Carya is a social impact agency that has been responding to the evolving social needs of the Calgary community since 1910.
Today, with over a century of expertise, we remain deeply rooted in being a place of connection and support for Calgarians when and where they need us most.
Carya impacts the lives of thousands of Calgarians each year, through a range of comprehensive, low to no-cost programs and services that enhance mental well-being, strengthen families, improve living conditions, and create meaningful social connections.
Our Mission:
Engaging individuals, families, and communities to realize their potential
Our Vision:
Strong families and communities for generations
But it’s not just about what Carya does – it’s about how we do it.
We believe in harnessing the unique strengths, abilities, and talents that individuals, families, and communities possess. Through this approach we empower individuals and communities to gain the necessary skills, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive, overcome challenges, and develop resilience, creating strong families and communities for generations.
Carya’s Values
HOW WE INTERACT: Respect and Kindness
HOW WE WORK: Creativity and Collaboration
HOW WE CARE FOR EACH OTHER: Belonging and Wellness
Carya’s 2023 – 2028 Strategic Plan
Our strategic plan is a living document which sets out our agency’s intention and the strategy we will undertake to achieve it.
Becoming The Carya Society of Calgary
Carya has a long and proud history of quietly serving Calgary’s community.
Our organization was originally founded as the Associated Charities in 1910. It was more largely known as Calgary Family Services since 1947.
In 2014, we changed our name from Calgary Family Services to Carya, which represents the hickory tree, known for its deep roots and strong, resilient wood.
Conflict Resolution
Carya Society of Calgary (Carya) is dedicated to delivering exceptional services to individuals and families in the Calgary community. If you are not satisfied with the services you receive, or you think that we have made a mistake, please contact us using the following process:
- Initially, we encourage you to communicate directly with the staff member assisting you. They are best positioned to address your concerns promptly. The Carya staff member is expected to acknowledge your complaint or concern as soon as possible and respond within five (5) working days. Any significant issues that may pose a risk to Carya will be escalated to the employee’s supervisor, who will promptly inform the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
- If you are unable to resolve your concern with the staff member or feel uncomfortable discussing it with them, please reach out to their supervisor. The supervisor will gather relevant information and steps taken regarding the complaint or concern and will promptly acknowledge your complaint or concern and work with you to identify a fair and satisfactory resolution within one (1) week. Details of your concern and the steps taken will be documented for review.
- Should you remain dissatisfied after engaging with the supervisor, the Chief Program Officer (CPO) will arrange a meeting to address your concern. The CPO will consider all perspectives and respond in writing within one (1) week. Your feedback on the resolution will be sought within ten (10) business days.
- If no response is received, the CPO will send a final communication indicating the resolution process will be closed within two (2) weeks if no contact is made. Services may be adjusted to ensure safety until a resolution is reached.
- Should your dissatisfaction persist, your complaint or concern will be escalated to the CEO for further review.
- If necessary, a final review will be conducted by the CEO and the Board of Directors.
- Carya maintains documentation of themes and regularly reviews these with senior management. Any necessary actions or changes will be implemented, and a summary of concerns will be presented to the Board annually.
We aim to resolve all concerns within five (5) working days.
Alberta Ombudsman – (888)455-2756 801-6 Avenue SW, Calgary AB T2P 3W2 www.ombudsman.ab.ca
Office of the Child and Youth Advocate Alberta – (888)661-3446 or (403)297-8435 2420, 801 6 Ave SW, Calgary AB T293W3 www.ocya.alberta.ca
Our Client Commitment
- They will be treated with dignity, respect and without discrimination.
- Their privacy will be protected; any limitations to this will be fully explained to you.
- Their environment will be safe and secure.
- We will address any concerns they may have in a timely manner.
Did you know Carya is accredited by the Canadian Accreditation Council?
Having opportunities to be the best version of yourself. That’s something that Carya gives to all of the people they work with.
-Shannon Hughes, Carya Board Member