Inaugural $1 million founding gift to a new flexible impact fund.

June 23, 2026 – Calgary, AB – At its 115^th Annual General Meeting today, YWCA Calgary will proudly announce the launch of the new Stand With Her Fund, a flexible impact fund designed to direct resources where they are needed most.

The organization will also recognize its inaugural donors, including Kathy and Richard Sendall and their family, whose $1 million founding gift represents the first major contribution to this fund and sets a powerful example for others to follow.

Rooted in trust-based philanthropy, the Stand With Her Fund reflects a deep belief in YWCA Calgary’s leadership, expertise and unwavering commitment to women and their families.

The fund supports two essential priorities:

• Trust-based giving that provides flexible, long-term support and strengthens YWCA’s ability to respond to evolving needs and;
• Area of greatest need which means immediate support for the most urgent needs facing women and families today.

By enabling resources to flow where they can have the most meaningful impact, the Stand With Her Fund enhances the organization’s ability to respond quickly, thoughtfully and effectively as community needs evolve.

“This type of giving allows us to centre our work in listening and to respond quickly as our community’s needs evolve” said Talia Bell, CEO, YWCA Calgary. “Thanks to this fund, we’re able to stand alongside our community and respond in ways that are meaningful, timely and rooted in what people truly need.”

This leadership gift establishes a strong foundation for the fund and will help to inspire future donors to invest in flexible, responsive solutions that support women’s safety, stability and independence.

“Supporting the Stand With Her Fund is our way of placing trust directly in the hands of the people doing the work,” Kathy and Richard shared. “We believe in YWCA Calgary’s ability to meet women where they are and help them move toward safety, stability and create a foundation of prosperity for women, their children and our community. It’s an honour to help launch a fund that gives YWCA Calgary the flexibility to respond where support can make the greatest impact.”

YWCA Calgary extends its gratitude to its inaugural donors for their leadership and generosity.

For more information about the Stand With Her Fund and to learn how to donate, visit ywcalgary.ca/stand-with-her-fund. To learn more about the impact of YWCA Calgary’s work, read the 2025-2026 YWCA Impact Report at ywcalgary.ca/reports.