Kids Up Front is a registered charity and was founded 25 years ago by John Dalziel, who attended a game at the Saddledome and saw many empty seats. He knew so many kids would love the chance to sit in those seats if given the opportunity. That is when the idea for Kids Up Front was born. Since then, the organization has grown immensely with chapters in Edmonton, Vancouver, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax. 25 years later, that initial spark of an idea has ignited a national movement of generosity, inclusion and unforgettable experiences.
Our mission is to create joy, promote inclusion and strengthen communities by connecting children and their families to enriching experiences.
As Kids Up Front Calgary celebrates 25 years of inclusion, inspiration and connection, its mission remains as vital as ever, to ensure that no seat goes empty and no kid is left behind when it comes to the life-changing power of live experiences.
Since 2000, Kids Up Front Calgary has distributed over 706,000 event tickets valued at over $25 million. We work with over 190 community agencies to distribute donated tickets to deserving kids, youth and families in and around Calgary and Southern Alberta; whether a child’s first hockey game, first time at the theatre or a family celebrating a birthday, everyday we make dreams come true. We collaboratively partner with event organizers, donors, community organizations and more to create enriching experiences for children through our programs.
These experiences are not just tickets – they are opportunities to belong, to dream bigger and to feel seen and a chance to inspire, connect and uplift.
These experiences are moments that matter and promote social inclusion, giving every kid a chance to feel like they belong. Seeing a live performance, game or event can spark dreams and inspire kids. Shared experiences for kids can boost self-esteem, create positive memories and strengthen family bonds.
Kids Up Front recipients self-report three main outcomes following participation in community experiences:
Kids Up Front helps kids thrive by removing barriers to access due to social and economic circumstances, reducing social isolation, expanding world views and encouraging new passions. We provide opportunities for respite and distance children and youth from everyday stressors, providing recreational and wellness opportunities. We give kids with disabilities and sensory sensitivities the chance to try events and new things without the financial risk or pressure. We give opportunities to connect and strengthen relationships with family members, mentors, foster families and other kids facing similar situations, inspiring the dreams and passions of the kids we serve.
We hear from our donors, kids, families and community agencies that the work we’re doing is making a real difference. Their feedback reminds us just how important it is.
"Events provided through Kids Up Front support families to connect and develop deeper bonds with their children, often through sports and the arts. Families in poverty are living in constant stress and being able to take part in these fun activities, concerts, games and events allows families access to the “brighter” and “lighter” side of life…our families would never get an opportunity to participate in (these activities) without the generosity of Kids Up Front.”
"The team at Kids Up Front, along with donors, make meaningful differences in people’s lives. You give normalcy when things are chaotic. You give little pieces of respite to families that are struggling. You help bring siblings together. You bring bonding memories between parents and children. You help children with disabilities experience Calgary in ways they have historically never been able to. You open doors by filling seats. We are forever grateful for what you have done and continue to do."
Want to learn more? Visit kidsupfront.com/calgary or reach out to
See our related articles:
Calgary’s Child Magazine © 2026 Calgary’s Child
