Brooks: CHAS Holiday Luncheon supports Youth Centres of Calgary

Readers may recall I have often opined if you want an event to be successful, best put the ladies in charge.

There is perhaps no better example of ‘girl power’ than the Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS). Formed in 1908, the invaluable organization has raised millions of dollars for myriad organizations that support the health and welfare of children. The organization is comprised of a dedicated group of 75 volunteer women. Whether golf tournaments, bridge luncheons, corporate partnerships, or its signature Holiday Luncheon, the CHAS ladies can always be counted upon to create winning outcomes.

This year’s luncheon, held Dec. 5 at the BMO Centre, was sold out months prior and succeeded in raising thousands of dollars for Youth Centres of Calgary (YCC).

Founded in 2019 by the dynamic Jane Wachowich, YCC, the Youth Centres of Calgary through its home in Ogden affords kids a welcoming, home-like place, stability, nutritious food, help with homework, and healthy connections they may not have access to elsewhere. Its programs help at-risk youth reach their full potential and break the cycles of poverty that prevent our most vulnerable from becoming healthy, strong, contributing members of society. Wachowich’s keynote presentation at the luncheon was truly inspirational.

Other highlights at the luncheon included welcoming remarks and thanks from CHAS president Jennifer Foss; silent auction items; performances from crooner Michael Hope; and piano performances from two of YYC’s boys.

Among the hundreds of guests in attendance were luncheon co-chairs Carol Dougall and Glenys Ryan; silent auction chair Jan Bellis; Banff Aspen Lodge’s Dorothy Woolstencroft; incoming CHAS vice-president Anna Maier; Ann McCaig with her daughters Roxanne and Jane; J. Vair Anderson’s Annette Toro; community supporter Kim Berjian; Julie Hamilton; CHAS 40th anniversary project director Dianne Ferguson; Norma Hamm and her daughter Leslie Schmeiler; Joyce Laidlaw; Gillian Woolstencroft; Elizabeth Carson; Winnie Bezemer; Joan Andre; Myra Bratrud; Donna Remington; Jennifer Brookman; and others pictured.