ARC contributes $1.5 million to support United Way and local partners in launch of Planet Youth Calgary
ARC is proud to announce our $1.5 million investment as a founding sponsor of Planet Youth Calgary through United Way Calgary and Area. This contribution will help establish a new approach to supporting and improving the well-being of youth in Calgary. Based on a proven model used in Iceland, Planet Youth creates an environment where youth have the opportunity to reach their fullest potential, ensuring that youth, now and into the future, are equipped to contribute to a thriving community.
“The issues today’s youth face are complex and interconnected. To support youth in tackling these challenges, our approach must be both collaborative and holistic,” said Lara Conrad, ARC’s Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer. “We applaud United Way’s leadership in bringing this innovative program to our community and enhancing the wellbeing and resiliency of local youth for the future generations to come.”
“Nobody does anything on their own. It will take all of us pulling together – Indigenous partners, government, agencies, researchers and youth, themselves – to effect long-term, sustainable change. We are proud to partner with ARC Resources to shape our city’s future through Planet Youth Calgary. Together, we will make Calgary one of the best places in the world to be a kid and raise a family,” says Karen Young, President and CEO, United Way of Calgary and Area.
About Planet Youth
Planet Youth is an international evidence-based prevention model developed by the Icelandic Centre for Social Research and Analysis.
It has been proven to reduce substance use rates amongst young people and positively impact other areas of their lives as well. The model brings together local youth, parents, caregivers, teachers, schools, communities, agencies, governments, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in a truly collaborative and comprehensive approach to support youth in all aspects of their lives.
United Way has also worked extensively to integrate Indigenous parallel processes and perspectives throughout the development of Planet Youth by engaging with Indigenous youth and Elders for guidance and knowledge.
Focus Areas
This innovative initiative focuses its efforts on four Calgary communities – guided by a strategic framework of priorities:
- Connecting youth with people who care
- Fostering youth belonging, learning, and growing in safe places
- Unleashing the power of youth voices
- Defining youth purpose through meaningful experiences
Long-term partnership for long-term benefit
ARC has supported United Way of Calgary and Area for more than 27 years and this latest $1.5 million commitment will be invested over the next five years. It’s through long-term partnerships like this that we believe we can create positive impacts on our city for the decades to come.
