Letter from the CEO & Chair of the Board

As we sit down to reflect on the moments that have shaped who we are as an organization and the collaborations that have fueled our growth over the past 35 years, we’re both incredibly proud and humbled by the transformative impact CUPS has had in our community.

We’ve celebrated many milestones over the past 35 years - from the expansion of our health clinic, the establishment of our mental health and housing programs, and the integration of brain science research into our programs and practices - we've consistently evolved to meet the needs of our community and improve outcomes for Calgarians.

Looking toward the future of CUPS, we invite you to get to know us all over again as we embark on an exciting next chapter. 

We spent the better part of 2023 fortifying the future for CUPS. We engaged in a robust strategic planning initiative, poured over data, listened to, and learned from the experiences of participants, partners, and community members to continue to increase our presence and expand our impact in step with the rising need for support and equitable access to care.

Pairing the feedback we received with the vital research that has been integral to our success for decades, we are poised and ready to take on the future with a renewed purpose, ambition, and values in hand and a new strategic direction that will guide our work over the next five years.  

With this foundation solidified, it also felt like the right time for a change in leadership. After 27 years with CUPS, I will be stepping down as CEO and welcoming Elaine Wilson, CUPS' current Chief Operating Officer, into this space to guide CUPS into its next generation of innovative care and community impact. 

We will both continue to be steadfast champions of CUPS and its profound impact on the community. CUPS will continue to provide the same integrated, evidence-based, and trauma-informed care that our community and participants rely on. Looking ahead, we are incredibly optimistic about CUPS' future and confident that under Elaine's leadership, we will continue to reach new heights and celebrate new milestones as we work together to build better systems and a stronger community.   

This year has been a journey of change, and we are deeply grateful that you have been part of it with us. We are making a difference because of people like you – our funders, donors, and community – your unwavering dedication has been the foundation of our success. We could not have accomplished all that we have in the past 35 years without your continued support.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and all of us here at CUPS – thank you.

Carlene Donnelly, CUPS President and CEO and Michael Lang, CUPS Board Chair