WE’RE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE OUR SIGNATURE EVENT:
IRIS 2025, In support of Safe Haven Foundation
In the spirit of springtime and honour of a resilient Calgary community, IRIS 2025 is a signature event emblematic of renewal and connection in support of Safe Haven Foundation.
You’re invited
Step into the golden era of 1920’s Tinseltown.
IRIS 2025 will present an evening of dazzling charm and grandeur in support of Safe Haven Foundation. Expect bold talent and unexpected live performances, including a breathtaking display, a big-ticket auction, a playfully immersive draw, and—of course an effervescent toast to visiting alumni and celebrated guests.
Don’t wait on tickets, space is limited!
Empowering young women to thrive by overcoming adversity.
Who Safe Haven Foundation is
For over 24 years Safe Haven Foundation has been dedicated to supporting the urgent needs of young women and youth aged 14-26 who have faced profound challenges, including homelessness, trauma, and the absence of a stable support system. Safe Haven Foundation provides the resources, stability, and compassionate guidance necessary to help these youth rebuild and grow into independent, empowered individuals.
At-risk youth are often among those most likely to slip through the cracks. By offering long-term, wrap-around support, Safe Haven Foundation ensures each young woman has the opportunity to truly heal, develop, and prepare for a thriving future. IRIS shares Safe Haven Foundation’s vision of breaking the cycle of poverty by empowering these individuals to realize their fullest potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Fostering hope, opportunity and resilience.
Safe Haven Foundation’s vision is to empower youth to move beyond survival to a place where they can confidently pursue their dreams and goals. These youth face unique and complex barriers, including the trauma of homelessness, disrupted education, stigma, and lack of a support network. Many have experienced violence, neglect, or systemic inequities that have left them feeling unseen and unsupported. Safe Haven Foundation addresses these challenges by offering individualized care in a home-like environment where they can rebuild trust and self-esteem. Barriers are further broken down with access to mental health care, educational opportunities, life skills development, and consistent, compassionate mentorship.
Youth aged 13 to 24 comprise approximately 20% of Canada's homeless population. Over the course of a year, at least 40,000 young people experience homelessness, with as many as 7,000 on any given night.
Source: HIC Canada
Safe Haven Foundation strives to break cycles of trauma and homelessness by equipping residents with the skills, stability, and support to build self-sufficient and fulfilling lives. By creating a safe and inclusive environment that acknowledges and respects diverse backgrounds, Safe Haven Foundation empowers their youth to navigate their healing journeys in a way that honours tradition and heritage. Personalized and culturally appropriate programming underscores their commitment to fostering not only individual growth but also a stronger, more equitable community for all.
Facing or experiencing homelessness is inherently traumatizing, and every young person entering the program begins a personalized healing journey toward reclaiming their future.
Why IRIS chose Safe Haven Foundation
Safe Haven Foundation believes hope matters because it sparks courage, inspires action, and leads to transformation, turning unimaginable challenges into new beginnings.
Unsupported youth are especially vulnerable to the cycle of poverty and homelessness. For these young women who face incredible uncertainty, Safe Haven Foundation offers them hope by providing a safe home, an opportunity for education, and a comprehensive range of support services that help them envision a life beyond survival. It's hope that allows for healing to begin, illuminating a path to focus on dreams and not just basic needs. Through stable housing and wraparound support, Safe Haven Foundation creates a safe space where healing can begin, and the idea of a brighter future finally feels attainable..
IRIS stems from the same ethos—our community unites to lift one another up.
IRIS advocates for the underserved by rallying the greater community to participate in strength & numbers.
Joining IRIS in supporting Safe Haven Foundation means you directly help young women and youth escaping trauma access a safe home, a nurturing community, and the critical support needed to build a solid foundation for a hopeful and 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.
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 Safe Haven Foundation. 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.