Powerful You! 2026 is a fundraising luncheon rooted in the belief that when we give with purpose, everyone gains.

Under the theme Give to Gain, this year’s event brings together community leaders for a shared meal and meaningful conversation—while directly supporting programs that help women and teen girls in Calgary build confidence, skills, and pathways to opportunity. Your presence helps transform generosity into lasting impact.

We are pleased to welcome Shari Graydon, Founder & Catalyst of Informed Opinions, as our featured speaker. An award-winning author and advocate, Shari brings deep experience in media, public discourse, and amplifying diverse voices.

Attending this event means growing your network while supporting programs that remove barriers and open doors.

Since 1981, Making Changes Association has supported thousands of women, those who identify as women, and teen girls to move forward with confidence, skills, and opportunity.

  • 3,100+ women and teen girls supported on a path toward confidence, employment, empowerment, and belonging

  • 12,375 volunteer hours contributed to direct client support

Where your giving goes

Your attendance helps sustain and grow programs across Making Changes Association, including:

Every ticket helps fund real tools, real coaching, and real support, so participants can gain confidence, skills, and employment momentum.

 

Event Agenda

11:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Welcoming & Networking
11:30 AM | Meal Service & Formal Program Begins
12:00 PM – 12:15 PM | Networking & Last chance for raffle tickets
12:15 PM – 1:00 PM | Speaker
1:00 PM – 1:15 PM | Closing remarks, raffle draws & giveaways

Tickets

Individual Ticket — $155

  • Qualifies for a $40 tax receipt

  • Includes: three-course meal, 1 drink ticket (wine or pop), and tea/coffee

Branded Table for 10 — $1,500

  • Qualifies for a $350 tax receipt

  • Includes: ten seats with three-course meal, 1 drink ticket per guest, and tea/coffee

  • Table branding included with the name of the purchasing individual or organization.

 

Meal Details

Each attendee will receive a three-course meal. Meals will be modified to meet allergy needs.

First Course: Arugula & Spinach, Candied Walnuts, Pickled Onions, Goat Cheese, Citrus Vinaigrette (GF, V)

Second Course: Entrée choice

  • Chicken: Herb & Lemon Roasted Chicken Breast, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Blistered Tomatoes, Sautéed Spinach, Citrus Beurre Blanc (GF)
    OR

  • Vegetarian: Quinoa, Spiced Chickpeas, Roasted Yams, Braised Red Cabbage, Sautéed Spinach, Grilled Artichokes, Blistered Tomatoes, King Mushroom, Tahini Dressing (GF, DF, PB)

Third Course: Strawberries & Cream, Vanilla Spongecake, Strawberry Ganache, Vanilla Cream, Shortbread Crumble (GF, DF, PB)

Powerful You! 2026 is made possible by our partners

Presented by:

 

Platinum Sponsor

 

Gold Sponsor

 

Supporting Sponsor

 

Interested in becoming a sponsor?

If you or your organization are interested in supporting Powerful You! 2026, we would love to connect. Please reach out to Tory Reade, Lead, Philanthropy, at philanthropy@makingchangesassociation.ca

Your support helps turn generosity into opportunity, and opportunity into lasting change.