In a remarkable show of community spirit and corporate collaboration, The Energizing Communities Collective, a group of 25 Calgary-based energy companies, has been awarded the Outstanding Philanthropic Group at the 2024 Generosity of Spirit Awards, hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), Calgary & Area Chapter. The award was presented during a special ceremony on August 28, recognizing the Collective’s efforts to raise $4 million in support of Classroom Champions, a nonprofit that connects students with mentorship and social-emotional learning programs.
Geri Greenall, Founder of The Energizing Communities Collective, expressed the group’s gratitude for the honor. “On behalf of The Energizing Communities Collective, we are truly honored to be recognized with the Outstanding Philanthropic Group award. This award reflects the incredible power of collective action for a shared purpose. We are grateful to be a part of the Generosity of Spirit Awards and inspired to continue creating meaningful change in our community,” said Greenall.
The Collective, spearheaded by Greenall in 2022, is the first organization of its kind in Canada. It brings together competitive energy sector companies under a single philanthropic mission—a unique collaboration that has had a transformative impact on students across Western Canada.
A Transformative Partnership
Classroom Champions, co-founded by Olympian Steve Mesler, nominated The Energizing Communities Collective for the award, recognizing the Collective’s role in expanding Classroom Champions’ mentorship programming to thousands of students.
“We’re incredibly proud to see The Energizing Communities Collective recognized for their exceptional contribution,” said Mesler. “Their partnership has unified industry competitors for a powerful common cause, and the $4 million they raised will expand our athlete mentorship programs, reaching more students than ever before. This unprecedented support from the Canadian energy sector has set a new standard for philanthropic collaboration.”
The funds raised by The Collective have directly fueled Classroom Champions’ growth in Western Canada, enabling the nonprofit to support 87 schools, 380 teachers, and nearly 10,000 students. The impact has been especially significant in rural and underserved communities, including 31 Indigenous communities that are now benefitting from customized programs.
Positive Outcomes for Students and Teachers
Research highlighted in Classroom Champions’ 2022 Impact Report shows how the mentorship program has made a lasting difference for students and teachers alike. Teachers implementing the program reported an 84% increase in student engagement, with 68% noting improved grades. The positive influence extends beyond academics, as 97% of teachers reported that Classroom Champions programming has greatly improved their classroom culture.
Seth Rosenzweig, CEO of Classroom Champions, described the partnership as a “game-changer,” noting a dramatic increase in program participation. “The support from The Energizing Communities Collective has been transformative. In one northeastern Alberta city alone, classroom participation skyrocketed from one teacher to 40 across eight schools in a single year. This incredible expansion highlights the lasting impact of the Collective’s support on students empowered through our mentorship programs,” Rosenzweig said.
Celebrating Generosity and Impact
The AFP will formally honor The Energizing Communities Collective, alongside other 2024 Generosity of Spirit honorees, in a celebration on National Philanthropy Day, November 15 at the Calgary Telus Convention Centre.
The event will bring together leaders, philanthropists, and community members who continue to uplift their communities through collaborative action, a testament to the power of shared values and generosity.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024.
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