Brewing a brighter future for those in need

8 April 2020

Charities depend on regular and sustained giving to guarantee support for the most vulnerable in our communities. In 2015 Macquarie’s Calgary team launched the inaugural Calgary Brew Off to support local non-profits and help provide vital support for regional Canadians at risk.

“The event was inspired by our Calgary team’s desire to make an impact in our community by supporting local charities,” says Paige Gloslee, a Macquarie employee who organised the event. “The charity fundraiser maintains a local theme, by highlighting local produce, the growing craft beer scene and sustainable products that make us proud to be Albertans.”

As one of the largest industry-led fundraisers in Calgary, the event has raised over $CA3 million since 2015 – with the Macquarie Group Foundation matching each dollar raised.

Macquarie leaders and clients join forces to form four teams to compete in the annual Brew Off, raising funds for their chosen charity. Before the big event, each team creates their own craft beer, infused with regionally sourced ingredients. Once the ceremonial keg is tapped, attendees are given the opportunity to sample and vote for their favourite brew. The winning team not only gets bragging rights – they also secure a spot in next year’s competition.

“The event’s success is thanks to our senior leadership team, who encourage clients to participate, and the tremendous amount of support those clients provide,” says Paige. “This year alone, with the support of Macquarie’s Foundation matching, we raised a record $CA1.96 million.”

These funds are supporting a number of local non-profits, casting a spotlight on the diverse needs within the community. This year they included Momentum, Children’s Cottage Society, Discovery House and Special Olympics Calgary.

Momentum helps people living on low incomes develop important skills, while the Children’s Cottage Society prevents harm and neglect to children through various support services. Discovery House provides care to women and their children fleeing domestic violence and the Special Olympics Calgary provides sporting opportunities to athletes with an intellectual disability.

Erin Shakespeare, regional director for the Macquarie Group Foundation in the Americas, enjoys seeing the creative ways Macquarie staff collaborate for causes important to them.

“At the Foundation’s core, we’re truly staff-led, supporting our creative and passionate people to contribute to their communities in a way that’s meaningful to them,” says Erin.

Paige, along with the rest of the Macquarie team, always looks forward to the annual fundraiser.

“The Macquarie Calgary team takes immense pride in being able to give back to the community and make a difference,” she says.