Working together can make magic happen.
This is the case of a longstanding and incredible event supporting RMHC Alberta, built up by dedicated volunteers, coaches, and players who give as much on the field as they give off the field.
The Calgary Minor Football Charity Jamboree (CMFCJ) is a popular event that draws minor football players from around the city. In fact, in 2024 the event welcomed around 3500 people including 877 athletes from 22 Calgary and Area Peewee and Bantam Minor Football teams. Over 105 community inspired volunteers contributed to the success of this year’s event.
RMHC Alberta has been the recipient of the generosity and dedication of this event for many years and its incredible to see the immediate and long-term impacts of this relationship. Some players who were in their formative football years, when the event began, have become coaches on the sidelines or volunteers in the background cheering for families of their own.
We recently had the opportunity to talk with Cheryl Cumming, a dedicated volunteer and supporter of RMHC Alberta since 2007 and one of the many dedicated volunteers who make this event possible.
When asked why the minor football community has genuinely embraced this event and supporting RMHC Alberta, Cheryl provided these touching words about inspiration and belonging. “When you have a passion for something people can see that. Most people are looking for a place to belong, a place to provide a service and to connect. They don’t know where that might come from and then hear or feel someone’s passion. It inspires them to be connected to a common cause. As the need grows, people begin to reach out and inspire others.”
One in four Canadians is or knows someone who has stayed at RMHC Alberta, and that impact isn’t lost on the organizers of the CMFCJ. Some of their own football families have stayed at a Ronald McDonald House and their experience helps to reinforce the dedication to supporting the mission of RMHC. Knowing the extensive reach RMHC has for families – its also an easy connection for families who have recently moved to Alberta to understand.
“Many people who live in Alberta aren’t born here. They may come from anywhere in the world but they know if there is one place a family might need when their child is experiencing a medical crisis, Ronald McDonald House would be there for them so they could be close to their child while they are receiving medical care”, said Cumming.
A big focus of Calgary Minor Football is how you approach life both on and off the field. The CMFCJ is a driver for coaches to inspire qualities like community leadership and values amongst their young players. These fundamental experiences help players grow their game skill sets and assist them in building their personal foundations outside of the playing field. It is within these efforts by coaches and volunteers that RMHC Alberta gains additional benefits in terms of awareness within the community.
“Many of my son’s minor football friends are now volunteer coaches supporting their children and others through the minor football program. There are CFL alumni and others committed to giving back –letting kids know this is how some of their parents started and that part of the local football culture is being leaders in life,” shared Cheryl about the continued support for the event and inspiring leadership on and off the field.
The CMFCJ is a truly special event with impacts that will last far beyond football years for both the players, participants – and of course families at RMHC Alberta. Inspired by the words of Bo Jackson, “Set your goals high, and don’t stop until you get there.”
We think the Calgary and Area Minor Football community has done amazing things and hope you will join us in expressing our gratitude.
