In 2022, @oesa.arts began as a magazine dedicated to capturing and chronicling the diverse creative talents practicing across the Bow Valley. Due to overwhelming artist participation, the platform quickly evolved, transforming into a vibrant, multi-faceted arts organization.

From studios, classrooms, and event spaces, the Oesa team is everywhere in Banff. Free classes unite people through language lessons and art workshops, while musicians utilize recording time, and writers and visual artists display their work on Oesa’s digital platform. The only requirement is a passion for connecting, creating, and sharing.

Now, with a $60,000 donation from the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation, they have the resources to expand programs to meet increased demands and support operations.

“Oesa is a place where residents can gather to express themselves, share ideas, and gain the sense of belonging that makes our community so special,” said Cathy Geisler, Executive Director at the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation. “Their grassroots approach aligns with our belief that some of Banff’s most amazing initiatives began at the local level, where passionate individuals join together to create something larger than themselves.”

At École Notre-Dame des Monts (NDM) in #Canmore, physical and mental student wellness is a daily priority.

Our annual donation brings that commitment to life. From kindergarten through Grade 12, students participate in hands-on experiences that build fitness, confidence, and a strong connection to the natural world in the Bow Valley.

With our financial support, students are participating in alpine skiing, climbing, and cross country skiing. This year, Grade 4 students are also exploring Indigenous knowledge through the Ways of the Bison program, while Grade 8 students will go to Yamnuska for wildlife safety education. High school students can also opt for the Water 15 Outdoor Course at the Canadian RockiesOutdoor Learning Centre, which is offered at a reduced rate with the help of our funding.

Learn more about our funding at the link in bio.

Banff Food and Friends was launched two years ago at St. George in the Pines, inspired by the success of Canmore Food & Friends. Today, it serves 200–250 people every week, offering healthy, delicious meals—and a warm, welcoming place to connect with others and make new friends.

A key feature of the program is its rotating chef model, which invites local chefs to offer their talents each Monday. Because the program runs just one day a week, chefs can participate without disrupting their full-time jobs.

The Wim & Nancy Pauw Foundation is proud to support Banff Food & Friends with a $25,000 donation, helping cover essential operating costs—from rent and food to the day-to-day momentum that keeps the program thriving. As more people discover it, interest continues to grow.

Food & Friends is powered by community—and always open to more support. If you or your organization would like to volunteer, reach out! There’s plenty of room at the table.

Everyone deserves the chance to experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding. That’s why we’re pleased to support @rockymtnadaptive`s U CAN Try It camps at @sunshinevillage.

These free one-day camps are designed for individuals who have never skied, snowboarded, or sit skied before. They provide a fun, welcoming environment where participants learn the basics and build confidence.

Programs are open to everyone four years old and up, and the next camp is on Sunday, April 27, 2025.

Yesterday, we celebrated the ribbon cutting for the new outdoor education building at Mînî Thnî. It was an honour to stand alongside Stoney Nakoda Elders, Knowledge Keepers, educators, and leaders from the community and @stoneyedauthority, all of whom contributed to bringing this vision to life.

Located just steps from the Bow River, this space will be home to a burgeoning outdoor and land-based learning program that will continue strengthening students’ connection to the land, culture, and traditional knowledge of the Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Goodstoney First Nations.

Since 2022, we have donated $290,000 to support these programs, funding equipment, curriculum development, and projects like the outdoor pavilion and this new outdoor learning building. Over the next two years, we will donate $125,000 annually to further strengthen and expand the program’s impact.

Hockey is on everyone’s mind these days, and we’re thrilled to support the Bow Valley Pond Hockey League.

Our donation helps reduce financial barriers to participation by covering the cost of ice time, ensuring more kids and parents can enjoy special moments together—staying active, having fun, and creating memories.

Let`s face it: hockey isn’t just a game—it’s a great way to stay active, learn about teamwork, and create lifelong memories.

With support from the @whytemuseum, Through the Lens is back, thanks to a $55,000 donation from the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

The 2025 edition features aspiring photographers from Banff Community High School, Canmore Collegiate, and Mînî Thnî School.

Stay tuned for updates, including a public exhibit at the Whyte.