Celebrating Two Decades of Partnership: Foresters Financial and KABOOM! Unveil New Playground in Calgary

Celebrating Play: The New Playground in Calgary

In a heartwarming celebration of two decades of collaboration, Foresters Financial and KABOOM! have unveiled a beautifully designed playground at the Foundations for the Future Charter Academy (FFCA) in Calgary, Alberta. This event, which took place on July 21, 2026, marks both the milestone of a 20-year partnership and KABOOM!'s 30th anniversary, bringing joy and excitement to the local community.

The newly constructed playspace is a product of cooperation among approximately 200 volunteers from Foresters Financial™ (Foresters), their partner Greatway Financial, and the non-profit organization KABOOM! Volunteers spent an entire day building this vibrant playground, which is not only a fun place for children to play but also a space reflecting their creativity. The playground was designed based on sketches contributed by the students at FFCA, highlighting the value of community input in creating spaces where kids can thrive.

A Day of Community Spirit

The event was filled with enthusiasm as volunteers came together, showcasing the spirit of community and teamwork. Volunteers from Foresters Financial, KABOOM!, Greatway Financial, and residents of Calgary joined hands to transform the vision into reality. Andrea Frossard, Chief Commercial Officer of Foresters Financial, spoke about the emotional impact of participating in this project, stating, "Days like this epitomize what we strive to achieve. To see kids laughing and playing in a safe environment is what our efforts are all about."

Lysa Ratliff, the CEO of KABOOM!, emphasized the importance of accessible playgrounds. She remarked, "Playgrounds play a crucial role in a child's development, fostering confidence and creating lasting memories. As we celebrate three decades of KABOOM!'s mission, we are thrilled to partner with Foresters Financial and the FFCA to bring this inclusive space to life."

The Playground: A Hub for Growth

The newly completed playground caters to around 420 children each year, providing them with an area to engage in play, learn, and foster connections. The design process involved feedback from children at the Northeast Elementary Campus, ensuring that the final product resonates with the needs and dreams of its young users. Erin Petley-Kerr, Associate Principal of FFCA NEE Campus, expressed excitement regarding the positive impact of this initiative, noting its potential to enhance the learning environment and strengthen community ties.

The partnership between Foresters Financial and KABOOM! also highlights the significance of social responsibility and community involvement as a means to counteract challenges faced by children today. As families navigate tough times, establishing safe environments like this playground becomes increasingly vital.

A Legacy of Support and Empowerment

Foresters Financial, a fraternal benefit society with a history spanning over 150 years, has consistently prioritized empowering its members to positively impact their communities. Their involvement in building this playground aligns with their mission to improve lives beyond financial security, creating opportunities for health, community engagement, and a shared sense of purpose.

Founded in 1996, KABOOM! has dedicated itself to eliminating playspace inequity, ensuring that every child, particularly in underrepresented communities, has access to quality areas for play. Their vision is fueled by data-driven community engagement, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in childhood development.

The ripple effects of this collaboration resonate throughout the Calgary community, with the new playground serving as a lasting testament to what can be accomplished through unity and purpose-driven actions. As the sun sets on the day of the playground's opening, the laughter of children echoes, illuminating the path toward a brighter, more connected community.

This milestone not only celebrates the efforts of volunteers and supporters but also signals a renewed commitment to fostering spaces where children can play freely and grow confidently. As we look to the future, initiatives like these pave the way for building healthier, happier communities, one playground at a time.