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Shared Space Initiative

A Space to Connect, Grow and Thrive

At ActionDignity, we know that many ethnocultural communities face a common challenge: not having access to dedicated space to do their work, connect with others, and grow. Our Shared Space initiative was created to change that.

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The Purpose Behind

This initiative aims to establish a Centre of Excellence dedicated to promoting human dignity and implementing transformative initiatives that make Calgary an inclusive city where everyone belongs. The Centre serves as a bridge between grassroots communities and various mainstream organizations and larger, coordinated systems of care, to improve the quality of life for individuals and racialized communities.  

The Centre will use research, community engagement, inclusive leadership, capacity building, and advocacy to bring people together, build strong relationships, and encourage collective action. By working together, we can create stronger communities and lasting change. 

By bringing our member organizations together in a shared environment, they can access office, meeting, and event space—while also sharing knowledge, resources, and ideas. It’s about more than just space; it’s about creating opportunities for collaboration, learning, and collective innovation.

Our Approach

Feasibility Study & Community Insight Gathering (July-November 2024)

The study included a stakeholder analysis, a literature review, a community engagement process, and ongoing dialogue with  ActionDignity leadership.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Building (April-June 2025)

Engaged key stakeholders, including funders, government, and institutional partners with visioning sessions to built alignment and early support.

Vision Alignment & Commitment Building (July 2025)

Convened stakeholders to affirm shared commitment to the initiative. Strengthened collective vision and direction for the shared space.

Community Engagement & Space Visioning (August – November 2025)

Facilitated community engagement sessions to shape vision and purpose. Prioritized equity and community-driven input. Explored key considerations for the space (e.g., location, accessibility, proximity to LRT, NE focus)

What the Shared Space Offers

The ActionDignity shared space would provide room for 5-7 organizations to rent private offices and a combination of small, medium, and large meeting rooms and event spaces for rent to both tenants and non-tenants.

The shared space would have basic amenities and parking, and be located close to transit, ideally in the Northeast of Calgary. The space design would be accessible and offer a welcoming space for people to connect and collaborate. 

What Participants Are Saying

“I learned the conditions for system-led change. Making a big change can be difficult, but having a framework can make things seem possible.”
“Very engaging presenter. Created a safe space for honest conversation. Clear distinction between policies and practices is so important- I really appreciated that!”
“I enjoyed the different portions of the training, e.g. group activities, personal activity, videos, and lectures. It didn’t seem like 8 hours!”
“Today was great! I felt more connected to our team and feel hopeful for the work to come.”
“I learned the conditions for system-led change. Making a big change can be difficult, but having a framework can make things seem possible.”
“Very engaging presenter. Created a safe space for honest conversation. Clear distinction between policies and practices is so important- I really appreciated that!”
“I enjoyed the different portions of the training, e.g. group activities, personal activity, videos, and lectures. It didn’t seem like 8 hours!”
“Today was great! I felt more connected to our team and feel hopeful for the work to come.”

Call for Partners

As we begin the planning phase of this initiative, we’re inviting ActionDignity’s member organizations to submit a letter of interest to help us identify potential partners. This will be followed by a community engagement process focused on co-developing a governance charter, as well as decision-making processes, protocols, and criteria for organizations sharing the space.

ActionDignity will then work closely with member organizations to co-create action plans that ensure equitable participation in building and operating the shared space.

(Submission deadline: April 24)

Submit Your Interest