Give Amplify Connect

Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation

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 passionated changemakers to share their story.There is so much hard work and passion going into life-altering work in the nonprofit world. The foundation was looking for an avenue to give those voices a platform—to share their purpose, hopes and dreams with the rest of us. That's how Give Amplify Connect was born. Through unfiltered conversations with leaders of the nonprofit world, the podcast aims to not only inspire listeners but offer an inside look into what keeps these organizations moving forward.  The Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation supports local charities in Alberta that are creating opportunities for access to the outdoors and athletics, children and their families, and women's education and leadership.  Driven by honest connections, the Give Amplify Connect podcast is a chance for passionate people to share their story and message more broadly. Learn more at  www.wolfepackwarriors.com Music: Okay be Ellen Braun www.ellenbraun.bandcamp.com/track/okay

  1. Ronald McDonald House Alberta: Keeping Families Close

    DEC 15

    Ronald McDonald House Alberta: Keeping Families Close

    We explore how Ronald McDonald House Alberta keeps families together during pediatric treatment, turning the hidden costs of travel, food, and fatigue into manageable routines. Renee shares her son’s cancer journey, while Suzanne explains the province-wide network and the recent Calgary expansion. • travel for specialized pediatric care across Alberta • hidden costs of “free” healthcare and lost income • Renee’s path from diagnosis to stem cell transplant • the role of meals, shuttles, and caregiver support • siblings’ memories shaped by crafts and community • expansion in Calgary from 27 to 91 suites • measuring impact with family health and savings • ways to give: monthly, round up, volunteer, tell stories • modelling kindness, community, and giving to kids About Our Guests Suzanne Pescod - Marketing and Communications Director at Ronald McDonald House Alberta. A fan of books, hot coffee, and laughter. My coolest role so far is Nova and Ronan’s mom! Renee Labriola - Registered Dental Hygienist, Assistant Clinical Professor at University of Alberta, mom of 2 including a brain cancer survivor. Amateur pastry chef and lover of butter. 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

    35 min
  2. When Philanthropy Learns Together, Communities Win

    NOV 10

    When Philanthropy Learns Together, Communities Win

    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 researchValue of affinity groups and the CEO retreatJEDI accelerator as a driver of organizational changeAlberta presence and Western voice in national dialogueResearch agenda, compensation and investment surveysNational conference versus CEO retreat differencesArts as a lever for mental health and social connectionRozsa Foundation leadership training and who can joinInvitation for small foundations to connect and learnAbout 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

    27 min
  3. ACT Alberta: Youth Human Trafficking Education and Empowerment Program

    AUG 14

    ACT Alberta: Youth Human Trafficking Education and Empowerment Program

    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 provinceThe Youth Empowerment Project was created in partnership with Crime Stoppers and Little Warriors to address the 815% increase in online exploitationTraining programs teach youth to identify healthy vs toxic relationships and recognize warning signs of exploitationBoth students and adults receive education to ensure everyone uses the same language and understandingCommon myths about trafficking include beliefs it "doesn't happen here" or only affects certain demographicsACT improves lives by helping victims find safety, with positive impacts extending to their familiesFree resources available include monthly Human Trafficking 101 sessions and customized sector-specific trainingsVisit 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

    24 min
  4. Fighting Crime Together: Alberta's Anonymous Tip Line

    JUL 10

    Fighting Crime Together: Alberta's Anonymous Tip Line

    Crime doesn't solve itself. Someone has to speak up. But what happens when fear, time constraints, or personal connections make direct reporting to police impossible? Enter Crime Stoppers – the anonymous bridge between what people know and what police need to solve cases. Crime Stoppers Alberta recovered over $22 million worth of stolen property, drugs, and weapons last year through their anonymous tip system that protects informants while helping solve crimes across the province. Mark Holik, board chair of the Alberta chapter, explains how this 40-year organization works behind the scenes to make communities safer while expanding educational initiatives. Crime Stoppers operates through four Alberta chapters covering Edmonton/Northern Alberta, Calgary area, Red Deer, and LethbridgeAnonymous reporting allows citizens to share information without fear of repercussions or court appearancesLast year saw 13,800 tips resulting in 810 solved cases across AlbertaTips recovered nearly 100 weapons and significant quantities of drugs, potentially saving numerous livesThe Sign Program places Crime Stoppers information in communities, dramatically increasing tip submissionsNew educational initiatives focus on human trafficking and sextortion awareness for youthCrime Stoppers collaborates with ACT Alberta and Little Warriors on trafficking preventionThe organization relies on donations to fund its reward program for anonymous tipstersVolunteer opportunities exist for those wanting to support crime prevention effortsWant to become part of this powerful network? Have a look at their programs and learn how you can contribute to community safety while protecting your identity. Together, we can build communities where criminals have nowhere to hide. About Our Guest Mark Holik has been a dedicated advocate for community safety through his long-standing involvement with Crime Stoppers. He began his service with the Edmonton and Northern Alberta Crime Stoppers chapter in 2008 as a board member. In 2013, Mark was elected Vice President, and in 2014, he stepped into the role of President, serving two impactful terms until 2020. In 2020, Mark’s leadership extended to the national level when he joined the Canadian Crime Stoppers Association, where he currently serves as Vice President. Recognizing the need for a more unified provincial presence, Mark also played a pivotal role in the formation of the Alberta Crime Stoppers Board in 2022 and now serves as its Chair. Through every role, Mark Holik remains passionate about building safer, stronger communities where families can thrive, and citizens can play a direct role in crime prevention through anonymous reporting 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

    23 min
  5. Role Models in Motion: Girls Forward Foundation

    APR 23

    Role Models in Motion: Girls Forward Foundation

    Gaby Estrada, Executive Director of Girls Forward Foundation (formerly Fast and Female), shares the organization's journey from its Canmore roots to becoming a nationwide charity empowering girls through sport, physical activity, and education. Girls Forward Details Founded in 2005 in Alberta by Chandra CrawfordEmpowered over 34,000 youth across Canada and internationallyRecently rebranded from Fast and Female after 20 yearsCreates brave and welcoming spaces for girls to try new sportsConnects participants with diverse women role modelsProvides evidence-based curriculum focused on transferable skills Podcast Key Messages Built to Run programs in Bow Valley and Calgary prepare girls for the annual Rocky Mountain Soap Company's Girls Run eventSupporting "Flag Like a Girl" in Edmonton to increase girls' participation in flag footballRole Model program showcases diverse women from local communitiesYouth Advisory Council provides critical input, including guiding the rebranding processCollaborative approach works with local communities to address specific needsWays to support Girls Forward Foundation: follow on social media, volunteer at local events, become a monthly or one-time donor, amplify their message, or reach out to explore other partnership opportunities. About Our Guest Gaby Estrada is a passionate leader driven by authenticity, collaboration, and inclusion. As a first-generation Canadian with parents from Guatemala, she is dedicated to creating spaces where everyone feels a true sense of belonging. Since 2018, Gaby has been with Fast and Female, now Girls Forward Foundation, and has held numerous roles, including Event Coordinator, Program Manager, and now Executive Director. She has worked alongside the team to transform the organization into a more inclusive and intersectional charity, overseeing its rebrand and continued growth in empowering girls through sport and education. She holds a Master of Science from the University of Toronto, where her research explored movement-based experiences of racialized women in Scarborough. 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

    26 min
  6. The Power of Dialogue in Nonprofit Capacity Building

    MAR 10

    The Power of Dialogue in Nonprofit Capacity Building

    Join Mike Grogan, President and CEO of Integral Org, to discuss the transformative power of conversations in nonprofit organizations and how they can fuel change and collaboration. Learn about the mission of Integral Org to support capacity building and organizational development in nonprofits across Alberta. Key Messages Exploring the role of conversations in facilitating nonprofit changeHighlighting Integral Org's capacity-building approach through education and support Strategies for nonprofit leaders to enhance organizational effectivenessInsights into the complexities of mergers and collaborations within the sector Discussing the importance of accessible resources for nonprofits  Encouragement for nonprofits to embrace conversations about their purpose and future  Other Links Mentioned Integral Org WorkshopsIntegral Org ToolkitsBow Valley Non-Profit podcast episodeSilver Linings Foundation About Our Guest Mike Grogan has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 25 years and is recognized for his ability to inspire nonprofit organizations to tackle complex issues and create sustainable solutions to organizational and community issues. His skills and experience stem from a diverse background that encompasses leading backcountry wilderness trips, building organizations from the ground up, and developing leading-edge collaborative and capacity-building initiatives. 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

    26 min
  7. Bow Valley Non-Profits: Innovation, Collaboration, and Community

    FEB 11

    Bow Valley Non-Profits: Innovation, Collaboration, and Community

    The episode examines the evolving landscape of nonprofit collaboration in the Bow Valley, sharing insights from community leaders on how they are working together to address local needs. It highlights the importance of connection, resource-sharing, and the role of funding in supporting their initiatives. Key Messages • Exploring the impact of the pandemic on nonprofit organizations • Overview of the Bow Valley Non-Profits and its web platform • Insights from recent surveys addressing nonprofit challenges • Initiatives for collaborative funding discussions among local funders • Importance of collective events and asset mapping for nonprofits • Details about the successful Bow Valley Non-Profit Summit and attendee feedback • Focus on fostering trust and authentic relationships within the community About the Bow Valley Non-Profits Bow Valley Non-Profits is a platform that is intended to serve as a central hub for Bow Valley non-profit organizations to access relevant resources, such as funding opportunities and training resources. This includes a functional website designed to help local non-profits quickly and easily find relevant resources. This website content and design are based on feedback from local non-profit organizations. Seed funding to develop this website was provided by the Town of Canmore, with ongoing funding and support provided by the Town of Banff and the Town of Canmore.  This website was created for the benefit of local non-profits, with the intention of having non-profit members help to populate and contribute to the quality of the website content.  The Municipalities of Banff and Canmore also pool human resources for the advancement of community development work that hosts 2 Non-Profit Collective events annually that offer opportunities for connection, collaboration and learning in a variety of ways.  In 2024, Bow Valley Non-Profits teamed up with the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation and Banff Canmore Foundation to host the very first Bow Valley Non-Profits Summit- an evening keynote speaker and day long PD and workshop event intended to amplify collaboration and learning needs that were identified in the 2023 Bow Valley Non-Profits Survey.  Connect with Laura Wellmann or Jessica LaBonte 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

    28 min
  8. Empowering Change with Radical Generosity & Shared Resources

    JAN 20

    Empowering Change with Radical Generosity & Shared Resources

    What if charities and non-profits could operate rent-free, channeling more resources towards their mission? Join us as we welcome Diana Davis, the Executive Director of the Jerry Forbes Centre Foundation, who shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to spearheading a transformative model of shared workspaces. Discover how the centre's rent-free, collaborative environment is allowing organizations like Paralympic Sports of Alberta to thrive by redirecting financial savings into their vital programs. Through Diana's insights, we unlock the secrets behind the Jerry Forbes Centre's success in fostering an organic, problem-solving community that redefines efficiency in the nonprofit sector. We also shine a spotlight on the empowering movement of Radical Generosity, a concept that gained momentum during the pandemic and continues to inspire community support through small acts of kindness. Our conversation dives into the Jerry Forbes Centre's pivotal role as a social service hub, where supporting the centre is akin to backing multiple organizations. This episode promises a profound look at the synergetic power of shared resources and the community. Episode Key Messages Overview of Jerry Forbes Centre as a charity for charities • Mission of saving operating costs for nonprofits • Benefits of shared resources and collaboration • Real examples of success among tenants • Challenges faced in fundraising and community awareness • Introduction of the Radical Generosity movement • Invitation to tour the centre and support local nonprofits About Our Guest With a career spanning various industries, Diana Davis has taken on management roles in accounting, business operations, and entrepreneurship. She joined the Jerry Forbes Centre Foundation (JFCF) in 2016 as part-time Finance Director, and in June 2019, she assumed the role of Executive Director following the departure of Max Scharfenberger. Since stepping into this role, Diana has been responsible for overseeing the Foundation and the Centre, collaborating with the Board of Directors, handling tenant applications, and managing property operations. Outside of her professional life, Diana treasures spending time with her two adult children and her granddaughter. As a lifelong animal lover, her home is shared with a pair of cats and an energetic Belgian Shepherd. She also spends much of my free time with her horse, a passion that has been a cornerstone of her life for over 40 years. 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

    22 min

About

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 passionated changemakers to share their story.There is so much hard work and passion going into life-altering work in the nonprofit world. The foundation was looking for an avenue to give those voices a platform—to share their purpose, hopes and dreams with the rest of us. That's how Give Amplify Connect was born. Through unfiltered conversations with leaders of the nonprofit world, the podcast aims to not only inspire listeners but offer an inside look into what keeps these organizations moving forward.  The Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation supports local charities in Alberta that are creating opportunities for access to the outdoors and athletics, children and their families, and women's education and leadership.  Driven by honest connections, the Give Amplify Connect podcast is a chance for passionate people to share their story and message more broadly. Learn more at  www.wolfepackwarriors.com Music: Okay be Ellen Braun www.ellenbraun.bandcamp.com/track/okay