The Calgary Foundation releases the 2009 Calgary's Vital Signs Report

CALGARY , Oct. 5 /CNW/ - On Tuesday October 6th , The Calgary Foundation is releasing the 2009 Calgary's Vital Signs Report - an annual check-up that combines expert research and citizen perceptions that measure the quality of life in Calgary .

    
        Time:       Tuesday Oct. 6 9:30 - 10:30 am
        Location:   Rocky Mountain Room , Calgary Area Outdoor Council
                    2nd Floor, 1111 Memorial Drive NW corner of Memorial
                    Drive and 10th Street NW

        Interviews available with members of Calgary Vital Signs team and
        relevant community issue experts. Refreshments provided by EthniCity
        Catering.

    "As a community leader and convener, The Calgary Foundation engaged more
    citizens than ever before in having their say about quality of life in
    Calgary," reports Eva Friesen, President & CEO of The Calgary Foundation.
    "Considering the economic turmoil, the grades are surprising."

           Vital Facts from the 2009 Calgary's Vital Signs Report

    Thriving

    - Calgary topped Maclean Magazine's 2009 "Most Cultured Cities" list
    - Calgary received the highest score in Canada in the area of life-long
      learning
    - Calgary's violent crime rate in 2008 was the lowest crime rate in 17
      years
    - Calgary's per person water consumption rate is decreasing annually

    Critical

    - Calgary's youth unemployment rate is twice as high as the general
      population
    - Calgary's sense of community belonging dropped sharply in 2008 and is
      lower than both national and provincial levels
    - Immigrants needing ESL programs, representing over 70 language groups,
      increases by 2000 students per year
    - In February 2009, the median emergency room wait-time was 16.6 hours,
      31% longer than in February 2008

    "Calgary's Vital Signs provides relevant and timely statistics that will
    inform the work of private, public and nonprofit sectors and can be used
    as a tool for change," says Eva Friesen.
    

The Calgary Foundation (TCF) - Established in 1955, TCF facilitates collaborative philanthropy by making powerful connections between donors and community organizations for the long term benefit of Calgary and surrounding area. In 2008-2009, The Calgary Foundation saw $25 million in new contributions, had an asset base of $274 million and granted $22 million to 655 charitable organizations.

For further information: Janice Francey, [email protected], W [phone], C [phone], www.thecalgaryfoundation.org