The world can feel overwhelming at times—polarized, uncertain, and fast-moving. It’s easy to feel disconnected, like we’re just individuals navigating challenges too big to solve. But research shows that the antidote to uncertainty and isolation isn’t withdrawal—it’s connection.

Social cohesion has long been linked to better mental health, stronger economies, and even longer life expectancy. A lack of meaningful social ties can increase the risk of anxiety, depression, cardiovascular disease, and even premature mortality, with some studies comparing the effects of chronic loneliness to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. When we disconnect from each other, we don’t just lose out on companionship—we lose out on collective strength, resilience, and well-being.

So, what is the solution? Building strong, connected communities.

Communities provide more than just a place to live, they offer a support network, a sense of belonging, and a foundation for a healthier, more empowered life. Whether it’s a neighbour lending a helping hand, a shared conversation at a local event, or simply knowing there’s a place where you are welcome, communities make life richer and more meaningful.

That’s why we’re working to build a new Ritchie Hall—not just as a physical space, but as a home for connection, resilience, and belonging. Whether it’s a Men’s Shed group, a pickling workshop, a self-defence class, or a forum on environmental and social solutions, this space will be a place where ideas grow, friendships form, and support networks strengthen.

Why Community Matters to Us

We know this is an ambitious project. Building a new hall from the ground up is no small task, but we also know that strong communities don’t just happen—they’re built.

For us, community isn’t just about proximity, it’s about connection, belonging, and looking out for one another. It’s about creating a space where friendships are formed, where people can turn when they need support, and where everyone feels like they are part of something bigger than themselves.

The Power of Local Connection

The Ritchie Community League has been a cornerstone of connection and advocacy since 1922, making it one of Edmonton’s oldest inner-city leagues. Beyond fostering friendships, community leagues like ours play an essential role in civic engagement—amplifying local voices, driving grassroots advocacy, and shaping the future of our neighbourhoods.

We’ve seen it time and again: big change happens when small groups of people come together. Whether advocating for infrastructure improvements, championing sustainability, or supporting local businesses, our community has a proven track record of stepping up. This new hall will be the next big step in that legacy.

A Hall That Brings People Together

More than just bricks and mortar, this hall will be the heart of Ritchie, a place where everyone feels welcome, supported, and connected. By investing in this space, we’re investing in the future, and ensuring that Ritchie remains a place where people come together, support one another, and create lasting change.

• A space where no one feels alone. Whether it’s a senior dropping by for coffee, a newcomer attending their first local event, or a young family looking for a place to gather, this hall will be a place where people feel welcome and supported. A fully accessible space means no one is left behind.

• Strengthening the social fabric of Ritchie. Research shows that connected communities experience lower crime rates, improved well-being, and greater civic engagement. A neighbourhood where people know and trust one another is safer and stronger.

• Giving a voice to the community. There are a lot of things in this world we cannot control, but we can shape our community to best serve those of us who live here. Ritchie has long been a place of advocacy where challenges are met head-on and change happens. Together, we can tackle problems that feel insurmountable by joining together to enact positive change.

• Investing in future generations. The connections made here, through programs, performances, and cultural events, will shape lives for years to come. By building a net-zero and fully accessible facility, we’re ensuring that the hall will be a model for sustainable and forward-thinking communities. This is more than a building; it’s a legacy.

• Supporting local businesses. Small businesses are the backbone of strong communities, and when we support local, more money stays in our neighbourhood. By creating a hub for community events, we’re ensuring that foot traffic, collaboration, and economic growth stay right here in Ritchie.

We aren’t just constructing a hall, we’re creating a home for our community. A place where everyone feels like they belong and can find the support they need. A space that nurtures social connection, economic strength, and overall well-being.

Overcoming Obstacles

This project has been years in the making. Our volunteers have poured countless hours into writing grants, lobbying for funding, and advocating on behalf of the Ritchie community. We’ve fought for every dollar because we know how important this space will be.

Progress So Far

We’ve secured $400,000 from the City of Edmonton’s Community League Infrastructure Grant (the maximum amount available).
A federal grant application is under review for ~$3.5 million through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program.
Final hall design is complete and city permits approved.

Challenges We Face

• Limited provincial support: Our request to the Community Facility Enhancement Program grant (which could have provided up to $1 million) was not approved.

• City funding restrictions: Though the City of Edmonton supports the project, current municipal policies prevent us from requesting additional funding at this time.

• Fundraising gap: We need additional community and business contributions to close the funding gap and move forward with construction.

Despite these hurdles, we believe in this project because we believe in our community. We know big things happen when people work together. With the right support from individuals, businesses, and organizations, we can reach our funding goals and bring this project to life.

 A Brighter Future

This isn’t just about a new building. It’s about fighting back against disconnection, social isolation, and economic hardship. It’s about pushing back against big corporations that pull our money and attention away from our neighbourhoods and instead investing in ourselves, our community, and our future.

Every dollar donated, every volunteer hour given, and every voice that speaks in support helps shape the future of Ritchie.

Let’s build more than a hall—let’s build a stronger Ritchie, together.

Join us. Support us. Let’s make this happen.