Give Amplify Connect – Détails, épisodes et analyse

What happens when a professional magician becomes a foundation leader and helps steer a national network of grantmakers? We sit down with Simon Mallett, Executive Director of the Rozsa Foundation and long-time board member at Philanthropic Foundations Canada (PFC), to unpack how collaboration, research, and peer learning turn good intentions into real community impact.

We explore how networks turn isolated funders into effective partners for equity and community impact. Simon Mallett shares his path from theater to philanthropy, how Philanthropic Foundations Canada strengthens Canadian foundations, and why board engagement, research, and arts leadership training matter.

• PFC’s mission and three pillars: capacity, collaboration, policy and research
• Value of affinity groups and the CEO retreat
• JEDI accelerator as a driver of organizational change
• Alberta presence and Western voice in national dialogue
• Research agenda, compensation and investment surveys
• National conference versus CEO retreat differences
• Arts as a lever for mental health and social connection
• Rozsa Foundation leadership training and who can join
• Invitation for small foundations to connect and learn

About Our Guest

Simon Mallett is the Executive Director of the Rozsa Foundation, a philanthropic, learning-focused organization that advances equitable leadership and management practices in the arts in Alberta through an integrated use of training, funding, and storytelling supports. He also serves as Past Chair of the Board of Philanthropic Foundations Canada, and spends time in his other valued roles as a theatre director, magician, baseball fan, husband, and father.

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun 

Michelle Kauenhoffen from the Action Coalition on Human Trafficking (ACT Alberta) joins us to shed light on a critical but often misunderstood issue affecting communities across the province. As the Manager of Community Engagement at the only organization supporting victims of all forms of human trafficking throughout Alberta, Michelle brings valuable expertise on prevention, education, and direct support.

Michelle shares how ACT Alberta provides support for trafficking victims while developing education initiatives to protect vulnerable youth from exploitation. Through innovative partnerships and tailored trainings, they're working to dispel myths and equip communities with the knowledge to recognize and respond to trafficking.

• ACT Alberta serves victims of all forms of trafficking and provides free education throughout the province
• The Youth Empowerment Project was created in partnership with Crime Stoppers and Little Warriors to address the 815% increase in online exploitation
• Training programs teach youth to identify healthy vs toxic relationships and recognize warning signs of exploitation
• Both students and adults receive education to ensure everyone uses the same language and understanding
• Common myths about trafficking include beliefs it "doesn't happen here" or only affects certain demographics
• ACT improves lives by helping victims find safety, with positive impacts extending to their families
• Free resources available include monthly Human Trafficking 101 sessions and customized sector-specific trainings

Visit actalberta.org to learn more, access the education form, or email education@actalberta.org to arrange a training for your school, workplace or community.

About Our Guest

With a strong background in social services and non-profits across the Prairies, Michelle Kauenhofen is a systems thinker who thrives in advocacy work, social justice, education, and community development. She brings a passion for raising awareness and empowering individuals to act, ensuring survivors’ voices are amplified and local efforts are united. Michelle is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between diverse communities and advancing efforts to combat human trafficking.  Committed to ACT’s mission, she strives to inspire change and collaboratively build resilient networks that stand against exploitation.

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun 

Can adaptive sports truly transform lives? Chloe Giroux is here to share her incredible journey, from a life-altering dirt biking accident to discovering a passion for adaptive sports that reignited her life. Just weeks after leaving the hospital, Chloe found herself on the slopes with Rocky Mountain Adaptive, where she not only embraced skiing but also ventured into mountain biking and kayaking. Thanks to the support of the Wolfe Pack Warriors Adaptive Sport Leadership Bursary, Chloe advanced from participant to certified coach and recreational programmer, highlighting the profound impact these accessible sports can have, not just on individuals, but on entire communities.

We also bring you the stories behind the scenes at Rocky Mountain Adaptive. Discover how this organization is not only offering a diverse range of activities like skiing, snowboarding, and camping but are also changing lives for families and caregivers. As part of our "Give, Amplify, Connect" podcast series, we spotlight the incredible efforts of Alberta-based nonprofits, encouraging listeners to connect with causes that resonate with them. Join us to learn how Rocky Mountain Adaptive is creating inclusive adventures and empowering individuals with physical or neurodivergent challenges to embrace the outdoors and rediscover their passions.

Other Links Mentioned

• Participate. Learn. Excel. The Origin Story of RMA
• Rocky Mountain Adaptive 
  • Adventures
  • Events
  • Get Involved
  • Donate
  • Bowhead FAQ
• Wolfe Pack Warriors Original Partnership with RMA

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Josh Wong, a dedicated burns and plastic surgeon, and Owen Chatwin, a passionate firefighter and secretary of the Edmonton Firefighters Burn Treatment Society. We explore Josh's incredible journey from architecture to burn care, guided by his profound experiences in Southeast Asia, and Owen's unwavering commitment to supporting burn victims. The heroic efforts of these individuals, along with the heartwarming contributions of veteran nurse Laura Vey, showcase the powerful community bonds and mutual admiration between healthcare professionals and the patients they serve.

Experience the profound impact of camp programs designed especially for young burn victims and their siblings, where peer support and shared experiences offer unparalleled emotional healing. Listen as we highlight the advanced technologies and specialized care provided at the Burn Unit at the University of Alberta Hospital, made possible through financial donations and social media engagement. The courage and dedication of full-time firefighters, alongside the inspiring stories of burn survivors, reflect the relentless passion driving the Edmonton Firefighters Burn Treatment Society. Tune in to discover how you can be a part of this vital cause and make a difference in the lives of many.

Other Links Mentioned

• Turn up the Heat Firefighter Calendar
• Burn Awareness Week Feb 2-8 2025
• EFBTS Events including their Gala and Golf Tournament 

About Our Guests
Dr. Josh Wong completed his medical school, residency in Plastic Reconstructive Surgery and a Master of Science in peripheral nerve regeneration at the University of Alberta. After further specialization he returned to the University of Alberta and works as an academic associate professor of surgery with particular interest in burns, cold injury, trauma, complex wounds and skin malignancies. Dr. Wong is the clinical competency chair for the residency program as well as the quality assurance officer of the Edmonton Firefighters’ Burn Treatment Center.

Owen Chatwin is a firefighter with the City of Edmonton, serving for nine years and currently stationed at Station 17 in Castledowns. He has been actively involved with the Edmonton Firefighters Burn Treatment Society for four years, now serving as Secretary and Social Media Director. Owen enjoys the Society’s activities, fundraisers, and especially the Alberta Firefighters Burn Camp for Children, where he spends a week with burn survivors. Supported by his wife Becky and their dog Bernie, he dedicates many hours to the charity.

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun 

Meet Laura Vey, the dedicated Burn Camp Director from the Alberta Firefighters Burn Camp for Children. In this episode Laura shares the incredible journey and mission of the Edmonton Firefighters Burn Treatment Society. Hear from Shelley Cormier and her children Tristan and Savannah as they recount how the camp has profoundly transformed their lives. Laura walks us through the camp's empowering activities like high ropes courses and whitewater rafting, while Shelley highlights the remarkable boost in Tristan's self-esteem and emotional health. Tristan and Savannah open up about the strong friendships and invaluable sense of belonging they discovered at the camp.

We also spotlight the tremendous support from the Edmonton Firefighters Burn Treatment Unit at the University of Alberta Hospital and the vital role of the University Hospital Foundation in advancing burn care. You'll hear heartfelt testimonials from families and healthcare professionals, emphasizing the camp’s significant impact. This episode is a tapestry of resilience, community support, and inspiring stories that underline the transformative power of compassion and care.

About Our Guests

Laura Vey is a Registered Nurse on the Edmonton FireFighter's Burn Treatment Unit at the University of Alberta Hospital and Burn Camp Director.

Meet the Cormier Family: Mom Shelley, an inspired yoga and meditation teacher, turned her trauma into a mission to give back. Dad Mac works tirelessly to build their family's dreams, while Tristan, a burn survivor, advocates for self-love and enjoys beatboxing and ninja warrior training. Savannah, full of life and creativity, embraces arts, singing, dancing, and ninja warrior activities despite battling juvenile idiopathic arthritis, uveitis, and glaucoma. Together, they enjoy traveling, living minimally, and giving back to the community, always coming back stronger through life's difficulties and ups and downs. 

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun 

Have you ever wondered about the impact  Canadian Blood Services has on patient lives? Join us for a compelling conversation with Jhoanna Del Rosario as she walks us through the many ways you can support Canadian Blood Services beyond blood donation. From financial contributions to registering for stem cell and organ donations, there are numerous avenues to make a difference. Jhoanna shares details about the impactful, Assignment Saving Lives, bursary scholarship program designed to recruit new donors among post-secondary students and emphasizes the urgent need for donations, especially from diverse ethnic groups.  

During the episode Jhoanna opens up about her own father's battle with stage four lung cancer in the Philippines and how that personal experience highlighted the contrast between blood donation systems in Canada and abroad. Her story is a powerful reminder of why a reliable blood donation system is crucial, and how her passion has driven the growth of the Partners for Life program, ensuring a steady supply of blood for those in need.

Key Messages in the Episode

• Jhoanna’s Story
• Why Canadian Blood Services
• Partners for Life
• Assignment Saving Lives
• How to donate blood & other ways to support
• Calgary’s New Blood Donor Centre

About Our Guests

Jhoanna Del Rosario is the Community Development Manager for Canadian Blood Services Calgary. Jhoanna has been with Canadian Blood Services for 14 years and is responsible for donor relations, donor recruitment and partnership management for the Calgary fixed site donor center. With over 48,000 whole blood units’ collections target and 5000 new donor targets, the Canadian Blood Services Calgary fixed site is one the most successful and largest blood donor center in Canada. Jhoanna grew the Partners for Life program from 40 partner organizations in 2010 to currently over 500 partner organizations supporting Canadian Blood Services.

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun 

Experience the ride of a lifetime with Laura Istead, Executive Director of Two Wheel View, as we pedal through stories of transformation and empowerment. On this episode, we're not just talking about bikes; we're revealing how these two-wheeled machines are unlocking potential and building independence in Calgary's youth. Laura takes us on a tour of the Earn-A-Bike program, an inspiring 10-week course for youth in grades 7-12, culminating in the ultimate prize—a re-furbished bike of their own, complete with the skills to keep it, and themselves, moving forward.

As the conversation shifts gears, we learn about the vital link between bicycles and broader opportunities for teens, such as improving school attendance and job prospects. Laura illuminates the successes of the GAP Employability Program, now in its 13th cohort, and its dedication to equipping young adults with more than just bike skills—think financial literacy, workers' rights, and a road map to adulthood. These programs aren’t just creating cyclists; they’re crafting future leaders and community champions, one spoke at a time.

Wrapping up, our journey with Laura examines the generosity that fuels Two Wheel View, with nearly 1700 donated bikes in 2023 sparking change across Calgary. We also take a peek into the work Laura is doing on the Social Sector Social initiative in efforts to uplift local nonprofits. So pedal with us as we celebrate the power of community, the joy of giving, and the impact of simple machines on complex lives. Join the movement that's more than just a bike ride—it's a ride towards a better future for all.

Key Messages

• Introducing Two Wheel View
• Earn a Bike Program 
• GAP Employability Program
• GAP 2.0 Kicking Off
• Bike Shop Social Enterprise
• Donate a Bike
• Continuing Cycles with Other Non-Profits
• Corporate Team Builds
• Recycling Bikes
• How Laura Got Involved
• Collaborating with Biking Organizations
• Social Sector Social
• How you can Give Amplify Connect with Two Wheel View
• Join our Lifecycle team 
• Who Inspires Laura?

About Our Guest

 Laura Istead is the Executive Director of Two Wheel View. Starting at Two Wheel View as an intern on with a three-month contact, Laura is currently in her 13th year as a member of the Two Wheel View team. During her time with Two Wheel View, she and her team have grown the organization from 3 staff and 12 participants a year to a team of 30 that works with hundreds of youth and thousands of bicycles each year.  

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun 

Imagine a space where the voices of our youth don't just resonate, but actively shape the future of mental health care. That's the reality Meghan Provost has helped forge as a member of Kickstand's Youth Action Council, and in this episode, she sits with Katherine Hay, the organization's visionary Executive Director, to discuss Kickstand's transformative impact on mental health services for young people in Alberta. Katherine paints a future where access to mental health support is not a maze but a straight line, and Meghan reveals how her personal journey with the council has been nothing short of empowering.

As the conversation unfolds, you'll be inspired by Kickstand's innovative strategies, like their "More Good Days" text service, which sends a jolt of positivity to subscribers daily. Learn how a partnership with the Mental Health Foundation is not just a handshake but a powerful alliance that elevates Kickstand's mission to new heights. And if you're moved to take action, discover the myriad ways to contribute to the cause—be it through advocacy, participating on the Youth Action Council, or steering donations to fuel progressive mental health initiatives. This is more than a podcast episode; it's a call to join a movement that's redefining what it means to support our youth.

Key Messages

• Meet Meghan Provost & Katherine Hay
• What is Kickstand? 
• How youth can get involved
• Who is Kickstand for?
• Get daily messages by texting “More Good Days” to 393939
• The story behind Kickstand
• Programs, services and providers
• What can you do  
  • Share Kickstand posts on Instagram
  • Mental Health Foundation connection 
  •  Book an appointment
  • Get involved
• Inspiration: Access Open Minds & Kickstand Partners

About Our Guests
Katherine Hay (she/her/hers) has worked in the mental health and substance use services field since 1997.  Katherine has been a tireless advocate for recovery oriented, person centered care, that focuses on the whole person and the environments in which they want to live, work and play.  

Meghan Provost (she/her/hers), a first-year Communications student at MacEwan University, serves as a dedicated Youth Action Council member at Kickstand, passionately advocating for youth mental health.  

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun 

When DeAnn Hunter speaks, you feel the passion for her work echo through her words—a passion that's vitally important to every community. As the board chair of the Mental Health Foundation, she joins us to share the remarkable progress being made in Alberta's mental health landscape. DeAnn's path in mental health advocacy is as personal as it is professional, shaped by a deep understanding of the critical role that support systems play in our lives. Our conversation is a beacon of hope, illuminating how the Foundation is tirelessly working to make mental health care accessible for all and to shatter the stigma so often attached to mental illness.

This episode is a journey through the interconnected worlds of mental health across various sectors, with an unexpected detour into the construction industry, revealing the profound need for dedicated mental health programs. DeAnn's heartfelt work with Big Brothers Big Sisters serves as a testament to the power of volunteerism, a gentle reminder of the human capacity for kindness and the transformative impact of community involvement. You're invited to get to know the groundbreaking work of Kickstand, a youth-led virtual wellness hub, and the Mental Health Foundation's upcoming events, including their annual fundraising breakfast, that champion mental well-being. Together we explore the serious, often underestimated responsibility of board service and how aligning your skills with an organization's needs can lead to fulfilling service. Join us to understand the steps being taken towards a future of mental wellness and the importance of fostering both personal and community health.

Get your ticket to the Mental Health Foundation Breakfast on February 27th, 2024. 

About Our Guest

DeAnn Hunter is the Board Chair of the Mental Health Foundation and also the CEO of Edmonton John Howard Society. DeAnn is a seasoned executive with more than 20 years in business, health care and the community sector. She is known for driving transformational change, maximizing operational excellence and building collaborations to enhance the lives of individuals. DeAnn is passionate about mental health and community development. She has held numerous community board appointments including Board Chair for Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters, Board Chair for Terra Centre and her current Board role with the Mental Health Foundation. DeAnn holds an undergraduate degree in Criminology & Criminal Justice and a MBA in executive leadership. In her spare time, DeAnn enjoys playing and watching sports and running in Edmonton’s beautiful river valley.

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun 

Ever wondered how we can combat food waste and food insecurity? Join us in an enlightening conversation with Cory Rianson, Executive Director of the Leftovers Foundation, an organization that has been tackling these pressing issues since 2012. Cory takes us on a journey from the inception of the Leftovers Foundation to its growth across Alberta and into Manitoba, debunks common misconceptions about food insecurity, and reveals the concerning issue of student food insecurity.

Discover how the Leftovers Foundation has harnessed the power of technology to improve the efficiency of food rescue, a practice with significant environmental and social benefits. We discuss their innovative app, Rescue Food, that connects volunteers with businesses looking to donate food. But that's not all, Cory also introduces us to the world of their Home Harvest program, a unique initiative aimed at reducing food waste by redirecting good food from landfills to tables.

Our conversation takes an inspiring turn as we learn about other organizations and individuals making waves in their respective communities. Tune in, be informed, and most importantly, be inspired to take action against food waste and insecurity in your own communities.

If you'd like to get involved with Leftovers we encourage you to volunteer. Visit their volunteer page here and download the app to give volunteering a try! Or sign up for their newsletter to stay up to date with what's happening.

About Our Guest
Cory Rianson is the Executive Director of Leftovers, and has worked for the past seven years leading organizations focused on reducing food insecurity. Prior to running the Leftovers Foundation, he managed a small food bank, growing the organization from a source of crisis food for those in need to a food security hub delivering a wide range of programming focused on reducing food insecurity. His goal is to take Leftovers even further in its food rescue mission, rescuing more and different types of food. Why should good food be rotting in landfill and emitting greenhouse gases, when it can go to those who need it? Good food should not go to waste!"
Who Inspires Cory? Multicultural Health Brokers & Saffron 

What is Give Amplify Connect?

There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. 

Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.com

Podcast music used with artist permission
"Okay" by Ellen Braun