The Well Endowed Podcast

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Children’s Autism Services of Edmonton. On this episode, we speak with executive producer, Terri Duncan to learn how the organization is reshaping the way supports for kids and families living with Autism are delivered. This includes things like departing from a behavioural compliance approach toward something called the SCERTS model. SCERTS stands for Social Communication, Emotional Regulation and Transactional Support. This approach is designed to foster independence and creative thinking so that children living with Autism can grow to become healthy, contributing citizens in their communities. Links: Learn more about Children’s Autism Services of […]

The post EPISODE 168 – OUTSIDE OF THE BOX appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.

On this episode we’re joined by Tareq Hadhad, Founder and CEO of Peace by Chocolate. Born in Damascus, Tareq shares his journey from a Lebanese refugee camp to Antigonish, Nova Scotia. His journey from the Middle East to Canada and its resulting culture shock are the tip of an inspiring iceberg that showcase the compassion and support of Canadians, Nova Scotians and the people of Antigonish. Tareq will present the keynote address at Edmonton Community Foundation’s Annual luncheon on June 20th. Links: Read Jennifer Cockrall’s profile “Son of a Baron”. Read Tom Ndekezi’s feature “New Zone. Who’s This?” Watch the […]

The post EPISODE 167 – PEACE IS BEAUTIFUL IN ANY LANGUAGE appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.

Last year, our 10-part podcast series on the historic Vriend v. Alberta Supreme Court ruling received a nomination for a Canadian Online Publishing Award. This series has now been adapted into a feature-length documentary, Pride vs. Prejudice: The Delwin Vriend Story, written and directed by Darrin Hagen. Pride vs. Prejudice tells the compelling story of Delwin Vriend, who was dismissed from a Christian university in Edmonton for being gay, leading him to challenge this discrimination all the way to the Supreme Court. This documentary, produced by Edmonton Community Foundation and the Edmonton Queer History Project, premieres on May 19th at […]

The post EPISODE 166 – PRIDE VS. PREJUDICE appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.

In this episode, we conclude  Monelle Sturko’s panel discussion that examines the vital role of women in leadership within the non-profit sector. Join Monelle, Michele Okere and Yasmin Jivraj as they delve into effective strategies for making positive change, communicating effectively with Boards and what enables women to bring unique leadership styles to the table. About the Panelists: Monelle Sturko is the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Community Foundation. As well as the Chair of the Governance Committee and a board member of the Social Enterprise Fund. Monelle is also a litigator at the law firm […]

The post EPISODE 165 – LEADING WITH PURPOSE PART 2 appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.

In this episode, join us for part one of a dynamic panel discussion that delves deep into the vital role of women in leadership within the non-profit sector. Featuring a round table discussion lead by Monelle Sturko (ECF’s Board Chair), Michele Okere and Yasmin Jivraj bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, offering insights into the challenges, triumphs, and strategies for success in navigating the non-profit landscape. About the Panelists: Monelle Sturko is the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Community Foundation. As well as the Chair of the Governance Committee and a board member of […]

The post EPISODE 164 – LEADING WITH PURPOSE PART 1 appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.

Accepting the role as an executor of an estate can be a daunting prospect. Between probate and tax considerations and beneficiaries who may, or may not get along, the process can seem overwhelming.   On this episode we sit down with Victoria Jones from the law firm de Villars Jones to discuss the ins and outs of estate administration.    Victoria has appeared at all levels of court in Alberta and has appeared at the Supreme Court of Canada.  Her practice includes Wills, Estates, Trusts, Estate Litigation and Administrative Law.   She is also part of the dedicated team of volunteer estate lawyers […]

The post EPISODE 163 – ESTATE OF AFFAIRS appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, we go into our archives to bring you a story about two incredible community builders in our city. Nunu Desalgne and Hayat El-Ossmani were recognized for their community work at the 2022 RISE Awards. The RISE Awards are presented by Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers to recognize immigrant success in Edmonton. Hayat and Nunu received The Community Leadership Award, sponsored by Edmonton Community Foundation. This award recognizes newcomers who demonstrate a commitment to community engagement, with the goal of creating a more welcoming and inclusive community for all. Since 2003, The RISE Awards have celebrated newcomers who have […]

The post EPISODE 162-RISE REPLAY appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.

February 27th is International Polar Bear Day. On this episode, we’re putting on our parkas and heading out to learn about these majestic creatures. We’ll meet Dr. Andrew Derocher, a polar bear biologist from the University of Alberta to see how polar bears are faring in a changing Arctic, and we’ll hear from Dianne Johnstone one of the founders of the Johnstone-Wright Polar Bear Fund at Edmonton Community Foundation. This very special fund supports education, research and conservation efforts for polar bears and other Arctic species. Links: Learn more about the Johnstone-Wright Polar Bear Fund. Learn more about Dr. Derocher’s […]

The post EPISODE 161 – KING OF ICE & WATER appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.

On this episode, we go back into our archives to present a replay of our look at how bias in data gathering can impact representation of communities. Our guest producer, Emily Rendell-Watson, speaks with three incredible community members with experience in data research, urban planning and activism. This story originally aired in 2022 while ECF explored the history of racism through its annual Vital Signs initiative. Vital Signs is a check-up to see how the community is fairing on various issues. This work is done in collaboration with Edmonton Social Planning Council and with guidance from a dedicated committee made […]

The post EPISODE 160 – RACE-BASED BIAS AND DATA REPLAY appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.

On this episode, our correspondent, Danielle Paradis introduces us to Kyle Dubé, the executive director at YOUCAN Youth Services. Kyle tells us how being relentless can make a difference. YOUCAN helps young people out of harm’s way, and onto a path of economic independence. They do this through a series of programs that empower healthy decision-making.  They also help youth to return to school and enter the work force with training and skill development. Links: Learn more abut YOUCAN Youth Services. Check out their Relentless podcast series. ECF Happenings: Find out how to create an Endowment Fund of your own. Read […]

The post Episode 159 – YOUCAN Youth Services appeared first on The Well Endowed Podcast.