This being referendum day and a planned assembly day that could not happen due to the election and many unable to attend this meeting, we had 17 members present and no guests and met at the Atrium of the Delta south on Southland Drive SW Calgary. Dinner of pork tenderloin, gyoza, cabbage, Greek salad, desert pastries etc. was well enjoyed by those present for this intimate and most enjoyable meeting of 17 animated members.
We sang ‘O Canada’, had a taste of President Don’s Operatic prowess and enjoyed good fellowship.
Building a Foundation for Affordable Homeownership
With no guests in attendance, members of the Rotary Club of Calgary West gathered to hear how Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta is helping families achieve safe, affordable homeownership while building stronger communities.
Our speaker and Club Treasurer, David Wartman, shared an informative look at Habitat’s work, including its current development in Dawson’s Landing, Chestermere, and the long-standing relationship between Habitat and our Club.
Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta began in 1990 and has since partnered with more than 400 families to help them purchase affordable homes across Southern Alberta. It is one of 45 Habitat affiliates in Canada and is recognized as a successful operator within the national organization.
Dawson’s Landing: Affordable Homes and New Beginnings
A major focus of the presentation was Habitat’s $9.6-million Dawson’s Landing development in Chestermere. Construction began in November 2025, and the project will provide 24 townhomes, with the first families expected to move in early 2027.
The homes are approximately 1,200 square feet, with at least three bedrooms and one-and-a-half bathrooms. Larger families may qualify for additional basement development. The homes include energy-efficient appliances, private outdoor space and features designed to improve resilience to Alberta’s challenging weather.
Habitat’s approach is about more than constructing houses. Eligible families purchase their homes through a no-down-payment, interest-free mortgage, with payments set at no more than 30% of household income. The program is designed to support long-term housing stability and financial independence.
Participating families contribute 500 volunteer hours as part of the program. These hours can include work on construction sites, at Habitat ReStores and through other approved volunteer activities. In some circumstances, other volunteers can contribute hours toward a family’s requirement.
The Chestermere project has demonstrated the power of community involvement. David reported that 1,087 volunteers had contributed more than 18,898 hours to the development. Suppliers and businesses have also donated materials, appliances and other essentials to help make the homes possible.
Additional Habitat projects are planned or underway in Calgary, Medicine Hat and other communities, including a proposed development in Chestermere’s Clearwater neighbourhood.
A Long-Standing Partnership with Rotary West
Our Club’s relationship with Habitat for Humanity dates back to 2005, beginning with a playhouse fundraising initiative. Over the years, Calgary West Rotary has contributed $7,721 through various initiatives and has supported Habitat casino fundraisers which have garnered much greater funds since 2006.
David also described his own experience volunteering at Habitat, where he has worked alongside dedicated staff, experienced construction volunteers and future homeowners. Meeting families who will occupy the homes has made the work especially meaningful.
The presentation prompted a lively discussion about the homeownership program, volunteer opportunities, donated materials and how families build equity in their homes. Members also shared experiences volunteering with Habitat projects in other parts of the world.
The message was clear: Habitat’s success depends on partnerships, volunteers and communities working together. Our Club can be proud of its contribution to this ongoing effort to make housing more accessible.
There were many questions and animated discussion about this project and its history, which Tim Anderson enlightened us about through his trusted Wikipedia information.
President Don thanked David and confirmed how such presentations open our eyes to so many wonderful and meaningful projects that many of us are involved with.
Club Business and Announcements
Pins for Polio Bowling Fundraiser
Members were invited to consider entering a team of four or five people in the Pins for Polio bowling fundraiser. The announced cost was $40 per person. Members interested in participating were asked to contact President Don for details.
Dinner Club and Fellowship Opportunities
Linda Anderson encouraged members to participate in the Club’s Dinner Club, an informal way to get to know fellow members beyond regular meetings. Groups are generally made up of eight people, or four couples, although smaller groups can be arranged to suit members’ circumstances.
There is no expectation of elaborate entertaining. Hosts can prepare a simple meal, organize a potluck or order pizza. Members interested in joining were asked to let Linda know by the following week so groups could be arranged.
Rosebud theatre excursion now sold out.
Linda reported and thanked those that participated.
Linda mentioned that members with ideas for social events in the coming year were encouraged to contact Linda or Debbie McMillan. The informal Friday morning café gatherings were mentioned as another opportunity for fellowship.
Christmas Brunch at Pinebrook Golf and Country Club
The Club’s Christmas gathering is planned for Sunday, December 13, at Pinebrook. Members were encouraged to save the date. The cost was still being negotiated and had not yet been confirmed. Lets try and attend as this, if it happens, is an outstanding location and setting for a Christmas holiday family event
Rotary Remembers Nov 11th, 10 am at the Carriage House Hotel & Conference Centre $55.00 per person
Members were encouraged by Gord Cox, to register for the upcoming Rotary Remembers event, featuring retired Major General Barry Ashton as guest speaker. The announced ticket price was $55, and members were advised that the event typically attracts a strong turnout. Registration information is available through the event website.
Member News
Sun tanned Morocco return, Malcolm Harrison informed us (and members received an email update) on Chris Ritter’s surgery. The reported procedure was successful, and he was recovering at home. We send Chris our best wishes for a smooth recovery and look forward to seeing him back at meetings when he is ready.
Sa'adat Keshavjee
Reporter
