Building Children’s Resilience for Healthier Futures

Building Children’s Resilience for Healthier Futures 

Circle of Hope & Friends Luncheon, presented by Cenovus Energy 

We were honoured to welcome community leaders, partners, and supporters to our Circle of Hope & Friends Luncheon, presented by Cenovus Energy, for an inspiring conversation about children’s resilience and family mental wellness. 

Held as part of our 40th anniversary year, the luncheon brought together research, lived experience, and community leadership to explore how early relationships, environments, and supports shape children’s development and long-term wellbeing. 

The event featured two distinguished speakers: Dr. Gabor Maté, internationally recognized physician and author, and Suzanne Tough, PhD, a Professor in the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary and a member of the Owerko Centre.   

Each speaker shared insights into the science of child development, the importance of connection, and the role communities play in supporting healthy families. 

The Biology of Loss and the Power of Connection 

In his keynote address, Dr. Gabor Maté spoke about what he calls the “biology of loss,” explaining how children’s development is deeply influenced by their relationships and early environments. 

Children need more than their basic needs met to thrive. They need safety, connection, and supportive relationships that allow them to develop emotionally, socially, and neurologically. 

Dr. Maté emphasized that when children experience nurturing relationships and responsive care, resilience can grow; even in the face of adversity. 

His message reinforced a powerful truth: supporting parents and caregivers is one of the most important ways we can support children. 

Understanding the Foundations of Resilience 

Suzanne Tough, PhD shared findings from the All Our Families, Owerko Centre‘s longitudinal research program, which has followed thousands of Calgary families over many years. 

Her work highlights how early experiences — including stress, family supports, and community resources — influence children’s health and development over time.

 Research like this helps communities better understand how to support families early, when it can make the greatest difference. 

These insights reinforce the importance of prevention and early intervention, approaches that are central to our work at the Children’s Cottage. 

Through programs such as our Family Mental Wellness Hub, Crisis Nursery, and in-home family supports, we work alongside families to build resilience, strengthen parenting confidence, and create environments where children can thrive. These programs translate the science of child development into practical, compassionate support for families in our community. 

A Collective Effort for Children and Families 

The Circle of Hope & Friends Luncheon also celebrated the many donors, partners, practitioners, and community leaders who work together to strengthen families in our community. 

Supporting children’s wellbeing is not the work of one organization alone. It requires collaboration between research, community programs, healthcare providers, and compassionate supporters who believe every child deserves the opportunity to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment. 

We are deeply grateful to Cenovus Energy, whose support as presenting sponsor made this important conversation possible. 

Moving Forward Together 

Every day at the Children’s Cottage, we see the impact that prevention and family support can have on children’s lives. 

By working together—investing in early supports, strengthening families, and grounding our work in research and compassion—we can help ensure that resilient children blossom in healthy families. 

Events like the Circle of Hope & Friends Luncheon remind us that when a community comes together with shared purpose, we can create brighter futures for children and families across Calgary.