Tammy McGlennon

United Way Fort McMurray and Wood Buffalo’s Resource Development Manager, Tammy McGlennon, grew up in Toronto but has called our region home for the last seven years. Running Blow Up Your Birthday while working full-time at United Way proves that management is just one of the amazing qualities she brings to our community. YMM: Tell us about your volunteer experience in the community. TG: Since I have started working at United Way I have come to know and love so many non-profit agencies, and I try and help out where I can. Sometimes this is through volunteering for events, and we also regularly volunteer our services through Blow Up Your Birthday to help charities raise much-needed funds. For the past two years, I have fostered through Wood Buffalo Animal Rescue, and have partnered with SPCA to help with their fundraising by donating our services for their special events. YMM: What is the most rewarding part of your career? TM: The most rewarding part of my career is seeing how my hard work impacts this amazing community and the difference we can make in people’s lives. I love hearing the success stories! YMM: What keeps you in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo? TM: When I first moved here, I was on a five-year plan like most people. But I have grown to love the community, since moving here I have learned that we take care of our own. This community leads with its heart and has inspired me to lead by example and help where and when I can. YMM: In your opinion, in what areas could the region improve? TM: As amazing as our community is I feel we could improve by revitalizing our downtown core, and bringing back our 911 call services so that we can react quickly and efficiently during emergencies. I have been thankful to work at United Way and now can say I feel that it is very important to keep our money local and support our own residents. We need to make local businesses understand that they should be giving back to the town and helping us run much-needed programs that are beneficial to a healthy community. YMM: What accomplishment are you most proud of? TM: Blow Up Your Birthday. I bought Blow Up Your Birthday almost four years ago now and at the time it was doing poorly. After many sleepless nights, I converted it into a successful company that heavily gives back to the community. As of today, we have four locations across Canada and we continue to grow. YMM: Who is your hero, and why? TM: My father Allan McGlennon. He was a single father (back then it was not common for fathers to have full custody) and he made raising us seem so easy. He never missed an opportunity to cheer us on, and to this day is my biggest cheerleader. My father leads with his heart and has instilled the same values in his children. I would not be who I am if it wasn’t for his love, support and guidance and for that I will forever be grateful. YMM: What motivates you? TM: My spouse, Adam McKee. I have quickly learned that as long as he is behind me, I can do anything and succeed. Adam makes me want to try harder, love harder and reach for the stars as the only time you fail is when you don’t take the chance.