This year, our commitment to supporting families impacted by domestic violence was met with remarkable achievements, meaningful partnerships, and unwavering dedication from our incredible community. We want to take this time to look back on all the moments we shared as we celebrate 2023 and look forward to all that’s to come for 2024.
HomeFront Dedicates Remote Testimony Room to Wanda Clark and Suzanne DuGray
We started the year by taking time to honour and recognize two extraordinary HomeFront Case Managers who we lost too soon, but who continue to make an impact on us every day. We officially launched our new remote testimony room and dedicated the space to Wanda Clark and Suzanne DuGray. This remote testimony room allows us to utilize technology to give clients the opportunity to testify remotely to court, and now also serves as a special memorial to two wonderful women who dedicated their work to serving and supporting families impacted by domestic violence.
HomeFront Partners with Gems for Gems
In 2023, we furthered our partnership with Gems for Gems by launching the Thrive Series and held our first two successful events in our 4 part series. These events are designed to empower survivors of domestic violence and provide them with education and skills to move forward in their journey to healing. We look forward to continuing the Thrive series in 2024 and expanding our reach.
We also formalized our commitment to creating lasting change by launching the “Gems Ambassadors” program, which will pair Gems volunteers with our clients going through trial to offer additional supports as they navigate this overwhelming experience.
We know that together our collective impact is more significant, and we look forward to seeing this partnership unfold as we work together to break the cycle of domestic violence and provide avenues for healing and empowerment.
Two Prestigious Awards
Two of HomeFront’s longest standing employees both received extremely well deserved awards in recognition of their many achievements throughout their two decades at HomeFront.
Laura Ducharme, who has been with HomeFront since our inception received the Excellence in Victim Services Award from the Government of Canada for her exemplary dedication to supporting victims of domestic violence throughout her career.
Our Executive Director, Maggie MacKillop, was awarded with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award in Community Policing from the Calgary Police Commission. This recognition is a testament to the passion and dedication Maggie brings to her work each day, and her unwavering commitment over the last 23 years to ensuring families are given the best chance at a future without violence.
Calgary Corporate Challenge
For the sixth consecutive year, HomeFront was proud to be one of the 10 charities as part of Calgary Corporate Challenge. We truly love meeting so many new people and getting to share our work with the many corporate partners involved in the games. It’s such a fun event to foster team spirit and camaraderie while raising awareness about a number of incredible charities in our city. A special shout out to TC Energy who hosted a number of events to raise funds to support HomeFront, including a candy fundraiser and a group hike.
Hike for HomeFront
Our commitment to building a strong, supportive community was evident in the success of the second annual Hike for HomeFront. The event raised awareness and critical funds, and also brought together individuals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence.
Calgary Pride Parade
Participating in the Calgary Pride Parade is such an amazing day every year! The energy, vibrancy and celebration is palpable. Our commitment to inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community is a vital aspect of our mission, and we are always honored to march alongside other organizations championing equality and acceptance.
As we look back on the achievements of 2023, we are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support from our community, the dedication of our team and the resilience of the families we serve. Together we have made a difference, and as we step into the new year we do so with renewed determination to continue our mission of supporting and empowering those affected by domestic violence.