Ryan Wesley Gray

Having spent my entire life in Calgary, I have been fortunate to experience the advantages of a stable family background, including access to education, employment, healthcare, and housing. Yet, witnessing the impacts of poverty on my family, friends, and countless Calgarians has profoundly shaped my perspective.

Despite my own privileges, I’ve personally felt the strain of financial instability and the sense of helplessness that can accompany it. Throughout these experiences, the support of various communities has been a lifeline, reaffirming my belief in the power of collective resilience and solidarity.

The pandemic underscored the critical need for a strong, interconnected community. Poverty is a complex, pervasive issue that affects us all, and it can often feel overwhelming to tackle alone. This realization fuels my passion to build community in Calgary and helped guide me to working with the many intelligent, talented and passionate leaders at Vibrant Communities Calgary and other dedicated champion organizations. Together, we can drive systemic change and build a Calgary where every person has the opportunity to thrive.

I am committed to advancing VCC’s vision of a community where there is enough for all, driven by the principles of shared leadership, inclusivity, and empathy. My goal is to contribute to a future where our collective efforts make a meaningful difference and where every Calgarian has the support they need to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.