Recognizing the Innovation & Creativity of Not-for-Profit Organizations
AWARDS LUNCHEON OCTOBER 30, 2019
TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS LEGAL PRACTICE, DUNCAN CRAIG LLP DEVELOPED THE LAUREL AWARDS IN 1994.
The laurel wreath has been a symbol of high honour for more than two
thousand years. The history of the laurel is traced back to the early Greeks
and Romans, who bestowed wreaths upon community leaders, scholars and athletes who had excelled in their endeavours.
In keeping with this tradition, Duncan Craig LLP established the Laurel Awards to honour organizations that further their objectives through exceptional creativity and innovation. Gold, silver and bronze awards are presented each year with honorariums of $5,000, $3,000 and $2,000 respectively.
In addition to these three awards, the Staff Choice Award is given to the organization selected by Duncan Craig LLP staff. The winner is presented
with an honorarium of $1,000. Last year we introduced an Audience Choice Award which is voted on during the luncheon. The winner is presented with an honorarium of $500.
Use the hashtag #yegLaurelAwards to live tweet throughout our luncheon. We
have included the Twitter user names for our Nominees in this program to vote for the Audience Choice award. You can also follow us at @dcllp.
Duncan Craig LLP’s approach to the practice of law is both proactive and passionate, as we work to honour our commitment to bring law to life in the community. This year is special as it not only marks the 25th Anniversary of the Laurel Awards but it is also Duncan Craig LLP’s 125th year in business.
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THE FOLLOWING DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY SERVED ON THE 2019 LAUREL AWARDS SELECTION COMMITTEE:
Mr. Sol Rolingher, QC
CHAIR, SENIOR COUNSEL, DUNCAN CRAIG LLP
Mr. Percival E. Odynak, QC
CO-CHAIR, PARTNER, DUNCAN CRAIG LLP
Ms. Brittany Earl
CO-CHAIR, PARTNER, DUNCAN CRAIG LLP
Ms. Lesley MacDonald
FOUNDER, PRODUCER, HOST, GLOBAL NEWS WOMAN OF VISION
Mr. Les Creasy
REGIONAL TAX MANAGER, MNP
Ms. Shelly Bonner
SENIOR CLAIMS EXAMINER, WAWANESA MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY
Mr. Bruce Wouters
VICE PRESIDENT & MARKET LEAD, COMMERCIAL BANK & ROYNAT CAPITAL, ALBERTA NORTH
Ms. Dinika Matychuk
VICE PRESIDENT, LESTON HOLDINGS (1980) LTD.
Mr. Jackson Nguyen
MANAGER, DOAN’S VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT
In 2019, thirty nine projects were nominated by nonprofit organizations for considearation of the Selection Committee to receive the 2019 Gold, Silver, and Bronze Laurel Awards.
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THE NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2019 LAUREL AWARDS ARE:
ADAPTABILITIES WWW.ADAPTABILITIES.CA @ADAPTABILITIES PROGRAM: Orange Hub Expansion PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: In July of 2017, the City of Edmonton informed AdaptAbilities that we had been successful in our proposal for tenancy at the Orange Hub. They had conducted a careful assessment of all proposals, and chose only those whose planned use of space, services, and attitude toward collaboration aligned with the vision and mandate for Orange Hub. The total budget for the project was $346,759, including renovations and equipment purchases. Work began in April, 2018 and was completed by December of 2018. We began this project because of gaps in services for people with disabilities. The provincial total number of adults waiting for PDD-supported services was 376 when we began. We knew from PDD that 30 adults in Edmonton were waiting, and we had 37 children on our waiting list, meaning 67 vulnerable individuals were going without essential services. This left families living with the strain caring for a loved one with a disability. AdaptAbilities has developed the larger of the two classrooms we were assigned to include functional areas for learning: arts and crafts, computer games and learning, cooking and eating, TV and video games, board games and puzzles, larger games like ping pong and air hockey, and quiet time with cushions, sofas, and books. We have dedicated the smaller classroom to gross motor development, where participants can use equipment like mats, balls, and swings to learn about themselves and the physical world. This classroom can also be sub-let or shared with other users, such as the neighbouring day care, and specialists like occupational therapists. One of the former offices has been developed into a sensory space, designed to be a therapeutic environment for individuals with autism to experience calm, pleasant sensations that can offer respite from sensory overload the person experiences and be conducive to developing the person’s functionality.
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ADEARA RECOVERY CENTRE WWW.ADEARA.CA @ADEARARECOVERY PROGRAM: Adeara Leap of Faith PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Adeara Leap of Faith is our signature fundraising event of the year. We ask potential jumpers: “Are you a passionate, brave, innovative changemaker who is willing to soar from great heights to champion a great cause?” The one-day event features tandem skydiving, live music, trendy food trucks, and a Fly-By Marketplace showcasing local vendors and artisans who are mobilizing change in the community at large. Proceeds from the event go to support Adeara Recovery Centre. For over 20 years, Adeara has helped women and their families struggling with addiction, poverty, trauma, and abuse. The women in our home take a Leap of Faith every day—choosing hope over uncertainty, faith over fear, and taking a chance on themselves and others. The goal for the 2019 Leap of Faith, taking place June 14, 2019, is $125,000. The 2018 event saw 40 jumpers raise $85,000 for Adeara. The funds from the 2018 event were used to continue offering programs, counselling, activities and services at the highest standard of quality care. Adeara’s part-time Event Coordinator spends approximately 3 months prior to the event finalizing details and enlists a team of fundraising volunteers for approaching businesses, colleges and potential donors. The day of the event, volunteers, staff and the residents of Adeara are out to support the jumpers, cheering them on.
AL SHAMAL SHRINERS WWW.ALSHAMALSHRINERS.ORG @ALSHAMALSHRINER PROGRAM: Continue to provide children the care required PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: To assist as many children as possible that suffer from various skeletal problems. Our hospitals are the foremost leaders in this type of treatment. Funding plays an important role to provide the needed treatment. However, that does not stop us from providing the complete assistance that is required for the patient. 2019 LAUREL AWARDS
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BERKELEY’S PLACE WWW.BERKELEYSPLACE.COM @BERKELEYSPLACE PROGRAM: Pet Emergency Fund PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: In 2018, we assisted 6 families who were the victims of house fires who managed to escape with their pets. 5 of the 6 families lost everything in the fire, with the last family having to discard a bird and ferret cage because of smoke and heat damage. When you are displaced, it is difficult enough sourcing the necessities for yourself and your children, never mind having to replace everything from snout to tail, or, beak to tail. In the case of exotics such as ferrets, rabbits or birds, enclosures, food and other necessities do not come without a premium to replace. The goal of the emergency fund is to take the stress off guardians by getting their pets settled with safe, new toys, enclosures and more importantly the food they are used to eating, so that upset stomachs and allergies don’t flare up, causing more distress and financial hardship in an already difficult situation. The average family has 2 pets and while we source supplies we have on hand; we average about $500 per family to replace necessities. In the case of an exotic like a parrot, a cage alone can encompass this budget. Our Foundation watches for sales, clearances, dealer specials and stocks up on the most needed items such as bowls, leashes, enrichment toys, beds, scratching posts etc. items that can be stored to save costs and that do not spoil due to expiry dates. This allows us to spring into action quickly when we learn of a family in need.
BRAIN CARE CENTRE (BCC) WWW.BRAINCARECENTRE.COM @BRAINCARECENTRE PROGRAM: Club Wellness PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The aim of the Club Wellness program is to promote physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness for our client through workshops presented by Brain Care Centre staff and community organizations. Many of our clients are not aware of the various resources and programs that are available to them which may greatly improve their quality of life. Club Wellness allows for our clients to learn about these resources, make connections, and explore their individual interests in a familiar environment. Some of the topics that have been presented include Art Therapy, Spiritual Wellness, Sexual Wellness, Financial Management and Preparedness, and Seated
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Zumba. Many organizations have generously donated their time to present their services to our clients. Club Wellness has no formal budget, not including staff salaries. The budget for all of Brain Care Centre’s programming is under one umbrella, and this includes our life skills classes, support groups, counselling, OT, etc. Community presenters generously donate their time to do presentations for Club Wellness.
CAMPUS FOOD BANK WWW.CAMPUSFOODBANK.COM @CAMPUSFOODBANK PROGRAM: Campus Kitchens & Grocery Buses Program PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The goal of this program is to reduce food insecurity on campus. This is done by addressing a wide variety of driving factors, such as access to affordable grocery stores, food education and skills, and decreasing social isolation. Our program budget is currently $5000 for the year, which will include ten classes and ten buses per term, for a total of 20 Campus Kitchens and 20 Grocery Buses throughout the school year. Throughout June to August, we will be establishing a curriculum for the year, including recipes, updated volunteer training, and food education components that will be prioritized in each class. Campus Kitchens and Grocery Buses will be run nearly every week during the Fall and Winter terms (September to April). We will evaluate the year’s programming on an informal basis throughout the year, and formally once classes conclude each semester (in December and April). Regular surveys of participant experience and demographics will be conducted after each session, to be reviewed regularly. An evaluative framework and program framework will be built based on an evaluation training program that our staff will be taking in June. Further evaluation methods for the program will align with these frameworks.
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CAREGIVERS ALBERTA WWW.CAREGIVERSALBERTA.CA @CAREGIVERSAB PROGRAM: COMPASS for the Caregiver Workhop/Support Groups PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: COMPASS for the Caregiver is an eight-week workshop series developed by caregivers, for caregivers. The COMPASS supportive workshop series was developed to address a gap in caregivers services. Most caregiver programs focus on information to better care for a loved one while the impact that caring has on the caregiver’s own health is often overlooked. Recognizing that caregiving can be stressful, isolating and have profound negative impacts on both physical and mental health, the program teaches caregivers to care for themselves. Caregivers are taught to balance their own well-being with the challenges of caregiving. Ultimately, the goal is to increase resiliency and decrease caregiver burnout. In 2003 a province-wide study entitled Shining the Light gathered information on issues, strengths and needs from primary caregivers. The main findings of this project suggest that there are common issues faced by caregivers, regardless of disease or illness. Furthermore, those issues need to be addressed to ensure the health and well-being of the family unit. The results of the study indicated that peer education and support were fundamental for those living the primary caregiver role. Ultimately, the COMPASS for the Caregiver curriculum was developed to empower caregivers to care for themselves even within the challenges of caring for a loved one. The supportive program is facilitated by volunteers who have been caregivers themselves and understand how difficult the caregiving journey can be. During the eight weeks, participants become a mini-support group for each other and provide a safe-space for dealing with the emotions and issues surrounding any caregiving journey. Modules include: Caregiver Characteristics, The Emotional Journey, Knowing Your Capacities, Assertiveness and Sharing the Care, Putting Yourself First, Caregiver Burnout, Navigating the System, Planning for the Journey Ahead.
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CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES WWW.CSSALBERTA.CA @CSSALBERTA PROGRAM: Refugee Sponsorship Program PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Refugee Sponsorship is made possible through the Sponsorship Agreement between the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton and the Government of Canada. It is the Sponsorship Agreement which enables parishes and groups recognized by the Catholic Archdiocese to sponsor refugees. Therefore, the goal of this program is to resettle refugees in Canada through the engagement and support of volunteer’s groups. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) assigns each Sponsorship Agreement Holder the number of persons they can sponsor within the calendar year. The Catholic Social Services staff role is to respond to the requests for sponsorship as well as to reach out to churches in the Archdiocese who have expressed interest in sponsoring refugees. Staff provide orientation to help groups understand the funding requirements and settlement responsibilities. They also respond to individuals from the community who arrived here as refugees and want to bring their relatives, who are refugees, to safety. An important role of staff is the preparation and completion of the many complex documents required when submitting a sponsorship. Staff must ensure that documents comply with regulations that are determined by IRCC. This also includes documentation from refugee organizations abroad, such as the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). Therefore, on top of community outreach with parishes, supporting sponsoring groups who have already received their refugees, and completing documentation for people still waiting abroad, the staff must also maintain knowledge of government regulations and requirements that impact sponsorship applications.
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CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES - IMMIGRATION & SETTLEMENT WWW.CSSALBERTA.CA @CSSALBERTA PROGRAM: Orientation and Outreach Program PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The goal of the Orientation and Outreach program is to educate refugees and immigrants about life in Canada. Preparing refugees for successful settlement is a complex and multi-faceted process. It is essential to create a common ground and understanding, whilst allowing the newly arrived refugees to discover their new home in a safe manner. All GARs arriving in Edmonton attend a five-part, twenty-five-hour orientation course, “Newcomer Orientation for Life in Canada.� The course covers topics such as parenting, family life, education, health care, culture shock, Canadian values, laws, and rights and responsibilities. The program is offered to clients after they have transitioned from the Reception Centre to their permanent housing and is interpreted into appropriate languages. By creating a welcoming and open atmosphere we encourage refugees to maintain a positive attitude throughout their integration process. The series is offered every month of the year. Since November 2018, the Newcomer Orientation program has been offered to privately sponsored refugees at the Canadian International Immigrant and Refugee Support Association (CIIRSA), an Edmonton based service organization. These sessions occur over four full days and take place every three months. Our program also facilitates orientation sessions on a variety of topics in Language Instruction to Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes throughout Edmonton, including housing in Canada, job search and worker rights, Canadian citizenship, Canadian government, and police and law in Canada. The LINC sessions take place during the school year.
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CEREBRAL PALSY ASSOCIATION IN ALBERTA WWW.CPALBERTA.COM @CPALBERTA PROGRAM: CookAbilities PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Hosted at the incredibly creative Palates Culinary Kitchen, CookAbilities is an integrated, community-based cooking program for persons with disabilities. This program enables participants to experience different recipes each week related to themes and hands on experience in making the recipes. Clients explore different flavors and textures through these diverse dishes, while working as a team with their peers. CookAbilities takes place on Fridays in three seasonal sessions; January through March, April through June, and September through December. As one of our most popular programs, CookAbilities is designed to get participants into a world of food they never knew existed. Many of our clients reside in group homes, senior care facilities, or in low income homes where access to healthy and fresh products may be hard to come by. Palates Culinary Kitchen helps achieve our goal to show participants how to make fresh foods go further, and to experiment with flavors. There is an aspect of learning skills when it comes to working in a kitchen, but it is also about real food, made by real people, and how it can be accessible. Our CookAbilities budget of $37,190 ensures our program participants receive the best of the best, and because of the popularity of the program, we feel confident before each session that we will fill the kitchen.
CHRYSALIS - AN ALBERTAN SOCIETY FOR CITIZENS WITH DISABILITIES WWW.CHRYSALIS.CA @CHRYSALISAB PROGRAM: Becoming Our Best - Human Centrered Design (HCD) PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Chrysalis offers personalized services that assists Albertans with developmental disabilities become their best selves, pursue their life goals and aspirations, and improve social inclusion in our community. In 2018, we began implementation of our new Human Centered Design (HCD) program. This program will cost $1,009,300 and will wrap up in fall 2021, and then become part of our daily operations. All clients will go through HCD, however we focus on a maximum 2019 LAUREL AWARDS
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of 15 clients within each eight-week cycle. HCD is a more in-depth process than the existing Person-Centered Planning (PCP) model. Similar to PCP, HCD keeps the client at the centre of the plan, however HCD uses a more expansive assessment process from multiple sources and doesn’t have limitations on the programs, services, employment, recreational or social options presented for the individual. Our goal is to create life changing and meaningful outcomes that otherwise wouldn’t have been achieved through conventional approaches. In addition to HCD, Chrysalis has also begun implementing an effective, web-based case management tool designed for people with disabilities. This technological tool helps empower individuals to set the direction they want for their lives, and it helps improve transparency and accountability in fulfilling enriching service plans. Basically, after personalized plans are developed through HCD we use the web-based technology as a long-term social network tool to support our clients in reaching their goals. These integrated programs not only improve life for those we serve but it also strengthens our broader community and society at large.
DISCOVERE WWW.UAB.CA/DISCOVERE @DISCOVEREUOFA PROGRAM: DiscoverE In-School Clubs Bursaries PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Our in-school clubs take a unique and bold approach to introducing students to the possibilities of engineering, science and technology. Our inschool clubs — 1-hour lunch clubs and 2-hour after school clubs — ensure that youth are engaged in science, engineering, technology, math (STEM) and computer programming activities during two key times of the day. We bridge the gap between classes, and between school and heading home for the day. It creates a safe space for them to learn and get mentorship from our amazing instructors. These extracurricular learning opportunities allow these youth to gain confidence and increase their knowledge. Equipped with two class sets of Kano computers, our instructors are able to bring our mobile computer lab to schools, ensuring that all the classrooms we visit have access to the technology required to deliver our programs. Through the in-school club bursaries, we can now bring our tech clubs programming to more schools with limited resources. We reach more at-risk and low-income students with our programs. The in-school clubs run for eight weeks at schools in Edmonton and surrounding communities such as Paul Band First Nations. Schools complete a bursary application to determine eligibility. Questions include general student population information such as number of English language learners, newcomers to Canada, number of FNMI (First Nation, Metis, and Inuit) students, and number of children from low income households. We determine
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bursary eligibility based on reaching more of the in-need students. Schools apply for bursaries before the beginning of the school year. All applications are reviewed at the same time. They find out three weeks before the start of the school about the status of their application. Through the 2018-19 school year, we supported in-school clubs through $20,300 worth of bursaries.
EDMONTON & DISTRICT COUNCIL OF CHURCHES WWW.EDCCUNITY.ORG PROGRAM: No Room in the Inn PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Since 1999, the Edmonton & District Council of Churches has sponsored an ecumenical Christmas fund-raising initiative called No Room in the Inn (NRII). As the name suggests, NRII is based on the biblical story of Mary and Joseph being forced to take refuge in a stable after discovering that there was no room for them in the inn in Bethlehem. Here locally, churches and individuals from many denominations join together around Christmas time to provide financial support to a housing provider for the homeless or those at risk in the Edmonton Capital Region. A committee of volunteers evaluates a range of housing projects and selects one that meets the need for safe and affordable housing for those in greatest need. Preference is given to new or extended buildings, but not to programs or personnel. A housing project is identified in May-June; planning continues with the partner agency in the Fall for a December fund-raising campaign. A formal presentation is made in January during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The campaign closes in April of the next year and raises between $50,000-$70,000 annually. Projects are usually funded initially from city, provincial and/or federal budgets. Our own budget consists solely of funds raised, and 100% of monies raised are donated to the selected project. Administrative costs are covered by the partner agency and offset through a special NRII fund managed by the Edmonton Community Foundation.
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EDMONTON CHINESE GARDEN SOCIETY WWW.ECGS.CA PROGRAM: Chinese Garden PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The project, Chinese Garden, is located at the Louise McKinney Waterfront Park. It is a joint venture with the City of Edmonton and the Society. The land on which the garden stands was generously gifted to the Chinese Community by the former Edmonton mayor Bill Smith to celebrate the flourishing Chinese culture. This project allowed the Society to showcase the eastern Chinese culture to Edmontonians. Beyond being just a garden, the Edmonton Chinese Garden is a location that combines the wonders of nature, the architectural ingenuity of humans, to provide myriad health benefits for all its visitors. The space empowers one’s body, mind and soul. The garden is open and available to the general public, free of cost, and regardless of their beliefs, conditions or reasons for visiting, may it be for relaxation, sightseeing or healing. The total budget is $ 3 million. It is divided into 3 stages. Stage 1 was completed in 2007 and consisted of a Chinese Ting (pavilion), two stone dragons, a stone bridge, rock pond, meandering walking path made of stone, and a monument commemorating the contributions of the Chinese in building the railroad along with some landscaping. Stage 2 is about 60 percent complete. It consists of a friendship gate, meandering walking path and a Nine Dragon Wall. The Nine Dragon Wall is under construction and will be completed by end of this year. Stage 3 consists of a rock garden, square pavilions, winding walk and white wall area and landscaping. The project started in 2006. Different features in stage 2 depend on funds raised in order to be completed. The project is recognized by three orders of government. The funds are raised by various fundraising activities such as The Annual Garden Cup Golf Tournament held at the Legends Golf and Country Club, banquets, Casino, Qi Gong classes, Karaoke and Music in the Park. The Project generates money for its operations through membership fees and donations. Grants have been given from the Government of Alberta, the Chinese Government and the Edmonton Community Foundation. The board members work very hard to fundraise and dedicate their time to work together to complete the project. This is a 3-year pilot project and it was officially launched on December 5, 2018.
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ELIZABETH FRY SOCIETY OF EDMONTON WWW.EFRYEDMONTON.AB.CA @EFRYEDMONTON PROGRAM: Independent Legal Advice (ILA) for Survivors of Sexual Violence PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Independent Legal Advice for Survivors of Sexual Violence project (ILA) arose out of the recognition of all Canadians’ right to access justice. ILA recognizes that marginalized individuals who are overrepresented as survivors of sexual violence are also underrepresented when accessing legal services. ILA envisions trauma-informed, healing-centered provision of useful legal advice to all survivors of sexual violence in a timely and respectful way. ILA provides free short-term legal advice to survivors of sexual violence. To be eligible, survivors must have experienced sexual violence in Alberta, reside in Alberta, and be 18+ years of age. Each survivor will be entitled to up to four hours of legal advice as well as attendance at a legal clinic. This project is open to people to any gender, income, sexuality or citizenship. All are welcome to participate in our program and there is no limitation on when the sexual violence occurred. ILA staff have recruited lawyers that ILA staff have trained in trauma-informed practices, genderbased analysis, and Indigenous historical trauma. ILA aims to advance the dignity and worth of all survivors of sexual violence by believing and empowering survivors to pursue legal advice. Legal action is a part of many survivors healing journeys, but access to justice is often restricted by a multitude of barriers. ILA aims to remove these barriers by provide free legal advice to survivors of any background.
FIND EDMONTON WWW.FINDEDMONTON.COM @FINDYEG PROGRAM: Find Furnishing Hope PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The start-up cost for anyone moving into their first home is expensive, so imagine the challenges for someone moving out of homelessness. It can be a barrier for someone securing sustainable housing. People in the Housing First program come to Find to pick out their own furniture at no cost. From kitchenware to living room sets, donations provided by you help people transform their house into their home. We take in community donations, thoroughly clean them (we have a bed bug sniffing dog and professional steam
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cleaners) and use those donations to furnish homes for individuals and families moving out of homelessness through the Housing First program. Each participant gets to come into the store and pick out the furniture that best suits their style and taste and that will work for their new space. Included in their picks is a couch, chair, dinning set, dresser, art, pots and pans and even more. The items given equal out to approximately $1200 per single person.
JEWISH SENIOR CITIZEN’S CENTRE WWW.JDICSENIORS.CA @SENIORSCENTRE PROGRAM: Bagel Loop: Walk/Run/Roll PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Edmonton Seniors geared up their canes, walkers and wheelchairs to Walk, Run & Roll around Victoria Park, only event of it’s kind: The Bagel Loop. It is a unique friendraiser/fundraiser put on BY Seniors FOR Seniors in support of the Jewish Senior Citizens’ Centre. The goal is to prove that age is only a number and you can stay active and enjoy life fully at any age. The objectives were: bring people together to have fun, unite different generations, raise awareness about our Multicultural Centre and its mission and raise funds to support our programs and services. It was a one-day event on Sunday, August 12, 2018. This event was planned and successfully implemented by our volunteers and executive director.
KIDS ON TRACK WWW.KIDSONTRACK.ORG @KIDSONTRACK PROGRAM: HomeBuilders PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: In the past two years we have successfully completed the launch of a new program called HomeBuilders. HomeBuilders is a preventative mental health program with the goal of supporting children and their parents and equipping them with the skills needed to navigate through the emotions associated with grief and the establishment of a new family structure following divorce, death of a parent or a significant family disruption. This new program was developed in consultation with professionals including a teacher, mental health nurse, a social
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worker, a mediation worker and a community health nurse. Curriculum that included experiential learning activities at age appropriate levels was developed for three age levels for the children and a parent level. The coping mechanisms children and parents learn through HomeBuilders serve to prevent serious behavior problems and halt self destructive and relationally destructive emotions and actions in children, parents, family units and/or other relationships. The volunteer facilitators who led the classes provided feedback to make adaptations and revisions. Two, eleven week pilot courses were held in 2018 and 2019. In January 2019 we launched the next phase of the project which was partnering with community groups to offer the program in their areas, making it more accessible and with greater capacity. This fall (2019) we have two sites planning to offer the program.
LINKING GENERATIONS SOCIETY OF ALBERTA WWW.LINKINGGENERATIONS.CA @LINKGENERAT1 PROGRAM: Linking Generations Program PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: More and more seniors are being segregated into care facilities where they feel isolated, lonely, confined and no longer contributing members of their community. Many seniors have no interaction even between seniors that live in the same centres. Seniors stay in their own rooms, watch TV, and isolate themselves from all activities. It has been proven that youth can create excitement, give purpose and brighten one’s days for our elders. For a senior, youth can change their life and perspectives. It can draw them out of the loneliness that they may face. There continues to be such interest in Linking Generations that many more student and senior applications are continually received than volunteer positions. In the current programming year, student participation increased by 52%. Senior participation increased by 25%. To ensure program success Linking Generations ‘links’ each participating senior with two youth. These two young adults will remain matched with the same senior for the complete program year. Each program year, beginning in September, Information Sessions are held at the schools and seniors care centers to recruit student and seniors who wish to be part of our program. Each Linking Generations visit has a specific focus and goal in mind - whether to bring back fond memories for the seniors, to encourage the sharing of values and cultural differences, or just to bring joy into each other’s lives. The programs operate in junction within the school year – from September to May each year. The Junior High Program operates with structured bi-weekly visits between the seniors and youth, while the High School Program operates with structured weekly visits.
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MILL WOODS PRESIDENTS COUNCIL WWW.MWSAC.CA @MW_SENIORS PROGRAM: Mill Woods Canada Day Celebration PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Mill Woods Canada Day Celebration is an annual free, self-funded, volunteer delivered public event that 50,000+ attend. Reflecting the multiculturalism of the community, this event includes ethnic music and cultural performances, local music talent, displays, pavilions and fireworks. 2020 with the 30th Mill Woods Canada Day event. The Goal: Deliver a beneficial and sustainable Canada Day event to the community on budget. Budget: $100,000. Timelines: September - July: fundraising, grant writing and sponsor acquisition. January June: Canada Day committee planning and execution. June 30 - July 2: event actual execution from equipment and grounds setup, event, and tear down.
MILL WOODS SENIOR ASSOCIATION WWW.MWSAC.CA @MW_SENIORS PROGRAM: Christmas with us! PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Our goal was to give Seniors and Community members with no place to go a place to be for Christmas. We were open December 24th 25th and 26th. The 3 loneliest days of the year for anyone without a support community. We Budgeted about 5000 dollars for the project, excluding staff wages. We took advantage of the fact that not all our staff celebrates Christmas, and offered time off for their celebration of choice, in exchange they worked and created a Christmas here for lonely and isolated community members.
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P.A.L.S - PROJECT ADULT LITERACY SOCIETY WWW.PALSEDMONTON.CA @PALSEDMONTON PROGRAM: 10 Years of Students Share Stories PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Goals: Long term goal is that adults who have low literacy skills develop public speaking skills so that they can be an advocate for themselves. The adult learner gains the skills and have the opportunity to deliver a public speech in an environment that is safe and supportive. Compiling the book records the achievements of the adult learners and inform the community of the issues of low literacy and the successes are achieved when literacy skills are developed. Time lines: Once students are developing literacy skills they can be asked if they want to take part in the event. (This is after a year of being mentored by a volunteer tutor). December – the coordinator of each program talks to students and tutors about taking part in Students Share Stories. January – the student, with the assistance of the tutor and coordinator, work on the story/speech. February – the student receives training in the Public Speaking Workshop. March – the student practices their speech. The adult learner presents their speech at Audreys Books. The entire event is done by adult learners. The Master of Ceremonies is a learner in the Students for Students, Reaching New Heights Program. May – the Student Share Stories book is published by P.A.L.S. Process: The process is that the adult learner feels the confidence to write and deliver a speech on their literacy journey – where they were at when they started their path to develop/improve their literacy skills, where they are at now, and the changes in their life. The book is sent to our funders, given to Audreys and given out in the community. There is no specific budget as Audreys Books donates the space and the book is published as part of the budget.
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PARENTS EMPOWERING PARENTS (PEP) SOCIETY WWW.PEPSOCIETY.CA @PEP_SOCIETY PROGRAM: Lives in Recovery Giving Back PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This program is a restorative justice program that is intertwined with our parent/family group. The name of this program is MEDD-X (Motivational Education/experience for X Drug Dealers). It is a collaborative partnership with Edmonton Drug Treatment Court Service and Justice and Solicitor General. Referrals from these agencies are approved by the Executive Director of PEP who manages the programs and the program development. It is a visionary and unique program that empowers the participants along with the families/parents in our group. The participants join our parents/extended family group and quickly discover the impact of their lifestyle on our community and become a valuable part of PEP’s family as they educate and provide hope to the parents; this hope is expressed as the families experience the recovery of these X Drug dealers and X substance abusers. And then a supportive community emerges a positive relationship with the families and those who were part of the drug culture. Last week, a parent brought one of our Alumni (those who have graduated their time with our group and still attend as volunteers), brought them soup. This program is on-going and has been supplemented by PEP’s administrative budget for over 10 years. Our goal is to continue to provide this unique part of our program with funding from this award. The administrative costs are $7280.00 per year.
PILGRIMS HOSPICE SOCIETY WWW.PILGRIMSHOSPICE.COM @HOSPICEEDMONTON PROGRAM: No One Dies Alone PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Pilgrims Hospice Society launched the No One Dies Alone (NODA) program in April 2018, providing round-the-clock vigil for individuals in their final hours of life, with no family or friends to support and comfort them. The program ensures that nobody dies alone if that is their wish. A group of dedicated NODA Vigil Companions are on standby 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. These specially trained Hospice volunteers help provide individuals with a peaceful transition and the most valuable of human gifts - a dignified death
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through emotional and spiritual support, comfort, and a hand to hold. NODA Vigil Companions are also available to give respite for family members, allowing them peace of mind when they need to take some essential time for themselves. NODA Vigils are offered at the individual’s home, in addition to available nursing care. Vigils are also currently held within eight Continuing Care Facilities in Edmonton, as well as at St. Joseph’s Home for those who are homeless and diagnosed with a terminal illness. Volunteer visits are coordinated by the Manager, Hospice Community Programs, whose job also entails community outreach to local facilities that would welcome NODA vigils for their residents. For 2019, the estimated cost for the program is $20,000, all of which needs to be raised through the generosity of the community.
QUILTS OF VALOUR WWW.QUILTSOFVALOUR.CA @QUILTSOFVALOUR PROGRAM: Quilts for Injured Soldiers and Veterans PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Our quilts presented at the end of April this year has increased 40% over last year’s first 4 months. This is a big boost in reaching our 20,000 quilts presented across Canada by the end of 2020. Quilt blocks and tops will me made at a special booth is being sponsored by the Canadian Quilters’ Association at Quilt Canada in Ottawa this year. Special guests, both civilian and military will be sewing at the conference, the sewing machines being sponsored by Janome. In Edmonton we spearheaded National QOVC Day in February this year, the count of quilts is still coming in. Quilters provide much more fabric using their leftovers from other projects or purchasing their own. These quilt tops still need to be quilted, adding a batting and a backing. We support our quilters with supplies, our biggest expense and anticipate $30,000 for quilt making supplies, which is mostly fabric and a cost of $8,000 for shipping the blocks to those who will complete the quilts. In the last 3 years, approximately 12% of the quilts presented have been made by Edmonton/Cold Lake/Vegreville/ Drayton Valley area quilters.
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SAGE SENIOR ASSOCIATION WWW.MYSAGE.CA @SAGEYEG PROGRAM: Collaborative Community Care (C3): Health Services @ Sage PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Seniors in Alberta need clinical innovation based on current research in order to improve their health and social outcomes. Collaborative Community Care (C3): Health Services @ Sage is an innovative, person-centred model that aims to effectively meet the health and social needs of low-resourced seniors through the utilization of Nurse Practitioners within a community-based seniors-serving organization, and successful case coordination of evidence-based health, social and recreation supports. Health Services is a space where seniors can discuss the full scope of their health challenges, and have their needs addressed comprehensively through person-centered primary care. The primary objective of the program is to evaluate person-centred primary health care that integrates multi-disciplinary collaborative practice within a community setting to achieve improved health outcomes for seniors. Other objectives include evaluating the economic impact of the model and the potential for scale and spread of the model to address the anticipated increased seniors’ population. The overall program budget is $4.2 million over 2 years. This included a $850,000 start-up budget which involved the renovations of office space into six examination rooms. The program officially opened on March 1st, 2018 and we have continued to add allied health professionals such as a pharmacist, physiotherapist, and mental health therapist in response to the needs of clients. The current funding will end on March 31st, 2020, but we are currently working with Alberta Health to secure sustainable funding for the program.
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SELECTIONS CAREER SUPPORT SERVICES WWW.SELECTIONSCAREER.COM @SELECTIONSYEG PROGRAM: Selection’s Primary Program for Adults with Developmental Disabilities PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Selections supports the career development of adults with developmental disabilities of all degrees of experience; their chief objectives are to empower individuals to make valuable contributions to their communities, and to foster inclusive workplaces. Selections receives referrals from diverse sources (Disability Services, schools, etc.), and inquiries from prospective clients themselves. Selections’ clients undergo a comprehensive intake interview, in which the client can discuss their work history and career goals with a Career Development Coordinator (CDC). Selections accepts applicants with a spectrum of needs and interests who meet their basic eligibility requirements. Participants then complete the components of Selections’ Job Club program, including but not limited to a review of employee rights, resume development, and interview preparation. In this training period, client’s complete multiple assessments to assist in identifying rewarding placements. Later, participants are introduced to short-term career exploration opportunities (1-3 shifts) to allow them to experience various positions that may be of interest to them. Selections, the client, and their supports are then responsible for the sourcing of job opportunities. CDCs support clients in every step of the career development process, from the interview, to job skills training, to ongoing support and intervention if a concern arises. CDCs work alongside employers to function as a liaison between them, the client, and other supports. Selections’ primary program is ongoing, with the expectation that each individual will require a different amount of time and support before they graduate. Some may require ongoing, intermittent support. Selections’ current contract is $1,574,509.00 for three years.
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SIDEKICKS MENTORING WWW.STALBERTCIVC.COM/SIDEKICKSMENTORING/ PROGRAM: Mentoring PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Our mentoring program offers both one-to-one and group mentoring for the members of our program. Group mentoring is a big aspect of our program, as we don’t have enough volunteers to give every child/youth an individual mentor. We put on 2-3 group mentoring activities each month that allow our families to bond and experience something they wouldn’t normally be able to. Our group activities have consisted of things such as conoeing on the North Sask River, bowling, camping, laser tag, the trampoline park, escape rooms, visiting places like the zoo, Fort Edmonton Park, Jurassic Forest, etc. All of our activities are possible via fundraising and donations, which is why we are active in the community. Our activities are free to the members of our program, and cost Sidekicks anywhere from $300-$1200 depending on what we are doing; something like bowling will be closer to $300-$500 and something like camping will be upwards of $1200. Our goal is to provide more group activities that are accessible to everyone, as well as recruit more volunteers to engage in one-on-one mentoring, as there is high value in both avenues.
SKIRTSAFIRE SOCIETY WWW.SKIRTSAFIRE.COM @SKIRTSAFIRE PROGRAM: SkirtsAfire Festival - ASL Interpretation in our MainStage Play PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: For 2020’s festival, we are proud to be presenting our MainStage play “The Blue Hour” by local playwright, Michele Vance Hehir, playing in the Westbury Theatre as we partner with Fringe Theatre Adventures. The play won the Alberta Playwriting competition in 2017 and was one of the chosen plays in SkirtsAfire’s play development series “Peep Show” in 2018. We would like to offer ASL interpretation for 5 of “The Blue Hour” performances in order to make it accessible to deaf audiences. We feel this is an important step to bring our festival to more communities who may not have been able to experience it. As many arts organizations are realizing, accessibility is everything. Theatre brings with it a magic of bringing people together to be touched by something live, happening right before their 24
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eyes. No one should be left out of experiencing live theatre, and a community we’d like to reach out to specifically is the deaf community. By offering 5 performances of “The Blue Hour” with ASL interpretation, we hope to reach people who may not have felt they were welcome or included in theatre performances before. Our budget for this project $27,531.67 which includes hiring 2 ASL interpreters for 5 performances of “The Blue Hour” and for paying our actors and stage managers for the additional rehearsal time. The ASL fee includes script preparation, meetings with the production team, rehearsal time, ASL videos for promotion, community liaisons and cultural consultants, and of course the 5 performances during our festival. Rehearsals will begin in January 2020, with the 10 day run of performances happening February 27-March 8.
SOUND OFF - A DEAF THEATRE FESTIVAL WWW.SOUNDOFFFESTIVAL.COM @AURICLUS PROGRAM: SOUND OFF: A Deaf Theatre Festival PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: SOUND OFF’s goal is to grow Deaf performance in Canada, which has been historically underrepresented and has been re-emerging from a long period of dormancy. Our goal is to provide performance opportunities for established and emerging Deaf artists showcase their stories and their talents, both for the Deaf community and for Edmonton’s wider audience. As well, we aim to act as a cultural connector; bringing Deaf audiences and hearing audiences together for mutual appreciation of these Deaf performers. All shows and events offered by us are ASL/English interpreted, meaning they can be understood regardless of whether someone knows sign language or not. The festival is a collaboration between its Deaf artistic director Chris Dodd and Workshop West Playwright Theatre’s artistic director Vern Thiessen. We saw a need to create cohesion for Deaf Arts in Canada, as many artists only performed for their own communities and they did not have much exposure or recognition outside of them. We wanted to help Deaf artists connect and to create a collaborative affiliation among each other. The festival takes place each February over 5 days at the ATB Arts Barns in Old Strathcona. The planning and organization is done year-round by the Artistic Director, with a majority of the activity falling between September to March, in which weekly meetings are held with the production staff during that period. A majority of the funding comes from the Canada Council for the Arts and the average festival budget is around $75,000 per year. SOUND OFF is formally registered as a non-profit society, so any earned revenue is returned to the festival.
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TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE WWW.TWOSE.CA @TWOSEDM PROGRAM: Legends of the Northern Sky PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: ‘Legends of the Northern Sky’ is a stunning fulldome planetarium show honouring the legends and wisdom passed down through the generations by the Indigenous peoples of the western plains of Canada. It is also the first full dome show produced by TELUS World of Science – Edmonton (TWOSE) for the new Zeidler Dome theatre. When the brand new Zeidler Dome at TWOSE was set to be opened, we knew that we wanted to create a piece that would not only showcase the technological capabilities of the Zeidler Dome but also pay tribute to Canada, Indigenous peoples, and the North. The Indigenous people of North America connected with the night sky in fundamental ways that resonated with their world. In Legends of the Northern Sky, we learn and appreciate their stories in the stars, and in turn, learn a little bit more about the spirit that connects us all. What makes this project innovative is not only the use of emerging technologies but also incorporating traditional knowledge within the context of a science centre. he initial concept for this show was discussed in 2015 with a digital media partner. The project itself cost about $300,000 to produce and was supported by a variety of funders. Our digital media partner secured funding to write the script for the show in 2016 and worked with external organizations, local Indigenous groups, and TWOSE staff to bring the project to life. The show was launched on April 10, 2019 at TWOSE and continues to be played at our facility. Dome theatres from around the world have also expressed interest in showing Legends of the Northern Sky in their facilities as well.
TERRA CENTRE FOR TEEN PARENTS WWW.TERRACENTRE.CA @TERRACENTRE PROGRAM: Terra Centre - Successful Families Program PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Finding safe, affordable and sustainable housing continues to be one of the biggest challenges our young families face. Without access to safe and affordable housing, teen families can become stuck in a cycle of poverty, with negative implications for the healthy development of their children. To address this critical need, Terra has developed the Successful Families program to support
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teen parent families in raising their children in a stable, healthy environment while promoting healthy child development. Successful Families is a unique partnership between the Terra Centre and Brentwood Community Development Group (BCDG) as well as the Community-University Partnership for the Study of Children, Youth (CUP). In this innovative partnership, BCDG acts as the landlord and provides our families with townhomes in the Woodcroft Community in Edmonton where they are eligible to access an income-based subsidy that is tied to participating in program offered by Terra. Terra utilizes an Eviction Prevention through Skill Development model that empowers participants to maintain their homes, reduce social isolation and engage the community around them. Through group activities, community engagement and in-home visitation, Terra Housing staff support teen parent families to develop lifelong skills to enjoy secure tenancy and experience belonging in their community. The second element of this partnership is with the Community University Partnership for the Study of Children and Families (CUP) which aims to establish a suitable and relevant model of supportive housing. The learnings from this partnership are shared with other community agencies to help better understand the impacts of the Eviction Prevention model on teen parents and their children.
THE DUKE OF EDIBURGH’S INTERNATIONAL AWARD CANADA WWW.DUKEOFED.ORG/AB/DIVISION-HOME @DOFEDABNTNU PROGRAM: The Youth Resiliency Project (YRP) PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Youth Resiliency Project, is a three-year (2017- 2020) pilot project working closely with justice institutions to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of youth aged 14 to 17 who are involved in the Justice System. Utilizing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award curriculum as an outline, youth participating in the Youth Resiliency Project are guided and mentored through the four different components of the Award program at each level (Bronze, Silver, and Gold). At every level of the Award, participants are provided the opportunity to strengthen their capacity for participating in and contributing to their communities in a positive and productive way through activities related to the following four component areas: Community Service, Skill Development, Physical Activity and Outdoor Adventurous Journeys. We start to work with youth while they are in the young offender centres and collaborate with community organizations to ensure that they continue to be well supported as they transition back into their communities. Our goal is to help create positive systems of wraparound support while introducing young people to meaningful, engaging, prosocial activities they enjoy. The programming also facilitates
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an opportunity for the youth to be formally recognized for their achievements by the Government of Alberta and the British Royal Family. Our objectives are: -To increase awareness of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award framework by expanding our community partnerships -To build capacity to expand the project to include the Young Offenders Centres in Yellowknife and Iqaluit. -To increase participation (while in the justice system) in the Award’s framework and to connect at least 60 youth to the Award program, with 30 youth completing their Award by the end of the third year. -To increase the justice system’s ability to rehabilitate and provide a bridge of support to young people as they reintegrate back into their communities.
VALLEY ZOO DEVELOPMENT SOCIETY WWW.BUILDINGOURZOO.COM @BUILDINGOURZOO PROGRAM: Zoominescence PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This December, Zoominescence, hosted by the Valley Zoo Development Society, will stage a spectacular exhibition of artistic light installations within the unique setting of the Edmonton Valley Zoo. The festival’s vision is to celebrate light, artistry, imagination and the strong spirit of our community in the winter. Running every weekend in December, join us for an evening of light, animals, skating, hot chocolate and fun for the whole family! Our goal is to create a family friendly winter festival to raise fund for the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Our goal for 2019 is to host 30,000 guests to Zoominescence and raise $100,000 for the Edmonton Valley Zoo.
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WINNIFRED STEWART ASSOCIATION WWW.EMPTIESTOWINN.COM @WSA153 PROGRAM: Empties to Winn PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Empties to Winn program (ETW) is proud to have collected an recycled over 55 MILLION beverage containers since the program began in 2007. ETW began 11 years ago with the placement of 75 collection containers in one Edmonton neighborhood. Today, this unique and totally free program operates in over 300 neighborhoods in Edmonton and surrounding areas. We provide regular pick-ups to over 14,000 accounts. This includes households, businesses, retail outlets, condos, schools, and sporting facilities. All funds generated by the program go back to help support people living with a developmental disability. ETW has embraced a multifaceted opportunity. Firstly, we make beverage container recycling more accessible and convenient for donors. Simultaneously, the program generates a solid revenue stream that supports the many programs offered to our individuals. Participants on the program enjoy that they receive free collection containers and bags, and a free regularly scheduled pick up service from their doorstep. Donors are also given a tax receipt at the end of the year, with the total cumulative amount for their charitable donation. Empties to Winn is a rare example of a service that not only addresses the question of “what’s in it for me?” but also gives people a great feeling of being able to support our individuals AND make a contribution to saving the environment. It is truly a win-win situation for everyone involved. You may recognize the celebrity endorsement of Joey Moss in his Oilers Jersey as a part of the program. His photo is on our 5 vehicles as they roll around collecting $ 60,000 worth of 10 and 25 cent containers every month! To this day, we are inspired by the legacy of our founder Mrs. Stewart. We continue to do work that embodies her fundamental values of empowering people and inspiring dreams.
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WORKHOP WEST PLAYWRIGHT’S THEATRE WWW.WORKSHOPWEST.ORG @WORKSHOPWEST PROGRAM: Writes of Passage PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Words Matter. Words have Power. Words can Change a Teen’s Life. Every year, our #writesofpassage education program teaches over 1000 students the power of words. Over the course of 5 sessions, students learn how to use words to transform how they communicate their views on the world. With the help of professional mentors/writers, students write a play, and have it read aloud by professional actors. Through this process, these teenagers (Grade 8-12) learn the value of language to express their hopes, fears, and dreams. The program budget for #writesofpassage is currently $20K per year. It runs during the school year, from September to May. When possible, the schools contribute financially. However, the fees for the program are often subsidized by private donors or sponsors. We always seek students and schools, first and foremost, where access to creative writing and language skills may be a challenge (e.g. ESL students, newcomers, economically and socially challenged.) Next year (2019/20) our goal is to expand the program beyond Edmonton to Lethbridge, Red Deer, Calgary, Fort McMurray, and Grande Prairie. Because of travel distance, the course cost becomes unattainable for some schools. We aim to raise $10K to allow 5 new schools to enjoy the program free of charge, as we seek a local business to partner with us and the school to make it sustainable for future years.
YOUTH RESTORATIVE ACTION PROJECT WWW.YRAP.ORG @YRAP_ PROGRAM: Youth Justice Committee PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: As a Youth Justice Committee, the Youth Restorative Action Project performs many legal functions including Section 19 sentencing conferences, development and oversight of extrajudicial sanctions, and judicial interim release conferences. Those who take part in the YRAP process will attend a restorative justice ‘conference’ facilitated by youth members where they will meet with a youth panel and possibly the victim of their offenses, and will discuss their
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personal circumstances as well as ways to repair the harm caused by their actions. YRAP works closely with the young person in order to come up with conditions and support the youth in completing them. In most cases, YRAP also consults the important people in the young person’s life such as family members and social workers, as well as prosecution and defense lawyers involved with the criminal case and any victims of the crime. In all cases, YRAP offers its unique one-to-one mentorship for the duration of the young person’s involvement in YRAP. Continued involvement allows for the young person to have a stable individual in their lives who is able to assist them in the court system as well as with any other issues that undermine their stability. Most young people are involved in the program for between 4 months and a year.
YOUTH RESTORATIVE ACTION PROJECT WWW.YRAP.ORG @YRAP_ PROGRAM: Youth Justice Committee PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Our Youth Justice Committee program offers young people an opportunity to repair the harm caused by their actions. Our part-time File Coordinators receive referrals from the Youth Criminal Defence Office, Edmonton Youth Probation, and the community. They facilitate intakes with the youth; hold restorative justice panels including the youth, victims, and community members; oversee the completion of conditions; and connect youth to other supports including mentors and outside agencies. A typical youth is involved with our programs from 4 months to 1 year. Our aim is for youth to complete our program, repair the harm caused by their actions, and avoid further involvement with the Youth Criminal Justice system. The budget for this program, including 4 parttime staff who carry out File Coordination duties, is $60 000. YRAP served 70 youth through our Youth Justice Program in 2018.
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PAST RECIPIENTS OF THE DUNCAN CRAIG LLP LAUREL AWARDS 2018 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
Wellspring Edmonton
“Wellspring Edmonton”
Silver:
iHuman Youth Society
Bronze:
Edmonton Meals on Wheels
“LiNKS Mental Health Clinic”
“Extended Production Hours”
Staff Choice: Make-A-Wish Northern Alberta
“Medical Outreach Committee”
Audience
SkirtsAfire Society
Choice:
“SkirtsAfire Festival”
2017 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
Little Warriors
Child Sexual Abuse Workshop”
“Little Warriors Prevent It! Taking Action to Stop
Silver: DiscoverE
“DiscoverE Workshops, Clubs, Camps and Special Events”
Bronze:
Cultural Connections Institute – The Learning Exchange
“Basic English Program (BEL Program) – ESL in the Community”
Staff Choice: Valley Zoo Development Society
“Urban Farm; Nature’s Wild Backyard”
Audience
Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation
Choice:
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“Stollery Superstars Program”
DUNCAN CRAIG LLP | LAWYERS MEDIATORS
2016 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
Dreams Take Flight Edmonton
Silver:
Edmonton Bicycle Commuters Society
Bronze:
Gateway Association
“Dreams Take Flight Edmonton” “You Can Ride 2 Borrow a Bike Program” “Youth in Care Employment Project”
Staff Choice: Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART)
Audience
Choice:
“Shelter from the Storm Program and the Food Program”
Canadian Mental Health Association – Edmonton Region
“Integration of The Support Network and CMHA”
2015 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
Uncles and Aunts at Large (Edmonton and Area) Society
Silver:
Gateway Association
Bronze:
Nehiyaw Kakeskewina Learning Society
“Strengthening Families Program for At-Risk Youth” “We Belong App”
“Maskwacis Life Skills Training Program”
Staff Choice: Little Warriors
“Be Brave Ranch”
2014 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
No Stone Left Alone Memorial Foundation
Silver:
GEOMEER Charitable Society
Bronze:
CHED Santas Anonymous Incorporated
“Remembrance Ceremonies/Education Outreach“ “Suit Up!”
“Toy Delivery Weekend Dispatch”
Staff Choice: Little Bits Therapeutic Riding Association
“Little Bits Therapeutic Riding Association for Persons with Disabilities” 2019 LAUREL AWARDS
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2013 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
Alberta Cancer Foundation
Silver:
Edmonton Women’s Shelter
Bronze:
Outreach for Life Association of Edmonton o/a Pregnancy Care Centre
“Dr. Gino Fallone’s Linac MR “ “Win House 3”
“Earn While You Learn Program (EWYL)”
Staff Choice: Dogs with Wings Assistance Dog Society
“Victim Services Dog Program”
2012 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
Food for Thought
Silver:
Hope Foundation of Alberta
Bronze:
Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE)
“Food for Thought - School Lunch & Snack Program” “HOPE KIDSTM Aboriginal Post-Secondary Week-Long Camps” “Movement and Expressive Arts Therapy Group”
Staff Choice: Ardrossan Dreamcatcher Nature Assisted Therapy Association
“Fuzzy Face Express”
2011 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
iHuman Youth Society
Silver:
River Watch Institute of Alberta
Bronze:
Partners for Kids & Youth (PKY)
“High Risk Youth Uncensored: An Educational Exchange (Uncensored)” “RiverWatch Five-Year Expansion Project 2007-2011” “The Gift Shop”
2010 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
Zebra Child Protection Centre
Silver:
YESS – Youth Emergency Service Society
Bronze:
HIV Edmonton
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“A Kids Holiday Party”
“The Armoury Youth Centre or AYC” “Body mapping: Living with X”
DUNCAN CRAIG LLP | LAWYERS MEDIATORS
2009 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
Terra Centre for Pregnant and Parenting Teens
Silver:
Dogs with Wings Assistance Dog Society
Bronze:
Big Brothers Big Sisters Edmonton & Area
“Youth Leadership Program”
“Service Dogs for Children with Autism”
“5th Dimension After-School Homework Club” 2008 LAUREL AWARDS
Gold:
The Bissell Centre
Silver:
Seniors Association of Greater Edmonton
Bronze:
Boys & Girls Club of Edmonton
Information & Awareness Fair”
“Opening Doors Through Identification” “SAGE Seniors’ Safe House”
“Straight Up on Addictions –Youth Reaching Youth 2007 LAUREL AWARDS
Gold:
Our House Addiction Recovery Centre
Silver:
The Edmonton Financial Literacy Society
Bronze:
Pilgrims Hospice Society
“Our House Addiction Recovery Centre” “The Rainy Day Project”
“Expressive Arts for Grieving Children and Teens Support Program” 2006 LAUREL AWARDS
Gold:
Boyle McCauley Health Centre
Silver:
Seniors Volunteer Driving Centre of Edmonton
Bronze:
CTD Housing Solutions Edmonton Ltd.
“The Boyle McCauley Health Centre Dental Clinic” “Supportive Volunteer Driving for Frail Elderly in Edmonton” “The Home Program”
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2005 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers
Silver:
Edmonton Interfaith Centre
Appreciation of Religious Diversity”
“Bright Futures”
“Walking Together: A Program to Teach the
Bronze:
Elizabeth Fry Society of Edmonton
Bronze:
Junior Achievement of Northern Alberta & NWT
“Private Home Placement”
“The Junior Achievement Social Entrepreneurship Program” 2004 LAUREL AWARDS
Gold:
Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers “Universal Wizards”
Silver: Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs of Edmonton
“West Edmonton Centre Christmas Store”
Bronze: Terra Association
“Rocking Grannies Project” 2003 LAUREL AWARDS
Gold:
Edmonton Community Loan Fund Society’s Project
Silver:
On “R” Own Home Society
Bronze:
Boyle McCauley Health Centre
Antiretroviral Therapy Project (DOT for HAART)”
“The Community Loan Fund”
“Generations Growing and Gardening Together Project” “Edmonton Directly Observed Therapy for Highly Active 2002 LAUREL AWARDS
Gold:
Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers
Silver:
Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs of Edmonton
Bronze:
Paralympic Sports Association
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“Engineering Technologists Integration Project” “The Bruce Campbell Youth Centre” “One-For-All Summer Camp Days”
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2001 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
The United Way of Alberta Capital Region
Silver:
Latitude 53 Society of Artists
Bronze:
YWCA
“The Partners for Kids Program” “Visualeyez”
“Rainbows Program” 2000 LAUREL AWARDS
Gold:
The Dickinsfield Community Partnership
Silver:
The Support Network
Bronze:
The Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton
“Community Connections Program” “Walk-In Counseling Program”
“Volunteer Initiatives for Volunteer Education (VIVE)” 1999 LAUREL AWARDS
Gold:
United Way
Silver:
Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs of Edmonton
Bronze:
Alberta Council on Aging
“The In Kind Centre” “Dimensions Program”
“Senior Friendly Program” 1998 LAUREL AWARDS
Gold:
Edmonton’s School Lunch Program
Silver:
Strathcona High School Service Club
Bronze:
The Citadel Theatre
“Snack in the Shack” “Scona Pride”
“The Citadel Theatre Students’ Club”
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1997 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
The Edmonton City Centre Church Corporation
Silver:
Scouts Canada – Edmonton Regional Council
Bronze:
Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks and Wildlife Foundation
“Kids in the Hall”
“Edmonton Young Offender Centre Scout Group” “Peaceful Valley Project”
1996 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
The Hope Foundation
Silver:
The Spinal Court Injury Treatment Centre Society
Bronze:
The Friends of the University Hospital
“Planting Seeds of Hope” “The Project Wheelchair – The TAB Program” “Edmonton Caring Clowns”
1995 LAUREL AWARDS Gold:
The Edmonton City Centre Church Corporation
Silver:
The Edmonton Meals on Wheels
Bronze:
The Speech Language and Hearing Association
(Take Me Out to the Ball Game)”
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“Renovation of Flat-Iron Building for use as a Women’s Shelter” “Frozen Entrée Program”
“Don’t Miss a Word Public Awareness Program
DUNCAN CRAIG LLP | LAWYERS MEDIATORS
Duncan Craig LLP, one of the oldest law firms in the Province of Alberta, was established in Edmonton in 1894. The founding partners were William Short, who later served as first Mayor of the City of Edmonton, and Charles Cross, who became the first Attorney General of the Province of Alberta. By 1909 the firm had moved to the very prestigious second floor of the Merchant’s Bank Building located in the heart of Edmonton where Scotia Place now stands. The firm experienced steady growth for a number of years but, as with many businesses and professional firms in the City of Edmonton, did not go unscathed through the depression and the Second World War. Some losses were experienced but ultimately the firm survived and managed to grow and continued growing through the rise and fall of the Alberta economy. The firm has throughout its history maintained a philosophy of growth. Both through this growth and a series of mergers, the firm now has over forty-five lawyers and more than sixty support staff and offices in Edmonton and Drayton Valley. Throughout its history Duncan Craig LLP has seen a number of its lawyers appointed to the Bench at both Provincial and Superior Court levels and its members have also served, and continue to serve, on a variety of community and charitable boards, organizations and service clubs. The firm actively encourages its members to be involved in community organizations and events. Duncan Craig LLP’s tradition of involvement in politics also continues to this day with many of its members, past or present, having served as MLAs, Aldermen, City Councilors and candidates for various elected offices at both the civic and provincial level. Members continue to be involved in a variety of political parties at provincial and federal levels. To show its continued appreciation and dedication to the community, in 1994, during the firm’s 100th year of continuous practice in Edmonton, Duncan Craig LLP announced the Laurel Awards, which were established to honour nonprofit organizations, on an annual basis, who further their objectives through exceptional creativity and innovation. The winners are honoured annually at a luncheon held in the fall of each year. At the 2004 luncheon celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Laurel Awards, the firm was recognized by the Province of Alberta for its dedication to community service through the presentation of the Laurel Awards. At Duncan Craig LLP we continue to build on a long tradition of excellence in serving our clients’ best interest with a clear and compassionate focus.
duncancraig@dcllp.com @dcllp facebook.com/duncancraigllp www.dcllp.com
2019 LAUREL AWARDS
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PROGR AM 2019 Laurel Awards 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 30, 2019 Chateau Lacombe Hotel Edmonton, Alberta Welcome
Solomon J. Rolingher, QC
Senior Counsel, Duncan Craig LLP Grace Luncheon Opening Remarks
Solomon J. Rolingher, QC Presentation of the Audience Choice Laurel Award Solomon J. Rolingher, QC
Duncan Craig LLP
Presentation of the Staff Choice Laurel Award Justine Mackinnon
Duncan Craig LLP
Presentation of the Bronze Laurel Award Jon Dziadyk
City Councillor, Ward 3 Presentation of the Silver Laurel Award Retired Lieutenant General, Paul Wynnyk
Former Vice Chief of the Defense Staff
Presentation of the Gold Laurel Award
Her Honour, the Honourable Lois E. Mitchell, CM, AOE, LLD
Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Closing Remarks
Solomon J. Rolingher, QC