Outlink Calgary is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing inclusive support, resources, and connections for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. We strive to create safer spaces where people of all identities and experiences can find belonging, share their stories, and access affirming programs. From peer support groups and educational workshops to advocacy and outreach, Outlink is committed to building a more connected, compassionate, and equitable Calgary for everyone.

Making connections.

Outlink makes connections by bringing 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and allies together through peer groups, events, and accessibility to community resources.  We foster meaningful connections by creating safe, inclusive spaces where people can share experiences, build relationships, and find support.

Community Groups

Join inclusive peer-led gatherings that bring people together to share experiences and build community.

FIND YOUR COMMUNITY

Peer Support

Access safe spaces and services to talk, listen, and find encouragement from those within our communities.

REACH OUT TO US

Mentorship

Gain guidance and connection from experienced mentors to support personal growth and resilience.

FIND A MENTOR

Community Events

Join celebrations, workshops, and gatherings that bring 2SLGBTQ+ communities and allies together.

Resource Hub

Access resources and information designed to support 2SLGBTQ+ communities and allies.

Get involved.

Discover opportunities to connect, participate, and make a difference with Outlink.

Become a member now!

Join our community of supporters and help strengthen 2SLGBTQ+ voices in Calgary.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

Volunteer

Share your time, skills, and experience to support inclusive programs and create lasting impact.

EXPLORE POSSIBILITIES

Donate

Contribute to sustaining safe spaces and vital resources for 2SLGBTQ+ communities.

EVERY BIT HELPS

You matter with a cut little flower that has a face.

A safe and supportive space where 2SLGBTQ+ individuals can connect, share, and be reminded that their voices and experiences are valued.

  • Volunteer Spotlight

    AIME (she/her) - Group facilitator

    Published On: July 27, 2023
    Aime Hutton bio photo

    I’m a group facilitator with the downtown Grabba Java group. I [facilitate] it now by myself. I started out doing it with somebody in September last year [2022], and then came New Year’s, Zak [Manager of Volunteers & Programming] asked if I would be willing to do it by myself. I said, “Sure, if I can stay in the same location at the same date and time, then that would be perfect.”

    One of my core values is community and inclusion – having a place to come to where I feel that I belong. That’s what I want to create for others. In my space, I create a very open and welcoming environment for the Grabba Java [attendees] who come. It’s just a really wonderful feeling, having that sense of community and that sense of inclusion where everyone can feel that they belong.

    Another one of my values is safety. Right now, with the climate in [regards to] the city and the 2SLGBTQ+ community, it’s not always safe. I want to make our Grabba Java events a safe place where people can share about XYZ, about whatever is going on. I hold space and let the conversation unfold. Those are three of my values that I feel align quite nicely with Calgary Outlink.

    One gentleman has come twice. He is probably close to my dad’s age, so he’s late 60s – early 70s. He’s originally from England, so it’s really cool to hear his stories. That’s one thing I like about Grabba Java – the storytelling that unfolds and happens.

    We had another lady that has come twice also. The first time she came, she [was] brand new to the country. She fled her home country to come to Canada because it wasn’t safe for her to be herself in this country. Then she came back the next month; she was very excited. [She] got [her] first job, and she’s now working in Calgary. She feels amazing to be living in Calgary and being a part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

    Third, we had a younger man come with two of his support workers. This individual was on the autism spectrum with a developmental disability. He came to meet us and check us out. His support staff came with him and also engaged in conversation with all of us as well, which was really cool.

    It was really neat to see the diversity [of people that] come to Grabba Java. I enjoy it every month.

    Brave, bold, and authentically myself. (I know, it’s four words!)

    I would love to do more things with my business, [particularly] the speaking aspect is what I’ve really gotten into. It’s needed in society – doing more facilitation around diversity, and making inclusive workplaces for 2SLGBTQ+ communities.

    My partner. They have come to Grabba Java a couple of times. She’s just so supportive and proud. She’s come to different events I’ve spoken at, and it’s just amazing.

    I hope to volunteer [for Grabba Java] for as long as I am physically able to. I enjoy it that much!

    Aime is a youth coach, professional speaker + trainer, and an international best-selling author. Inch By Inch Empowerment is a company founded by Aime that helps 2SLGBTQ+ youth on their coming out journey. For inquiries, you can reach Aime at [email protected], or (825) 438-0079. You can follow Aime on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

    Grabba Java is our community group for everyone in 2SLGBTQ+ communities and their allies. They meet on Thursdays, with the downtown meeting on the third Thursday of the month at Element Café (331 17 Ave SW).

Land Acknowledgement

Outlink operates on the land adjacent to where the Bow and Elbow Rivers meet. Covered by Treaty 7, we are on the traditional territory of the Blackfoot Confederacy, which includes the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani First Nations, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Îyâxe (Iyarhe, or Stoney) Nakoda, comprising of the Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Goodstoney Bands.This territory is also homeland to the historic Northwest Métis and to the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, Métis Nation Battle River Territory, Nose Hill Métis District 5 and Elbow Métis District 6.

We are grateful for the opportunity to work on this land and call it our home. We endeavor to work alongside all Nations who live on this land to create spaces where all of us are recognized and supported to live our fullest lives.

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