INVESTING IN COMMUNITY
Building a future at the Clayton
Jay Westman takes pride in making smart investments and says it’s easy to see how profoundly his company ’s latest build will pay off.
The Clayton, which will house 30 formerly homeless Calgarians, opened recently in Bowness, part of northwest Calgary.
“I always make a point of investing in things that will grow exponentially,” said Westman, chairman and CEO of Jayman Built, during an event to celebrate completion of the Clayton. “As I stand here today, I have zero doubt that the investment we are making today will grow exponentially, not necessarily in terms of dollars, but where it truly matters.
“Mark my words, these 30 people with their 30 keys are going to unlock unrealized potential that is going to set off a chain reaction of immeasurable positive change in our community,” he added.
The Clayton, which will see occupants starting Aug. 19, is the latest building through the Resolve Campaign, which partners with nine Calgary agencies to provide vulnerable, homeless people with affordable rental housing and supports.
Eleven homebuilders — including Jayman — have made a $15.4 million pledge and committed to being construction managers on a series of apartment buildings for the Calgary Homeless Foundation and the Calgary Homespace Society through the Resolve Campaign.
“This building will provide a stable place of belonging from which the 30 future tenants will build a better future,” says Diana Krecsy, president and CEO, Calgary Homeless Foundation.
The Clayton’s bachelor-style suites are equipped with a bathroom and kitchenette, including two on the main level that are barrier-free. It has communal amenity spaces, such as a well-sized outdoor patio with a contained garden.
On-site supports will be provided by the Calgary Alpha House Society.
“We believe everyone deserves to have a safe, stable home and that a home is a place where people can work on other aspects of their lives to create a healthier future,” said Kathy Christiansen, executive director, Calgary Alpha House Society. “We look forward to becoming a part of the vibrant community of Bowness.”
The Clayton name comes from the late Alvin Clayton (A.C) Westman, Jay’s father, and Jayman’s founder.
“He would be so proud of what we accomplished,” said Westman. “If he could be here today, he would join me in saying two very heartfelt words, ‘welcome home,’ ” he added.
Alan Norris, chair of Resolve Campaign, credits Westman — who also served on Resolve’s cabinet — for his eagerness in participating in the cause and “willingness to go the extra mile for the community,” calling him a “tremendous partner.”
Along with Jayman, the Clayton received support from the federal government, provincial government, the City of Calgary and philanthropic donors.
“My dream is by the time my grandchildren have children the idea that any child will live on the streets will be ancient history,” said Westman.
“We’ll continue to work together, we’ll dig deep … we’ll address the root causes of homelessness. Perhaps this seems like a lofty goal, but I believe in lofty goals.”
To that end, Westman signed a picnic table located outside the Clayton with a quote from his father that applies:
“You will never hit a goal that has never been set.”