Celebrating Community Association Awareness Month

March is Community Association Awareness Month, and it’s a great opportunity to recognize the people and organizations that quietly, consistently make our neighbourhoods stronger.

Across Calgary, there are 160 community associations representing more than 250 communities. Together, they help make our city a place where people feel connected, supported, and proud of where they live. Whether you realize it or not, every Calgarian has been positively affected by the work community associations do.

From seasonal events and recreation programs to advocacy, safety initiatives, and welcoming new neighbours, community associations are at the heart of community life.

What community associations do for their neighbours

Community associations are volunteer‑led, non‑profit organizations that exist to serve the people who live in their neighbourhoods. With the support of more than 20,000 volunteers across the city, they provide thousands of volunteer hours each year to support social, recreational, and educational opportunities for neighbours of all ages.

You see their work in community clean‑ups, outdoor rinks, gardens, festivals, fitness classes, seniors’ programs, youth activities, and of course, the annual Stampede breakfasts. You see it when a community association speaks up on behalf of residents and helps ensure local voices are heard. We work closely with our community associations and help them advocate for their neighbours and provide them with funding to make your communities better and safer for everyone.

Why getting involved matters

The most important resource community associations have is volunteers.

Volunteering helps bring a community together. It allows you to meet your neighbours, build relationships, and contribute to something meaningful right where you live. And volunteering doesn’t have to mean a major time commitment. Helping with an event, serving on a committee, or lending a hand for a few hours can make a real difference.

Becoming a member of your community association is another simple but powerful way to support local work. Memberships help fund programs and events, and they ensure community associations remain strong and representative of the people they serve.

Some residents also choose to volunteer on their community association board. Board members help guide priorities, manage resources, and shape the future of their neighbourhoods. It’s a rewarding way to give back and build leadership skills while strengthening your community.

How to take part

Community Association Awareness Month is the perfect time to get involved.

You can learn more about your local community association, become a member, or explore volunteer opportunities by visiting calgarycommunities.com/our-members or by checking your community association’s website. We have a list of our current Ward 2 community associations at our Community Hub.

If you’re not sure where to start, reach out to your local association and ask what help they need. Most are always happy to welcome new faces and ideas.

Stay connected through our monthly newsletter

One of the ways our office supports community associations is by helping share information about what’s happening across Ward 2. Each month, we send out a newsletter highlighting upcoming events, programs, and activities hosted by our community associations.

It’s a great way to stay informed about what’s happening in your neighbourhood and nearby communities, and to discover opportunities to get involved.

You can sign up to receive our monthly newsletter by subscribing to our blog. If you’re looking for ways to connect locally, support your neighbours, or simply stay in the loop, I encourage you to join our mailing list.

Community associations are built by neighbours, for neighbours. This month, and all year long, I hope you’ll take a moment to recognize the volunteers who make this work possible, and consider becoming part of it yourself.