Our Accomplishments

The True Northern

At the Excel Society, we care about the people we serve by collaborating with one another to bring joy and connection to their lives. Back in March, an individual in our care was interested in organizing a video call with their fellow Northwest Territories (NWT) peers.

Since then, the group has named themselves The True Northern and have connected both virtually and in person to share updates in their lives, discuss upcoming festivals or celebrations, and even plan a group vacation once restrictions are fully lifted.

Each of the True Northern members have been residing in Edmonton for the past few years and by meaningfully engaging with one another, they have been able to create a deep sense of community in their home away from home. They have had to leave their friends, family, and traditions to move here, and now also deal with the feelings of isolation that come with the COVID-19 pandemic. Thankfully, this group has been able to dissipate these feelings of isolation by regularly connecting with one another and developing a strong bond that will last for years to come!

Oil Kings Fundraising

At the Excel Society, we work together to develop partnerships that ensure the long-term success of our organization.

Near the end of 2021 we were fortunate to work with the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation and participate in an Oil Kings 50/50 raffle! The 50/50 raffle stood out as we would also receive several discounted Oil Kings ticket vouchers for us to either increase our fundraising revenue or treat our clients to a home game!

Our Communications team worked closely with the Oilers Community Foundation to iron out the details for the fundraising event and updated our volunteers on any changes that were made due to COVID-19. On the day of the event, we had nine fantastic volunteers participate in the 50/50 raffle and helped us raise $2500 in just a few hours!

Kingway Holiday Parade

This year marked the first float Excel has entered in the Kingsway Holiday Parade, but hopefully not the last!

First, we needed a float. Using an Excel van as our canvas, we left the decoration in the capable and creative hands of our clients at the GRC! Using washable paint and various colours, the artists had a great time painting vibrant pictures on the once-white van. GRC staff also crafted beautiful strings of stars that we draped across the colourful float. As the cherry on top, we secured (with some difficulty) an inflatable baby Yoda which was given away through a social media contest.

This event was an opportunity to bring our team together to work towards a common goal in addition to meeting other participants in the parade from various Edmonton organizations. It was also a great chance to bring some community awareness to the Excel brand and the kind of amazing care and support services that we offer.

The parade was an awesome team building experience and we appreciate all those who participated and helped out!