Our Story
"Alone we can do so little; Together we can do so much."
~Hellen Keller
Helping Hands was founded in December 2024 by the mother-daughter team of Jan Guy and Michelle Mericle, believing that sometimes we all just need a helping hand. Throughout her journey as a devoted single mother to Michelle, Jan embarked on working tirelessly to build a business of her own in order to secure both of our futures. Jan always promised that if her company did well and was successful, she would strive to help others around her, because she and her daughter had been graciously and lovingly helped and supported when they needed it most, by different family members and friends, over the years.
Jan's main dream was to be able to send Michelle to university so that she could have choices, and so that she would have the security to be able to take care of herself and own family one day. Through many years of hard work and sacrifice, with some help along the way, Michelle went on to attend the University of Lethbridge to earn her Bachelor of Arts, and to the University of Calgary to earn her Bachelor of Education. Michelle's life long dream of becoming an elementary teacher, and Jan's goal of helping her get there was achieved.
Jan's dedicated drive to give back, along with Michelle's experiences of seeing the growing needs of children and families while teaching in public schools for over 20 years, and becoming a single mother to two children myself, combined perfectly for them to create this family foundation.
Jan and Michelle proudly stand behind the mission and vision of Helping Hands Community Bridge Foundation (AB). They know how impactful a little bit of kindness and support can be in changing someone's life, because they lived it. And now they want to share it to others who may be in need.
Meet The Team
(Updates added soon!)
Jan Guy
Co-Founder & President
I ran my own metal brokering and technology development company for 9 years in Calgary. This led to starting a magnesium recycling business and subsequently relocating to Indiana in 2001 through to the present.
I am the proud single mother of Michelle, mother-in-law of Kevin, and grandmother of Addy, Jackson, Madison and Kaleb.I have two adorable fur babies, Lily and Bella, who keep me on my toes and make my days brighter.
I enjoy world travel, reading, cooking and renovating my spaces to be functional and beautiful.
Helping Hands has been a long time dream of mine, and I'm thrilled that we are underway with this work under the direction of Michelle and Andrea, and seeing the difference we are making for our Helping Hands families. I look forward to many years of actively growing our family foundation.
Michelle Mericle
Co-Founder and Executive Director
I was an elementary teacher in Calgary, AB for over 20 years, and was a single mother to my daughter and son for 5 years. I recently married my forever person and was given the gift of another son and daughter, so our family of 6 is busy! We also have a crazy little dog who often thinks he's the boss of the street, and a wonderful circle of friends and family we love.
I am so very grateful for the opportunity to help build and grow Helping Hands, to share my passion for making sure that children and their families feel cared about and supported, and helping them believe that they don't have to go through their struggles silently or alone, and that their futures can be as bright as they dare to dream.
Andrea Gibson
Operations Director & Secretary
I come from a background of 24 years in the real estate sector, including more than a decade of non-profit experience. I am the proud mom of an amazing son, and some of my favourite memories are made while exploring new places and going on adventures together. When I'm not working, you'll often find me in the mountains with my steadfast partner, soaking in the beauty of Alberta and enjoying time outdoors.
Having experienced my own struggles along the way, I understand how crucial it is to have support when times are tough. That is why I feel incredibly thankful for the opportunity to give back in a meaningful way through Helping Hands, alongside one of my very best friends. It is a privilege to help cultivate a community where people feel seen and supported, and are reminded that they are never alone.
Marco Zeller
Treasurer
Taunya Madge
Board Member
As a Board Member of Helping Hands, I am passionate about supporting families and strengthening community. Having experienced firsthand the challenges that families can face, I understand the importance of accessible support and meaningful connections.
Through 17 years of business ownership, I have developed a strong network of relationships and a passion for connecting people and resources; skills I am proud to bring to Helping Hands as we work to provide essentials, support, and hope to families in need.
Kevin McLaughin
Board Member
I am a 27 year Telecom professional and father of 4 amazing kids, who was fortunate to find the most beautiful, caring woman to marry - who also happens to be the Executive Director of a new not-for-profit foundation. I love helping others and keeping busy so the foundation is a great outlet for me, and a win-win for our community.
Our Partner Schools
Deer Run School ~ Calgary, Alberta
Haultain Memorial School ~ Calgary, Alberta