Listening to the radio one morning while driving in Calgary, Matt Carre was led to start the Airdrie Angel program with his wife Michelle. “I was crossing the Deerfoot on 16th Avenue, bawling my eyes out listening to the Gerry Forbes Secret Wish program,” he said. “We’re very fortunate – we’ve got healthy kids, we’ve got a good life, we’re financially stable – and we were really just looking for a way to give back to the community.” Each month, Airdrie Angel provides “a lift to the spirit” for one or two recipients, he added. “It’s about helping people get on to the next chapter of their lives. We don’t give life-changing money; we just hope we lift their spirits, and sometimes, that can make a world of difference for people.” Since its inception in January 2013, Carre said the organization has provided that lift to 78 families or individuals and given out more than $150,000 in cash, gift cards and other items. Nominations are accepted at airdrieangel.ca and a selection committee – not including the Carres – chooses each month’s recipients. A package is then put together based on each recipient’s specific needs, valued at between $1,500 and $2,000. “One of our very first recipients had brain surgery, and she used [the app] Luminosity. So, we got her a subscription – she called it a ‘brain jungle gym’ and it was helping her rehabilitate her brain,” he said by way of example. “Often, it’s gas cards, grocery gift cards – we always give $500 cash.” But Carre said it’s important people know the program isn’t based on financial need. “Often, there are people that are financially fine, they just need a lift to their spirit and need to know that somebody cares about them,” he said. “If we can help them feel better about themselves, they’re going to be better husbands, wives, parents, brothers, sisters, co-workers – they’ll be better for themselves and everyone around them.” The program is limited to Airdrie residents – and recipients have the ability to remain anonymous, according to Carre. All the stories he’s heard from those chosen to be part of the program have stuck with him, he added. “If kids are involved, it’s hard. I can’t read [the nominations] often, because I just start bawling like a baby,” he said. Airdrie Angel accepts donations from sponsors, and Carre said he’s never heard “no” when he’s asked for support. “We have regular supporters, but sometimes, if there’s a specific need, we will go ask somebody [to donate],” Carre said. “All the money we receive that is intended to go to the recipient goes to the recipient.” Right now, Carre said the program is in need of nominations. “Please go to the website – airdrieangel.ca – and nominate. Not everyone is going to be selected…but we know there’s lots of people out there struggling,” he said. “It doesn’t hurt to nominate…you [can] then tell the person and, then, they know you care.” Editor’s note: Throughout the next few weeks, Airdrie City View will be profiling the local people and organizations that are working to make this city the best place to live. If you know someone you think we should profile, please contact us at [email protected]
