The Well Endowed Podcast

Wills Week is here, and we’re bringing you a special two-part series with estate planning experts Allison Barkwell and Michael Simons! Allison and Michael have extensive experience guiding individuals and families through the complexities of estate planning. In this episode, they’ll discuss the risks of using online Will Kits and shed light on the roles of “Swoopers” and “Sweepers” in estate matters. Links: Learn more about Wills Week. Our guests today were Allison Barkwell and Michael Simons from Barr LLP & McCuaig Desrochers LLP ECF Happenings: Find out how to create an Endowment Fund of your own. Read the latest on our […]

Wills Week is here, and we’re bringing you a special two-part series with estate planning experts Allison Barkwell and Michael Simons! Allison and Michael bring a wealth of experience to the table, having helped countless individuals and families navigate the often-overwhelming process of estate planning. They’ll guide you through the essential steps of creating a comprehensive estate plan, offering clear explanations and practical tips along the way. Don’t miss this special two-part series! Links: Learn more about Wills Week. Our guests today were Allison Barkwell and Michael Simons from Barr LLP & McCuaig Desrochers LLP ECF Happenings: Find out how […]

The Canadian Zalmi Society is a beacon of hope for Afghan newcomers, providing vital supports as they rebuild their lives in Canada. In this episode of The Well Endowed Podcast, we explore their impactful work and the difference they are making within the community. Through the personal story of Chand Gul, their program manager, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by those who have sought refuge in Canada. Discover how the Canadian Zalmi Society is fostering belonging and opportunity for a brighter future. Links: Learn more about The Canadian Zalmi Society. Read The Canadian Zalmi […]

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Children’s Autism Services of Edmonton. On this episode, we speak with executive producer, Terri Duncan to learn how the organization is reshaping the way supports for kids and families living with Autism are delivered. This includes things like departing from a behavioural compliance approach toward something called the SCERTS model. SCERTS stands for Social Communication, Emotional Regulation and Transactional Support. This approach is designed to foster independence and creative thinking so that children living with Autism can grow to become healthy, contributing citizens in their communities. Links: Learn more about Children’s Autism Services of […]

On this episode we’re joined by Tareq Hadhad, Founder and CEO of Peace by Chocolate. Born in Damascus, Tareq shares his journey from a Lebanese refugee camp to Antigonish, Nova Scotia. His journey from the Middle East to Canada and its resulting culture shock are the tip of an inspiring iceberg that showcase the compassion and support of Canadians, Nova Scotians and the people of Antigonish. Tareq will present the keynote address at Edmonton Community Foundation’s Annual luncheon on June 20th. Links: Read Jennifer Cockrall’s profile “Son of a Baron”. Read Tom Ndekezi’s feature “New Zone. Who’s This?” Watch the […]

Last year, our 10-part podcast series on the historic Vriend v. Alberta Supreme Court ruling received a nomination for a Canadian Online Publishing Award. This series has now been adapted into a feature-length documentary, Pride vs. Prejudice: The Delwin Vriend Story, written and directed by Darrin Hagen. Pride vs. Prejudice tells the compelling story of Delwin Vriend, who was dismissed from a Christian university in Edmonton for being gay, leading him to challenge this discrimination all the way to the Supreme Court. This documentary, produced by Edmonton Community Foundation and the Edmonton Queer History Project, premieres on May 19th at […]

In this episode, we conclude  Monelle Sturko’s panel discussion that examines the vital role of women in leadership within the non-profit sector. Join Monelle, Michele Okere and Yasmin Jivraj as they delve into effective strategies for making positive change, communicating effectively with Boards and what enables women to bring unique leadership styles to the table. About the Panelists: Monelle Sturko is the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Community Foundation. As well as the Chair of the Governance Committee and a board member of the Social Enterprise Fund. Monelle is also a litigator at the law firm […]

In this episode, join us for part one of a dynamic panel discussion that delves deep into the vital role of women in leadership within the non-profit sector. Featuring a round table discussion lead by Monelle Sturko (ECF’s Board Chair), Michele Okere and Yasmin Jivraj bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, offering insights into the challenges, triumphs, and strategies for success in navigating the non-profit landscape. About the Panelists: Monelle Sturko is the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Community Foundation. As well as the Chair of the Governance Committee and a board member of […]

Accepting the role as an executor of an estate can be a daunting prospect. Between probate and tax considerations and beneficiaries who may, or may not get along, the process can seem overwhelming.   On this episode we sit down with Victoria Jones from the law firm de Villars Jones to discuss the ins and outs of estate administration.    Victoria has appeared at all levels of court in Alberta and has appeared at the Supreme Court of Canada.  Her practice includes Wills, Estates, Trusts, Estate Litigation and Administrative Law.   She is also part of the dedicated team of volunteer estate lawyers […]

To celebrate International Women’s Day, we go into our archives to bring you a story about two incredible community builders in our city. Nunu Desalgne and Hayat El-Ossmani were recognized for their community work at the 2022 RISE Awards. The RISE Awards are presented by Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers to recognize immigrant success in Edmonton. Hayat and Nunu received The Community Leadership Award, sponsored by Edmonton Community Foundation. This award recognizes newcomers who demonstrate a commitment to community engagement, with the goal of creating a more welcoming and inclusive community for all. Since 2003, The RISE Awards have celebrated newcomers who have […]

February 27th is International Polar Bear Day. On this episode, we’re putting on our parkas and heading out to learn about these majestic creatures. We’ll meet Dr. Andrew Derocher, a polar bear biologist from the University of Alberta to see how polar bears are faring in a changing Arctic, and we’ll hear from Dianne Johnstone one of the founders of the Johnstone-Wright Polar Bear Fund at Edmonton Community Foundation. This very special fund supports education, research and conservation efforts for polar bears and other Arctic species. Links: Learn more about the Johnstone-Wright Polar Bear Fund. Learn more about Dr. Derocher’s […]

On this episode, we go back into our archives to present a replay of our look at how bias in data gathering can impact representation of communities. Our guest producer, Emily Rendell-Watson, speaks with three incredible community members with experience in data research, urban planning and activism. This story originally aired in 2022 while ECF explored the history of racism through its annual Vital Signs initiative. Vital Signs is a check-up to see how the community is fairing on various issues. This work is done in collaboration with Edmonton Social Planning Council and with guidance from a dedicated committee made […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Danielle Paradis introduces us to Kyle Dubé, the executive director at YOUCAN Youth Services. Kyle tells us how being relentless can make a difference. YOUCAN helps young people out of harm’s way, and onto a path of economic independence. They do this through a series of programs that empower healthy decision-making.  They also help youth to return to school and enter the work force with training and skill development. Links: Learn more abut YOUCAN Youth Services. Check out their Relentless podcast series. ECF Happenings: Find out how to create an Endowment Fund of your own. Read […]

In February 2023, Betty and George Screpnek created a fund to celebrate their son, Wade, on his 50th birthday. It is the Wade Screpnek Speech Therapy Fund, and it will assist families with the cost of accessing speech therapy. On this episode, we meet Betty Screpnek, donor, and Janet Tryhuba, executive director of Edmonton Down Syndrome Society. They show us how vibrant communities are built  when we support and celebrate each other for who we are. Links: Learn more about the Wade Screpnek Speech Therapy Fund. Connect with Edmonton Down Syndrome Society. See more resources for people born with down syndrome. […]

Boyle Street Community Services has been supporting people experiencing homelessness and poverty since 1971. And for many of those years, it was operating out of a dilapidated facility on 101st Street and 105th Avenue.   In late 2021, Boyle Street announced it was purchasing a new building a few blocks north of their original location and they were getting set to break ground on okimaw peyesew kamik, which is Cree for The King Thunderbird Centre.   But what was supposed to be a rather straight forward move began facing major hurdles, first with building permit issues, then community backlash and that was […]

On this episode, our correspondent Theodora MacLeod introduces us to the very talented AV (Ann Vriend). We learn about the inner-city has shaped her music, and how one front-porch in the neighbourhood of McCauley has brought people together. AV was a recipient of a 2022 Edmonton Artists’ Trust Fund Award. The Edmonton Artists’ Trust Fund (EATF) is a joint initiative of Edmonton Arts Council and Edmonton Community Foundation. It invests in the creative community by supporting living and working expenses, allowing exceptional local artists to devote time to their artistic career. It also encourages artists to stay in the Edmonton community. […]

On this episode, we meet Eric Rice, Eric recently created the Edmonton Affordable Housing Maintenance Fund here at ECF, to support people experiencing housing or income insecurity. Eric has been involved in housing and homelessness in various ways over the years. It is a complex and overwhelming issue, and the people experiencing houselessness are often met with stigmatization and judgement. With an issue this big, it’s hard to know how we as individuals can make a difference. That’s one reason Eric began his fund, and why he continues to be active with organizations that are working to end homelessness. Eric’s […]

On this episode, freelance producer Emily Rendell-Watson explores new innovations in local agriculture that could impact the future of food security in Edmonton.  Food security is the topic for our 2023 Vital Signs report. Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF) and Edmonton Social Planning Council (ESPC) have partnered to create this report, and we’ve learned a lot about food in our city.  In our previous episodes, we’ve talked about food security over the past 10 years and where we are today.  We also looked at how food is more than just basic survival – it brings communities together so we can thrive.   Today, we look at how innovations […]

On this episode, we learn about how the Canada Cultural Investment Fund (CCIF) matches endowment donations to create a sustainable funding source for arts organizations like Edmonton Opera and Ukrainian Shumka Dancers + Shumka School of Dance. CCIF is a program created by the Government of Canada. Their Endowment Incentives component provides matching funds to endowments that support professional performing arts organizations.  ECF became a partner in this component in 2001. Since then, we’ve partnered with 22 local arts organizations to grow or start endowment funds that are held here at ECF.  These participating organizations raise or contribute donations toward their […]

On this episode, freelance producer Emily Rendell-Watson, explores the nuances around accessing food and why our goal should be to help people thrive, not just survive. Food security is the topic for our 2023 Vital Signs report. Earlier in August, in our Hunger Happens Here episode, we talked about Edmonton’s food security landscape over the past 10 years. We also looked at some of the day-to-day factors that play into how people can access food. Like cost-of-living increases, affordable housing, and whether culturally appropriate food is available. In that episode our guest, Julia Tran, invited us to think about food […]