The Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) is proud to support the Carl Smith Stay-in-School (SIS) Program, a life-changing initiative that empowers youth through mentorship and educational support. This program pairs students in grade 5 or 6 with dedicated mentors who guide and encourage them throughout their academic journey until high school graduation. By providing long-term mentorship, the SIS program helps students build confidence, develop critical skills, and envision brighter futures, ensuring they have the tools to achieve their dreams. Through the program, RCCD also provides financial support to help students overcome barriers to success. This includes funding for tutoring, school supplies, and enrichment activities, ensuring each participant has the resources they need to thrive. Mentors are further supported through biannual Mentor Summits, offering guidance and fostering a strong sense of community. By investing in mentorship and education, RCCD is helping to create lasting change and empowering Calgary’s next generation of leaders. 

The Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) spreads holiday cheer through its Christmas Hampers Program, bringing hope and support to families in need during the festive season. Each year, RCCD members and volunteers come together to pack and deliver hampers filled with essential items, festive treats, and personalized gifts. These hampers are carefully curated to provide both practical support and moments of joy, ensuring that families feel cared for and connected during the holidays. This program is a true community effort, made possible by the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers who organize, assemble, and deliver the hampers. Beyond meeting immediate needs, the Christmas Hampers Program strengthens the bonds of compassion and connection within Calgary, reminding families that they are not alone. Through this initiative, RCCD demonstrates its commitment to creating a brighter, more inclusive holiday season for everyone 

The Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) is proud to support the Youth Centres of Calgary (YCC), a vital resource for at-risk youth in underserved communities. Operating as a “home away from home,” YCC provides a safe, welcoming space for kids aged 9 to 15 during critical after-school hours and summer months. Through mentorship, homework help, arts, sports, and music programs, YCC nurtures resilience, self-confidence, and meaningful connections with positive role models. By funding and supporting the opening of a new centre in Forest Lawn—RCCD helps bring hope and opportunity to youth who need it most. YCC's programs offer critical early intervention to address issues like poor mental health, disengagement from school, and exposure to negative influences. The centre provides daily hot meals, healthy snacks, and free access to sports teams and summer camps, ensuring kids have the support and resources to thrive. RCCD's involvement reflects a deep commitment to empowering Calgary’s youth, reducing community risks, and improving quality of life for future generations—one child at a time. Together, we’re building brighter futures and stronger communities.. 

The Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown (RCCD) proudly supports the Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) program, offering life-changing opportunities for students aged 15-18 to experience living abroad. Available in both long-term (1 year) and short-term (1 month) options, RYE allows students to live with host families, attend high school, and fully immerse themselves in a new culture. As ambassadors of their home countries, students share their traditions while learning a new way of life. Each year, RCCD welcomes an exchange student, fostering meaningful cultural exchanges that build global understanding.

In Calgary, students experience everything from their first snow to trying local activities like skiing, skating, and baking Christmas cookies. RCCD ensures these exchanges are enriching for everyone, with multiple Rotary families hosting each student for a few months at a time. 
Additionally, RCCD supports the New Generations Service Exchange (NGSE) program, where young adults design vocational exchanges tied to Rotary service projects. By hosting and NGSE participant, families contribute to cultural exchange while lasting global connections. These programs reflect RCCD's deep commitment to fostering international understanding and creating bonds that span continents.