Unison unifies and welcomes all

My name is Jose Guillen; I am honored to introduce myself as the new Director of Development at Unison Alberta. During the last three months, I have been learning the immense scope and role that Unison plays in the communities of Calgary and Medicine Hat, and the importance of the services that we provide in both communities.

Every day, I see how our programs help aging adults live fuller, healthier, and more connected lives. From wellness classes to social activities and educational programs, to our shelter for abused seniors and our Thrive Food Security Program, and our Meals on Wheels program in Medicine Hat; what we offer goes far beyond what I knew about Unison before joining the team.

Community support is the foundation that makes our work possible. Donations, sponsorships, volunteer hours, they all impact the quality and accessibility of the programs we provide. When the community invests in Unison Alberta, it invests in real people, neighbors, parents, grandparents, and friends, who rely on our programs to stay active, healthy, engaged, and connected.

For many seniors, Unison is a lifeline. It’s where connections and friendships are made and daily routines are rebuilt. It’s where isolation turns into connection and where health, both physical and emotional, is strengthened. Community support ensures that these opportunities remain available, and that seniors in need have access to our services.

As Fund Development Director, my role is to build and nurture the relationships that sustain our mission. Fund development isn’t just about raising money, it’s about raising awareness, building trust, and inviting people to be part of something meaningful. Every contribution from the community, no matter the size, tells our seniors that their lives matter.

I am grateful with the generosity of our supporters and the dedication of our volunteers. Your belief in active aging creates real change at the Veiner Centre in Medicine Hat and at Kerby Centre in Calgary. Because of you, seniors in our communities are more active, connected and engaged in activities.

Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible organization and community. I look forward to working alongside you to ensure that our programs remain strong, vibrant, and accessible for years to come. Together, we are creating a future where aging is about possibility and not about limitation.

Thank you for your support, we truly appreciate it.

Jose Guillen, Director of Development

PS - Did you know that March is Fraud Awareness Month? At Unison, we deliver workshops that provide helpful and practical information to aging adults, check our workshops offerings on our website.