Impact Newsletter – June 2025

Celebrating Growth, Gratitude, and New Beginnings

June marks a season of celebration at PREP as we proudly recognize the incredible accomplishments of our graduating students. Each milestone reached is a testament to their hard work, the support of their families, and the dedication of our staff. This month, we also shine a spotlight on CHAS (Children’s Hospital Aid Society), Calgary’s longest-running charity and a valued partner whose generous support is helping our teens build independence and confidence through our Teens on the Go program. As we reflect on these moments of progress and partnership, we’re reminded of the power of community in helping our kids thrive.

SUMMER RAFFLE

STORIES OF SUCCESS & INCLUSION

🎓 Celebrating Our 2024 PREP Graduates – A Story of Success & Inclusion

As the school year comes to a close, we are filled with pride and joy as we celebrate the achievements of our incredible 2024 PREP graduates! This year, we are thrilled to recognize Samantha, Ella, Anthony, Manuela, Jaxin, Zihbien, Trenton, and Keiran—each of whom brings their own unique talents, personalities, and dreams to the world. Their stories are a true reflection of what inclusion, perseverance, and community can achieve.

Samantha, graduating from Bishop Carroll High School, is most proud of becoming a good reader and remembers PREP as the place where she had fun and made friends. Ella, from William Aberhart High School, loves badminton and dance, and is looking ahead to a future working in a hair salon doing makeup and hair. Her favorite PREP memory? Brainstorming and having fun in class! Anthony, graduating from École Olds High School, is a sports star—he shines in basketball, volleyball, and soccer. He’s most proud of his athletic skills and looks forward to camping, fishing, traveling, and maybe even more schooling.

Manuela, graduating from St. Mary’s High School, treasures her time dancing and grocery shopping with friends. Her PREP memories—music bingo and joyful friendships—will stay with her as she moves toward college and new learning opportunities. Jaxin, also graduating from William Aberhart, looks back fondly on Early Learning classes with his family and is excited to keep swimming with the Dolphin’s Swim Club and stay connected to the community.

Zihbien, who’s also completing his time at William Aberhart, remembers pizza day at school and loved the Teens on the Go program at PREP. He’s most proud of his drawing skills and thankful for everyone at PREP. Trenton, from Bishop McNally High School, loved being in The Little Mermaid play and cherished music bingo and dance parties at PREP. His goal for the future is simple and beautiful—to be happy. And finally, Keiran, who brightened every room with his sense of humor and love for karaoke, was proud to walk the stage this year and shared countless memories with his peers.

Each of these grads has left their mark on PREP, and we are so proud to have been a part of their journey. We can’t wait to see the many ways they will continue to shine. Congratulations, grads—you inspire us all! 💛

DONOR HIGHLIGHT

Spotlight on CHAS Calgary: Over a Century of Compassion and Community

The Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) is Calgary’s longest-serving charity and a remarkable example of grassroots generosity in action. Founded in 1908 by a small group of dedicated women, CHAS began its legacy by providing hands-on support to Calgary’s first children’s hospital. Over time, their mission evolved to meet the changing needs of children in the community, but their commitment to improving the health and well-being of young people has never wavered.

Now, more than 117 years later, CHAS remains entirely volunteer-driven, powered by a team of 75 passionate individuals who devote their time and hearts to making a difference. Their focus spans all areas of child health—physical, mental, and emotional—and their impact can be seen in hospitals, schools, and community programs across Calgary.

CHAS volunteers lead the organization’s grant selection committee, carefully reviewing applications and allocating funding to initiatives that will have the greatest impact. Their approach is both thoughtful and compassionate, guided by a deep belief that all children deserve the opportunity to thrive. This philosophy aligns beautifully with PREP’s vision, and we are thrilled to be among the organizations they support.

Most recently, CHAS has become the proud sponsor of PREP’s Teens on the Go program, which helps teens with Down syndrome build confidence and life skills through real-world community outings. Whether it’s learning to buy a train ticket or practicing social interactions, each experience helps prepare our students for greater independence and inclusion.

During a recent visit to PREP, CHAS volunteers Jer and Geri toured our facility, observed student sessions, and shared more about the heart behind CHAS’s work. They spoke about being driven by both cause and camaraderie—a shared sense of purpose and the powerful bonds formed among volunteers who care deeply about the same mission. Their visit was a reminder of how much can be achieved when community-minded people come together to support children and families.

CHAS continues to embody compassion, legacy, and leadership in Calgary’s charitable landscape, and we are incredibly grateful for their support of PREP and the Down syndrome community.

To learn more about CHAS Calgary, visit https://chascalgary.ca.

UPCOMING EVENT

Important Update: The PREP Classic Is Joining Forces with the Bogeys & Business Bash!

We’re excited to share that The PREP Classic will now be joining forces with the Canadian Progress Club’s 2nd Annual Bogeys & Business Bash! By combining our efforts, we hope to make an even bigger impact in support of individuals with Down syndrome and children across Alberta.

Mark your calendars!
Date: Thursday, June 26, 2025
Location: Springbank Links Golf Club
Hosted by: The Canadian Progress Club
In Support Of: PREP Society and Variety – the Children’s Charity of Alberta

This incredible event is a perfect blend of fun, networking, and purpose. Whether you’re swinging for the love of golf or to support a great cause, we’d love for you to join us!

👉 Register to golf: Click here
👉 Explore sponsorship opportunities: Click here

Event Schedule:
🕢 7:30 AM – Registration opens
🏌️ 9:00 AM – Shotgun start
🥪 Lunch provided after the tournament

Thank you for continuing to support PREP. We can’t wait to see you on the course for a day of golf, community, and impact!

2025/2026 YEAR AHEAD

$21 FOR 21 CAMPAIGN