OUR STORY
Cultivating Connection,
One Neighbourhood
At a Time
The League of YQL Neighbourhoods (YQLN) is a community-driven network dedicated to cultivating community by connecting neighbours and supporting neighbourhood groups across Lethbridge.
In the years leading up to 2014, several neighbourhood associations existed across Lethbridge but often operated independently with limited opportunities to connect with one another. This led to the formation of the Council of Lethbridge Neighbourhoods (CLAN) — a network designed to bring neighbourhood leaders together to share ideas and support community initiatives.
In 2020, the organization evolved into the League of YQL Neighbourhoods, continuing its work to connect neighbours, support neighbourhood groups, and strengthen community across the city.
Our Mission
To cultivate community by connecting and supporting neighbours and neighbourhoods across Lethbridge.
Building Our Mission & Vision
Our Vision
A vibrant community fostered by a network of welcoming and inclusive neighbourhoods.
Sustainable
Creating a stable organization that can ensure sustainability through our engaged citizens.
The Values That Guide Us
Our values are the roots of our organization and all that we do. They are entrenched in our culture and working philosophy. As individuals and as an organization, we value:
Intentional engagement with individuals and neighbourhoods to ensure they are aware of and have access to the resources they need.
Welcoming
Being stewards for the public, in both its representation of the people in our community, and the land. Accompanying neighbourhoods and neighbourhood associations in their exploration of identity.
Community
Connection
Maintaining a network within and across neighbourhoods and maintaining resources for neighbourhood associations.
What We Do
The League of YQL Neighbourhoods supports neighbour-led community building by providing tools, resources, and opportunities that help neighbours connect and collaborate where they live.
We support neighbourhood groups by sharing practical resources, connecting neighbourhood leaders with one another, and promoting activities that bring neighbours together. YQLN also provides shared resources that make it easier for residents to host neighbourhood gatherings, including celebration planning guides and the Pop-Up Celebration Station Neighbourhood Party Trailer.
By supporting neighbourhood groups and the people who lead them, YQLN helps create the conditions where neighbours can strengthen relationships and shape community together.
Jerry Firth
Board Chair
YQLN co-founder and board chair who believes strong communities grow when neighbours connect and collaborate.
Vanessa Amos
Director
A YQLN board member whose background in client care and financial services supports stronger neighbourhood connections.
Meet the Team
The League of YQL Neighbourhoods is guided by a volunteer board of directors made up of community members who care deeply about neighbourhood connection and community life in Lethbridge.
Each board member brings unique experiences and perspectives, united by a shared commitment to supporting neighbours and neighbourhood groups across the city.
Derek St Jean
Secretary/Treasurer
Community advocate committed to youth engagement and stronger neighbourhood connections.
Ashley Walker
Director
City of Lethbridge Parks Community Coordinator, passionate about community connection and active public spaces.
Kelti Baird
Director
A local entrepreneur dedicated to community building, sustainability, and strengthening neighbourhood life in Lethbridge.
Tyler Gshaid
Director
Community advocate who supports inclusive neighbourhoods and believes strong communities grow through connection and acceptance.
44 NEIGHBOURHOODS
“Having resources and equipment accessible is a tremendous asset to us when we facilitate community events."
— Garry Station Neighbourhood Association