In Calgary and across southern Alberta, only Wellspring Calgary devotes itself exclusively to the unique non-medical needs cancer presents. At Wellspring, we provide a caring community in-person and online, so any adult living with cancer, their caregiver and family members can access vital information, meaningful support and effective coping strategies.
Our Solution
“The thing about Wellspring is it’s one big community of compassion and understanding. Everyone is welcome, there are no exclusions. It doesn’t matter what program you take or how much energy you have to contribute, you always know it’s okay. You’re with your people, you’re where you belong.”
Bev Watson
Wellspring member
We provide over 90 evidence-informed, community-based programs and services that address the non-medical needs of cancer patients, their caregivers and families. These programs fall into four main pillar areas:
By the end of 2021, it is estimated there will be more than 35,000 people in southern Alberta who have been diagnosed with cancer over the last five years.[1]
Recognizing that significant differences exist in service availability and accessibility across the province, Wellspring has expanded its cancer support services to regional and remote communities, from Red Deer to the Canadian border.
An essential component of this expanded support is ensuring that any new programs and initiatives are based on the needs of those living with cancer in southern Albertan communities. A community participatory approach ensures that communities are involved as active participants in the creation, delivery and sustainability of cancer support services.
Since launching this expansion in 2020, Wellspring is proudly supporting significantly more people from outside our city limits. Our aim is to ensure those living with cancer – those diagnosed, their caregivers and kids – in rural and remote communities feel supported and less isolated.
[1] Reference: Surveillance & Reporting: The 2019 Report on Canadian Statistics in Alberta. Edmonton: CancerControl Alberta, Alberta Health Services, 2019. Available at: https://public.tableau.com/profile/cancercontrol.ab.
Members inform everything we do at Wellspring Calgary.
“What cancer steals ... Wellspring gives back. Wellspring isn't just a place, it's a friend when you really need one. It is love manifested in a difficult time in your life.”
Ian Robinson
Wellspring member
Volunteers are the heartbeat of Wellspring Calgary. Our team of 200 volunteers dedicated over 6,600 hours of support last year. These exceptional individuals:
- Assist in supporting our operations
- Offer peer support
- Provide program support
- Assist with our signature, partner and third-party fundraising events
- Provide governance through our Board and Committees
- Act as ambassadors for all we do
- Share their professional expertise in service of our mission