Issue 22 . April 2012 • sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com • TRC Youth Give Back
St. Patricks Thanks Pals Supporters
By Melissa Barrett The Resource Centre for Youth (TRC) encourages youth to give back to their community through volunteering and setting a good example for others. TRC teens love hearing about new ways to get involved and are always up the challenge.
By Krista Turnbull, Community Schools/ PALS Coordinator At St. Patrick's School we are so very fortunate to have many PALS and community partners who give of their time to make our school a better place. The list seems to be endless, but here are just a few of the things they do ... they assist with the breakfast program, they are math and reading buddies, they coach after school and noon hour clubs and sports, they assist with providing a hot lunch program, they help out in the library and assist teachers in the classrooms, they join us on field trips, they host BBQ's and other fantastic fundraisers at their workplace to raise funds to assist us in a variety of ways, they are in-school mentors, they give of their time to host visits to their workplace, they donate tickets, they host community events in support of our school, they donate tons and tons of school supplies, they help with special events at school (and they are wicked cooks) and they are our family ... one that continues to grow every month and one of which we are so very proud. Thank you for all you do to make a difference in the life of many children.
Eager to kick off spring, teens host community clean ups in Waterloo Village and other surrounding neighborhoods to clear away garbage and other debris. Skate to Care is a fundraiser the teens always look forward to and volunteer at. As well they give their feedback to members of Plan SJ. Although all volunteer opportunities are important ones, HELP Day is always a favourite. The teens learn about youth homelessness and are given opportunities to come up with solutions to end youth homelessness as well as visit local nonprofit community organizations.
Volunteer Pam Munn By Sharon Amirault Happy Volunteer Week, everyone. This year we are so proud to tell the community about one of our amazing volunteers, Pam Munn, a woman who has volunteered with us since 2009. Every Wednesday afternoon Pam brightens our day as she comes in to share her creativity, patience, and love of children during our craft time. Coming in on her day off to talk with the women, help with crafts, and entertain the babies is so helpful. Pam is one of a kind. She is so understanding, fun, sweet, and gentle. Everyone loves it when she is in our home. Her smile lights up our day. Thanks Pam, we truly adore you and are grateful for your time and kindness.
How Can Your Business Get Involved? By Deborah Fisher PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) What began with one school and one business partner 11 years ago has grown to 18 schools and over 100 partners. Hundreds of volunteers are now working with our students and our schools to make a positive impact in their lives. As well, the PALS model is being adopted and adapted elsewhere in the province and is being considered in other provinces. We are looking for interested businesses and their employees and community groups to partner with one of several designated schools to join others to help “make a difference” in the youth of our community. Interested? Contact Deborah Fisher at fisher. deborah@jdirving.com or tipper.susan@jdirving.com.
Coordinator’s Comments By Juanita Black, Coordinator, Around The Block, Phone: 647-4850. Email: sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com For this Issue 22 of Around The Block, we have a theme of “Volunteers and Business” and we are proud to partner with the PALS Partnership. The PALS network of schools, which started with one school and the hopes and dreams of one man, has benefited many children and youth across greater Saint John, Volunteers come in all ages, all sizes, both sexes, and working and not working folks. Non profit, community groups and business - all delivering a service that more than often leaves you with a feeling of accomplishment and a smile on your face. This paper, Around The Block, that you read every two months is put together by a team of volunteers that comes from across this city and beyond. I have proof readers that I have never met, but they just wanted to be part of our team. Never underestimate you own ability to offer something back to your community. With the support of our many advertisers and volunteers I hope you will continue to read ATB for awhile to come. Please stay tuned for a Special Edition of ATB, that is sponsored by Elections NB and will focus on the Municipal Election on May 14, and have no advertisements. The special edition is begin coordinated by the Urban Core Support Network, SJ Votes Committee. Page 1
Volunteers Serve Breakfast At Lorne
Thank You ONE Volunteers By Wendy Barron Belmore The ONE (Old North End) Change Inc. would like to acknowledge the importance of volunteerism in its creation and growth. We began with a group of concerned residents who volunteered their time to improve the quality of life for the Old North End. We continue to strive for community awareness and participation surrounding important issues that would lead to a better lifestyle. This would not be possible without our volunteers. ONE Change owes its volunteers for the success of such events as the Christmas Party, Clean Up Days, Mother's Day Dinners and Events in the Park. Special thanks go out to Holiday Inn Express, Coast Tire, Home Builders Association, Shoppers Drug Mart North, Social Development and many other businesses for support of our annual Christmas Pyjamas Party. ONE Change also wants to acknowledge our private donors for helping us make a difference in the Old North End.
Pictured above, Ellen Sargent (Photo Courtesy of Denise Long)
By Denise Long Over 8000 breakfasts will be served this year at Lorne Middle School. The breakfast program runs five mornings a week serving fresh muffins, fruit, cereal, toast, milk and juice.
Spring at ONE Change
We would like to thank all the volunteers and community partners who help by volunteering their time or financially to this wonderful and needed program. Our students are well nourished, ready to learn and start their day off on the right foot.
ONE Change Youth View
By Bridget Guthrie-Ellis After a long winter, spring has finally arrived and ONE Change has a few key events to help welcome the season. The annual Mother's Day Tea will be held this year on Sat. May 12 at Main Street Baptist Church from 1-4 pm. Please join us and your neighbours in this afternoon to share a meal and conversation in the company of the other wonderful mother figures in your neighbourhood. We are also pleased to announce that we will be partnered with Eastern College for our annual clean up day this year. 100 students have graciously volunteered their time for that day to help brighten our community. This is an opportunity for a fresh start for the nice weather, so that our residents can feel pride walking down the street or taking our kids to the park. Please join us at 10 am at the North End Community Centre where we will meet and pass out gloves and bags. There will be a BBQ following this for all participants - date to be announced For information about these events or the other upcoming events that ONE Change has planned for the community, please feel free to contact the office for details.
By Sarah Hill From hanging on the streets of the North End with my friends a few years ago, I’ve noticed that the North End needed change; a huge change at that. I wasn’t brought up in the North End but I went to school there. I met amazing people while attending school, the Community Centre and ONE Change. They all feel like family now.
Introducing CST Tony Arsenault I am the new Community Police Officer for the North End. I have had the experience of working for the City and the communities of Saint John for the last few years and look forward to this new position within the Saint John Police Force.
Since 2007 I have been volunteering with ONE Change and the North End Community Centre. From all the laughs and jokes, my experience with them has been incredible. Making a change in the North End community is the best feeling ever and I was so glad that I got the opportunity to take my time and help volunteer. Up to this day, I still volunteer and I have a blast doing it. I’m surrounded by an amazing group of people and I enjoy helping them as much as possible. I was brought up to learn that you should worry about other people not just yourself. I’m very glad that I am a positive example for the younger children. I have been doing this for many years now and I hope people can follow in my foot steps to make this community a better place.
I am quite excited to be in this new role and having the opportunity to work here in the North End. I look forward to meeting with many of you and please stop by ONE Change at 223 Victoria St. to say hello. Phone 632-6139.
North Neighbourhood Contact Wendy Barron-Belmore Phone: 635-2035 E-mail: theonechangeinc@nb.aibn.com
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Tim Isaac Gives Back
Community Gardening By Peter Josselyn Are you interested in having your own garden? PULSE is getting ready for another year of community gardening at Rainbow Park.
Saint John has a long history of volunteers who share and give back to the community. For over forty years our business was built on the philosophy that giving back to the community makes a difference. Success is best when it is shared. Our first fund raising auction was for the Lakewood Headstart program in the early 1970's. Since then, Liz and I with the support of our staff have conducted hundreds of events to raise millions of dollars.
Based on increased interest from last year and to encourage more people to get involved, we are planning to expand the number of garden plots. If you've thought about gardening but haven't become a gardner, this is the year to try. Imagine - a summer with fresh greens, radishes, herbs, and other vegetables.
At the present time our direction is to “Think Small” and support the smaller fund raising, non-profit events, especially those that have had funds cut (Pro-Kids, etc.), neighbourhood groups like PULSE, neighbourhood events and the more vulnerable in our society. We thank “Around The Block” and all its volunteers for the support given to Saint John.
If you don't have gardening experience, other gardeners will help you to choose plants that will thrive in the area and help you as you learn the ropes. A small investment in time will lead to many tasty and nutritious rewards.
652-3222 E-mail: isaacant@nbnet.nb.ca Website: www.timisaac.com
Comings and Goings At P.U.L.S.E. By Mary LeSage Partnering with the VON our Wellness Clinics have been quite successful. We will be back running on the third Tuesday of the month with the next one on April 17 from 1-4 pm.
For existing gardeners, we are planning a clean-up day for late April. We will also be expanding the garden during that time, plus tilling and distributing compost. Please contact us and come out as we prepare for the upcoming season. Call the PULSE office at 632-6807
Do you have basic income tax needing to be done? Why not check out one of our clinics being held at P.U.L.S.E. or at St. Andrew & St. David Church. Stay tuned for some up and coming projects in your community!! The new and IMPROVED Adopt A Block will be back for its second year!! Coming to your doorstep soon, watch for your very own South End newsletter.
Volunteering By Ian MacDougall I was at work one day when a co-worker of mine asked me if I would be interested in volunteering with her that weekend. Maybe I should do more for my community I thought. What did I have to lose? It looked like fun and I needed to find something to do AND it was outdoors! I showed up and there were only a few people there. Then I saw the bus come, there were about 20 people. They were excited to be there. My colleague explained to me that for the last year, the same bus load of people came from the high school a couple of towns over. They were volunteering in different areas of the community. They worked hard and at the end of the day, they still had smiles on their face.
Free Income Tax Clinics PULSE Inc at 251 Wentworth Street on the following dates: April 14, 12:30 -3:30 pm. April 19, 5:30-8:30 pm., St. Andrew & St. David Church at 164 Germain Street on the following dates: April 20, 12:30 - 3:30 pm. (use side door) April 28, 12:30 - 3:30 pm. (use side door)
South Neighbourhood Contact
& Auctions 213 WENTWORTH STREET SAINT JOHN, NB. E2L 2T4 Tel: (506) 652-3222 E-mail: isaacant@nbnet.nb.ca Website: www.timisaac.com
Mary LeSage Phone: 632-6807 E-mail: pulseinc@bellaliant.com
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Emera New Brunswick
CV Honours And Awards
By Dina Bartolacci Seely At Emera NB, we want to focus our sponsorship efforts on helping disadvantaged youth and their families. By supporting Crescent Valley we can reach out even further and help to make a difference in an entire community.
By Bettie Doucette This year’s Honours & Awards was held on November 4, 2011, at the North District 1 Police Station. We had an early start this year as we decided to provide pizza, Caesar salad and juice to everyone who attended.
The Crescent Valley Resource Centre provides programs and assistance that is available to everyone in need - and that’s something we’re thrilled to support. This neighborhood is home to so many young people with great potential and if we can help even one child reach their goals, it’s all worth it.
We had 13 certificates of appreciation, 32 bronze awards, 18 silver awards, 3 gold awards and 9 platinum awards. The Garden Committee gave plaques for 1st, 2nd, 3rd Pictured Above: Judy Lawson, Karen and honourable mention Rodgerson, Bettie Doucette recipients. Garden pictures (Photo Courtesy of Candice Doucette) were given to: partners, Province of New Brunswick, Department of Social Development and Halifax Seed.
But it’s not just about giving. We also get the chance to volunteer during events such as the Community Clean-up and the Resource Centre’s Annual Christmas Party. It’s been our pleasure to support the Crescent Valley Community over the last few years, and we look forward to continuing this support for years to come.
GEMTEC Volunteers In Crescent Valley By Debra Perry With Christmas 2011 approaching, the staff of GEMTEC Limited felt they wanted to do something for the local community. Our team purchased various items that were on the Crescent Valley Resource Centre's (CVRC) wish list.
They send a special thank you to our community partners; community awards were given to Leisure Services and the Saint John Fire Department. This year was the tenth anniversary for the George Lawson Memorial. Juanita Black gave a history of George and why people remember him. Mrs. Judy Lawson presented the George Lawson Memorial Award to Karen Rodgerson, an individual who has contributed to exemplifying those attributes in the community of Crescent Valley.
20th Anniversary For Community Garden By:Juanita Black In the corner backyard of Taylor, Patterson and MacLaren in 1992, a community garden was started with several trucks loads of topsoil.
One of our staff members, along with two friends, attended the CVRC Christmas Party on face painting duty. Christmas themed angels, stars, trees and Pictured : Kendal Blizzard facepaintsuch, were painted on little ing during the CVRC’s 2011 community faces that excitedly awaited Christmas Party their turn. “Humbled, ” is the word that best describes our involvement with the CVRC.
Now in 2012, the Crescent Valley Community Garden will be celebrating its 20 Anniversary. This garden has grown to include 18 families and is run by a garden Pictured , Left Side: Bunny, Kathy, Sancaptain and its memdra, Right Side: Janet, Louise, Karen bers, who tend their own garden, plus, share in mowing, whipping, and taking 8 compost bins to the curb for recycling.
Helping out with the CVRC was a wonderfully fulfilling day, to say the least. What a great team and a well organized Centre. We hope we get asked back this year!
Mother’s Day Tea FREE When: Friday May 11, 2012 at 1pm
The garden runs from late May until October every year, with a waiting list to join. There is no greater joy than walking out your back door and getting fresh vegetables for supper. Bring on the warm, nice weather.
Where: Crescent Valley Resource Centre (130 MacLaren Blvd) Please come and join us for tea and a light snack. Door Prize to be drawn. To register please call Anne or Tara at 693-8513.
Crescent Valley Neighbourhood Contact
Hon. Trevor A. Holder MLA Saint John-Portland Constituency Office 229 Churchill Boulevard Telephone: (506) 657-2335 Email: trevor.holder@gnb.ca
Anne Driscoll: 693-8513 CVRC.driscoll@gmail.com
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Volunteers Zoomers On The Go
Saint John Energy Supports PALS
By Jill Roberts Zoomers On the Go is a local falls prevention program comprised of volunteer led exercise classes and health education talks for the fifty plus population in our area. This terrific group of volunteers gives their time, energy and expertise back to the community, with the goal of keeping themselves and others “fit after Pictured Above: Shirley Bradley, Mary 50” while having a reduced Quarterly, Carol MacDonald risk of falls and injury. They (Photo by Jill Roberts) can be seen at a variety of community settings, leading exercise classes and sharing tips to promote healthy aging. They manage to do all of this with big smiles on their face! If you are age 50 or over, and would like to find out more about this free program, please call 632-5537.
Changes To Market Place
By Marta Kelly Saint John Energy is proud to support the PALS program in cooperation with St. Patrick’s School. The Partners Assisting Local Schools (PALS) initiative is a great way for staff to give back to the community. Staff members currently volunteer with the school’s breakfast program, the inschool mentoring program and after school basketball program. Dave Horgan, a member of Saint John Energy, has Pictured Above: Dave Horgan with his been mentoring with the mentee Allen (Photo courtesy of Saint school for over 4 years. John Energy) Allen looks forward to his weekly visit with Dave with great excitement. Staff mentors agree that weekly visits for a board game, a fun craft or building Lego structures can help to provide the mentees with positive reinforcement and encouragement.
By Darlen Splane The Westside P.A.C.T. is excited about proposed changes to Market Place. We recently attended a meeting with community stakeholders surrounding proposed upgrades to the area.
Westside P.A.C.T. Clean Up Days
Some ideas that have been discussed are: workout stations, a dog park, a common green area, a ball field & several other ideas that were submitted through community input. If all goes well, this will be a wonderful opportunity for the community to bring Market Place back to its glory days as a neighbourhood gathering spot! Will keep you posted!
Westside Wellness Centre Updates •Specimen Collection: Tue and Wed 7:30 am - 2:30 pm, by appointment only, please call 648-6681, press #3. • Food Bank: Tue and Fri 1-3 pm • Art for Seniors: Thu 1-3 pm, 674-4335 at St. George’s Church Hall • Monthly Foot Care Clinic: every 3rd Wed, by appointment: 657-2273
Pictured Above: Youth from 2011 Westside Clean Up Days
• Are you over 50 and want to be more ACTIVE? Join our classes: Tue 10-11 am at Hope Centre and Fri 2-3 pm at Carleton Community Center. Please call 674-4335. Free .
By Mary Lou Price The Westside P.A.C.T. Community Group is gearing up for their annual community cleanup in May.
• Food Purchase Club: for more information call: West, 674-4335 and St. Joseph’s Community Health Center, 632-5537 . • Westside Community Kitchen Program: Free. 674-4335
This is the 5th year for this event that involves community partners, students and teachers from our community schools, Neighbourhood Police Association, Saint John Police Force, Saint John Fire Department, Ambulance NB, City of Saint John, ACAP, and community volunteers. And after all of their hard work, the kids are treated to a BBQ lunch!
• Social Development worker: on site to answer questions, Tue afternoons 1-3pm
West Neighbourhood Contacts Patti Kelly: 674-4335 Patti.Kelly@HorizonNB.ca Mary Lou Price: 693-5123 MaryLou.Price2@HorizonNB.ca
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Reconizing A Volunteer In The Waterloo Village
Building Planters For The Village By Seth Asimakos The Saint John Community Loan Fund is located at 133 Prince Edward Street, and so is part of the Waterloo Village community. A project had been started a year earlier by the Waterloo Village Neighbourhood Association building planters. They wanted to add some more and I volunteered to build them. I’ve always enjoyed building things, whether it’s a fort for my kids, renovating my house, or in this case building some planters. I believe the more we can create a visually pleasing streetscape the more people will feel good about their neighbourhood and themselves, so I was happy to help out.
By Penni Eisenhauer The Waterloo Village Association would like to recognize Beverly Barwell’s contribution to the group and neighbourhood. Beverly has been a strong volunteer and advocate for the association’s work around neighborhood beautification. For the past three years Beverly has volunteered time and energy in developing a sense of community through her work with the association’s Adopt-aPlanter project. Beverly has worked with the City of Saint John, community partners, and local businesses in working towards beautifying the Waterloo Village neighbourhood. Beverly is a great asset to the association and community and looks forward to promoting and filling planters this year with beautiful flowers. Thank you Beverly!!!
Pictured Above: Seth Asimakos and his son, Aidan
Wyndham Worldwide Supports PALS
Updates: Waterloo Village Association By Penni Eisenhaur The Waterloo Village Association is working on two new initiatives; a Logo Contest in partnership with Prince Charles School, YMCA, and Boys & Girls Club; and Adopt-a-Garbage Can in partnership with the City of Saint John. The group continues to work on engaging new residents and invites you to attend the monthly meeting held at Coverdale Center, 148 Waterloo Street on April 11, 2012 from 6-7pm. The group also has a NEW Facebook page and invites you to check it out at www.facebook.com/WaterlooVillageAssociation. Pictured Left to Right: J. Clark and G. McNamee
For more information please contact Penni at 343-5382 or commorg. penni@gmail.com.
G Is For Giving By Meredith Leblanc Make a Difference program provides opportunities for employees from our Saint John office to come together and offer their time, energy and goodwill to make a difference in their local communities. Our focus areas are Health, Youth and Education, the Environment and Community Action. Funds from the program are distributed to help non-profit organizations in our community. Some of the community organizations we have helped in the past include Vibrant Communities, in the Village area with their beautification project Adopt-a-planter, the Saint John Community Food Bank, Inner City Youth Ministry (Chicken Noodle Soup Club) as well as participating in the Run for the Cure, the St. Joseph's Dragon Boat Races and the MS Rona Bike Tour. Genesys is proud to Make a Difference in this community.
By Debbie Cusack As one of the many community organizations our WHG and Corporate Service associates support is the PALS Program. It is one that we have truly valued, and enjoyed, our great partnership with individuals such as Debbie Fisher, Lori Doyle, Caitlin Corkum and Susan Tipper‌and even more so, the kids! Our partnership with Prince Charles School (located in our backyard!) started in 2008 with over 35 associates leading a “STICK WITH IT!â€? a mini-stick program encouraging the physical fitness of students in Grades 4 and 5. This year, our Saint John associates focused on Literacy by establishing a PenPALS (WynPAL) and Class Reader (WynReader) program. With 26 WynPALS exchanging handwritten letters with students and 18 WynReaders visiting the school to read to classes on a monthly basis, our associates will have enriched the lives of over 125 students at Prince Charles since 2008! However‌.when you talk with our associates, they’re the ones that feel enriched!
Carl Killen
MLA Saint John Harbour
Village Neighbourhood Contact
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Penni Eisenhauer 343-5382 commorg.penni@gmail.com
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Legion Ladies Celebrate 65 Years
St. Joseph’s Adult Learning Centre
By: Winnie Rice The Fundy Ladies Branch NO. 68 of the Royal Canadian Legion will be celebrating their 65th Anniversary of service to our veterans and community on April 18 from 7 – 9 pm. The open house will be at the Lancaster Branch NO. 69 of the RCL on Wilson Street.
By Joe Campbell, Adult Learning Centre Coordinator The Adult Learning Centre is equipped with 12 computer stations which are available Mon to Fri 11am - 6.pm. We offer courses in Computer Basics, Internet/Email Basics, Microsoft Word, Excel and Power Point at no cost. If you or someone you know might be interested in these courses we would like to hear from you. Please to contact me at 632-5545 or joseph.campbell@HorizonNB.ca
VON, Volunteer Visiting Our volunteer visiting program is an important part of the community support programs offered by the Victorian Order of Nurses. A volunteer visitor offers support and social interaction to an isolated individual through regular friendly visits at the clients’ home or out in the community, encouraging active and independent living. There are seniors around the block who are isolated and could benefit from social interaction but for various reasons are unable to go out. VON would like to invite these isolated seniors to contact us if they would like to receive a visit from a VON volunteer. If you would like a visitor please call our office 635-1530 and ask for Ann Bone at EXT 211
A Day In Her Shoes By Brittany Sullivan Join us on May 9 for A Day in Her Shoes in the Market Square Atrium with special guest Elizabeth Manley, Canadian Olympic Figure Skater and World Silver Medalist. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased by contacting Canadian Mental Health Association Saint John Branch at 633-1705.This year we will have spring fashions from Manchester Shoe Salon, Samuel & Co and Envy, hors d’oeuvres and wine from the Market Square restaurant vendors along with a silent auction and door prizes. Special guest Elizabeth Manley,“Canada’s Sweetheart”, speak on her struggles with depression; the impact that it has had on her life, and her journey to become a healthier and happier person. It will be an inspirational night! Tickets are $40 each and are on sale at Canadian Mental Health Association Saint John Branch office (15th floor City Hall) and Manchester Shoe Salon in Market Square. Please call 633-1705.
Free Money For Your Childrens Future By Cathy Wright I signed up for the Canada Learning Bond, did you? Crystal signed up her daughter for the Canada Learning Bond. It was easy. She didn’t have a social insurance number for her daughter but last fall at Sign Up BLITZ she was able to get one ‘on the spot’. Five banks were available so she went to her own bank. She wants her daughter to go beyond high school and $2,000 could make a big difference. It’s a start and an incentive for both her and her daughter. No cost to sign up! Josée hopes that by the time her children, ages 4 and 7, are ready for post-secondary education they won’t have to worry about student loans. Opening a Canada Learning Bond account is easy. Josée also adds some money each month because this can be matched by the federal government. The Canada Learning Bond (CLB) provides your child (born January 1, 2004 or later) with $2,000 towards any program after high school. Contact Penni; commorg.penni@gmail.com or 343-5382, for information and next sign up BLITZ.
Other services at the centre are assisted job search, resume creation, cover letter construction and social networking. We are very proud of the support we provide to our community and we really look forward to seeing you at our centre whether you are a new computer user or someone who is already familiar with our service.
Money Matters: Take Control Of Your Money And Your Debt Tired of getting to the end of the money before you get to the end of the month? Wish you were in control? If you’re afraid to open your bills, if you’ve never added up how much you owe. Steps to getting out of debt; 1. Figure out how much you’ve actually been spending. 2. Build a budget that works 3. Prepare for a rainy day so it doesn’t mean a major setback. 4. Find ways to increase your income. 5. Decide what is a “need” and what is a “want” 6. To avoid over spending, take only the money you plan to spend with you to the store. 7. Cut back on what you are spending on nonessentials If you feel these tips may help you and you would like to learn more, we are holding a “Money Matters” program at the Crescent Valley Resource Centre (CVRC). Funding for offsite child care is available, starting Wed May 9 - June 6, 1-3. pm. If you would like more information or would like to sign up, please call Tara or Anne at the 693-8513. Priority will be give to Crecent Valley residents.
eXcel Program By: Liza Gagnon The Saint John Community Loan Fund is proud to announce the arrival of its newest program eXcel. eXcel will offer enterprising Women support, over a two year period, as they develop & implement a plan to eXcelerate their ventures! The One-on-One Coaching Sessions within eXcel will help participants take a step back and gain perspective on a situation while the Peer-to-Peer Coaching Sessions are an important source of support. The program will identify Successes, Challenges and Action Plan Items in order to determine the best next step. eXcel is currently seeking Women entrepreneurs from the public to participate in our Peer-to-Peer sessions. You must be operating your own business and be willing to share your experience. To get involved please call 652-5601 or email excel@loanfund.ca.
Kidney Foundation Walk-a-thon By Van Russell The Kidney Foundation of Saint John invites all to the annual Walkathon held to support those battling Kidney Disease. Come on out and help give the gift of life by walking with us. You can also register online to collect pledges or donate at www.kidney.ca/nbpei or contact the office for more information at 634-0519. This event raises much needed funding for research for organ and tissue transplants as well as spreading awareness and supporting the community. There will be many smiles to be shared along with local and provincial prizes.
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Lorne’s PALS Partners By Denise Long Lorne’s PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) have provided Lorne students with many enrichment programs this school year. We are so thankful for all of the planning and coordinating with local talents and community businesses. These programs have enriched our student’s lives by providing them with an opportunity to participate in sports and other activities. The following are a few of the enrichment Pictured Above: Kids practicing their boxing with Kevin Watson of programs offered through our PALS Leisure Services Partners: Imperial Theatre, Fundy Solid Waste Management, boxing, pottery, snowshoeing, skating, garden planting, composting, CBC radio announcing lessons, and Hemming House videotaping classes. These programs have provided our students with new skills and experiences. The students are proud of their accomplishments and it helps them work toward a brighter future. Lorne students would like to thank all of the volunteers and PALS/Community Partners who have made these programs available.
Thank You Sue Hooper By Amanda Downey Sue Hooper, the Club’s Art instructor, has become a huge asset to the Rotary Saint John Boys and Girls Club. As owner of her own studio in Hampton, she has shared her expertise and connections in the ‘art world’. She has given us guidance on how we could run our own studio and the necessary equipment to purchase to get the art studio functioning. With her assistance, we introduced various media of art such as paint, pastel, drawing, clay modeling and charcoal drawing.
Pictured Above: Sue Hooper (Photo courtesy of the Boys and Girls Club)
A group of children and youth took part in weekly art sessions, instructed by Sue Hooper, during after school and evening youth programs. Sue has also played a major role in designing and painting our exterior wall mural. Sue Hooper and Fred Harrison were the creative geniuses behind the masterpiece seen on Brunswick Drive. Sue has been an inspiration to the Club and has really become a mentor and friend to our children and youth. We thank you, Sue!
Youth Volunteer In Anglin Drive Celebrate Expo - A Celebration Of Learning Wednesday, May 16, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, LBR Schools will be displaying a sample of the wonderful learnings/student experiences of the current school year – all will be student led! The exposition of Science Fair, Heritage Fair, Drama Fest, Music Festival, individual school exhibits, IT demonstrations, art exhibit and much more will be available to enjoy and appreciate. Open to the public and FREE for all to attend! Door Prize of a Wellness Basket! Other prizes will be available by draw for those who sign in noting what is ‘awesome’ in their school, community school or world! ‘Celebrate’ has partnered with Fundy Wellness Group for a demonstration promoting fitness and a presentation of a healthy snack for all to enjoy. Come enjoy a night of Celebration and see all that is AWESOME in School District 8!!
Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Saint John Thanks J.D. Irving Ltd. By Deanna Gamble Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Saint John is very fortunate to have many amazing businesses from Sussex to Saint John to St. Stephen that are great contributors to our programs.
By Amanda Maxwell When we started having movie night at the Anglin Drive Neighbourhood Tenants Association building, Dawn Campbell and I, Amanda Maxwell were the two helpers. One night I asked one of the youth, Angelica Edgett if she was interested in helping out. She agreed and since then her efforts have been amazing for a 12 year old. Angelica never misses a movie night, Pictured Above: Angelica Edgett is always willing to help out (Photo Courtesy of Anglin Drive Tenwhen needed, and never comants Association) plains about anything. She hands out snacks, juice and stays late to help clean up after the kids leave. Angelica also volunteers to do crafts and attends other special events. The children love her and I am so thankful to have Angelica taking a leadership role as the Anglin Drive youth volunteer.
J.D. Irving Limited has been a leader in setting the standard for volunteerism for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Our partnership with J.D. Irving Limited began in 2001 through a relationship with PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) through our In-School Mentoring program. Over the past 11 years PALS has provided nearly 70 In-School Mentors! Through the dedicated support of J.D. Irving Limited, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saint John has been able to expand the number of our matches by 103%! J.D. Irving Limited has not only supported Big Brothers Big Sisters through providing mentors but are also the title sponsor of Bowl For Kids Sake - our largest annual fundraiser! On behalf of everyone involved in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saint John we THANK J.D. Irving Limited for EVERY way they support the programs and services we provide!
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North End Churches Working Together
District 8 and PALS By Michael Butler, District 8 Superintendent For the past eleven years, students in District 8 have been the beneficiaries of ongoing partnerships with businesses, community groups, the faith community, and individuals who have volunteered their time to work in our schools through PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools). The contribution made by these volunteers, along with our dedicated school employees, has had a significant impact on our students. Whether it is in the form of support for breakfast and lunch programs, one-on-one mentoring, tutoring, or enrichment experiences for our students – volunteers working with our schools are vital to helping us reach our goal of ensuring life-long success for all of our students. On behalf of School District 8 – THANK YOU!
Pictured Above: Volunteers from Main Street Baptist and St. Lukes Church
CV Teen Vibe Gives Big Thanks
By Denise Long For the past several years, Main Street Baptist and St. Luke’s Anglican churches have been providing hot lunches to the students of Lorne Middle School. Between both churches they have served over 4500 lunches to our students this school year. Staff and students of Lorne Middle School would like to thank all of the volunteers who prepare these lunches on a daily basis. It is community partners like you that make our community a great place to live. THANK YOU!
Eye Spy Nuggets Celebrating What’s Awesome By Shaundell Curran Over the past two years, Teen Vibe in Crescent Valley has had the opportunity of having some of the best volunteers in Saint John to help support our programs and services. These people and businesses have given both their time and energy to make our programs more enjoyable and memorable. One person in particular who has gone the extra mile to help, mentor, tutor, provide guidance and support has been Craig Shannon of Irving Oil Limited. Over the past two years, Craig has provided the youth with a voice of wisdom. His dedication, support and inspiration have been effortless. All of the youth literally explode with smiles when they see Craig entering the building. His personality, professionalism and desire to help are just a few reasons why we treasure Craig so much. Teen Vibe, with its abundance of programs and services would not be possible without the support and volunteer efforts of the following people /businesses over the past two years: Kari Lynch, Mike O’Leary, Alexandra Warner, Jackie Campbell, Sara Roy, Dave Mazerolle, Nawal Doucette (Natural Moves – Yoga Bellydance Balance), Laura Gatien & Lyndsey Gallant (Domestic Violence Outreach Saint John) and Jason Pineau (Precision Painting Saint John). Teen Vibe would like to extend a big THANK YOU to the owner and staff of Precision Painting Saint John. Due to their volunteer efforts and services, Teen Vibe has received a fresh new look!
By Joan Wilkins We would like to share some of the wonderful responses we received during our “I SPY What’s AWESOME’ event held during the week of February 27 to March 2. Responses came from our students, school staff, parents and members of the community. ‘I SPY What’s AWESOME’ demonstrated how we can improve areas of our lives when we are INTENTIONAL about celebrating what is right with the world. It was a great week of recognizing what is AWESOME…a wonderful way to continue to reflect on the positives and remind us that some of the best things in life are free. With over 3500 entries from our District, we have lots to Celebrate… 1. Getting a sticker on a test...even in high school”. (Submitted by Grade 11 student) 2. I think dogs, peace signs, puppies, the color purple, my friends, games, animals, music, electronics, water, and me”. (Submitted by Grade 6 student) 3. It's AWESOME that my students have been putting lots of hard work into their projects the past few weeks and have AWESOME presentations to show for it!” (Submitted by teacher)
Hazen White/St. Francis Thanks PALS By Krisa Turnbull, Community Schools/ PALS Coordinator The staff and students of Hazen-White/St. Francis School would like to extend a huge “thank you” to all of our PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) and community volunteers who give so many hours of their precious time to enrich the lives of our students. Volunteers work in a variety of ways at our school - sharing their knowledge and passion with our students. From mentoring to coaching, supervising clubs, tutoring, assisting with the breakfast program and reading to students in our library, our volunteers have made a commitment to make a true difference in the life of a child. Not a day goes by without seeing the impact our volunteers have at the school. Individual volunteers give their time regularly and on special occasions. Groups of UNB Saint John students are noticed at the school on a daily basis, meeting their mentors to spend quality time together and assist with literacy while also building lasting friendships. These friendships that have developed with all of our volunteers through interactions with positive role models have made our school a great place to learn. We are so very appreciative of all you give to our school. Page 9
Centennial Says Thank You
Prince Charles Says Thanks
Pictured Above: Children at Prince Charles enjoying music class
By:Caitlin Corkum Centennial School is very fortunate to be a community school and a PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) school. Thanks to these combined programs we have 13 partners, three shared PALS, and six community partners involved at our school. Without the commitment from our PALS and community partners and the flexibility they provide that encourage people to volunteer, we would not be able to provide in-school mentors; breakfast five days per week; hot lunch three days per week; a March Break literacy camp; judo; “reading buddies”; our annual Christmas Bazaar; much needed supplies; healthy snacks; school trips; special events including the annual Train Ride and much, much more!
By Caitlin Corkum Prince Charles was the very first PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) school 11 years ago, at that time having one partner. We now have 15 very active partners. It is amazing the amount of support the school receives and the number of volunteer hours served. From laminating pictures; mentoring; coaching our sports teams; being “pen-pals” and “visiting readers”; providing after school activities such as “Crafty Kids”; choir, chess, Zumba, judo, serving breakfast each morning; to lugging and lifting anything we need - the list could go on. So much is accomplished because of our fantastic volunteers and our PALS who encourage and support them by providing flexible work schedules. From one monarch to another, we THANK YOU!!!!!
THANK YOU volunteers for giving of yourselves daily and to our PALS and Community Partners who provide them with the time to do so - you are AWESOME!!!!!!
Celebrate! April Celebrate what’s RIGHT with the World Our theme for April is “Believe It and You Will See It”. School District 8 believes that if we commit to a goal, we will ultimately find it because we are more likely to strive for the results we desire – even in the face of naysayers and obstacles. A conscious effort to “believe it and then see it” can help us recognize the positive aspects in even the most impossible situations - no matter how small and seemingly insignificant. Thought for the Month: “It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” ~J.K. Rowling~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ May Celebrate what’s RIGHT with the World Our theme for May is “Celebrate what’s RIGHT with the World”. School District 8 believes that as we embrace an attitude of looking for and celebrating what’s right with the world we can be happier and more productive. Thought for the Month: “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. ~Helen Keller~ For more information on the “Celebrate what’s RIGHT with the World” initiative, contact Joan Wilkins, Coordinator, School District 8 at 6436884 http://www.celebratewhatsright.ca
CELEBRATING VOLUNTEERS! PASSION. ACTION. IMPACT 506- 658-1555 www.volunteercentresj.com Find us on Twitter & FaceBook!
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Valued Sponsors of Around The Block
Are you Êtes-vous plugged in? branché ?
Website / site web: www.sjmnrc.ca Facebook: www.facebook.com/SJMNRC Twitter: @welcometosj Tel / tél: (506) 642-4242
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International Day For The Elimination Of Racial Discrimination
Toujours plus forts avec des Bénévoles
By Janelle Flanagan Adult Learners in the BEST (Basic Education & Skills Training) program at the Saint John Learning Exchange participated in International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21, 2012. Celebrations began in King’s Square with a Members of the Saint John Learning Peace March to the MarExchange particpate in International Day ket Square Atrium, the multi-language reading of Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" by local students and new immigrants, followed by a balloon release on the boardwalk. It was a chance to come together, hand-in-hand against racism, embracing the Saint John community's diversity.
YMCA Forest Glen Community Centre Volunteers: Do you enjoy working with children in a fun environment? Then look no further. We are looking for people to volunteer in our childcare, evening programs, and more. This is a fantastic way to build great working skills while sharing great ideas. The YMCA Forest Glen Community Centre has some fun and exciting programs being offered during the day as well as evenings. Licence program: Morning care from 7 am - 9 am, afterschool program from 2 pm – 6 pm, Play/pre-school 9 am - 2 pm. Registration forms for Summer Day Camp are out and ready. Drop in free programming: Mon - Fri, Soccer, Ball Hockey, Gym Games, Cheerleading, Youth leadership, Crafts, and more! Something for everyone every night! Drop in Saturday Afternoons: Open Gym Games, Creative Creations and Mini Chefs. Programs start at 12 pm - 3 pm. Dances every other Friday for Elementary, Adult Zumba with Child care Thursday nights 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm. For more information please contact Heather Oldfield at 658-2816 or forestglen@saintjohny.com.
Seniors Lending Libraries By: Cheryl Brown Quality Learning New Brunswick (QLNB) is midway through a project exploring ways to involve seniors in reading and in on-site libraries. This need was recognized by the Department of Social Development, our major partner in this project. The project involves five area residences: Brunswick Drive, Danells Drive, Smythe Street, Charlton Place and Stephenson Towers.
By: Marie-Paule Godin Le Centre multiculturel et des nouveaux arrivants de Saint-Jean (SJMNRC) met en valeur nos bénévoles avec la Soirée de reconnaissances des bénévoles pour le SJMNRC le jeudi 19 avril au Centre de commerce chinois. Que font nos bénévoles ? Ils dirigent les cours de conversation informels, se jumèlent avec une famille nouvellement arrivée pour leur partager leur connaissances de Saint-Jean, animent notre émission de radio « Musique du monde » sur les ondes de CHQC Volunteers prepare chinese dumpling workshop for particpants at “Passport 105,7 FM, et partagent to the World” leur culture/talents durant nos événements comme celui du 18 mars dernier, « Voyager sans valise ! ». Grâce à plus de 25 bénévoles, notre événement a été un gros succès avec 150 participants. Est-ce que vous avez du temps à partager pour aider les nouveaux arrivants ? Contactez-nous : marie-paule.godin@sjmnrc.ca ou 642-7265.
Updates: East Side Motivators By:Penni Eisenhauer The East Side Motivators (ESM) recently elected a spokesperson for the group and her name is Dianne Clarke. Dianne is a community health nurse and works for Horizon Health Network and is interested in working with the residents in the Reading Crescent & Roxbury Drive neighbourhood on Health related initiatives such as annual Flu Clinic and other programming opportunities. The ESM are looking for new residents to be involved with planning upcoming events. The next event will be the Neighbourhood Clean Up on Saturday, May 5, 2012. If you are interested in volunteering please call 343-5382 or email esmotivators@gmail.com Check us out on Face Book too. The next Recreation Night at Glen Falls School is on Sat April 21,from 6 – 8 pm. It is supervised recreation activities for children & youth (age 5-17) attending a Saint John School. For more information contact Kathy Young at 658-5340.
Reading is an enjoyable leisure activity which has a direct, positive impact on the literacy and cognitive capacity of each individual. Neighbourhood libraries, by improving access to books and services, as well as providing opportunities for hands on learning, contribute to Stephenson/Charlton Library Opening improved literacy levels, L-R (front) Cheryl Brown, Quality Learning increased mental health NB; Wanda Brown, Bonny Thibodeau; Debbie and well being, and an McLeod, Community Involvement Coordinator, improved quality of life Social Development; (Middle) Bunny Patterson (back) Sharon Hooper; Hon. Trevor Holder, for individuals and comMinister of Culture Tourism and Wellness; munities. Nancy Scoville; and Sandra James.
Generous funding support for this project came from the City of Saint John and the Greater Saint John Community Foundation. Page 12
Mayoralty Candidates Forum April 20, 2012 Noon to 1:30 pm UNBSJ Grand Hall, 40 Charlotte Street Send your questions for the candidates to: randy@sjhdc.ca or Saint John Human Development Council
@SaintJohnHDC
Sponsored by:
Valued Sponsors of Around The Block
THANK YOU TO OUR VOLUNTEERS Volunteerism can be seen every day at our Y • in the shape of a fitness instructor • a committee member • a language tutor • and youth helping out in child care. Thank you to our 545 volunteers that inspire hope and build better communities. If you would like to volunteer with us please call the Y: 693-YMCA Building healthy communities
United Way Honours Donors And Voluteers At St. Malachy’s
United Way: Local Day Of Caring
By Jim MacDonald Generous local citizens were recently celebrated at the United Way Campaign Excellence Awards, held in the theatre at St. Malachy’s Memorial High School. Wayne Chamberlain, volunteer Campaign Chairman for 2011, hosted the event and announced that the community had raised $1,310,027.92 in 2011, the second highest amount raised by the community in the past 17 years. The Way to Go! Awards recognized outstanding achievements in participation and growth of employee giving, corporate giving, and community leadership. Irving Paper employees, Xerox, Enbridge Gas, BMO Bank of Montreal, Canada Border Service Agency employees, Deloitte and Touche employees, Acadia Broadcasting, Mariner Partners, UNBSJ and Newalta are just a few of the organizations that received awards for their hard work and kindness.
.United Way serving Saint John, Kings and Charlotte County and the Saint John Volunteer Centre are partnering to help match you with an exciting organization in our community. Saint John’s Day of Caring will take place June 8/2012. Each project must be completed within one day, during regular business working hours 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and will be held at participating non-profit organizations in various communities in Saint John, Kings and Charlotte counties. Deadline for Organization Team Submissions: May 11, 2012 To enter a team from your organization or volunteer as an individual please contact Ron Oldfield at United Way of Greater Saint John (6581212) ron.unitedway@nb.aibn.com or Eileen McLaughlin at Saint John Volunteer Centre (658-1555). Get forms on-line at www.volunteercentresj.com
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Y Settlement Services Volunteers
Awards Dinner Honours Volunteers
Conversation Group pictured from right to left: Top Row: Phong Thi My Nguyen, Thali Maya Khatiwada, Bhakti Ram Khatiwada, Bhakti Ram Adhikari Bottom Row: Durga Prasad Osti, Patrick Christie (volunteer) and Irene Sounders (volunteer).
By: Cindy Floyd Newcomers arriving in Saint John through Settlement Services at the ‘Y’ come from a wide spectrum of cultures, languages, and trauma. Despite the challenges of culture shock, social isolation, language, and even the weather, many newcomers show enormous resilience. Settlement Services offers support to newcomers through language and employment training, life skills, and counselling service. Volunteers play an integral part in assisting newcomers by helping them to survive in Canada and facilitating their participation and integration. Volunteers help newcomers with welcoming support, tutoring, introductions to community resources, and organizing events and cultural awareness programs.
By: Lori Jensen The City of Saint John wants to recognize the contributions and achievements of sport, recreation, and community volunteers. The City recently called on citizens to nominate individuals such as volunteer administrators, team coaches, players, parents, or fans whose efforts improve a sport, recreation, or neighbourhood. “Our goal is to honour those who donate their time to improving the quality of life and well-being of citizens”, says committee chair, Councillor Gary Sullivan, “no matter what role they may serve. It could be your child’s coach, the volunteer community gardener, the senior who organizes recreational activities for their club, or the voice behind a neighbourhood improvement initiative.” The 2012 Volunteer Appreciation Awards, to be held on April 18, will recognize individual efforts in four categories as well as a company that supports a sport, recreation, or community service. A dinner will be held during National Volunteer Week to honour this year’s recipients.
Affordable Housing Matters! You can now learn more about affordable housing by reading some of our online project profiles. These profiles tell the story of approaches others have used in their community to help make affordable housing a reality in Canada.
Thank you to the dedicated volunteers that make a huge difference in this community.
POWER UP Program
Featured on the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) web site is the First Steps Housing Project Inc. in Saint John. Discover how this project provides affordable housing and a supportive environment to young mothers and pregnant teens.
By:Tobi Erb I'm proud to say that I'm part of the 12th group to complete the Power Up! program. Not only did I meet a great group of ladies, but I also learned a lot about my community, the services available to help people, volunteering, how to approach public speaking, budgeting, consumerism, banking, and business.
To view the online project profile, search key words ‘‘First Steps Housing Project’’ on www.cmhc.ca.
We worked hard on our Neighbourhood Days projects and we were all nervous as our day came and we got up in front of the group and presented. For the Days projects we stepped outside of our comfort zones; and, when all was said and done, we wondered what all the fuss was about.
For more information, contact your local CMHC Corporate Representative, Francine DiMambro, by phone at 506-850-3747, by fax at 506-851-6188 or by email at fdimambr@cmhc-schl. gc.ca.
One person can make a huge difference in our community and we all have something to offer. Life is too short to waste sitting inside and not engaging in life, so get out there and make a difference!
L’abordabilité – c’est important! Vous pouvez maintenant en apprendre davantage sur le logement abordable en lisant les profils de nos projets en ligne. On y prend connaissance des démarches utilisées par des organismes ailleurs au Canada afin de créer du logement abordable dans leur collectivité. L’ensemble d’habitation First Steps, à Saint John, est l’un de ces exemples que la Société canadienne d’hypothèques et de logement (SCHL) présente sur son site Web. Découvrez comment il offre des logements abordables et un milieu de soutien aux jeunes mères et aux adolescentes enceintes. Pour voir ce profil, allez sur le site Web de la Société, au www. SCHL.ca, et faites une recherche en utilisant les mots « First Steps Housing Project ». Pour obtenir de plus amples renseignements, veuillez communiquer avec Francine DiMambro, représentante de la SCHL à Saint John. Vous pouvez communiquer avec elle par téléphone, au 506-850-3747, par télécopieur, au 506-851-6188, ou par courriel, à l’adresse fdimambr@cmhc-schl.gc.ca.
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Spotlight on Patricia Porter
Dreams Do Come True
By: Clare Ashton with Patricia Porter When asked how she became involved in volunteer work over ten years ago, Pat Porter is quick to respond: “I had a kid!” Pat credits children with not only drawing parents into social groups but also using their own capacity to volunteer and create change. Inspired by the youth in her community, Pat, along with Kelly Kelly, Charlene Goode, Roxanne Lock and the Anglin Drive Tenants Association, took wisdom from Barry Freeze, their mentor at Leisure Services, and embarked on a collaborative project through Learn & Go that would change the face of their community: the Anglin Drive Playground. With phase 1 and 2 of the project’s development complete (including fencing-in hydro towers and building the playground itself), the group now has their sights on engaging older youth by putting in a basketball stand.
By: Pat Porter and Kelly Kelly We were four volunteers who dreamed of building a new playground for our community. In November 2010 we joined a program called "Learn and Go”, sponsored by Irving and offered through Vibrant Communities. Our project was successful in having two nearby hydro towers fenced in and from that point on we were determined to turn our dream into a reality! Throughout the year as we continued to work, our small core group became larger with the Anglin Drive Tenants Association, Social Development, our partners, and many community residents and children. Among our generous partners were the Province of New Brunswick, the City of Saint John, Irving, Lafarge, Cats Heavy Equipment, and Royal Bank of Canada. Together, in October 2011, we all celebrated our completed project with an Official Playground Grand Opening Celebration! Being a volunteer is so rewarding. We've gained new skills, new friendships and helped a community make a dream come true!
Says Pat: “I didn’t realize how much money, time and work went into building something! I always say that when you volunteer, you give your time, but you get so much back. I look at the various skills I have acquired from volunteering, and I know I have taken something with me.”
POWER UP 12
Friendship Room, Hope Cafe By: Shelly McCready Friendship Room, Hope Café by Shelly McCready The Salvation Army Saint John has had a presence here in our city for 127 years. As the Community Ministries Coordinator, I ensure help to those in need. This past Christmas we sponsored over 500 households with food and gifts and we also proPictured Above: Kamal Subba at the Hope vided material assistance Cafe to thousands last year (emergency food, clothing, furniture, personal items, school supplies, prescriptions etc.).
Pictured Above: Graduates and Facilitators for POWER UP 12
By: Crystal Sinclair I’m a POWER UP 12 sister; we are a family here. We became family in 10 weeks: 3 days a week: 5 hours a day. We learned a lot about ourselves as well as the other women that we shared this experience with.
The Hope Café, open weekdays from 9:30am – 2:00pm where coffee, tea and light foods are served, is enjoyed by many daily. Wed and Thur have programs followed by a meal. A very special yearly event is our free Holiday Camp in Nova Scotia which 50 children attend each July. These are just a few of our services and programs available. If you find yourself in need and don’t know where to turn, we may be able to help. For more information visit 27 Prince Edward Street or call 6341633 or email shelly_mccready@can.salvationarmy.org.
Vicki, our facilitator, shares her life experiences with us, too. She is so positive and happy but shows us we can be the same even though we have challenges in our lives – just like her. She is our “charger of life”, without her, how would we get Powered Up? In POWER UP we get so much. The program focuses on leadership in women, goal setting: short term and long term; and, we have support to help us stay focused on achieving those goals. We learn Money Management skills and other important topics like breast cancer or sexual assault myths and facts. Lunches are provided, healthy and good, and, best of all, we get the recipes for those meals. Oh! Let’s not forget the fun days where we did some baking at the Teen Resource Centre (TRC) with the really nice kitchen. On another fun day, we had lunch out somewhere the group chose, and then, on our Graduation Day, we did the things that we all helped plan. So, women of today, POWER UP for tomorrow! If you are sitting home wondering now what? Meet other women thinking the same thing. I did and am doing better, just because!
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PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) School District 8, Saint John Bayview School Sitel Hampton Inn & Suites Loch Lomond Villa
Hazen-White/ St. Francis Horizon Health Network, Zone 2 Chateau De Champlain Emera/Brunswick Centennial School Pipeline BellAliant Innovatia B&N Flooring McInnes Cooper Credit Counselling St. Peter’s Church Services St. Pius X Church DFS Inc. Architecture Stewart McKelvey & Design Sun Life Insurance UNBSJ Exit Realty Inner City Youth Unitarian Universalist Ministry Church of SJ Kelly Services Youth Enhancement Inc. Mariner Partners Xerox NB Insurance Board NB Southern Railway Island View School Portland United Fundy Engineering Church West Side Business Saputo Association Scotiabank Brunswick Square Loch Lomond School Scotiabank North LIUNA Local 900 Shimpokai Judo Saint John Airport Tropical Shipping Xerox Lorne Middle School City of Saint John Forest Hills School Halsall Insurance Canaport LNG Mariner Partners National Leasing Fundy Shores Prince Charles School School Fundy Bay Seniors Atlantic Towing Point Lepreau Boys & Girls Club Calvary Temple Church Glen Falls School Chandler Sales AECL Social J. D. Irving, Limited Committee Kent Building Supplies Base Engineering Kent Line Inc. Royal Bank Canada CAA SJ Community Loan Cadillac Fairview Fund Gunter Business Shimpokai Judo Machines Stone Church Hickey Brothers T.D. Waterhouse Limited Wyndham Worldwide Inner City Youth YMCA Ministry Zeta Master Ch. Beta Irving Paper Sigma Phi Lawtons McAllister Place Mitchell McConnell Insurance St. Ann’s Church Walmart
Have You Met One Of Our PALS?
Saint Rose School Scotiabank Lancaster CGS—Computer Generated Systems QM Construction West Side Business Association St. John the Baptist/ King Edward School Boys & Girls Club Dillon Consulting Hampton Inn & Suites Inner City Youth Ministry Irving Oil KPMG Lawson & Creamer Turnbull Home YMCA St. Malachy’s High School J. D. Irving, Limited St. Patrick's School Bay Ferries Limited Carleton Kirk United Church Hillcrest Baptist Church Irving Equipment Irving Pulp & Paper Irving Tissue Michaels Royal Bank (Westwind Branch) Saint John Energy Scotiabank Lancaster T4G T. S. Simms Havelock School West Side Business Association Westfield School Grand Bay Guardian Drugs Scotiabank Grand Bay GrandBay Primary/ Inglewood Schools Scotiabank Grand Bay
PARTNERS FOR SEVERAL DISTRICT 8 SCHOOLS NB Southern Railway BCAPI PRO Kids Big Brothers Big Sisters Radian 6 COSTCO Saint John Board of Trade DalPALS, Dalhousie Medical Saint John Port Authority School SJ Community Newspaper Downey Ford School District 8 Staff J. D. Irving, Limited Saint John Mill Rats Kiwanis Saint John Sea Dogs Hatheway Pavilion at Lily Lake Telegraph Journal Long & McQuade Vibrant Communities NB Museum NB Publishing Zany Lane
Pictured Above: Mr. J. K. Irving and Friends
By Deborah Fisher Someone had an idea about 12 years ago . That idea planted a seed that has grown far beyond what we ever dreamed was possible, and came to be known as PALS! Mr. James (J.K.) Irving has a special interest in the city where he grew up. When Mr. Irving was born, he lived across from Prince Charles School, so “Waterloo Village” was and is his community – where he goes to work and where he loves to spend time with the kids at PCS! His yearly visit to Mrs. Ward-Huskins Grade 2 class and all the classes at PCS, chatting with Mrs. Doyle and Mr. Loughery, helping his young friends plant marigolds, enjoying a hamburger prepared by the great volunteers at PCS, or watching as the Kids on the Go Bus takes another group of youngsters around their community, all provide fond memories of 12 years of being part of the PCS community. Even better - the rest of the community has spread that seed around the city – our Community Schools have their own PALS partners and what a difference they are making together. Thanks, Mr. Irving, for a great idea!!
Around The Block Team (Issue 22) Old North End: Wendy Barron-Belmore. South End: Mary LeSage. Waterloo-Village: Penni Eisenhauer. Crescent Valley: Anne Driscoll. Lower West Side: Patti Kelly, and Mary Lou Price. Proof readers: Mary Collier Fleet, Anna O’Hara, Linda Boyle, Rona Holwald, Mark Driscoll, Belinda Kumar, Cindy Bishop, Shawn Parlee, Christine Gilliand and Randy Hatfield. Layout and Design: Chris Hopkins, and Juanita Black. Ad Design: Chris Hopkins and Belinda Kumar. Community members: Carl Tricky, Lyn King, Amanda Maxwell. Deborah Fisher Vibrant Communities: Cathy Wright.
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