The Greater Cause Behind The Glamour: Meet The Beneficiaries of the 33rd Charity Wine Auction

On Saturday, October 17, 2026, guests will step into our Midnight Speakeasy for an unforgettable evening in support of organizations making a meaningful difference in our community. This year's 33rd Charity Wine Auction, hosted in support of the Calgary Co-Op Community Foundation, is proud to support three beneficiaries: the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation and its Emerging Adult Mental Health Initiative, the Hotchkiss Brain Institutive- Dementia & Cognitive Disorders and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and its 94 Doors Initiative. 

Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation: Emerging Adult Mental Health Initiative 

Alberta Children’s Hospital has long been a cornerstone of care in our community. Now, through its Emerging Adult Mental Health Initiative, it is helping address a critical gap in mental health care for young people ages 16–24. As youth transition from paediatric to adult mental health services, many experience gaps in care during a particularly vulnerable stage of life. This initiative is designed to provide specialized support that reflects the unique needs of emerging adults and creates greater continuity between paediatric and adult care. In collaboration with Alberta Health Services and the University of Calgary, the initiative brings together expertise across psychiatry, psychology, social work and adolescent medicine to help reimagine mental health services for this population. Proceeds from this year’s Charity Wine Auction will help expand access to specialized care, giving more young people the support they need as they navigate the transition into adulthood. Learn more here

Hotchkiss Brain Institute: Dementia and Cognitive Disorders 

Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI) at the University of Calgary is at the forefront of brain and mental health research. HBI is dedicated to unlocking the mysteries of the brain. From tackling neurological disorders to advancing treatments for mental illness, HBI is working to better understand dementia and cognitive disorders, with the goal of improving prevention, diagnosis and treatment for those affected.⁠ Its Dementia & Cognitive Disorders team focuses on early detection, treatment and prevention, improving quality of life, and understanding cognitive decline. Their research, which includes clinical trials and practical solutions, supports people living with dementia and their families. Proceeds from this year's auction will help empower scientists, clinicians, and students to push boundaries, drive innovation and ultimately help shape a brighter future for individuals and families affected by dementia and cognitive disorders.⁠ Learn more here

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and Area: 94 Doors Initiative 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and Area (BBBS) helps children and youth discover their full potential while building confidence and resilience through mentorship. BBBS offers mentoring programs through schools and throughout the community to help those who aren’t in crisis but may be at risk of falling behind. Through its 94 Doors Initiative, Big Brothers Big Sisters is helping to create more opportunities for young people in our community to access meaningful mentorship and build connections that can have a lasting impact.⁠⁠ Every ticket purchased, bid placed, and donation made helps create a lasting impact across our community.⁠ There’s something especially fitting about supporting 94 Doors at Willow Park Wines & Spirits because, just like BBBS, Willow Park Wines & Spirits first opened its doors in 1994. Learn more here

Speakeasy Splendour and Support

Join us in raising a glass at the 33rd Charity Wine Auction, where an evening of Speakeasy Splendour not only allows guests to enjoy exceptional wines but also helps strengthen the pillars of paediatric health, neuroscience, and mentorship. Every bid placed, every glass raised, and every dollar donated makes a difference, helping these organizations continue their essential work in Calgary and beyond. Together, we can make a lasting impact. 

Want to learn more about the Charity Wine Auction? Click here