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Giving with Purpose: How a Donor-Advised Fund Can Help Bring Your Philanthropic Vision to Life

September 23, 2026 admin Uncategorized

Written by

Simran Arora, Wealth Advisor | Portfolio Manager

For many families, true wealth is more than financial success. It is about the ability to make  a positive impact on the people, organizations, and communities that matter most. As Canadians recognize DAF Day this fall and reflect on the impact of charitable giving, many  are exploring how to make their philanthropy more intentional and enduring. 

Most charitable journeys begin with a simple question: What kind of difference do we  want to make? 

Whether your passion is supporting local community programs, advancing medical  research, helping vulnerable populations, improving educational opportunities, or  protecting the environment, philanthropy can become a meaningful expression of your  values. 

A donor-advised fund (DAF) is one of the most effective tools available to help individuals  and families organize their charitable giving, involve future generations, and create lasting  impact. 

What Is a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)? 

At its core, a donor-advised fund is a charitable account designed to simplify giving. 

You contribute to the fund and receive a charitable tax receipt at that time. The funds can  then be invested and distributed to registered charities over time based on your  recommendations. 

Rather than making donations on an ad hoc basis, a DAF allows you to create a dedicated  pool of charitable capital that can be deployed thoughtfully and strategically as  opportunities arise. 

Most donors appreciate the flexibility this provides. You may make a significant  contribution during a year when your income is particularly high, receive the associated tax  benefit, and then take your time deciding where and how those charitable dollars can  create the greatest impact. 

In many ways, a donor-advised fund helps turn generosity into a more intentional and  thoughtful practice. 

Starting with Purpose

While the mechanics of a donor-advised fund are relatively straightforward, the most  rewarding discussions often focus on something much deeper than taxes or  administration. They focus on values. 

When families begin exploring philanthropy, I often encourage them to reflect on a few  important questions: 

  • What causes have had a meaningful impact on your lives? 
  • What challenges do you see in your community that you would like to help address? • What values do you want to pass on to your children and grandchildren? • What legacy would you like to leave behind? 

These conversations can be incredibly powerful. 

They often reveal shared passions that may not have been discussed before and create  opportunities for family members to align around a common purpose. In many cases,  philanthropy becomes less about writing cheques and more about building a vision for the  future. 

A Valuable Tool for Family Engagement 

One of the most inspiring aspects of a donor-advised fund is its ability to bring families  together. 

Many families use their DAF as a platform for engaging children and grandchildren in  charitable decision-making. These discussions help younger generations develop an  appreciation for both fiscal responsibility and community stewardship. 

Some families hold annual meetings to discuss causes they care about and to decide  collectively which organizations should receive grants from the fund. Others encourage  younger family members to research charities and present recommendations. 

The process often leads to conversations about values, priorities, and social responsibility  that might not otherwise occur. 

Over time, the donor-advised fund becomes much more than a charitable vehicle. It  becomes part of the family’s legacy. 

Ways to Fund a Donor-Advised Fund 

Another advantage of donor-advised funds is their flexibility. There are many ways to  contribute, depending on your circumstances and the assets you hold.

Cash 

The simplest approach is a cash contribution. Funds are deposited directly into the donor advised fund and become available for future charitable granting. 

Publicly Traded Securities 

Many donors choose to contribute appreciated stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), or  mutual funds. 

This strategy can be particularly attractive because it may allow donors to receive a  charitable tax receipt based on the full market value of the securities while potentially  avoiding capital gains tax that could otherwise arise if the investments were sold first. 

Private Company Shares 

For business owners, donating private company shares can be a powerful way to integrate  philanthropy into broader tax and estate planning strategies, particularly around a future  business sale or succession event. 

Insurance 

Another great way to fund a DAF is by gifting life insurance. If a donor has a permanent life  insurance policy that is no longer needed for estate liquidity, income replacement, or  business succession, the policy can be donated to a DAF rather than surrendered. The DAF  can either: 

  • Hold the policy until death and receive the death benefit, or 
  • Surrender the policy and use the cash value for charitable purposes.  Other Assets 

Depending on the sponsoring organization, certain types of real estate holdings may also  be donated, allowing donors to unlock charitable value from appreciated assets. 

Because everyone’s circumstances are unique, it’s important to work alongside your tax,  legal, and financial advisors to determine the most effective giving strategy. 

Strategic Disbursements 

One feature that many donors find appealing is the ability to be thoughtful and strategic  when it comes to making disbursements. 

Rather than making a one-time donation that is immediately spent, donors can create a  structured charitable strategy that supports causes they care about for years.

For families interested in creating a legacy, this can be particularly meaningful. While the  families are planning their disbursements, the capital can stay invested and potentially  grow, enhancing the overall amount that is available for donations. 

A Story of Purposeful Giving 

Consider the example of a business owner who has spent decades building a successful  company. 

Following the sale of the business, she wants to give back but is not entirely certain which  organizations she wishes to support long term. She knows she wants her success to  benefit the broader community, but she wants to be thoughtful about where those dollars  go. 

By setting up a donor-advised fund, she contributes a portion of the sale proceeds and  receives an immediate charitable tax receipt. Rather than rushing into multiple donations,  she spends time learning about various charitable initiatives, meeting with community  leaders, and understanding where support may be most impactful. 

Over the following years, she directed grants toward programs focused on youth  mentorship and mental health. The result is a philanthropic strategy that reflects both her  values and her desire to create meaningful change. 

A Family Legacy in Action 

Another example involves a family that had supported numerous charities over the years  but wanted a more coordinated approach to giving. 

They established a donor-advised fund and invited their children and grandchildren to  participate in annual discussions regarding charitable priorities. 

Each generation brought different perspectives to the table. Some were passionate about  education, while others were focused on environmental sustainability, healthcare, or  newcomer support. 

Together, they evaluated opportunities and recommended grants that aligned with their  shared values. 

The most meaningful outcome was not simply the amount donated. It was the opportunity  to create a family tradition centered on generosity, gratitude, and community impact. 

The conversations became as valuable as the contributions themselves.

Bringing Philanthropy into Your Overall Financial Plan 

Like any important financial decision, charitable giving is often most effective when viewed  within the context of a broader financial plan. 

A donor-advised fund can help families: 

  • Create a structured approach to philanthropy. 
  • Simplify giving to multiple charities. 
  • Take advantage of tax-efficient gifting strategies. 
  • Involve future generations in charitable decision-making. 
  • Build a lasting charitable legacy. 
  • Align wealth with personal values and community impact. 

Most importantly, it allows families to be intentional about the difference they want to  make in the world. 

Final Thoughts 

While most financial planning discussions focus on growing and preserving wealth, some  of the most rewarding conversations involve what we choose to do with that wealth. 

A donor-advised fund provides an opportunity to turn charitable intentions into a thoughtful  and lasting plan. It allows donors to support causes they care about, engage family  members in meaningful discussions, and create a legacy that extends far beyond financial  assets. 

Ultimately, philanthropy is not simply about what we give, It is about the values we put into  action, the communities we strengthen, and the legacy we create for future generations.  

Simran Arora is a Wealth Advisor and Portfolio Manager at Nicola Wealth. He works with individuals  and families to integrate financial planning, tax considerations, estate planning, and philanthropy  into a comprehensive wealth strategy. 

Nicola Wealth is a Canadian independent wealth management firm that helps families build,  manage, and transfer wealth with purpose. Through integrated planning, including charitable giving  and legacy planning, we help clients align their wealth with the values and impact they hope to  create.

All investments contain risk and may gain or lose value. Please speak to your Nicola Wealth advisor for  advice based on your unique circumstances. Nicola Wealth Management Ltd. (Nicola Wealth) is  registered as a Portfolio Manager, Exempt Market Dealer and Investment Fund Manager with the  required securities commissions. 

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Family Trusts – A Common Estate Planning Tool and Opportunity for Charitable Giving

July 15, 2026 admin Planned Giving

Written by

Dustin Edwards, Articling Student, and Samantha N. Hanson, Partner

Estate planning can be an intimidating process – it requires individuals and families to consider their priorities, set realistic goals, and sometimes make difficult decisions about the future. However, equipping yourself with knowledge of common estate planning tools can ease this process and help you develop a plan that works best for you and your family.

In this article, we will: (i) explore the topic of trusts, a common estate planning tool, (ii) outline how trusts can be used to manage your estate, and (iii) identify key considerations as to why establishing a trust might be a suitable estate planning tool for you.

What is a Trust?
A trust is a legal arrangement in which a person or entity (the settlor) transfers property or assets to a third party (the trustee) to hold and manage for the benefit of another party (the beneficiary). Trusts can be divided into two overarching categories: (i) trusts established while the settlor is still alive (inter vivos trusts), and (ii) trusts established upon the death of a settlor (testamentary trusts). Both types of trusts can be useful tools for managing your estate.

How Do They Work?
Trusts are typically, though not always, outlined in writing and specify the settlor, trustee(s), beneficiaries, and any relevant terms. Trusts involving real property must be in writing. Testamentary trusts are typically incorporated into the will of the settlor, so must also be in writing.

When the trust is settled the property or assets are transferred to the trustee, who holds the property or assets in trust for the beneficiaries. Distribution can either be discretionary, meaning the trustee has discretion over when and how trust funds are distributed, or non-discretionary, meaning the trustee must distribute the trust in accordance with the trust’s terms once the conditions for distribution have been met.

Benefits & Disadvantages of Using a Trust in Estate Planning
Unlike gifts, where the recipient acquires full title to the property or assets upon receiving them, trusts allow the settlor to dictate terms that must be followed by the trustee in distributing trust property to the beneficiary. This can be particularly useful when a beneficiary is unable to responsibly deal with the proposed property or assets, such as when the beneficiary is a minor, lacks capacity, or is otherwise not financially reliable.

There are important tax obligations that must be considered when determining if a trust is the right tool for your estate planning needs. For the purposes of taxation, a trust is deemed to be an individual. Any assets in the trust will be taxed while they are being held by the trustee. Upon distribution, the beneficiary will assume tax liability for any portion of the trust that becomes payable to them. Anybody considering using a trust as an estate planning tool should seek the advice of a tax expert prior to establishing the trust.

In addition, a trust cannot typically be distributed in a way that would violate the terms of the trust. However, there is an exception called the rule in Saunders v Vautier. This rule allows a beneficiary to extinguish a trust, contrary to the wishes of the settlor, if they are entitled to all of the actual and possible rights of beneficial ownership in the trust property. This can occur if a trust contains very specific beneficiary conditions without contingencies. Finally, trusts are not indefinite. Anybody considering a trust should be aware that there are statutory time limits to ensure that property is not held in the trust in perpetuity.

This is a complicated area of trust law, but generally trusts are subject to a deemed disposition of certain trust property every 21 years, which can have large tax consequences. If you are considering using a trust as a tool for your estate planning, it is important to consider whether the terms of your trust will allow distribution to beneficiaries within the 21 year timeframe and consult with a tax expert to fully understand any consequences of trust property or assets remaining in trust for longer than 21 years.

Types of Trusts
Although all trusts follow the same basic structure outlined above, trusts can be classified into different types depending on their goals and objectives. We will highlight two: family trusts and charitable trusts. The family trust, as its name suggests, is a mechanism used by a settlor to establish a fund for the benefit of their family. These are often inter vivos trusts, meaning they are trusts established while the settlor is still alive.

In many cases, these trusts are established by parents for the benefit of their children and grandchildren and can be effective tools for the distribution of assets and responsible succession planning.

Charitable purpose trusts are an interesting exception to the rule that a trust must be established for the benefit of a named beneficiary. These trusts can be established to benefit a charitable purpose, rather than a beneficiary. Since 1891, four types of charitable purpose trusts have been recognized in Canada: (i) trusts for the relief of poverty; (ii) trusts for the advancement of education; (iii) trusts for the advancement of religion; and (iv) trusts for other purposes beneficial to the community, which do not fall under any of the preceding heads: Pemsel v Special Commissioners of Income Tax, 1891 CanLII 21 (FOREP), [1891] AC 531 (HL).

Conclusion
Trusts can be useful tools in estate planning that allow flexibility and a degree of control for the settlor. However, ensuring the trust is enforceable and the best financial decision for all parties involved can be a difficult process. We recommend consulting legal and tax professionals prior to establishing a trust of any kind!

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Donating Securities To A Registered Charity Through Your Registered And Non-Registered Accounts

December 11, 2025 admin Planned Giving

Donating publicly traded securities, or mutual funds, to a registered charity in Canada is a tax-efficient way to give back. If you hold investments such as stocks, mutual funds, or ETFs in a non-registered account or a registered account like a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP), Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF), or Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), you can arrange to donate these assets either during your lifetime or on your death. This article explores how to structure these donations, the tax benefits, and key considerations when planning your charitable giving. 

Donating Securities from a Registered Account 

Registered accounts like RRSPs, RRIFs, and TFSAs offer taxsheltered growth, but withdrawals from certain accounts (such as RRSPs and RRIFs) are fully taxable as income. By naming a charity as the beneficiary of these accounts or donating securities from them through your will, you can reduce taxes while supporting a cause you care about. 

 

  1. Naming a Charity as a Beneficiary of Your RRSP, RRIF, or TFSA

One simple way to donate securities from a registered account is by naming a registered charity as a direct beneficiary, where permitted by provincial law. Upon your passing, the remaining assets in the account will transfer to the charity without passing through your estate, which has several advantages:

    • Avoids Probate Fees – Since the assets pass directly to the charity, they are not subject to probate (estate administration) fees, which can be significant depending on the province. 
    • Generates a Tax Credit – The fair market value of the investments or cash that is transferred to the charity from an RRSP or RRIF will be included in your final tax return. The charitable donation tax credit can help offset the taxes owed on that final tax return, including taxes on other income you have in your final year.
    • Simple to Set Up – Updating your beneficiary designation is straightforward and can be done through your financial institution.

 

  1. Donating Securities from a Registered Account Through Your Will

If you prefer, you can donate securities from a registered account through your will instead of naming a charity as a direct beneficiary. This approach allows for greater flexibility in deciding how your assets will be distributed among family, friends, and charities. 

  • Your estate would withdraw and donate the securities or their cash equivalent to a registered charity. The fair market value of the securities, or cash, on your date of death would be included in your final tax return. 
  • Your estate would receive a charitable donation tax credit of up to 100% of net income in the year of death (or the prior year if not fully used). 
  • However, assets passing through your estate may be subject to probate fees and potential creditor claims. To ensure your wishes are followed, work with an estate planner or lawyer to properly document your intentions in your will

 

Donating Securities from a Non-Registered Account

When you donate publicly traded stocks, mutual funds, or ETFs directly to a charity instead of selling them first, you avoid paying capital gains tax on any appreciation. Additionally, you receive a charitable donation tax receipt for the full fair market value of the securities at the time of transfer, which can help reduce your taxable income. This method allows both you and the charity to benefit—your tax burden is minimized, and the charity receives the full value of the assets.

Advantages of Donating Securities from a Non-Registered Account:

  • Eliminates Capital Gains Tax – Avoid paying tax on any appreciation of donated securities. 
  • Maximizes Charitable Impact – The charity receives the full value of the securities rather than the after-tax proceeds from a sale. 
  • Charitable Donation Tax Credit – Receive a tax receipt for the fair market value of the donated securities, reducing your taxes.
  • More Tax-Efficient Than Cash Donations – Avoids liquidating investments and incurring taxes before making a donation. 
  • Flexible Giving Strategy – You can choose which securities to donate, optimizing tax benefits while maintaining your financial goals. 
  • Potential to Offset Other Taxes – If you have high taxable income in a given year, the donation credit can help reduce your overall tax liability

 

The Campbell Financial Advisory Group

At the Campbell Financial Advisory Group, we help our clients manage their wealth so they can focus on what truly matters to them—whether that’s family, business, philanthropy, or personal aspirations. We take a holistic approach to financial planning, crafting tailored strategies that help clients build, preserve, and transition their wealth with confidence. Our process goes beyond investments; we integrate financial planning into every aspect of wealth management, ensuring that our clients’ financial decisions align with their long-term goals. Through thoughtful planning, we uncover opportunities to optimize tax efficient investment planning, protect assets, and create meaningful legacies. Whether planning for retirement, structuring an estate, or incorporating charitable giving, we guide our clients every step of the way, providing clarity and peace of mind in an ever-changing financial landscape.

The Role of Financial Planning in Charitable Giving

A well-structured financial plan helps uncover a client’s values and long-term goals, including their desire to support charitable causes. Through conversations about estate planning, tax efficiency, and legacy wishes, financial advisors can identify opportunities to incorporate charitable giving into a client’s overall wealth strategy. Many individuals may not initially consider donating securities or naming a charity as a beneficiary of their registered accounts, but with proper guidance, they can see how these strategies align with their financial well-being and philanthropic intentions. By integrating charitable giving into financial planning, clients can make informed decisions that maximize both the impact of their donations and the benefits to their estate.

 

Conclusion

Whether donated during your lifetime or on your death, securities gifts provide vital funding for the Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS) programs, ensuring that vulnerable youth receive the support they need. By choosing to donate securities, you not only maximize your tax benefits but also create meaningful, long-term change in the lives of young people. Your generosity helps YESS provide safety, stability, and opportunities for youth to build a brighter future.

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Winter Giving 101

November 19, 2025 admin Christmas, Life at YESS, Winter Giving 101

We are starting to prepare for the holidays, and we know you are too! We have the extreme good fortune of having a community that is excited to provide during this time of year, so we thought it would be helpful to both our generous donors and our staff who handle the donations to share some more information. Let’s call it Winter Donations 101.

The structure of our programs has changed significantly, so the times and places that we accept donations have also changed. Please follow these instructions so that youth in crisis and the staff who support them are not disrupted.

 

WHEN AND WHERE

Donations will be accepted at our Whyte Ave location (9310 82 Ave).

Please schedule your donation drop-off to allow the best experience.

Please contact giving@yess.org

 

Last day for drop-offs is December 23!

 

DONATING CHRISTMAS GIFTS

If you are considering purchasing Christmas gifts for our youth and would like some guidance on how to ensure your gifts are most effective, we have compiled a list of items that are most frequently asked for. You can rest assured that if you donate something on this list it will go to a youth who has specifically requested that item and will be incredibly grateful!

Quality ear buds or headphones

Good to know: Items from dollar stores break after a couple of uses, so one $20 pair is more beneficial than 5 $4 pairs.

 

 Brand name sweatpants and hoodies

Good to know: Men’s and women’s, especially sizes M and L. Please avoid red or grey colours due to implied gang affiliation.

 

 Stylish sneakers and high tops (Converse, Nike, Adidas, Vans, etc.)

Good to know: For men’s, especially sizes 10-13; and for women’s, especially sizes 7-10.

 
Waterproof gloves

Good to know: A lot of youth are outside for long hours in freezing conditions. A high quality pair of waterproof gloves/mitts goes a long way to avoiding frostbite.

 

 General winter gear

Good to know: Like all youth, those who access YESS want to look trendy, even in winter, so they are always grateful for stylish jackets, toques, and boots (especially sizes 10-14). Lean towards snowboarder style if you’re not sure what to choose.

 

 Reusable water bottles and travel mugs

Good to know: Again, quality is important here as cheap bottles can leak into backpacks and soak belongings.

 
Smart phones, new or gently used

Good to know: Ideally compatible with a pay-as-you-go plan.

 

 Laptops, new or gently used

Good to know: We have a lot of youth working on finishing high school or starting post-secondary. Laptops are very helpful in creating consistency for schoolwork. Laptops must be less than a year old, with a receipt, to help us avoid refurbishing/disposal costs.

 

 Charging cables and battery packs, new or gently used

Good to know: Any variety welcome, especially portable chargers.

 
Backpacks

Good to know: Smaller backpacks are good to have for lighter loads, but for youth who may be experiencing homelessness, heavy duty, camper-style backpacks are invaluable.

 

 Gift cards

Good to know: Popular options are Walmart, 7-Eleven, Shoppers Drug Mart, London Drugs, Sephora, Tim Hortons, McDonalds, etc.

 

 Portable gaming systems, new or gently used

Good to know: Age appropriate for 15-24 year olds. With games, if possible.

 
Quality art supplies

 

 Quality chocolates and candy

 

Please do not wrap Christmas gifts, as we will have to unwrap them to sort through all the donations and match items to each youth’s wishlist. You can help us by making your donation clearly organized, removing price tags, and not tucking smaller items like gift cards into larger items.

 

DONATING FOOD

If you are interested in donating food this season, it is most important to our kitchen team that they know what to expect and when. Please contact them ahead of time at kitchens@yess.org or calling 780.468.7070 ext. 238.

We receive a lot of turkeys during this time of year, so if you could help us diversify food donations, that would be amazing! For example, chicken, fish, pork, beef, other proteins, snacks, ready meals, or pantry items/dry goods are all good choices.

We can accept:

  • Donations that have been schedule with the kitchen team ahead of time. Donations arranged with the kitchen team includes perishables, extra items from catering functions that haven’t been served, etc.
  • Non-perishables that are unopened.

 

For example:

  • any non-perishable pantry foods, like canned foods, dried goods, granola bars, juice, etc. that haven’t been opened.
  • groceries with a receipt for a charitable tax donation.
  • perishable foods from gardens, catering companies, leftovers from events, etc. that have been pre-approved by the kitchen team.
 We cannot accept:

  • Perishable foods that haven’t been pre-arranged with the kitchen team.
  • Food that has not been prepared in a commercial kitchen.
  • Food that is in black garbage bags, not wrapped, or have been tampered with.
  • Food that has been at room temperature for longer than 2 hours.

 

For example:

  • home-baked sweets and meals
  • opened products (pantry goods, perishables, etc.)
  • bread in black garbage bags

You have now graduated Winter Giving 101! Thank you for reading this and taking these ideas into consideration when donating goods this season. We are constantly blown away by the outpouring of love for our youth over winter and we can tell you firsthand from being with the youth over winter and Christmas that they truly appreciate your generosity and thoughtfulness.

If you have any questions or would like to get in touch with our team, please call 780.468.7070 or email giving@yess.org.

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Ye Olde Craft Lodge #196 & North Star Chapter #2 Support YESS

June 16, 2025 admin Community

In a heartwarming display of unity and community spirit, Ye Olde Craft Lodge #196 and North Star Chapter #2 have proudly collaborated to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable youth. Thanks to the generous matching power of the Masonic Foundation of Alberta, the two organizations were able to present a $2,000 donation to Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS).

 

This contribution will go toward helping YESS continue its vital work; providing shelter, resources, and support to youth experiencing crisis and homelessness.

 

The partnership between Ye Olde Craft Lodge #196 and North Star Chapter #2 is a shining example of what can be achieved when Freemasons come together with a shared purpose.

 

The Masonic Foundation of Alberta played a crucial role in this initiative, matching donations and multiplying the power of giving. Their ongoing commitment to supporting charitable efforts across Alberta continues to uplift organizations like YESS and the lives they touch.

 

Together, we are making a difference, one act of kindness at a time.

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Aniel’s Story

March 14, 2025 admin Youth Story

When Aniel first walked through the doors of YESS, he was looking for more than just a place to stay—he was looking for a fresh start. His journey, like so many others, was filled with challenges, but it was also filled with resilience, growth, and hope. This is Aniel’s story.

Growing Up in Edmonton

Aniel was born in 1985 at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton and grew up in the Mill Woods neighborhood. His early years were typical, but things began to change when he entered junior high.

“In my last year at TD Baker, I found myself getting into conflicts with everyone—teachers and students alike. At home, life was shifting as well. My mother had remarried, and I didn’t agree with her choice in a partner. I started hanging out with older, more troublesome people, and that led me down a difficult path.”

By the time he was 14, Aniel was struggling. He was couch surfing, disconnected from school, and engaging in substance use. The instability of his situation left him vulnerable, and he soon realized he had nowhere left to turn.

 

Finding Support at YESS

“That is when I found YESS—not by choice, but by necessity. I had nowhere to go, no food to eat, barely any clothes. At that age, living the lifestyle I had chosen, I easily could have ended up a statistic.”

YESS provided Aniel with the essentials—food, clothing, and a safe space. But more importantly, it offered him a path forward. Through partner programs and the unwavering support of staff, Aniel began to rebuild his life.

“This took time, and I had to be ready. Many times, I left on my own, only to return when I had burned bridges again. But the doors at YESS were always open. Whether I was there for a day or a week, they never shut me out. The staff understood the severity of what we were going through, and they were always there.”

 

Looking Back with Gratitude

Now, at 39, Aniel reflects on how far he has come. Life hasn’t always been easy, but he is proud of the journey he has taken.

“Being able to find my way with the help of YESS allowed me to still be here to write this. Every day, I wake up with gratitude. I have lost so many people along the way, but I am still here. Without places like YESS, I might not be.”

 

Why Support YESS?

Aniel’s story is just one of many. Youth facing crisis need a safe place, understanding support, and resources to help them build a better future. By supporting YESS, you are giving youth like Aniel the opportunity to find stability, hope, and a path forward.

Join us in making a difference. Become a monthly donor today.

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Creating Space for Cultural and Spiritual Wellbeing

January 31, 2025 admin Life at YESS

Young people are developmentally working to define their own identity and purpose and connections. Finding purpose and meaning in the world is a large concept that our youth do not always have capacity to delve into in their time with us; however, for those who are connected or building that connection, we want to foster their curiosity, experimentation, and beliefs so that they can feel safe to explore themselves within the larger world.

 

 

Tell us about yourself and your position at YESS!

My name is Josephine Irabor. I’m oiginally from Nigeria, West African. I came to Canada in December 1991. I am blessed with 4 great children, one girl and three boys. They are my light in this huge and challenging world. I started my position with YESS in January of 2023 as a relief youth support worker.

 

At YESS, we have four pillars to support holistic wellness and success: physical wellbeing, mental wellbeing, emotional wellbeing, and cultural/spiritual wellbeing. How do we define cultural/spiritual wellbeing at YESS?

For our youth, cultural and spiritual wellbeing starts with education and understanding of who and what communities they are connected to and how they make sense of the world.  Young people are developmentally working to define their own identity and purpose and connections, and we want to create an environment where cultural and spiritual practices are role-modelled, as well as available and accessible. 

We have youth who come from a diverse background, from diverse communities, and we strive to ensure that we are giving space for them to grow their value system and to value who they are, where they come from and where they are going. 

 

How does YESS offer culturally/spiritually relevant support for youth?

YESS is committed to helping youths access cultural resources. This includes resources for immigrants, refugees, Indigenous people, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people. We can help the with finding a religious or cultural group or place of worship, obtaining treaty status, connecting with their band or Elders, attending ceremonies or traditional activities, or any other sort of connection to culture or a culture of interest to them. The YESS Cultural Coordinator gets youth connected through food, art, and even educational movies. The goal here is to create a safe space without appropriation, instead teaching appreciation.

Cultural programming such as painting, crafts, beading, Cree classes, Land Connections, and a space where they can come take what they need for medicine or crystals and connect to what they need to practice their culture and spirituality to is also provided. There is a particular place in the Whyte building call the Wellness Integration Room. If a youth isn’t connected to their culture and is interested in exploring their identity, or if a youth is connected to their culture and wants to express it, this will be the space for that.

The kitchen also plays a huge part in in the cultural/spiritual wellbeing of the youth, in teams of the different cultural foods they provide. Some of the youth have taken part to learn and prepared meals of their culture. Youth in the supportive housing program Graham’s Place can cook for themselves have groceries of their choice provided and they get to cook their cultural meals. There are occasions where one of the YESS chefs takes youth shopping in their preferred cultural shops. How awesome is that!

 

How do you see the impact and ripple effects of these kinds of supports?

The impact of these kinds of supports is phenomenal. Most of the youth who access YESS leave home without having learned anything about their culture, especially in the area of food. The joy and the satisfaction you see on the faces of the youth that participant in learning to prepare meals from their culture is fulfilling. One of the ripple effects of this kind of support is that youth connect to community, culture, history, identity, faith, and above all, family/roof while away from home. This then results in a sense of belonging.

 

What is one thing you wish the community knew about youth who access YESS?

They are all looking for one and the same thing: to be seen as individuals. This mean that one size dose not fit all. They are not to be stereotyped. Each youth should be treated according to their needs.

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Community Spotlight: The Newcomer Centre

January 31, 2025 admin Community

The Newcomer Centre envisions a future where community members walk alongside newcomers, helping bridge their transition into Canadian society. To achieve this, the Centre serves as a key catalyst and leading collaborator, shaping the attitudes, behaviours, and practices of organizations and individuals to appreciate and embrace the diversity newcomers bring.

With four main locations in Edmonton downtown, 82nd Street, Mill Woods, and the C5 Hub at Clearview Rec Centre, the Newcomer Centre supports up to 17,000 newcomers annually from all over Canada. Their team of approximately 230 staff speak and provide services in over 50 languages.

To discuss the importance of culturally and spiritually relevant programing, we spoke with Abdullah Ahmed, Program Coordinator for Complex Cases (Youth and Children) in the Enhanced Settlement Workers in Schools Program.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

 

Tell us about yourself and your organization!

My name is Abdullah Ahmed, and I have over 25 years of experience in the sector. I specialize in implementing projects at various levels, from large-scale initiatives to multi-agency collaborations that address complex challenges, with a focus on sustainable solutions for communities particularly children, youth, and newcomer families.

As the Program Coordinator of the Complex Cases Program, I oversee a team of 10 caseworkers, collaborate with service providers, and streamline services to ensure the safe and effective delivery of programs. Our work extends to public, Catholic, and charter schools, managing over 400 strategic partnerships. Additionally, I foster relationships with key partners, including YESS, to enhance program impact.

 

What kinds of support does the Newcomer Centre offer, and how do you see the impact of these programs?

The Newcomer Centre is a hub for newcomers, immigrants, and refugee families, providing holistic support to ease their transition into the community. Our services include settlement assistance, language programs, employment support, housing resources, and culturally responsive programs tailored to clients’ needs.

We deliver our services through a culturally informed approach, recognizing the backgrounds, pre- and post-migration challenges, and lived experiences of the communities we serve. This understanding allows us to connect individuals with the right resources, helping them navigate their transition and adapt to life in Canada.

Our goal is to collaborate with other service providers to integrate essential resources and enhance support for newcomers.

 

Like YESS, the Newcomer Centre has a long legacy in Edmonton. How do you continue to evolve to meet the needs of the community?

The Newcomer Centre has a long-standing legacy of excellence in service delivery and strong community partnerships. We take a strategic, responsive approach to the evolving needs of newcomers, particularly youth and families.

Our work begins with continuously assessing emerging challenges. By engaging with the community and leveraging trend-driven insights, we identify issues and bring them to sector leaders and service providers like YESS to ensure our programs remain relevant, inclusive, and impactful.

We also develop best practices using technology, enhancing processes, databases, and case management systems. As part of our evolution, we changed our name after 42 years to better reflect our transformation in meeting the diverse needs of newcomers. This strategic shift includes culturally responsive programs, mental health support, employment services, settlement, and therapeutic clinical supports.

Our holistic approach considers physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing for long-term success. By fostering cooperative partnerships, we empower newcomers, promote resilience, and build strong, connected communities, because no one succeeds alone.

 

How is cultural/spiritual wellbeing important to the overall wellness and success of people who access your programs? What is the ripple effect of providing culturally/spiritually relevant programming?

When newcomers arrive in Canada, they often face numerous challenges and barriers to accessing support and services. Both pre- and post-migration experiences, such as displacement, identity loss, and social isolation, can impact their well-being.

Culturally and spiritually relevant programing helps newcomers feel seen, heard, and valued, which is crucial for emotional resilience, mental health, and successful integration. Anchoring individuals in their cultural and spiritual identity fosters self-confidence and social connectedness.

These programs include supports for traditional practices, interfaith connections, and peer mentorship from shared backgrounds, providing opportunities to adapt to their new community. When people feel secure in their cultural identity, they are more engaged, economically active, and supportive of one another, strengthening social networks and community resilience. In short, culturally responsive support makes a profound difference in how newcomers thrive in Canada.

 

What is one thing you wish the community knew about people who access the Newcomer Centre?

I wish the community knew just how incredible and resilient the newcomers who access the Newcomer Centre, especially youth, truly are. I wish everyone could see their ambition and full potential. In our department, we work with individuals with high needs, and we recognize that no issue is too small or too big; it’s not about the size of the challenge, but the context for the client. Some clients have lived in Canada for 40 or even 50 years and still feel isolated, struggling to find a sense of belonging while navigating systemic barriers.

At the Newcomer Centre, we see firsthand that with the right support, whether through mentorship, education, mental health services, or community connections, newcomers can truly thrive. When given the opportunity, they unlock their full potential, not just for themselves but for the entire community.

Read more

Natalie’s Story

December 16, 2024 admin 2024 Campaign, Youth Story

Natalie came to YESS when she was 15. At her young age and with a long list of unsafe and unhealthy living situations she had already experienced, Natalie worked with our Wellness Integration Team to identify what she needed to feel safe and healthy.

When she turned 16, Natalie had more autonomy over her choices for her future. We were able to support her goals and help her navigate the ups and downs of a medical diagnosis, reunification with her family, and finding the right housing placement.

Natalie now lives independently in supportive housing. Her reconnection with her family has been slow, but she has the support team she needs to keep herself safe and healthy through this ongoing journey. The foundation of autonomy and self-discovery Natalie built at YESS continues to empower her.

 

Keep a light on for youth in crisis and donate today

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Finn’s Story

December 9, 2024 admin 2024 Campaign, Youth Story

Content warning: mental health crisis and suicidal ideation

Finn came to YESS in severe mental health crisis. Unable to regulate their suicidal ideation and outward behaviours, Finn couldn’t stay at home.

When Finn came to YESS, we supported their mental health needs with our Wellness Integration Team, safety planning, and mental health first aid. We also had conversations with their parents on what supports they would need for Finn to be able to return home.

With the stability provided at YESS, Finn was able to break to cycle of sleeping rough. From that foundation, we worked with Finn on medication support, curfew support, communication, and life skills development.

Through all this work, Finn was able to return home to their family. The positive foundation built at YESS means Finn’s family was more prepared to support them, and Finn continues to go to therapy and access community resources.

 

Keep a light on for youth in crisis and donate today

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