History

Good Companions 50 Plus Club began as a drop-in centre that would be welcoming to people of all backgrounds and levels of ability. This idea was developed by Mary O'Rourke and a dedicated group of like minded citizens.  On a trip to Ottawa, Mary O'Rourke visited a thriving group called the Good Companions.  This name was adapted by the Calgary group along with the motto "Togetherness" which later changed to "Friendship with a Difference."  On July 14, 1974 the group applied for and received a charter launching The Good Companions, with Mary O'Rourke as the first president.  She remained a member until she passed in 1988. Now with about 350 members, the Club has seen many changes.  Good Companions moved into its current residence in 1977.  The building has undergone many renovations, adding a large, state-of -the -art kitchen and more space for activities.  Funding for renovations came from grants as well as volunteer-run fundraising events. Celebrating our 45th anniversary in 2019, Good Companions continues to provide a friendly and fun atmosphere to take part in social, educational and wellness activities.

Staff

Executive Director:                                Tom Gillespie                                    Phone: (403) 242-3799
Program Coordinator:                           Shauna Trainor                                Phone: (403) 249-6991                      
Finance Coordinator:                            Shirley Davis                                     Phone: (403) 249-6991

Board of Directors

President:                                              Mary Anderson
Vice President:                                     Jane MacDonald
​Past President:                                     June Peddie
Treasurer:                                               Ellen Wendt
Secretary:                                               Lu-Anne Read
Director:                                                 Connie Innes
Director:                                                 Rena Villeneuve
Director:                                                 Connie Grant
Director:                                                 Rainie Dell
​Director:                                                 Rhoda Bell
Director:                                                 Helen Serrurier
​Director:                                                 Connie James