Meet Claire! If you've spent time at HSCA recently, chances are you’ve already crossed paths with her. As our new Community Connections Coordinator, Claire brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a deep love for community-building to her role. You might have seen her at Monday’s Sustainable Food Program, chatting with neighbours during Tuesday’s Sip N’ Chat, or at Neighbour Night.

Fun fact: Claire grew up right here in Hillhurst! She attended Hillhurst School and has many fond memories of both HSCA’s Flea Market and Farmers’ Market (especially the kettle corn and balloons!), HSCA’s soccer program, and swim lessons at the Bowview Outdoor Pool.

Let’s get to know Claire… in five questions or less!

Q: What is your favorite part about HSCA or the Hillhurst Sunnyside community?

A: A. I love how HSCA is a hub for people to come together and make connections that extend beyond our programs.

Q: What inspires you?

A: I am inspired by resiliency, optimism, and authenticity in others.

Q: What does community mean to you?

A: Community is more conceptual to me in that it is not only place-based but also centres around people. Community to me is about inclusion, relationships, and shared interests and motivations.

Q: What’s something that recently made you smile?

A: My morning coffee with my husband and dog!

Q. What keeps you busy outside of your role at HSCA?

A. I keep myself busy outside of HSCA with my other role as a researcher in Women's Health and Homelessness at the University of Calgary. And I love spending quality time with my family and friends.

Next time you see Claire at HSCA, be sure to say hello! She’s always happy to chat—especially about feminism, camping and canoeing, gluten-free food, and fitness. Welcome to the team, Claire!