Bottle drive for Fundraising for Charity

The CMA Bottle Drive turns everyday recycling into meaningful social impact. By collecting empty beverage containers from our members and local network, we raise vital funds for local Calgary charities, community outreach programs, and humanitarian causes. Donate Containers Become a Volunteer

Recycling with a purpose Our community bottle drives offer an easy, eco-friendly way for families to contribute to worthy causes. Every container donated directly supports local organizations dedicated to food security, health, shelter, and community welfare. Collect and drop off your empty bottles, cans, and milk jugs during designated collection periods, or volunteer with our team to assist with sorting, transportation, and processing.

Environmental Care Divert recyclable materials from landfills while promoting sustainable habits within our community. Direct Impact 100% of proceeds from bottle drive initiatives go directly toward designated charitable partners and social causes. Youth Participation A great opportunity for Paalavi Youth Club members and young volunteers to earn community service hours.

How to participate
Save Your Containers Collect eligible deposit containers, aluminum cans, plastic bottles, glass bottles, juice boxes, and milk cartons in your home or workplace.

Scheduled Drop-Offs
Bring your bagged recyclables to designated CMA drop-off locations during scheduled drive dates, or coordinate a pickup with our volunteer team.

Volunteer & Help Sort Assist our team with receiving, sorting, and delivering containers to local recycling depots.

Help us reach our next fundraising goal Whether you donate containers or volunteer your time, your contribution helps turn recycling into real support for those in need. Please email info@cmacalgary.ca and Special.events@cmacalgary.ca 

Blood Donation Drive

The Calgary Marathi Association (CMA) has always believed in the spirit of Seva, selfless service and has consistently demonstrated this through impactful community initiatives. Among its most commendable efforts are the regular blood donation drives organized in partnership with Canadian Blood Services, aimed at saving lives and supporting the healthcare system.

These drives have not only helped meet critical blood supply needs but have also fostered a strong sense of civic responsibility among the CMA community. With enthusiastic participation from volunteers, donors, and families, CMA has turned these events into an inspiring tradition of compassion and community service.

This collective effort has not gone unnoticed. Canadian Blood Services has recognized CMA with certificates of appreciation, acknowledging the association’s dedication and the vital contributions of its members. These recognitions are a testament to the positive impact CMA continues to make.

The success of these drives is a direct result of the unwavering commitment of CMA volunteers, who work tirelessly to coordinate logistics, spread awareness, and encourage participation. Their dedication ensures that each blood donation drive is safe, well-organized, and impactful.

As the CMA continues to grow and evolve, its mission remains rooted in giving back to the broader Calgary community. Through initiatives like these, the Calgary Marathi Association stands as a shining example of how cultural organizations can lead with heart, purpose, and service.

Interested to join the CMA Blood Donation group? Please email info@cmacalgary.ca and Special.events@cmacalgary.ca 

Food Donation Drive

Fighting hunger and supporting local families across Calgary.

The CMA Food Donation Drive brings our community together to collect non-perishable food items and essential supplies for local Calgary food banks and shelters. Through collective generosity, we help ensure that vulnerable individuals and families have access to nutritious meals. Donate Food Items Volunteer for Collection

Nourishing our local community Food security is a vital pillar of our social impact efforts. Our seasonal food drives allow CMA members and friends to give back directly to the broader Calgary community, supporting those facing financial hardship, food insecurity, or emergency situations. Drop off essential items during scheduled drive dates, or join our volunteer network to help organize, pack, and distribute donations to our charitable partners.

Community Support Directly assist local food banks and community shelters in meeting the rising demand for food assistance. Essential Relief Provide essential staples such as canned goods, grains, baby food, and hygiene products to those who need them most. Shared Values Foster a spirit of empathy, generosity, and civic responsibility among community members of all ages.

How to participate
Gather Non-Perishable Items Collect unopened, unexpired non-perishable food items, canned goods, dried staples, and basic personal care essentials.

Drop Off Donations
Bring your donated items to designated collection bins at CMA cultural events, Marathi Shala sessions, or specified drop-off points.

Volunteer & Pack Join our outreach team to help inspect, sort, category-box, and deliver collected donations to local Calgary food banks. Please email info@cmacalgary.ca and Special.events@cmacalgary.ca

Make a difference in someone’s plate today Your generous food contributions help nourish local families and strengthen our broader Calgary community.

Mustard Seed drive

Hands-on meal service and shelter support for Calgarians in need.

Join the Calgary Marathi Association in making a direct, positive impact in our city by volunteering at The Mustard Seed SE shelter. Through our monthly volunteer shifts, CMA members work together to prepare, serve, and support shelter guests, providing warmth and dignity to individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness. Sign Up to Volunteer Email Special Events Team

Serving with care and compassion Our partnership with The Mustard Seed gives CMA members a meaningful way to give back through direct community service. Dedicated volunteer teams assist with meal service, kitchen tasks, and facility support on a recurring monthly schedule. By giving just a few hours of your time, you help provide essential meals and daily assistance to vulnerable Calgarians in a welcoming environment.

Direct Impact Provide hot meals, essential support, and direct care to shelter guests in Southeast Calgary. Team Volunteering Work alongside fellow CMA members in a supportive, organized, and rewarding team environment. Youth & Family Inclusion An excellent service opportunity for youth aged 13 and older to build community service experience alongside an adult.

Shift details & how to join
When First Saturday of every month (running January through June, and September through November).

Time & Location
2.5 hours per shift at The Mustard Seed SE Shelter (7025 44 St SE, Calgary, AB T2C 4E8).

Team Size & Age Limit
6 volunteers per shift. Youth ages 13–17 are welcome to participate when accompanied by an adult.

Join our monthly volunteer team To reserve your spot on an upcoming monthly shift, reach out to our volunteer coordinators today.

Interested to join the team – Please email info@cmacalgary.ca and Special.events@cmacalgary.ca

Volunteer time

Support community events, service drives, outreach efforts, and activities that need helping hands.

Share skills

Offer professional experience, mentoring, coordination, communication, planning, or other practical strengths.

Support causes

Participate in efforts that support families, newcomers, seniors, youth, local needs, and broader community well-being.