Happy National Volunteer Week!

Last year, you contributed 51,376 volunteer hours!

We wrapped-up National Volunteer Week with our annual Orange Brunch—a heartfelt celebration of the volunteers who make our work at the DI possible. Held on Sunday, May 3rd at The Glenmore Inn & Convention Centre, the event was a vibrant gathering of community, gratitude, and recognition.

Staff from across the organization nominated exceptional volunteers and community partners for our Orange Brunch Values Awards, honouring those who truly embody the DI’s core values.

The morning featured a warm land acknowledgement by Curtis Blind, a powerful traditional prayer from Elder Clarence Wolfleg Sr., and live music by our very own Ken Bishop—all over a delicious brunch buffet. The energy in the room was filled with deep appreciation, shared purpose, and love for the people who help make our mission possible every single day.

Thank you to our event sponsors:

Values Awards Definitions:

Congratulations to the 2025 Values Award Recipients!

Values Awards – Individual Category
Respect – Bob Willson
Kindness – Linda Waldner
Accountability – Alexandria Ahluwalia
Wellness – Scott Robinson
Community – Maximiliano Lozano-Sarmiento
Newcomer – Sarah Boyle
Legacy – John Mabey

Values Awards – Group Category
Respect – Canadian Natural
Kindness – Starbucks District 2010
Accountability – Corex Resources
Wellness – Igbo Cultural Association of Calgary
Community – Team England
Newcomer – EllisDon
Legacy – McLennan Ross LLP

Free Goods Program Community Awards
Sustainability – La Tablée des Chefs
Newcomer – Costco Beacon Hill
Legacy – IKEA Calgary

Check out the video and images below for highlights from 2025 Orange Brunch.