WE’RE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE OUR SIGNATURE EVENT:

IRIS 2024, In support of Highbanks Society

In the spirit of springtime and honour of a resilient Calgary community, IRIS 2024 is a signature event emblematic of renewal and connection presented by ATB Financial. Join us on April 25, 2024 in support of Highbanks Society.

In our inaugural year we raised $65,562

You’re invited

Last year we hosted an event in support of Emma House and raised over $65,000 that went directly to the women and children at the organization. This year we want to do it all again for Highbanks Society! IRIS will present an evening with some of the city’s most electric talent, beloved household names and unexpected live performances, including a splashy show, a big-ticket draw and an effervescent toast to visiting residents, alumni, and more. 

We’d love to see you there!

Empowering women, building brighter futures.

Highbanks Society is a non-profit organization that supports vulnerable pregnant or parenting women between 16-24 years old who are leaving situations of domestic violence, poverty, and/or homelessness and are committed to their educational goals. 

For these mother-led families who face incredible uncertainty, Highbanks offers them hope by providing a safe home, an opportunity for education, and a comprehensive range of support services that allow them to break free from barriers created by trauma, empowering them to build a brighter future.

Empowering women and children fleeing trauma.

Women who experience domestic abuse are 3x more likely to develop mental illness.

Every young mom and her child deserves a safe and nurturing environment, access to quality education, and the chance to pursue their dreams. Sadly, many young individuals fleeing trauma have been denied these basic rights due to circumstances beyond their control.

Highbanks Society creates a safe, nurturing environment for their little families. It provides them with the intensive mental health support that is needed to help them overcome traumatic experiences and build a brighter future. 

77% of Highbanks Society families identify as being part of the BIPOC community, and more than 50% as Indigenous.

Highbanks Society champions equity, diversity, and inclusion as they work with many marginalized young women and children. They have developed a strong multicultural component to their programming and community development initiatives, while on-site wellness space allows for their children to access culturally appropriate resources and support. 

While each resident ultimately navigates their own path to success, Highbanks provides a safe and supportive community to guide young mothers on their learning journey.

Why IRIS chose Highbanks

Highbanks Society believes that providing hope is like planting a seed in a young mom's heart and nurturing it with love and encouragement until it blossoms into something beautiful.

Unsupported young mothers and children are especially vulnerable to the cycle of poverty and homelessness. For these mother-led families who face incredible uncertainty, Highbanks Society offers them hope by providing a safe home, an opportunity for education, and a comprehensive range of support services that allow our youth to break free from barriers created by trauma. It's hope that brightens a path for a mom to reach her full potential and empower her to build a successful future of resilience, joy, and contribution.

IRIS stems from the same ethos—our community unites to lift one another up.

Iris 2024 is presented by
ATB FINANCIAL

IRIS 2024 Silver & Gold Sponsors

Meet IRIS

IRIS is a charitable initiative founded by entrepreneurs who champion momentum with inclusive experiences that raise funds and awareness for high-impact causes. Locally entrenched and resourced, IRIS is breaking cycles to create new possibilities for vulnerable, underserved communities.

IRIS advocates for the underserved by rallying the greater community to participate in strength & numbers.

Joining IRIS in supporting Highbanks Society means you directly help young mothers and children escaping trauma access a safe home, a nurturing community, and the critical support needed to build a solid foundation for a successful future. Together, we are creating a ripple effect of positive change for future generations to come. 

By showing your support—in spirit or presence—with energy, visibility, time or financial means—you are playing a valuable part. Because when we stand together, there is always a place for the one who needs to lean.

Join us on
April 25, 2024

You’re Invited

In the spirit of springtime and honour of a resilient Calgary community, IRIS 2024 is a signature event emblematic of renewal and reconnection in support of Highbanks Society. IRIS will present an evening of eclectic vibrance and Miami heat in celebration—poolside! Catch some of the city’s most electric talent and as always, beloved household names.

We’d love to see you there!

Stand with the strong-willed and openhearted.

Interested in getting involved in IRIS 2024?

If you or your business are looking to make a lasting impact, we invite you to partner with us for the annual IRIS event in support of Highbanks Society. Early involvement has its benefits!

Are you looking to make a lasting difference?

IRIS is always looking to grow our impassioned network to support the cause. If interested, please connect or learn more about becoming an event ambassador.