Catholic Family Service, Calgary

Catholic Family Service (CFS) is a social service agency offering affordable and innovative programs for children, adults and families of all faith backgrounds and cultures. Through counselling services, support for teen parents and their children, and community-based programs, we have been building strong families in Calgary since 1957. Our programs and services respond to the challenges that threaten families and leave them vulnerable. We focus on enhancing the mental health and well-being of our clients, empowering parents, nurturing children’s healthy development and enabling success in school. We encourage discussion and healing at the family level. In so doing, we help our clients build strong and resilient families, breaking through the cycle of vulnerability to live the lives they have always wanted. Louise Dean Centre A partnership of CFS, Calgary Board of Education, and Alberta Health Services, Louise Dean Centre breaks down barriers to education for youth who are expecting a child or parenting. At one convenient, central location, young parents can access the academic, emotional, financial, and early childhood supports they need to thrive. Through Louise Dean Centre, CFS provides: counselling services to support mental health concerns and adjustment to early parenting; life skills development for expectant and parenting youth; specialized childcare services that emphasize early childhood attachment, learning and development; stay-in-school programs and learner bursaries for expectant and parenting moms; and parenting skills programs for young dads. Unlocking Potential Foundation (UP) UP was established in 2009 as the fundraising arm of Catholic Family Service. UP works to ensure the sustainability of innovative programs that build strong families and have a positive impact on future generations.