Think Tank Member Karen Young: A City of Two Million Needs a Strong Social Foundation
By Karen Young, President and CEO of United Way of Calgary and Area. Published March 21, 2026. Last updated recently. This article is part of a virtual think-tank series for the Postmedia Calgary project, Countdown to 2 Million, featuring insights from community leaders.
The Real Test of Urban Growth
Calgary is steadily advancing toward a population milestone of two million people. This significant growth will challenge more than just our physical skyline and infrastructure. While cranes, construction sites, and new neighborhoods are visible indicators of a dynamic city in motion, the true measure of our progress lies in whether the underlying systems that support residents and foster their well-being can keep pace with this expansion.
Housing stability, youth mental health, and community connection are not mere buzzwords; they are critical pillars that will determine the strength of Calgary's future. The city's prosperity depends not solely on the speed of growth but on how effectively we nurture and sustain the individuals who call this place home.
A Legacy of Resilience and Leadership
Having grown up in Calgary, I have witnessed the city rise, reset, and reinvent itself multiple times. What has consistently defined us is not merely the height of our buildings but our collective ability to support one another during challenging periods. Calgary is rich in spirit, filled with trailblazers and visionaries who proactively drive change rather than waiting for external forces.
This demographic milestone represents a defining moment that demands strong leadership. It is an opportunity to ensure that growth is managed thoughtfully and inclusively, preserving the qualities that make Calgary one of Canada's most livable cities.
Beyond Physical Infrastructure: The Social Foundation
We often discuss infrastructure in terms of housing, transit, and utilities—essential components for any expanding urban area. However, there is another form of infrastructure that is equally vital: our social foundation. This encompasses the networks, services, and community bonds that enable people to thrive. As Calgary grows, reinforcing this social fabric will be crucial to maintaining its reputation for livability.
In 2024, Calgary was ranked among the world's most livable cities by the Economist Intelligence Unit. Yet, beneath this accolade, warning signs are emerging. Nearly half of Albertans report being just $200 away from failing to meet their financial obligations. Nationally, increasing strains on health and social systems have contributed to Canadian cities slipping in global livability rankings.
Interconnected Pressures in Daily Life
This fragility is becoming more apparent in everyday experiences. A rent increase can quickly lead to housing instability. A lost work shift can cascade into food insecurity. Mental health challenges can pull young people away from education, friendships, and future opportunities. In a city approaching two million residents, such small cracks can rapidly widen, affecting broader community resilience.
Across Canada, youth are reporting elevated levels of anxiety, depression, and isolation. Research indicates that mental health issues among children and adolescents have intensified as economic pressures continue to burden families. Affordability concerns are reshaping daily life for many households, shifting focus from merely meeting basic needs to achieving long-term stability—such as the ability to save, remain housed, and plan for the future.
These pressures are deeply interconnected. Economic well-being directly impacts mental health, which in turn influences a sense of belonging. This sense of belonging shapes how individuals engage with their communities and workplaces, creating a cycle that can either strengthen or weaken the social foundation. As Calgary grows, prioritizing these interconnected elements will be essential to building a city that not only expands in size but flourishes in quality of life for all its residents.
