Welcome back to our annual roundup of men we admire. This year, we’ve got 11 men that show us that building a better community builds character. From personal triumphs to sharing their wealth of knowledge and expertise, these men have big dreams and even bigger hearts.
DANNY STEVENS
Danny Stevens is not just helping youth build muscle, he’s helping them build character.
Inspired by his own upbringing and fuelled by a desire to give back, Stevens built an impressive garage gym, Game Day Performance (GDP), to nurture the athletic potential of his sons, their friends and their love of football.
“I love teaching fitness and nutrition to these young athletes because I want them to have a mentor like I did growing up lifting weights and playing high school football in B.C.,” says Stevens.
“I’m teaching these boys everything I know in hopes they grow up to be fine young men. I want to encourage and push them to accomplish all their goals at whatever they choose to do in life.”
At GDP, Stevens sets a high standard where commitment is non-negotiable. Yet, he never charges for his time, understanding the financial hurdles many face.
“Focusing on health and wellness should be a priority for athletes or those who are interested in sports. I just wanted to create a safe and accessible space for people to train and get answers to questions,” says Stevens.
Beyond the gym, Stevens’ commitment to service knows no bounds. From driving school buses and sharing his talent in tattooing to people who are low-income and need a pick-me-up — free of charge — to planning community barbecues, his days are filled with acts of kindness.
Stevens’ efforts in providing a safe space for young athletes to learn how to properly build nutrition and muscle and learn the importance of hard work and dedication are inspiring, says nominator Shannon Hay.
“Danny instils positivity and integrity in all young athletes he meets, with a motto of, ‘It’s not the size of the athlete, but the size of their heart,’” says Hay.
BRAYDEN MATTHEWS
Brayden Matthews may not have grown up playing sports, or even watching professional sports, but he deeply sees the value in it.
“I have been in enough leagues, though, where I saw the apathy of other managers and it never sat right with me,” says Matthews.
“I saw an opportunity to make a better experience for families, and especially the players. If you met me 20 years ago, you would have thought, ‘not that guy,’ but I do find it brings me a lot of joy having to help out and it is not something I look at as a burden.”
Matthews has been a manager of the Airdrie Minor Hockey Association for more than two years. In his tenure, he has made an effort to make tournaments more special and help plan team-bonding excursions.
“It is such a great experience to bring these kids together from different backgrounds and with different personalities that become close friends. I think playing sports is a common denominator that youth can really form a deep friendship over,” says Matthews.
As vice-president of operations at Juniors Foods, Matthews uses his position to organize fundraisers for sports teams in Airdrie.
Last year, under Matthews’ guidance, the company was able to raise $30,000 for kids’ sports teams in Airdrie and purchased ice time in Airdrie and Calgary for free public skates for families.
Matthews is also an active volunteer with the Airdrie Curling Club.
“Brayden is a huge supporter of minor sports,” says nominator Cally Kearley.
“He was my son’s minor hockey manager and was the perfect male role model. He was organized, motivating and all communication with parents was fun and friendly.”
DAVE MAFFITT
Over the last ten years, Dave Maffitt has been empowering Airdrie residents to give back to the community through volunteerism.
As chair of the Board of Directors for Volunteer Airdrie, Maffitt connects individuals with volunteer opportunities, helps organizations find volunteers, and supports hyper-local voluntary initiatives led by individuals and groups.
“Many years ago, I struggled finding volunteers for the Airdrie 2014 Alberta Summer Games. I was trying to find a way to understand why people weren’t volunteering,” says Maffitt.
“I soon learnt the want to give back was there, people just simply didn’t have an easy place to look for opportunities. So, I have spent the last decade in this matchmaker role, finding out the best ways to help people find meaningful ways to give back, while also reducing the barriers for them to do so.”
Maffitt led the creation of a volunteer database to match individuals with volunteer opportunities best suited to their interests and schedules. Since its inception, more than 1,500 volunteers have found opportunities and more than 60 local organizations have found volunteers.
Maffitt also sits on the boards of Volunteer Alberta, Airdrie Sports Council, Karate Alberta Association and the Alberta JKA Karate Association.
Nominator Jennifer McCurdy is an active member of Volunteer Airdrie. She says Maffitt is always there, hands-on, getting things done.
“This man walks the walk,” says McCurdy.
“When he puts out the word that help is needed in Airdrie, he’s not just directing from behind a desk somewhere. Dave shows up ready to work in whatever capacity necessary. Whether that’s City events, moving seniors or those in need, driving people to dialysis appointments in Calgary, any day of the week or time of day, Dave gives selflessly.”
JAMIE MOORHOUSE
You’ll never meet a more positive man than Jamie Moorhouse.
That’s how nominators Deb Cryderman, Lucia Gomez and Lori Miller describe him.
Moorhouse is the man behind the camera of Talking Light Media, where he enjoys creating media for non-profit organizations, as well as documentaries that shine a spotlight on the less fortunate.
It was a friend’s plea for help in Cambodia and to set a good example for his then eight-year-old son that led him to co-found Carpenters4Cambodia, now merged with Bracelets4Buildings. The non-profit builds and repairs houses for those in need in rural Cambodia, where they have just completed their 85th house.
“To help change someone’s life, whether that is on the other side of the world or here in Airdrie, is a feeling I can’t describe,” says Moorhouse.
“I get so much joy out of giving back. You can’t not be happy when you put a smile on someone’s face.”
Over the years, Moorhouse has volunteered for numerous organizations including the Over 50 Club, Volunteer Airdrie’s Casino and Wranglers Airdrie Day.
He is also an active member of the Rotary Club of Calgary at Stampede Park, and is the District 5360 Rotary Foundation Chair, encompassing more than 40 clubs from Red Deer south. The District raises and distributes more than $500,000 a year to deserving groups, both locally and around the world.
“You have never met a man more generous than Jamie Moorhouse,” says Cryderman, who works with Moorhouse at the Airdrie Public Library.
“He is the person who takes care of everyone, whether that’s opening his home to someone in need, giving back to the less fortunate or even just helping you carry in groceries — Jamie has the biggest heart of anyone.”
JACK LUMLEY
Jack Lumley wants to help create a better community for generations to come.
It’s why he’s been active in the Airdrie community, volunteering for various boards and rolling up his sleeves to coach youths and give others an opportunity for a brighter future.
“I want the people who make their home here to have the same or better experience than I had,” says Lumley.
“There’s work to be done to keep it so great. Just saying someone else should do something isn’t the way to get things done. Sometimes, you have to take a bull by the horns, get it done yourself and you’ll see the benefits it has in the community for years to come.”
Lumley is co-founder of Airdrie 100 Men Who Give a Damn. The idea was to recognize smaller-scale charities that directly affect Airdrie, yet are often underfunded.
Since its creation in 2017, the group has donated more than $300,000 to the community.
Lumley was also chair of the Airdrie Regional Recreation Enhancement Society (ARRES), the public fundraising arm which helped raise funds to build phases 2 and 3 of Genesis Place.
He is also on the Board of Directors of Adopt-A-Grad Foundation of Canada, is a past-chair of the Board of the Airdrie Food Bank, and is a past-president of the Airdrie Edge Gymnastics Club.
“To top it off, Jack has been a hockey, ringette and baseball coach for many years,” says nominator OJ Bansal.
“He is a constant advocate for the city of Airdrie, and I can say with lots of confidence that he creates a meaningful and positive impact on people’s lives.”
KYLE WUDRICH
Kyle Wudrich has a heart dedicated to giving back to the community that raised him.
It’s part of the reason why he wanted to build a life in Airdrie and start his own business here.
“Airdrie is where I grew up, so the community has already given so much to me. Now that I have a business here, it is my way of giving back,” says Wudrich.
“I just hope that what I am doing is making a difference for the community. Anyone that I can help personally through my business really brings me a lot of purpose.”
Since opening in March 2020, 948 Brewing has become more than a local hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts. On days the brewery is closed, Wudrich generously opens its doors to various community groups, providing a space for meetings, rehearsals and gatherings.
He has also given the space to groups like the Airdrie Minor Hockey Association for its annual general meeting and the City of Airdrie for its SMARTstart program.
Beyond the brewery, Wudrich volunteers his photography skills for Nose Creek Players and actively participates in community events like airdrieFest, the Airdrie Homecoming Festival and the Airdrie Pride Festival.
“Airdrie is growing so much, and I am growing with it. I hope that, through my work, I can help other groups and businesses grow for the betterment of our community,” says Wudrich.
Nominator Karalee Braun says Wudrich’s involvement in community events and offering up the brewery as a space for people to gather is what makes him special.
“Kyle has a heart for the community,” says Braun.
“He is always looking at ways to give back to the community that he grew up in.”
MIKE LOUGHMAN JR.
Mike Loughman Jr. was tired of being what he describes as a “bad person.”
For 22 years, he had been using and selling drugs, fighting, and getting in trouble with the police. After a seven-day bender, he called the police on himself and got help.
That experience led him to found The Sober Friends Society, a non-profit based out of Airdrie focused on supporting the well-being of people with addiction issues that have made the choice to get clean and sober.
“It just seemed like all the pieces fell into place for me, and they don’t fall in place for others. That really annoyed me, and quite frankly scared me,” says Loughman Jr. “I wanted to create a space to be there for other people when they reach out for help. I won’t turn anyone away.
“I would say my mission is to recover loudly so others don’t suffer silently.”
In his recovery, Loughman Jr. discovered a passion for volunteering and fundraising. Among countless organizations, he has volunteered for the Airdrie Public Library, BGC Airdrie Club, Airdrie Food Bank, Santa Parade, Thumbs Up Foundation, the Alberta Works program, and Adopt-A-Senior Airdrie.
He has also gotten certified in CPR and received his Smart Recovery Facilitator Licence to dedicate his time to helping others overcome their addictions.
“Mike has one of the biggest hearts in Airdrie,” says nominator Jaadaas Jagwaa.
“He is very involved as a volunteer locally and has a special place in his heart for families, children and people trying to overcome addictions.”
In the future, Loughman Jr. has plans to build a 24-hour facility in Airdrie for people in recovery. The idea is to have trained professionals on site to help those in need, while also serving as a safe and sober place for people to go anytime.
MIKE REIST
Mike Reist is always keeping one eye open to find ways to give back to the community he loves so much.
For example, when one mother reached out to him asking for a suit her son could borrow for his graduation, Reist stepped up.
When local businesses needed a boost due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Reist stepped up.
And, when the Airdrie First Club needs donations for its Christmas Hampers program, or other causes need volunteers or support, Reist is always ready to rally the Airdrie Dads group.
“I’ve always believed giving back to the community is important. So, I am always looking for an opportunity to bless people, not necessarily financially, but with my time,” says Reist.
“I guess it really comes down to me wanting to be the person I needed when I was younger.”
Reist is co-founder of the Airdrie-based Adopt-A-Grad Foundation of Canada, which connects high school graduates with formal wear and financial assistance to celebrate the milestone.
He is also the creator of the Airdrie #LiveLocal Campaign, with the idea to get people involved and embrace that supportive and welcoming feeling that Airdrie has. All of the money from the hoodies he sells with the campaign goes right back into supporting the community.
Nominator and wife, Lori Reist, says her husband’s involvement in various local endeavours underscores his genuine love for the city and his relentless drive to uplift its residents.
“As a prominent figure in the Airdrie Dads group, Mike actively cultivates connections within the community and encourages others to be more engaged, as well,” says Lori.
“Additionally, his unwavering support for initiatives like the 100 Airdrie Men Who Give a Damn highlights his dedication to philanthropy and community well-being.”
MYLES RIDGE & MIKE NICHOL
Myles Ridge and Mike Nichol are passionate about giving back to the community.
As co-chairs of the Business Club of Airdrie & Area (BCAA) Golf Tournament, the pair are determined to make a difference for organizations close to their heart.
“I did have some family members that required some help from hospice, so I know what kind of pressure that puts on family members,” says Ridge.
“It just gives me motivation to raise money to help some of these amazing causes.”
In 2023, the tournament committee had a goal to raise $10,000 for Airdrie Hospice. They ended up completely selling out the tournament, raising more than $20,000 for their efforts.
This year, Ridge and Nichol have decided to raise funds for Airdrie Hospice and MS Canada — a cause Nichol cares deeply about.
“My wife was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis last year,” says Nichol. “It’s been a learning curve for us, and it really made me want to do what I can to give back. I feel that, if you have the ability to give back, then you should do it. Why not make life better for people if you can?”
Besides the tournament, Ridge and Nichol both actively volunteer in the community, says nominator and BCAA President Kelly Boudreau.
“Mike is very passionate about giving back to the community. He is all-around a great guy, he coaches hockey, and supports others whenever he can while running his own business, Simplicity Car Care Airdrie,” says Boudreau.
“Myles is dedicated to growing the golf tournament, and very passionate about doing the right thing for those less fortunate. He is also a committed member of 100 Men Who Give a Damn and gives from his company, Big Ben Cleaning, whenever he can.”
NATHAN SEDLACEK
Nathan Sedlacek is a handy man to have around.
The local electrician donates between 10 to 20 hours a month helping those in need with tasks and projects they might not otherwise complete.
Sedlacek’s commitment to aiding his neighbours stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of lending a hand. He refuses to stand by when he sees someone in need, whether it’s offering a boost, repairing a house or providing valuable advice.
His motivation? The simple notion that everyone deserves assistance when faced with challenges.
“There was a point in time where my family needed help, and our community stepped up and gave us a hand. At some point, everyone needs someone to help them, and I don’t like seeing people struggle or get ripped off or left without,” says Sedlacek.
“I want to bless others the way I have been blessed.”
Volunteering primarily through his church, Kingdom City, Sedlacek extends his generosity wherever it’s required.
His vision extends beyond individual acts of kindness; he dreams of creating a network of handymen and specialized trades within Airdrie, specifically targeting those who may lack the resources or support to address essential repairs. Single mothers, widows, or individuals without familial or financial assistance are at the front of Sedlacek’s mission to ensure no one is left struggling alone.
As a co-owner of Titan Electrical Services, Sedlacek’s professional life mirrors his dedication to service.
Nominator and wife, Nayley Sedlacek, says her husband has a heart set on making a meaningful difference.
“Nathan is a friendly neighbourhood hero,” says Nayley.
“He’s always available to everyone in our immediate community, but also within Airdrie, and does not stop being present with his family.”
