can tell they really believe in what they do.”

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