There’s a moment many business owners describe — often years into running their company — when profit alone stops feeling like the whole point. The community that shops at your store, hires from your teams, and walks past your front window every day is also the community you’re part of. And when that community thrives, so does your business.
At WeBA, we’ve believed this since 1982. That’s why each year we select a Charity of Choice that reflects the values of our members: local, impactful, and built for the long term. This year, we’re proud to support Free Play for Kids — and we’re inviting the entire West Edmonton business community to join us.
Who Is Free Play for Kids?
Free Play for Kids is an Edmonton-based nonprofit that provides safe, inclusive, and accessible programming for children and families — particularly those facing economic barriers. Their work is built on a simple but powerful idea: every kid deserves the chance to play, belong, and grow.
Their programs span the city and reach kids across some of Edmonton’s most underserved communities. Here’s a snapshot of what they do:
- Free to Play — a daily after-school sports and care program for kids aged 8 to 12, running out of select Edmonton public and Catholic schools.
- Welcome to Play — helping recent refugee families find community and relief through play and recreation.
- Food to Play — nutritional literacy and food classes for families, addressing both hunger and health education.
- Wolves Athletic Club — a sports leadership program for youth aged 10 to 19, providing a pathway into organized, competitive sport.
These aren’t just activities — they’re lifelines. Free Play for Kids gives Edmonton’s young people the tools, mentors, and safe spaces they need to build confidence, health, and connection.
Two Ways to Support Free Play This Spring
WeBA has lined up two exciting opportunities for our members and the broader West Edmonton business community to make a difference — while also having a great time doing it.
1. The WeBA Spring Social 50/50 — Draw on May 21
Our Spring Social at Arcadia Brewing Co. on May 21, 2026 is just around the corner — and we’re running a 50/50 raffle to support Free Play for Kids. Half the proceeds go to the winner, and half go directly to Free Play’s programs.
You don’t need to attend the event to buy tickets.
Purchase your 50/50 tickets online right now at:
rafflebox.ca/raffle/freeplay-5050
The draw will happen live at the Spring Social. Every ticket is a chance to win — and a chance to make a real difference for Edmonton’s kids.
2. The WeBA Annual Golf Tournament — June 9, 2026
Mark your calendars: the 2026 WeBA Golf Tournament takes place on June 9, 2026, and this year the proceeds will go entirely to Free Play for Kids.
It’s one of the most popular events on the WeBA calendar — a fantastic day on the course with fellow business leaders, and now it comes with even more purpose.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking for a reason to get outside with great people, this is the event to be at this spring. Spots are limited — watch your inbox and our events page for registration details.
Why Giving Back Is Good Business
We’re not going to suggest that businesses give back because it’s good for their brand — though it certainly can be. We think the more honest reason is simpler: we live and work here, and the kids in Free Play’s programs are part of our community.
That said, the business case is real. Customers increasingly choose to spend their money with companies that demonstrate social responsibility. Employees — especially younger ones — want to work for organizations whose values align with their own. And there’s growing evidence that businesses embedded in healthy, supported communities are more resilient over the long run.
Charitable giving doesn’t have to be a major financial commitment either. Buying a 50/50 ticket, signing up for the golf tournament, or sharing this post with your network are all meaningful contributions. And if your business has capacity for more — sponsorship, in-kind support, or employee volunteer programs — Free Play for Kids welcomes partnerships of all sizes.
How to Get Involved
- Buy your 50/50 tickets at
rafflebox.ca/raffle/freeplay-5050
(Draw on May 21 at Arcadia Brewing Co.) - Save the date for the WeBA Golf Tournament on June 9
(All proceeds to Free Play for Kids) - Learn more about Free Play for Kids at
freeplayforkids.com - Explore WeBA membership and upcoming events at
weba.org
West Edmonton has always been more than a business district — it’s a community. When we invest in the kids growing up here, we’re investing in the future customers, employees, and entrepreneurs who will keep this community alive and thriving. Free Play for Kids is doing remarkable work, and WeBA is honoured to support them.
We’ll see you at the Spring Social on May 21 — and on the fairway on June 9.