The local arts centre in Canmore, Alberta, has achieved a top-tier ranking for its efforts to create a more welcoming environment for residents and workers. As of March 3, 2026, artsPlace has been officially recognized as a Gold Champion of the Bow Valley Workplace Inclusion Charter.
This new title marks a significant upgrade from the previous Bronze status held by the organization. To earn the Gold level, a workplace must complete at least 14 specific actions that help make the environment more fair and open to people from different backgrounds. These actions include steps such as providing cultural awareness training for staff and creating better ways to help newcomers find local support services.
The Bow Valley Immigration Partnership, which runs the program, celebrates these achievements each year for groups that meet the high standards for recruitment and workplace equity. By reaching this level, the arts centre has committed to lowering barriers for residents who want to join the local arts community, specifically targeting those who may have felt underrepresented in the past.
These changes are expected to make it easier for all community members to participate in local programs or sign up for volunteer roles. Residents interested in helping at the centre can contact the volunteer coordinator to learn about current opportunities and the new inclusive standards now in place.
