Emergency fundraiser for local charity - Al Ritchie

Hi, my name is Denis Simard, and I am fundraising for the Al Ritchie Community Association (ARCA). ARCA is a registered charity and non-profit organization that has been actively advocating on behalf of the Al Ritchie community and the City of Regina resident's since 1987.

We began as a small organization who managed recreational programming for the residents of Al Ritchie. After 30 years, we have grown to include social programming, services, food security initiatives, community events and referrals to other agencies and organizations in and across Regina.

Despite our best efforts to respond to all the needs in our community we need your help to afford all that we have to do. Like everyone, our costs have gone up year to year and we serve more and more people each year. Just this last year saw us go from serving 12,000 people to 25,000. Help us help everyone. Our motto is neighbors by chance, community by choice.

Please note that anyone providing us a direct cash donation can also get a tax receipt from us as we are a registered federal charity.

WHO & HOW WE SERVE

ARCA works hard to find funding, including grants, sponsorships, partnership and local business involvement to be able to provide and meet the demands of the Al Ritchie community. Our priorities, goals and the activities we offer are determined through interactions with the community at meetings, our programs, free community events and direct contact with our staff and volunteer board. ARCA operates with the philosophy that residents know what kind of programming they need and want, it’s our job to listen.

COMMUNITY HUB

The Al Ritchie Community Association operates the Al Ritchie Family Wellness Centre which provides 18 free programs for families with toddlers aged 0 to 6, the Second Chance Community Shop which provides free clothing to the public providing over 200 pounds of free clothes per day, the Free Food Pantry provides free food to the public providing over 250 pounds of free food per day, manages two community gardens and provides hours of daily programming out of their space.

WHAT WE STAND FOR

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to empower and uplift our community by providing a diverse array of programs, resources, and support services. We are dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming environment that fosters social connections, promotes education, and facilitates skill-building. Through our collaborative efforts, we aim to eliminate barriers to basic needs and advocate for systemic changes that advance justice and equality.

COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY

We are committed to equity, inclusivity, and the well-being of every community member. By striving for a stronger, more resilient community, we work towards the prosperity of all its members. We believe that through unity and a focused dedication to systematic change, we can achieve a community that upholds the values of justice and equality for all.

CORE VALUES

Inclusion, Transparency, Diversity, Integrity, Sustainability, and Respect

Key STATS:

Pounds of food provided for free:

Pounds of clothing provided for free:

People served in one full year of programming:

Current estimates for our growth in 2024-2025:

People served: 35,000 people (up 18%)

Pounds of food given for free: 52,477.14 pounds (up 48%)

Pounds of clothing given for free: 52,884.90 pounds (up 34%)

Please note that 100% of the funds raised will support our programs and services touching the members of the Regina community. We thank you for your continued support.