Red Deer & District Community Foundation

Red Deer & District Community Foundation

Formed in 2020, the Fund for Gender Equality supports communities across Canada to further their gender equality initiatives thanks to the Equality Fund, Government of Canada, Green Shield Canada and Community Foundations of Canada. Additionally, one grassroots community foundation, the Red Deer & District Community Foundation, was particularly eager to play a role.

The Red Deer & District Community Foundation received $165,000 to fund grants that advance gender equality and empower all genders, including women, non-binary, Two-Spirit, transgender and gender-diverse people. Erin Peden, Executive Director of the Red Deer & District Community Foundation, invited local organizations to join her in a virtual roundtable with the ability to request funding. This allowed each applicant the opportunity to hear the needs of their community and present how the grant would be used. During this conversation, Olds College’s grant request for gender-neutral washrooms was well received.

“Gender equality is often overlooked in conversations because it’s typically thought of as an issue of the past, but it’s most definitely not,” Peden states. “Using opportunities like the Fund for Gender Equality to generate any type of intention and understanding is essential for our communities.” Recognizing Olds College’s commitment to providing safe and inclusive spaces for all students, staff and alumni, the Red Deer & District Community Foundation offered the College grant funding of $16,343. The funds will be used to administer gender equity training, create signage for the College’s newly renovated gender-inclusive washrooms, and purchase customized fitness equipment for females in the Athletics Department’s HighPerformance Centre.

“I was pleased to see we had a post-secondary institution at the table that understood the importance of gender equality,” Peden says. “There’s definitely an indication of strong leadership within Olds College to admit that these are needed. One size does not fit all and they’re making sure everyone is included. So kudos to everyone at Olds College, and we look forward to maintaining an ongoing partnership.”

Planned Giving: Growing Greater Futures

By making a planned gift to Olds College, together we can plant seeds for a brighter future by ensuring that opportunities for education and research will be available for years to come.

You have the opportunity to make a significant gift that will transform Olds College. Your agricultural legacy can begin today.

Types of Planned Gifts

• Bequests through your will

• Real property such as a farm or ranch

• Securities, including stocks, bonds and mutual funds

• Life insurance policies