History

The Good Companions 50 Plus Club began as an idea for 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 just over 350 members, the Club has seen many changes.  In 1977 the Club moved into its current residence.  The building has undergone many renovations, resulting in the Club's large, state-of -the -art kitchen and front portion of the building.  Funding for renovations came from grants as well as volunteer run fundraising events. Over the years, the Good Companions 50 Plus Club has provided members with a friendly and fun place to take part in social, educational and welllness activities.

Staff

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

Board of Directors

CPresident:                                              Mary Anderson
Vice President:                                        Rainie Dell
Treasurer:                                                 Ellen Wendt
Secretary:                                                Jane MacDonald
Director at Large:                                   Della Tillie
Director at Large:                                   Hazel Holm
Director at Large:                                   Connie Grant
Director at Large:                                   Sandra Robertson
​Director at Large:                                   Rhoda Bell
Director at Large:                                   Helen Surrurier