CACAC (Image Credit: Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Applications Now Open

Central Alberta Invited to pitch big Ideas for child safety at “The Lions Den”

Feb 11, 2026 | 2:38 PM

The Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre (CACAC) is inviting everyone from youth and community members to businesses, non-profits, and community leaders — to share bold, innovative ideas that can reduce crimes against children and enhance child and youth safety through a new live pitch event, The Lions’ Den.

Set to take place at the Holiday Inn Gasoline Alley, officials say The Lions’ Den is a high-energy, TV-style pitch competition where selected participants will present their ideas on stage. The winning pitch will receive a cash prize of $5,000 to help bring their idea to life.

“This event is about recognizing that child protection is everyone’s responsibility,” says Cassandra Galenzoski, Chief Operating Officer of the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre, in a press release. “We know some of the most powerful solutions come from the community itself. The Lions’ Den gives people a platform to share ideas that could make a real difference for children and youth in Central Alberta.”

The CACAC says it is seeking ideas at any stage of development, from early concepts to more developed initiatives. Applicants do not need formal experience in child protection, but creativity, lived experience, and a passion for community safety are strongly encouraged.

Organizers say ideas may focus on prevention, education, technology, community programming, service innovation, or new approaches that strengthen protection systems for children.

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According to officials, The Lions’ Den is part of CACAC’s broader commitment to innovation, prevention, and collaboration, and is being held before the 2026 Transforming Practices Conference, which brings together professionals and leaders from across sectors.

Applications are now open, and the CACAC is encouraging the community to apply and to share the opportunity widely through schools, networks, and organizations.