Buillding resilience through Community-Led Recovery in Jasper
The Jasper Community Team Society (JCTS), in partnership with the Banff Canmore Foundation (BCF), is guiding the stewardship of critical recovery funds to support Jasper’s residents and organizations in the aftermath of last summer’s devastating wildfires. Together, these community-focused organizations are deploying both immediate relief funding and supporting Jasper's long-term recovery and resilience, which are bolstered by the recent $5.5 million industry pledge from a group of tourism partners.
This collective commitment of over $5.5 million from Pursuit, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Rocky Mountaineer, and Jasper Brewing and Maligne Range Distilling will support community recovery for the Jasper region. Jasper Community Team Society, supported by Banff Canmore Foundation, will steward these long-term pledges, focusing on the importance of a resilient economy and a sustainable and vibrant community in the National Park. This announcement marks a new phase in the partnership between these community minded groups who have been working in union to support Jasper since the fire. Banff Canmore Foundation provides expertise and backend support in fund stewardship and grant administration, while Jasper Community Team Society applies its deep community knowledge and partnerships to ensure funding reaches the most impactful opportunities.
In addition to the recent collective pledge, Banff Canmore Foundation, through their Rocky Mountain Community Relief Fund, has raised over $550,000 to provide immediate relief to residents affected by the wildfires. These funds address critical needs such as food support, mental health services, recreation, and housing assistance for vulnerable community members. The funds are distributed directly to individuals in need through the Municipality of Jasper's Community Outreach Services. "The Jasper fire has prompted many Bow Valley residents to reflect on what it means to live in and be part of a mountain community," Laurie Edward, Banff Canmore Foundation Executive Director, added. "This outpouring of support is a powerful reminder of our strength and resilience."
In response to the devastation caused by the wildfires, and overwhelming requests for information on how to help, Jasper Community Team Society launched a call for donations to ensure there was a dedicated local organization guiding Jasper’s recovery. Since then, they have raised over $2 million to provide targeted financial support to individuals and families in partnership with Community Outreach Services.
“I remember sitting in a campground with my family, evacuated from our home, trying to process the enormity of what had just happened to Jasper,” recalls Christina Richards, Co-Chair of Jasper Community Team Society and a long-time Jasper resident. “It was clear that recovery would not just be about rebuilding structures; it was about restoring the heart of our community and ensuring people had the support they needed in the years ahead.”
As Jasper continues to navigate the long-term effects of the disaster, Jasper Community Team Society is evolving to meet the community’s changing needs. The organization remains focused on distributing funds where needed, while growing its capacity to sustain long-term recovery efforts—continuing to fundraise, distribute resources equitably, and define its evolving role in Jasper’s future.
Recognizing this expansion, Banff Canmore Foundation is supporting Jasper Community Team Society: "We're empowering the Jasper team to act as community advisors to inform how funds are deployed, equipping them with the resources they need to fulfill this vital role," says Edward. "The process will require the facilitation and flow of information from all parties to make smart and impactful community-focused decisions—something that, in our experience, takes a sustained effort over time."
“Our leadership is dedicated to fostering Jasper’s recovery and resilience, supporting a strong and vibrant future for Jasperites” says Brooklyn Rushton, Co-Chair of the Jasper Community Team Society. “By leveraging our local knowledge and relationships with key partners in the community, we are dedicated to guiding these funds to where they can make the most significant impact based on community needs. As Jasper continues on its path to recovery, the power of collaboration is paramount both with Banff Canmore Foundation and other community partners.”
Join Jasper's recovery—make a commitment today. The work is far from over—donate today.
About Jasper Community Team Society:
Established in 2004, the Jasper Community Team Society (JCTS) is a registered non-profit organization committed to enhancing the well-being of Jasper residents. Operated entirely by dedicated volunteers, JCTS collaborates closely with the Municipality of Jasper's Community Outreach Services to support local programs and events that foster community connection and resilience. JCTS addresses diverse needs within the community, ensuring that resources are available to those facing barriers to their well-being. jaspercommunityteamsociety.ca
