Based in Edmonton, Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS) provides immediate and low-barrier 24/7 shelter, a drop-in resource center, temporary supportive housing, temporary independent cohort housing, and individualized wrap-around supports for young people aged 15–24. Their mission is to walk beside traumatized youth on their journey towards healing and appropriate community integration. They work collaboratively within a network of care focused on the prevention of youth homelessness by providing youth with the necessary supports to stabilize their housing, improve their wellbeing, build life skills, connect with community, and avoid re-entry into homelessness.

Welcome to the YESS planned giving newsletter. This edition features our own Ayden Harty, Investment Advisor on the Harty Advisory Team and former YESS Board Director. Ayden provides perspective on encouraging generational giving and investing in endowments.

Sport Central was created in 1991 by community-minded individuals who wanted to see children in need have access to necessary sport equipment. As a volunteer driven, Alberta-based charitable organization, Sport Central provides sports equipment to kids in need at no cost to them. Generous donations of gently used equipment and volunteer time by Edmonton and area residents help make this one of Alberta’s most cost-effective charities. Since its inception, Sport Central has provided over 180,000 low-income kids with safe gear, enabling them to participate in the sport of their choice.

CIBC employees play a significant role in making the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure one of the country’s most successful and respected volunteer-led fundraising events. Our employee volunteers rally colleagues, clients, family and friends to run, walk, fundraise and volunteer to support a cause that’s close to our hearts.