Airdrie's Community Safety and Social Services Standing Committee recently heard from Natasha Guillot, a social planner with the city, about the Airdrie Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) program and its preparations for the 2026-2028 Funding Cycle.
In 2023, Airdrie Family and Community Support Services made significant strides in bolstering the city's social well-being. Through various community-centred initiatives and preventive programs, FCSS, which operates through a funding partnership between the City of Airdrie and the Province of Alberta, directly impacted the lives of over 11,000 residents. These efforts focused on supporting vulnerable groups and fostering an inclusive environment.
This year, the FCSS had a budget of $1.6 million, carefully allocated to 19 programs across nine community agencies. This funding was part of a strategy developed in 2022 to ensure maximum impact for the community.
FCSS efforts in 2023 focused on promoting social inclusion among vulnerable populations, supporting the positive development of children and youth, and enhancing the capacity of individuals and families to meet their own needs. These priorities were chosen in response to the unique and evolving social challenges of Airdrie, one of Alberta’s fastest-growing communities.
Participant feedback shows the success of these programs, with 87.6 per cent of surveyed individuals reporting positive changes after engaging with FCSS-funded initiatives. Stories from the community highlight the tangible impact of these efforts. In one notable case, an elderly resident facing housing challenges found relief through the Airdrie Seniors Outreach Program.
Over several months, the program provided support with housing applications, subsidy programs, and essential paperwork, ultimately leading to a secure home and access to additional community resources. This is part of a more significant trend, with 85 per cent of older adults indicating they have the resources needed to feel connected and included.
Youth programming also brought about significant results. In one initiative, a relationship education program involving a local hockey team exceeded expectations. Young participants engaged in deep discussions about consent, communication, and emotional well-being, developing skills beyond their age group. This led to a boost in self-confidence, with 80 per cent of youth participants demonstrating developmentally appropriate social skills and 76 per cent reporting increased self-assurance.
Beyond youth and senior-focused initiatives, FCSS programs provided critical support to residents of all ages, building resilience across the community. One participant, who initially sought counselling due to feelings of isolation and anxiety, found hope and new coping strategies through consistent sessions.
Over time, they reported greater control over their emotions and a more optimistic outlook on the future. This experience is not unique; 72 per cent of participants reported improved capacity to handle life’s challenges, and 84 per cent felt more confident about improving their lives.
Volunteers were at the heart of FCSS's success, dedicating their time and energy to enhancing the impact of these programs. In 2023, nearly 800 volunteers contributed over 54,000 hours to various initiatives, serving as advocates, connectors, and community builders.
Their efforts went beyond simply filling service gaps; they played a key role in linking vulnerable individuals to essential resources and support. The work was deeply rewarding for many volunteers—87 per cent reported feeling that they had made a meaningful difference in the community.
Looking to the future, Airdrie’s rapid growth presents new social challenges. In anticipation of changing needs, FCSS has already begun preparations for the 2026-2028 funding cycle. The organization is actively gathering feedback from local stakeholders and program participants to ensure that future strategies are aligned with emerging trends.
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