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Creating a Welcoming Community

Community Pillar


We all need to belong. To connect. To find a place where we feel welcome.

CKUA creates that community—a meeting place for people with a shared love of music, arts, and culture. And all are welcome. CKUA hosts invite people from diverse backgrounds, ages, and locations to find togetherness in musical enjoyment.

The CKUA audience tells us, over and over again, that they find a warm welcome when they tune in.

Sue, a donor from Calgary, wrote, “I enjoy the feeling of belonging to a community of people who love music no matter their age or taste in music.”

Greg, who donated from Red Deer, said, “CKUA has done a terrific job of providing connection and community when it was needed most.”

This spirit of welcome is felt by new CKUA staff members as well. As a new host, Aaron Au was mentored by the late David Ward. “When I first entered the world of radio, it felt like a magical yet daunting place. David made me feel instantly at home. He was always so generous with his time, his encouragement, his hard-won wisdom and his kindness.”

Aaron also appreciates how listeners add to this sense of community. “One of the truest pleasures I have as a CKUA host is hearing from our knowledgeable and passionate listeners and supporters,” he says. “Sometimes, they get in touch to let me know how the music I’m playing is the soundtrack to their day. At other times, there is an uncanny synergy as I play music they were just writing in to request. And so often, they’ll get in touch with some amazingly inspired musical suggestions that allow both me and the rest of our listeners to discover something new. Through it all, there is such a sense of generosity and community as we’re able to connect in these fun and meaningful ways.”

Priscilla Cherry echoes Aaron’s thoughts. “My time at CKUA started out as a warm welcome and has grown into a dance party. I’ve learned so much with—and from—fellow hosts and listeners.” She notes that Traffic Jams host Lisa Wilton has been particularly helpful as a colleague and mentor. “She was always very patient and supportive, sharing tips and tricks with curating music and operating the boards. She made me feel comfortable and confident in knowing what I was doing.”

In our Spring 2024 fundraiser, more than 1700 first time donors stepped up. We heard a resounding “Yes!” when we asked for support. To everyone who donated for the first time this Spring, we say, “Thank you, and welcome!” You’re an important part of this community.

Have you been waiting to make the leap from “listener” to “donor”? Now’s the time. Your support has incredible impact. Your donation ensures CKUA continues to welcome everyone to this special and rare community where arts, music, stories, and belonging are celebrated.

CKUA’s Fall Fundraiser runs October 18 – 27. Tune in, and support CKUA with your donation!

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We gratefully acknowledge Alberta Blue Cross for their presenting sponsorship of the 2024 CKUA Fall Fundraiser. Alberta Blue Cross has been supporting Albertans’ health and wellness for over 75 years.