Welcoming Ben Jasper to the ABC Head Start Society Board of Directors
We are excited to welcome Ben Jasper to the ABC Head Start Society Board of Directors. Ben brings a strong connection to Edmonton, extensive leadership experience in commercial real estate, and a deep commitment to community-building. His professional perspective, combined with his passion for supporting families and strengthening local partnerships, will help further ABC Head Start’s mission of empowering children and families through early learning and development.
Ben currently serves as Senior Director, Leasing at First Capital REIT, where he leads leasing strategy and manages a multi-million square foot retail asset portfolio. In this role, he works closely with businesses and community partners across the country, helping build vibrant spaces that support local communities. With years of experience in leadership, relationship-building, and strategic growth, Ben brings valuable insight and a collaborative mindset to the ABC Head Start Board.
A Moment of Inspiration
Ben’s connection to ABC Head Start began during a memorable moment at the Grand Opening of the Northgate location, where he attended as a representative of First Capital REIT.
Reflecting on that experience, Ben shared:
“Honestly, I decided I wanted to join the ABC Board about 15 minutes into the Grand Opening of the Northgate location. I was invited to speak on behalf of the landlord, First Capital REIT, and I was incredibly moved by the stories shared by the ABC staff, supporters, volunteers, and parents. The impact was real, tangible, and powerful. In that moment, I knew I didn’t just want to support from the sidelines — I wanted to be involved and help however I could.”
A Passion for Supporting Young Learners
Ben believes strongly in the importance of early childhood education and the role it plays in helping children develop confidence and resilience.
He reflected on his own experiences growing up and how they shaped his perspective:
“School didn’t always come easily to me. Unlike many of my friends and classmates, I had to work hard and put in extra effort. It wasn’t until later in life that I realized everyone learns differently, at different speeds, with different strengths, and that some kids just need the right support early on to thrive.
Starting off with the right tools, encouragement, and team around you can make all the difference. I’m excited to be part of an organization that helps children build that strong foundation early on.”
Bringing Community and Connection to the Board
Born and raised in Edmonton, Ben cares deeply about the community he calls home. As a parent of two young children currently in the Edmonton school system, he brings both a professional and personal understanding of the importance of strong educational and community supports for families.
Ben hopes to use his professional network and community connections to help expand awareness and opportunities for ABC Head Start.
“I’ve built a wide network across the country and hope to bring that network together to help support ABC — whether through partnerships, awareness, or new opportunities. I care deeply about this community and want to help ABC continue to grow its impact here at home.”
Looking ahead, Ben is particularly excited about the organization’s continued growth.
“I truly believe there’s so much opportunity ahead for ABC. I’m especially excited to help establish the new West Campus and then focus on continued outreach and growth. The more families and children we can support, the stronger our community becomes. Being part of that growth is incredibly energizing.”
Getting to Know Ben
To help everyone get to know our newest Board member a little better, we asked Ben a few fun questions.
1. Who was a teacher or mentor who had a lasting impact on you?
Ben shared that the person who shaped him most was his father.
“The person I’ve always looked up to is my dad, especially now that I have kids of my own. He passed away in 2020, but the older my children get, the more I realize just how much he did for me growing up.
He never said no to trying a new activity, he let me make mistakes (and helped me clean them up), and he showed up, every single time. Being present sounds simple, but it takes real effort. That’s something I try to carry forward with my own kids every day. I’m proud of the foundation he gave me.”
2. When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“I was (and still am) obsessed with hockey. As a kid, I thought being the stick boy for the Edmonton Oilers would be the coolest job in the world. I could tell you what stick every single player used.
It’s funny because my wife now works for the Oilers, and I’ve had the chance to meet the equipment staff. I still think Jeff Lang and Brad Harrison (current Oilers Equipment Staff) have the best jobs in the building!”
3. What’s a favorite book from your childhood?
“The one that comes to mind is James and the Giant Peach. That’s the one I always asked my parents to read to me. There was something about the adventure and imagination that stuck with me.”
4. What’s one value you hope to pass on to the next generation?
“It’s simple: it’s so easy to be nice.
You can make someone’s day better, and your own, just by choosing kindness. It doesn’t cost anything, and it makes a huge difference.”
5. If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
Loyal. Logical. Kind.
6. Coffee or tea? Early bird or night owl?
Ben laughed when answering this one:
“I’m neither an early bird nor a night owl, I’m just a dad of two kids who wake up way too early and go full speed all day!
At this stage, a perfect day would be sleeping in (not going to happen), drinking two or three hot cappuccinos in peace (usually cold, on the run), enjoying a great dinner at XIX Nineteen with my wife, and then heading to bed early. Simple and perfect.”
Looking Ahead
We are grateful to welcome Ben to the ABC Head Start Society Board of Directors. His dedication to community, leadership experience, and enthusiasm for supporting children and families will help strengthen the important work we do every day.
Together with our Board members, staff, partners, and supporters, we continue working toward a future where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Welcome to the Board, Ben!