Asset-Based Community Development: A Free Event for Calgary Community Builders
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
If you're passionate about community building in Calgary, there's a free event coming up that's worth checking out.
On Friday, May 1, 2026, the Community Development Learning Initiative (CDLI) is hosting ABCD in Action: Finding Our Way Together - a full-day gathering at The Brownstone (221 10th Ave SE) from 9 AM to 4 PM.
What is Asset-Based Community Development?
Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) is an approach to community building that focuses on the strengths, skills, and resources already present in a neighbourhood. Rather than starting from a place of need or deficit, it's a framework that's been gaining traction, and this event is a chance to see it in action, while shaping how it evolves in Calgary.
What to Expect?
The day is packed with practical, participatory programming. Highlights from the tentative schedule include:
A Community Development Talk Show to kick things off, followed by breakout sessions exploring ABCD framework updates, project story walls, and resource sharing.
After lunch (included with your free registration), you can choose between an Active Asset Mapping Walk or an ABCD and Anti-Racism Story Circle.
The afternoon wraps up with a conversation on how to tell the story of ABCD - an important question for anyone doing this work.
It's the kind of day where you'll leave with new ideas, new connections, and lot of inspiration.
Who's It For?
Anyone who cares about making Calgary's neighbourhoods and communities better places for everyone. Whether you're a practitioner, a resident leader, a funder, an educator, or just someone who's curious, this event is for you.
The event also highlights the work coming out of the Building Connected Communities project, a City of Calgary-funded initiative that has been putting targeted investment into ABCD across our communities.
Good to Know
Transit options are nearby: City Hall C-Train station is about a 4-block walk, and bus routes #24 and #10 stop close by.
Parking includes paid street parking, with pre-paid options potentially available (please make note in your registration form). Childminding support may also be available if that's a barrier for you to participate.
The venue has ramp access from 10th Ave SE, gender-neutral and accessible washrooms, a quiet room, and an outdoor courtyard.
This event is free and includes lunch.
Event Details and Registration
📅Friday, May 1, 2026 | 9 AM to 4 PM
📍The Brownstone - 221 10th Ave SE
Spots are free but registration is required. You can sign up at eventbrite.com and learn more about CDLI and community development in Calgary at calgarycdli.com.
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