On Wednesday, November 6, 2019, the Calgary Stampede Foundation, along with donors and supporters, gathered at Doherty Hall in the heart of Youth Campus to share the Foundation’s annual Report to the Community and celebrate the accomplishments of the past year.
Two such donors in attendance were Alan and Shelly Norris, who at the event generously donated $1 million to the Calgary Stampede Foundation. Their donation will go directly towards the development of SAM Centre. SAM Centre will bring western heritage and culture to life with Stampede artifacts and immersive experiences that showcase the story behind the making of southern Alberta.
Alan & Shelly Norris with Bob Thompson, Chair, Calgary Stampede Foundation.
“It’s an honour to be a part of the Calgary Stampede Foundation’s story, as they build SAM Centre for many generations to enjoy,” said Alan Norris.
“I’ve had the fondest memories of the Calgary Stampede ever since I was young,” added Shelly Norris. “To this day, I have a sketch of myself hanging in our home that I received when I was three years old at the Calgary Stampede. It’s a great gift that has given me a sense of belonging within the Stampede community.”
Alan & Shelly Norris speaking at the 2019 Calgary Stampede Foundation Report to the Community event.
SAM Centre will be a place where people from all around the world can connect and experience the Stampede history, culture and spirit through immersive storytelling. The Centre will evoke the community spirit of the Calgary Stampede and help to keep our rich history alive for years to come.
Plans are well underway to begin construction on SAM Centre in fall 2020, with doors opening in 2022. It is with donations from gracious individuals like Alan & Shelly Norristhat these plans will become a reality.
Shelly Norris and Dana Peers, President & Chairman of the Board of the Calgary Stampede, standing next to the rendering of Youth Campus, including SAM Centre.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Alan and Shelly’s contribution and the generosity they have shown to the Calgary Stampede Foundation. This donation will be impactful for the development of SAM Centre and the youth in our community,” said Bob Thompson, Chair, Calgary Stampede Foundation. “Their actions truly exemplify the belief that We’re Greatest Together.”
Alan & Shelly Norris, posing with Stampede Royalty (left to right, Calgary Stampede Princess Janelle Mackenzie, First Nations Princess Falon Manywounds and Calgary Stampede Queen Kelcey Moore).
If you are interested in learning more about the work of the Calgary Stampede Foundation, or would like to donate, please visit foundation.calgarystampede.com. For our full 2019 Calgary Stampede Foundation Report to the Community, click here.
Source: Calgary Stampede Foundation