Every vibrant, resilient neighbourhood has one thing in common: a strong core of residents who are informed, involved, and committed to local well-being. In Mount Royal, that commitment is represented through the Mount Royal Community Association (MRCA), a volunteer-led, non-profit organization that exists to serve the interests of residents in both Upper and Lower Mount Royal. While many people associate community associations with event planning or public meetings, their true purpose is much deeper. At their core, they are about belonging.
As we move into November—a time of reflection and preparation for the year ahead—it is the perfect moment to ask: Who can join the MRCA? What does membership mean? And why should it matter to you?
The answer to the first question is simple. Everyone who lives in Upper or Lower Mount Royal is eligible to become a member. This includes homeowners, renters, students, seniors, families, single residents, and business tenants who reside within the boundaries of our community. You do not need to own property to join. You do not need to be invited. If you live here, you belong here.
This inclusive approach is rooted in the founding principles of the MRCA. Since its incorporation in 1934, the association has aimed to represent the interests of the entire neighbourhood. It has provided a platform for residents to connect, share resources, protect local character, and speak with a unified voice on matters affecting the community. Whether the topic is development, safety, transportation, beautification, or parks, the association exists to reflect the views of Mount Royal residents.
So, what does membership mean in practice?
First, MRCA members receive tangible benefits. These include access to discounted rates for hall rentals at Mount Royal Station, eligibility to participate in exclusive programs such as tennis court access, and the right to vote at the Annual General Meeting. Members receive early invitations to community events and have the opportunity to volunteer on committees or stand for election to the board.
More importantly, membership is also a symbol of civic participation. It is a signal that you support your neighbourhood. It demonstrates to the City of Calgary that our community is active, organized, and worthy of continued support. The MRCA’s ability to advocate for infrastructure improvements, secure grant funding, and maintain partnerships with public institutions depends, in part, on the size and strength of its membership base.
Community associations are non-profit organizations. They receive no operational funding from the City. Instead, they rely on a combination of event revenue, grants, donations, and membership fees to cover essential expenses such as insurance, utilities, maintenance, communications, and program delivery. When you pay your annual membership fee, you are directly supporting the work being done to make Mount Royal a better place to live.
In the past year alone, membership funds helped maintain the skating rink and tennis courts, cover insurance and utility costs for Mount Royal Station, support the installation of decorative lighting, and help organize community cleanup days and seasonal gatherings. Members also played an essential role in shaping the future of our neighbourhood by participating in the Planning and Development Committee and attending consultations on local policy.
If you are not yet a member, or if your membership has lapsed, we encourage you to join or renew today. It is a small gesture with a big impact. Membership is affordable, quick to set up, and valid for a full calendar year. You can register online at www.mrca.ca/membership in just a few minutes.
As we prepare for winter and the upcoming holiday season, we are reminded that communities are not built solely by buildings or bylaws, but by people—people who choose to participate, who lend a hand, and who show up. Your membership is a simple way to show up for Mount Royal.
We hope to see you at the next event, public meeting, or program at Mount Royal Station. Until then, thank you for being part of this remarkable neighbourhood—and for considering becoming a member of your community association.
Join today. Your voice, your vote, your community.
Click here to the Lower Mount Royal Community News home page for the latest Lower Mount Royal community updates.
Click here to the Mount Royal Community News home page for the latest Mount Royal community updates.
Click here to the Upper Mount Royal Community News home page for the latest Upper Mount Royal community updates.
