Through weekly sessions and additional events, YMAP empowers youth to thrive in Canada by focusing on four integration models: Economic, Social, Cultural, and Political. Participants gain skills in areas like financial literacy, career exploration, and health, while also receiving free YMCA memberships and nutritious snacks. This holistic approach helps youth become well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to society.

Lou MacEachern's vision also supports the YMAP Lou MacEachern Rotary Scholarship, awarded annually to six Grade 12 participants demonstrating financial need and commitment to higher education. Since its inception, 114 scholarships totaling over $119,000 have been awarded, helping students overcome financial barriers and pursue their educational aspirations. Recipients are celebrated at YMAP’s annual year-end event, a testament to their achievements and the enduring impact of this initiative.

Beyond YMAP, Lou’s fund has contributed over $366,000 to projects at SAIT, ACAD, Bow Valley College, Junior Achievement, and more. This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration, transforming lives and fostering a stronger community.

Thank you, Lou MacEachern, for your dedication to empowering youth and building a brighter future.

The Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) is proud to collaborate with Inclusion Alberta and the Government of Alberta in the Rotary Employment Partnership. This initiative creates meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities, fostering inclusion, community engagement, and mutual success. Since its inception, the partnership has demonstrated the power of combining Rotary’s network, Inclusion Alberta’s advocacy expertise, and government support. Together, they work to connect businesses with talented individuals who bring unique skills and perspectives to the workforce, enriching workplace culture and driving innovation.

The Rotary Employment Partnership benefits everyone involved. For individuals with developmental disabilities, it provides more than just a job—it creates pathways to independence, financial stability, and a sense of belonging. For employers, it offers an opportunity to diversify their teams, boost employee morale, and contribute to the community in meaningful ways.

Rotary members play a key role by leveraging their business connections and community presence to identify employment opportunities and champion inclusive hiring practices. Employers receive guidance from Inclusion Alberta on workplace accommodations and strategies for creating an inclusive environment.

To date, the Rotary Employment Partnership has successfully placed hundreds of individuals into sustainable employment, proving that inclusive hiring is both socially impactful and economically beneficial. RCCD is proud to be part of a program that aligns so strongly with Rotary’s values of service, equity, and community building.

Together with Inclusion Alberta and the Government of Alberta, RCCD is helping to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive. This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration in creating meaningful change.

The Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) is a proud partner of the Youth Centres of Calgary, an organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and youth through mentorship, skill-building, and safe community spaces. This partnership reflects RCCD’s ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation and addressing the challenges faced by Calgary’s youth.

The Youth Centres of Calgary provide a vital resource for children and teens, offering after-school programs, mentorship opportunities, and workshops focused on leadership, personal development, and resilience. These programs are tailored to create a safe, supportive environment where young people can build confidence, foster healthy relationships, and explore their potential.

One of the key focuses of the partnership is on addressing issues such as food insecurity, academic challenges, and mental health support. By providing access to nutritious meals, tutoring programs, and wellness resources, the Youth Centres ensure that every child and teen has the opportunity to thrive despite the barriers they may face.

This collaboration has had a transformative impact on Calgary’s youth, empowering them to overcome challenges and develop the skills they need to succeed in school, careers, and life. By partnering with the Youth Centres of Calgary, RCCD is helping to create a brighter future for young people while fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.

The RCCD and Youth Centres of Calgary partnership embodies the Rotary motto, "Service Above Self," as together they work to inspire and uplift the leaders of tomorrow.