Meeting the needs of Cochrane and Western Rocky View since 2007

Helping Hands Society of Cochrane and Area strengthens community and reduces vulnerability by connecting volunteers to people needing support through innovative programs and collaborative responses.

Our programs are barrier free and available to anyone struggling without a natural support system.

Through volunteerism, Helping Hands enables residents of Cochrane and Western Rocky View to serve and connect with their neighbours, building a vibrant and resilient community.

Our volunteers generously give of their time to help with rides to medical appointments, food drives, mentorship, snow removal, lawn care, handyman services, companionship, moving assistance, downsizing, essential errands, food rescue, Free Food Shed maintenance and so much more!

Our Value Statements:

These statements reflect the core values of the organization, emphasizing empathy, responsibility, inclusivity, collaboration, trust, equality, community connection, and honoring the individuals served:

  • Compassion: We approach every interaction with empathy and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

  • Responsibility: We take ownership of our role in building a resilient community, ensuring accountability in all our actions and programs.

  • Respect: We treat every individual with dignity, valuing diversity, and fostering an inclusive environment that honors each person’s unique circumstances.

  • Reciprocity: We believe in the power of reciprocal relationships, where both volunteers and those in need benefit from the connections and support forged within our community.

  • Collaboration: We actively seek partnerships and engage in collaborative efforts to maximize our collective impact, recognizing that unity strengthens our ability to serve.

  • Trust: We strive to build and maintain trust within the community, acting with transparency and integrity in all our interactions.

  • Equality: We advocate for fairness and equal access to support, ensuring that our programs are inclusive and available to anyone in need.

  • Connecting Community: We foster a sense of belonging and interconnectedness, encouraging community members to come together and support one another.

  • Honour: We honor the dignity and worth of every individual, acknowledging their strengths and contributions to the community.

Meet our team:

April Baird
April BairdCommunity Engagement & Food Programs Manager
(she/her)

“There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.”

~ Desmond Tutu

Melia Hayes
Melia HayesPrograms Manager
(she/her)

“There is always light. If only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.”

~ Amanda Gorman

Shelley Mercer
Shelley MercerVolunteer Coordinator
(she/her)

Hope deferred makes the heart sick but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life”

~ Proverbs 13:12 NIV

Board Members:

Chair – Graham Torrie

Vice Chair – Allison Graham

 Secretary – Adam Braun

 Treasurer – Laurie Hauck

Director – Sheila Beaudry

 Director – Kendra Watt

Director – Jenna Slobozian

Director – Reynold Martens

Director – Cam Rollins

Director – Chiaki Palmer

Director Emeritus/Founder – Terrance Haxton