How Calgary Dollars Is Helping Residents Shape Their Own Community

At Norfolk Housing Association, we’ve always believed that a strong community is built with residents, not just for them. The Calgary Dollars program continues to show what becomes possible when people have more room to participate, contribute, and make meaningful choices in where they live. 

The latest Calgary Dollars and NHA Impact Report is a true testament to what happens when residents have flexible ways to get involved; and how everyone benefits when their time, skills, and connection to the community are valued. 

Creating Real Options for Residents 

Over the past year, residents earned 156 honorariums through the Calgary Dollars program, which could be put toward rent or used within the broader C$ community network. This translated into more than C$6,500 applied to rent alone — a meaningful reduction in financial pressure for many of our residents. 

By offering multiple ways to participate — including newsletter delivery, gardening, beautification activities, event support, and building ambassador roles — the program recognizes the different strengths, capacities, and interests residents bring to the table. It meets people where they are, rather than asking everyone to contribute in the same way. 

One of the most promising outcomes this year was seeing how much value stayed within the resident community. Over C$1,000 was exchanged directly between neighbours, whether through small purchases, rent contributions, thank-yous, or mutual support. 

This peer-to-peer circulation shows that residents aren’t just participating in the program - they're actively shaping a local economy built on trust, cooperation, and shared wellbeing. 

And with C$6,523 currently held across resident accounts, many people are positioned to continue using Calgary Dollars to support their household needs in flexible and meaningful ways. 

Strengthening Community 

Beyond financial benefits, the report shows an important pattern: when residents have more agency in shaping community life, their sense of belonging grows. 

According to the resident experience survey: 

• 86% felt more involved in their community 

• 84% developed relationships of trust 

• 68% reported they were better able to live within their means 

These aren’t small wins. They reflect a community where residents feel connected, supported, and included. 

Flexibility Matters 

At its core, the Calgary Dollars program works because it doesn’t assume a single version of “participation.” 

Residents can: 

• contribute skills, 

• show up for their neighbours, 

• take on small leadership roles, 

• support community events, 

• or simply exchange value directly with one another. 

Each of these choices strengthens the fabric of the community in a different way. And together, they create a more inclusive, more resilient, and more resident-led housing ecosystem. 

Supporting Long Term Sustainability 

The program’s alignment with several UN Sustainable Development Goals highlights how this local initiative supports broader systems change: 

• No Poverty (Goal 1): Residents used over C$6,865 for basic needs. 

• Decent Work (Goal 8): Honorarium opportunities help residents build skills without affecting other income streams like AISH. 

• Reduce Inequality (Goal 10): Participation strengthens trust and reduces social barriers. 

• Sustainable Cities (Goal 11) & Responsible Consumption (Goal 12): Community repair events, reduced landfill waste, and more local purchasing support a circular, community-based economy. 

These aren’t abstract goals. We’re seeing them translate into everyday stability: a little more breathing room at the end of the month, a stronger local support network, and more pathways for residents to contribute in ways that feel aligned with their lives. 

The Future of Calgary Dollars at NHA 

With growing participation, active circulation of Calgary Dollars, and positive feedback from residents, the program is continuing to evolve into a powerful tool for creating stability and connection at NHA and we’re committed to matching our contribution to inflation. 

It’s not just about reducing financial strain, though it does that, too. 

It’s about making space for residents to contribute meaningfully, build relationships, and take a more active role in shaping the place they call home. 

And according to the data, when residents have that space, they use it. They show up. They support one another. And they work alongside us to build community that lasts.