2017 SPRA Conference

If you’re a professional or volunteer in recreation, parks or facilities, this is one event you will not want to miss!

2017 CONNECT. SPRA CONFERENCE October 19 - 21, 2017 Warman, Saskatchewan

EARLY BIRD DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2017

You are invited to the recreation and parks event of the year!

The 2017 SPRA Conference has been developed specifically for recreation, parks and facility practitioners and volunteers who are interested in networking and learning the latest information and trends in the parks and recreation field.

The theme for 2017 is ‘On the Hunt for Quality Recreation’.

As professionals, we are always on the look out or ‘Hunt’ for the next quality program, event, facility and lifestyle trend. Our theme incorporates the desire for a high quality of life along with promoting a healthy community that is accessible to all.

The word ‘Hunt’ suggests that time has been spent investigating, researching and qualifying the recreation trend, program or event. A person hunts for sustainability and we, as recreation ambassadors, need to continue to promote a sustainable lifestyle through recreation.

The 2017 SPRA Conference will focus on connecting the goals from ‘A Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Wellbeing’ and aligning them with our strategic directions for the Conference educational sessions. The five goals include:

■ Active Living (physical literacy, play, reduce sedentary behaviours)

■ Inclusion and Access (equitable participation regardless of

age, race, sexual orientation)

public awareness)

active transportation)

development, leadership, volunteers)

■ Connecting People and Nature (natural spaces and places, ■ Supportive Environments (essential spaces and places, ■ Recreation Capacity (career, capacity, community It is of utmost importance to ‘Hunt’ for the next great idea, while understanding and incorporating the ‘Quality’ structure developed in the National Framework.

We look forward to welcoming you to Warman in October for the 2017 SPRA Conference!

WHAT TO EXPECT ■ National caliber keynotes and presenters ■ Connecting with colleagues and experts from the field ■ Timely learning about topics that matter most ■ Entertaining social events

CONFERENCE AT A GLANCE TIME

EVENT

10:00 a.m.

Registration/Information Desk Opens SPRA Voting Desk Opens

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Delegates Networking Luncheon

1:00 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Opening Remarks and Keynote Address by Darren Lang – ‘Staying Up in an Upside-down World’

2:15 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

SPRA Round Table and Candidate Speeches

3:30 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Refreshment Break CONCURRENT SESSION A

3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.

A1- Recruiting and Retaining the New Volunteer A2 - Workplace Safety A3 - Social Media Strategy for the Parks and Recreation Sector

4:45 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Networking Session

5:30 p.m.

Voting and Registration Desk Close

6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

2017 JET ICE Commercial Trade Show

9:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

Parks and RecFest

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20 8:00 a.m.

8:45 a.m. - 9:15 a.m.

Registration/Information Desk Opens SPRA Voting Desk Opens Continental Breakfast CONCURRENT SESSION B

9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

B1 - Nature Themed Playgrounds B2 - Rural Youth Engagement B3 - Community Development Tools for Advancing Recreation

10:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

Refeshment Break CONCURRENT SESSION C

10:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

C1 - Tour of Legends Centre C2 - Building the Mental Muscle C3 - Reconciliation: Going from Truth Tell to Acknowledging, Reconciling and Relating

12:00 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.

President’s/Minister’s Luncheon

1:15 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

SPRA Annual General Meeting CONCURRENT SESSION D

2:15 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

D1 - Panel Discussion on Inclusiveness D2 - Fostering Positive Mental Health in Your Community D3 - Physical Literacy

5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

SPRA Awards Gala - Cocktails

6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

SPRA Awards Gala - Dinner and Presentations

9:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

Black Tie Bingo

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21 8:00 a.m.

Continuation of SPRA Annual General Meeting - if required

8:45 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Breakfast Buffet

9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Keynote by Robin Esrock

10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Closing Remarks and Prize Draw

PRE-CONFERENCE SESSIONS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2017

TIME: TBD Fall Recreation Programmers Meeting

LEGEND - SESSION GOALS Active Living Inclusion and Access Connecting People and Nature Supportive Environments Recreation Capacity

Join fellow Recreation Programmers as we discuss the topics and trends in recreation for 2017. Discussion items include staffing, events, pool operations, scheduling and more. Email coralieb@warman.ca to be notified about the details.

---------------------------------------------------------------------12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

HIGH FIVE® Sport Workshop (Updated Session) Presented by Dave Nutt

This workshop is designed for the competitive or recreational coach.

Aligned with the Fundamentals and Learn to Train stages of Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD), HIGH FIVE® Sport focuses on the social, emotional and cognitive development and wellbeing of athletes.

The training has been designed to help leaders with top coaching dilemmas such as dealing with parents, keeping the child’s interest, ensuring fair play and an emotionally safe environment. Participants will receive a manual and a certificate. (Includes lunch)

---------------------------------------------------------------------12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

New trends in CO² Thermal Plants for Recreation Facilities Dry Solutions – Ice Arena Dehumidification Sponsored by Cimco Refrigeration This course will talk about the benefits to C02 in Ice Rink Applications as production levels of HFC refrigerants start to become reduced in a few years and virtually eliminated in 20 years. (includes lunch)

---------------------------------------------------------------------1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Knowledge Presentation Review Panel Canadian Parks and Recreation Association Professional Development Certification

The Knowledge Presentation is the final step in the certification process for the CPRA Professional Development Certification program. Program participants must create a case study based on an issue or event related to their practice. The case study will be presented in written and oral formats to a Knowledge Presentation Review Panel. The first Saskatchewan based Knowledge Presentation Review Panel will be taking place at the 2017 SPRA Conference in Warman. Conference delegates are welcome to observe the Knowledge Presentations during this session.

---------------------------------------------------------------------7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Pre-Event Social

Join us at the Pre-Event Social for some great networking. Upon arrival, details on the event will be provided at the registration desk.

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CONFERENCE SESSIONS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017 10:00 a.m.

Registration/Information Desk Opens SPRA Voting Desk Opens

---------------------------------------------------------------------12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Delegates Networking Luncheon Sponsored by Western Recreation and Development

Come for lunch and the exciting kickoff of the 2017 SPRA Conference, ‘On the Hunt for Quality Recreation!’

---------------------------------------------------------------------1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

Opening Remarks and Keynote Address by Darren Lang – ‘Staying Up in an Upside-down World’ Sponsored by Western Recreation and Development

Seems everyone has their fair share of stress these days and could use a few tools to manage. Over the years, Darren Lang as inspired thousands to take control of their stress and have some fun while doing it. Darren shares his own journey with stress and the tools that brought him back to feeling his best. You will hear many fun and heartfelt stories that will inspire you to take action and begin ‘Staying Up in an Upside-down World’.

---------------------------------------------------------------------2:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

SPRA Round Table and Candidate Speeches

Take advantage of the opportunity to discuss items of interest or concerns with the SPRA Board of Directors and staff. Listen to the Candidate Speeches to help you decide your vote for the vacant SPRA Board of Directors positions.

---------------------------------------------------------------------3:30 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Refreshment Break

---------------------------------------------------------------------3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

CONCURRENT SESSION A Sponsored by RC Strategies + PERC

A1 – Recruiting and Retaining the New Volunteer Presented by Brenda Robinson Why is it always all of the same people doing all of the work all of the time? Well maybe that is happening because we are struggling to engage and include new volunteers who will balance the workload. Who is the new volunteer?

Where are they? What are they waiting for? What does it take to involve them? Why would they rather give than get involved? Learn more about the challenges of recruiting and retaining volunteers in our intergenerational communities and organizations.

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---------------------------------------------------------------------A2 – Workplace Safety Presented by Joel Friesen

As an employer in the recreation sector, you have a responsibility to keep your staff - regardless if they are management, administration, programming or facility operation - safe. Joel will discuss the legislation you should be concerned with and best practices related to workplace safety.

Joel is also going to facilitate a discussion about working alone policies and with input from those in attendance, come up with ideas about how to keep employees that need to work alone safe.

---------------------------------------------------------------------A3 – Social Media Strategy for the Parks and Recreation Sector Presented by Christian Bates-Hardy

Parks and recreation is a social profession. Our sector is all about building community, helping people connect with each other and their environments and enhancing social wellbeing. In this one-hour session, Communications and Social Media specialist Christian Bates-Hardy will share with you his experience in using social media to promote parks and recreation across the province. Using his knowledge of current and emerging trends in social media and online communications, Christian will suggest ways you can use social media to promote parks and recreation within your community, provide tips and tricks for building and maintaining your brand on social media, and will share best practices to help you develop your voice, key messages and social media strategy.

---------------------------------------------------------------------4:45 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Networking Session Sponsored by Prairie Central District for Sport, Culture and Recreation

If this is your first time, or you are a returning attendee to the Conference, stop by and chat with other recreation professionals, and representatives from the Districts and SPRA, at the networking session prior to the JET ICE Commercial Trade Show. This is a great opportunity to create new relationships or build on existing ones.

---------------------------------------------------------------------5:30 p.m.

Voting and Registration Desk Closes

---------------------------------------------------------------------6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

2017 JET ICE Commercial Trade Show

Visit our exhibitor booths at the JET ICE Commercial Trade Show to discover the latest products and services in the recreation and parks field. Join the Trade Show exhibitors by participating in the Six Degrees of Happiness. Delegates will receive a prompt for six questions to discuss with the exhibitors. If you ask all six questions to the exhibitor they will provide you with raffle tickets that will give you a chance to win some great prizes. Enjoy a variety of Warman’s Finest Pizza and join us for Happy Hour prior to the start of Parks and RecFest!

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---------------------------------------------------------------------9:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

Parks and RecFest

Come dressed in your best Camo or Hunting attire and help us be ‘On the Hunt for Quality Recreation’. As always Parks and Recfest will feature a variety of fun games, prizes and more! Don’t be afraid to show off your style at #onthehunt2017.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2017 8:00 a.m.

Registration/Information Desk Opens SPRA Voting Desk Opens

---------------------------------------------------------------------8:45 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.

Continental Breakfast

---------------------------------------------------------------------9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

CONCURRENT SESSION B Sponsored by RC Strategies + PERC B1 – Nature Themed Playgrounds Presented by Matt Sloan The global push to get children more engaged with nature started over 10 years ago. Being in nature is beneficial for several reasons, including: improved mental health, enhanced cognitive development and enriched social interactions. To assist with this connection, the City of Edmonton is constructing two nature-based playgrounds using CSA compliant features constructed from natural materials, such as logs and boulders, to encourage the anticipated positive results. Join the City of Edmonton’s Landscape Architect, Matt Sloan, as he explains why the City of Edmonton chose to pursue these nature-theme playgrounds, what benefits the City of Edmonton is looking for and some dos and don’ts if your community is looking to install these types of playgrounds.

---------------------------------------------------------------------10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

CONCURRENT SESSION C Sponsored by RC Strategies + PERC

Keynote Drew Dudley C1 – Tour of Legends Centre

The Legends Centre is truly a multi-purpose - facility with an assortment of activity space to host a variety of events large and small. The 100,000 sq/ft facility features a regulation size arena with seating for 1,174 and standing room of 500.

This arena is one of the newest in the province and features a highquality sound system, above standard lighting, 12 dressing rooms, first aid room, 4-sided clock, leisure ice area and a state of the art heat recovery ice plant. With 2 large gymnasiums that are truly multisport, each gymnasium has the ability to host badminton, basketball, volleyball, soccer - as well as other non-court sports such as softball, baseball, lacrosse, cheerleading, gymnastics, ultimate frisbee and baton. The Pulastic floor makes the facility available for larger events such as fundraisers, tradeshows and graduations. The facility offers 3 multi-purpose rooms and 3 boardrooms that are great for a variety of functions.

---------------------------------------------------------------------C2 – Building the Mental Muscle Presented by Lou-anne Stefankiw

Most people who start the path to greater fitness and improved wellness, whether it is to enhance eating practices, joining a gym or simply to be more active on a daily basis, run into barriers to true success. These barriers can be small or large but inevitably, become roadblocks to long-term success and happiness. The Mental Muscle Program is designed to support the ‘process’ and the ‘path’ that individuals are on, regardless of the end goal. It is important to most individuals to have a foundation of support to lean on when these barriers arise. This session will address these and participants will leave with a better idea of what they need to do to get to where they want to be.

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Youth engagement has been identified as a key measure that strengthens health promotion awareness initiatives.

Evidence demonstrates links between the engagement of young people and positive health outcomes, including decreased substance use, lowered dropout rates, lower rates of sexual activity and pregnancy, and decreased anti-social behaviors.

This interactive workshop will provide teachers and service providers with tangible tools on how to encourage the meaningful participation of youth. Youth participants from Saskatoon’s Youth Advisory Council will also participate in activities and share stories regarding their journey of engagement.

Get inspired to learn, navigate and implement the education from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the TRC Calls to Action that are relevant to Sport, Culture and more so, Recreation. This session will include Celina’s story of intergenerational trauma and how it relates to motivation, barriers and benefits, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action as they relate to recreation, and how to implement and strategize the Calls to Action and meaningful relationships.

B2 – Rural Youth Engagement Presented by Dave Shanks

---------------------------------------------------------------------B3 – Community Development Tools for Advancing Recreation Presented by Ryan Gibson

Ryan will be identify and share community development strategies that can be utilized for enhancing local and regional recreation. Participants will get to see the strategies ‘in action’ through examples, understand when they are appropriate, comprehend how to start and discuss the key activities of community development. Tools and resources included!

---------------------------------------------------------------------10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

Refreshment Break

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C3 – ‘Reconciliation: Going from Truth Tell to Acknowledging, Reconciling and Relating (Touchstones of Hope Principles)’ Presented by Celina Quewezance

---------------------------------------------------------------------12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

President’s/Minister’s Luncheon and AGM Sponsored by AODBT Architecture + interior design

Join SPRA President and special guests as they reflect upon the past year and discuss the exciting opportunities awaiting the recreation and parks sector.

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---------------------------------------------------------------------2:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

CONCURRENT SESSION D Sponsored by RC Strategies + PERC

D1 – Panel Discussion on Inclusiveness Presented by Amanda Guthrie - OUT Saskatoon, Jamal-eFatima Rafat - Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan and John Lagimodierre – Publisher/Consultant The panel members will discuss terminology, best practices and share experiences to increase capacity for safe and welcoming environments, inclusion and access for facilities and program engagement.

---------------------------------------------------------------------D2 – Fostering Positive Mental Health in Your Community Presented by Donna Bowyer

This presentation will focus on identifying the impact of mental health in Saskatchewan’s communities and how the stigma of mental health prevents individuals from seeking help. Donna will share some of the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems and will offer tools and techniques, such as mindfulness, that recreation staff and volunteers can utilize if they are supporting an individual in a mental health crisis. This will help for people to feel more confident and the person that is struggling feel supported. Sometimes just a few words of support and openness can make a world of difference to a person in crisis not to feel alone.

---------------------------------------------------------------------D3 – Physical Literacy Presented by Dr. Louise Humbert – University of Saskatchewan, College of Kinesiology and Warren Proctor – Sask Sport Inc. (Saskatchewan Partners for Physical Literacy representatives) Physical Literacy: The Foundation of Healthy, Active Living “Physical literacy is the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for engaging in physical activities for life.”

(International Physical Literacy Association - May, 2014) This session aims to build a greater understanding of Physical Literacy, its impact on long term physical and emotional health of Saskatchewan residents and how communities, volunteers and recreation professionals can support and enrich programs to ensure children develop the confidence, motivation and physical skills to be lifelong participants in recreation activities.

---------------------------------------------------------------------5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

SPRA Awards Gala

Dress in your best for this formal event and walk the red carpet to the SPRA Awards Gala. The Gala includes presentation of the SPRA Awards. Cocktails are at 5:00 p.m., followed by supper at 6:30 p.m. and the Award presentations at 7:30 p.m.

---------------------------------------------------------------------9:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

Black Tie Bingo

Following the Gala, join us for a sensational evening of Black Tie Bingo! This is not your average game of bingo and the people playing are not your average bingo players. This will be an evening of fun, socializing and fantastic prizes. You won’t want to miss it!

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2017 8:00 a.m. Continuation of SPRA Annual General Meeting - if required

---------------------------------------------------------------------8:45 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Breakfast Buffet Sponsored by Wilco Contractors Southwest Ltd

As a final wrap-up to the Conference, you will be treated to a buffet style breakfast that will lead into the closing Keynote presentation.

---------------------------------------------------------------------9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Keynote Address by Robin Esrock Sponsored by Wilco Contractors Southwest Ltd

Having explored over 100 countries on 7 continents, bestselling author and TV host Robin Esrock helps us break through the personal and professional boundaries that often stand in our way. He speaks on the challenges of innovation, transformation, recognizing potential and achieving Big Hairy Audacious Goals. Drawing on his fascinating adventures, Esrock inspires audiences with stunning visuals and stories alongside positive, practical strategies.

---------------------------------------------------------------------10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Closing Remarks and Prize Draw

It is time to turn to your friends and say, “I will see you next year!”.

We hope that you have all found this Conference refreshing, and you are re-energized as you go back to your community and organizations!

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PREPARING FOR THE HUNT WHAT TO BRING Business cards, pen and notepad Water bottles and delegate bags will be provided

WHAT TO WEAR Parks and RecFest – Camo/Hunting Attire Awards Gala – A formal event, you are encouraged to wear business class attire such as: suits, dresses, dress pants or skirts Conference Sessions - Casual attire

Lockers are available if you wish to lock up your personnel items during the Conference sessions.

2017 JET ICE COMMERCIAL TRADE SHOW

The Social Committee of the Conference is incorporating a game to increase delegate participation with the Tradeshow Exhibitors. The game is called Six Degrees of Happiness. Here is how it works: • Delegates will receive a prompt for six questions to discuss with the exhibitors.

• When a delegate interacts with the exhibitor by asking all six questions and engaging conversation, you have the opportunity to receive a raffle ticket.

• Delegates can then drop raffle tickets off at the raffle drum for a chance to win some great prizes.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS DARREN LANG ‘Staying Up in an Upside-down World’

Darren has a degree in Business Administration, as well as an MBA. He has worked as a Human Resources Consultant and trainer for over 15 years. 11 years ago, he left the corporate world to join his wife Darci in their own training company, XL Enterprises and help raise their 2 children, Jayda and John.

Throughout his career, Darren has inspired thousands to pro-actively manage stress and have some fun while doing it. He has worked with several different companies designing and conducting training sessions. Darren has lived his talk and shares his personal story of becoming caught in his own ‘Stress Spiral’ and the tools and techniques he used to beat stress. These days, the rate of stress in our personal and professional lives is going through the roof. Most of us have more to do in less time and are so busy taking care of issues at work and needs at home, that we forget to take care of ourselves along the way.

The result - many of us are slowly getting caught in a ‘Stress Spiral’ without even realizing it. This impacts our productivity and ability to cope with day-to-day issues until we finally learn to start ‘Staying Up in an Upside-down World’.

ROBIN ESROCK

Robin’s success as a global adventurer, travel writer, bestselling author and international TV personality is no accident, although it did start with one. Struck down on his bike at a Vancouver intersection, Robin hobbled away with a broken kneecap and one-year later, a modest $20,000 insurance settlement. It was just enough for him to pack up his things, quit his job and set off on a one-year solo round-the-world backpacking adventure to 24 countries.

Committed to record his year of living dangerously, he uploaded weekly reports, photography, videos, reviews and interviews with every person he met. In doing so, he pioneered a new era of multi-platform, switched-on and wired-in travel journalism, leading to adventures beyond his wildest dreams.

Esrock is the bestselling author of The Great Canadian Bucket List, which has been at the top of the Canadian Travel, History and Arts and Photography chart on Amazon.ca for several years, as well as The Great Global Bucket List. Having now visited over 100 countries on 7 continents, Robin continues to write, blog, tweet and film his ongoing adventures. Robin is living proof that sometimes, life is just an accident waiting to happen.

CONFERENCE PRESENTERS ---------------------------------------------------------------------BRENDA ROBINSON

Brenda is a speaker, trainer, writer and consultant. She has been addressing groups for over 20 years on topics related to communications, laughter, positive working skills and wellness in general.

Brenda received her Bachelor of Arts from Brandon University in Brandon, MB (Major in English) and her Masters of Education from Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, BC in 1998.

---------------------------------------------------------------------JOEL FRIESEN

Joel has over 15 years’ experience working in the recreation field, specifically facility operations. Joel received his Occupational Health and Safety certificate through Saskpolytechnic in 2015 and currently is the owner/trainer of J.F. Occupational Health and Safety Assist. His company designs and delivers OH&S programs specifically designed to and delivered to parks, facilities and communities throughout Saskatchewan.

---------------------------------------------------------------------CHRISTIAN BATES-HARDY

Christian Bates-Hardy is a Communications Consultant with the Communications, Information and Research division of the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA). He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (High Honours) with a major in English Literature from the University of Regina and then began working in the Communications field, with a focus on non-profit communications, social media and advocacy. He is a volunteer with the Saskatchewan Book Awards, and co-hosts a monthly podcast with his wife, Courtney Bates-Hardy.

They live in Regina’s Cathedral Village neighborhood with their cat, Jean-Grey.

---------------------------------------------------------------------MATT SLOAN

Matt is licensed Landscape Architect with extensive professional experience in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan. His propensity for collaboration serves him well and contributes to his interdisciplinary approach. He brings nearly 10 years of performance in the landscape industry encompassing both design, construction and project management. He has worked considerably with community groups, local government, indigenous groups and private land developers in a variety of projects relating to community enhancement, land-use planning, urban revitalization, wetland design, low impact development, parks and open space and master planning. His unique perspective and desire to improve the private and public realm has assisted clients and stakeholders to effectively achieve holistic project objectives that contribute to healthy livable communities.

---------------------------------------------------------------------DAVE SHANKS

Dave Shanks has been working alongside youth in Saskatoon for the past 16 years. His passion for working with young people began with the Graffiti Transformation Project. He has also worked with youth in a variety of environments, including a group home, Quint Development Corp., coordinating an employment project at Nutana High School as well as at a youth correctional center in Saskatoon. Dave recently

left his position as Executive Director at the Core Neighborhood Youth Co-op, to follow his passion of bringing the benefits of yoga to youth everywhere. Dave is currently the Director of the Student’s Commission’s Prairie Region. Whether it is counselor, yoga teacher, ally or director, his goal is for young people to become the programs they are involved with, not the reason for the programs.

---------------------------------------------------------------------RYAN GIBSON

Originally from rural Manitoba, Ryan Gibson has a deep intrigue and respect for rural communities, rural people and the events that shape their futures. Growing up witnessing the transformations in rural development, agriculture and their influence on communities instilled a fascination and commitment to rural issues.

Ryan is currently the Libro Professor in Regional Economic Development in the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development at the University of Guelph. Ryan’s research and community engagement focus is on rural and regional development, governance, philanthropy, and public policy. Ryan has worked with rural regions and indigenous communities through Canada and internationally on community development initiatives.

---------------------------------------------------------------------LOU-ANNE STEFANKIW

Lou-Anne grew up on a family farm near Wynyard, Saskatchewan.

She has always had a love of people and inspiring others. Lou-anne has her Education Degree and was a middle year’s teacher where she inspired students to pursue personal development and to improve their relationships. Lou-anne currently works at Synergy, a CrossFit gym in Saskatoon, in addition to operating her own business called, Ignite the Fire Within. She has a strong belief that moving physically is connected to personal growth. She loves working with and motivating people to follow their inner fire and watching how that takes shape in their lives.

Her greatest passions are: her family, training for and competing in Strong woman events, travelling, connecting with people, cooking, dancing and, of course, personal development!

---------------------------------------------------------------------CELINA QUEWEZANCE

Celina resides in the community of Fishing Lake First Nation. She comes from a family rich in history, culture and leadership. Growing up, Celina has taken part in many programs, such as the Saskatchewan Indian 4H program, been an athlete for the First Nations (FN) Summer and Winter Games and attended the inaugural North American Indigenous Games (NAIG). She has been a coach for the FN Summer Games, Winter Games and NAIG. Previously she has worked as rec worker in Yellow Quill, SK and YSCR Coordinator at the Saskatoon Tribal Council.

Celina is understanding of on-reserve First Nations programming and funding. At the age of 19 she was elected (6 years) to Band Council.

Celina speaks about Reconciliation and Residential School trauma inflicted as an intergenerational woman survivor.

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AMANDA GUTHRIE Amanda grew up in North Battleford, Saskatchewan before moving to Saskatoon for university. While at university she came out as queer, got involved in numerous social justice clubs and realized her passion and desire to affect social change. Amanda has been with OUTSaskatoon for 4 years as a volunteer and board member before taking on the role of Education Coordinator over 2 years ago. In her position, Amanda works with school divisions, health regions, community based organizations, businesses and corporations throughout the province, educating people on the necessity and benefits of inclusive policy and practices. Amanda has also worked extensively with LGBTQ youth and brings a wealth of knowledge about how to best support and celebrate gender and sexual diversity.

---------------------------------------------------------------------WARREN PROCTOR

Warren represents Sask Sport Inc. on the Partners for Physical Literacy collaboration and has worked in sports and events management for the past 30 years. The majority of that time has been focused on community sport programs that promote healthy development opportunities for children. In his personal life (as a father of 3 boys), as a volunteer coach, and in his professional life, Warren has seen firsthand the many benefits and that sport and physical activity can bring to communities and individuals over their lifetime.

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---------------------------------------------------------------------JAMAL-E-FATIMA RAFAT

Jamal has been involved with several non-profits in Regina for the past 9 years and also attributes her professional development to the City of Regina where she worked as a Program Specialist for Social Inclusion for 3 years. Other places she has worked include Regina Immigrant Women Centre (RIWC), Regina Open Door Society (RODS) and United Way Regina. In September 2016, Jamal joined MCoS as a Project Coordinator. She will lead the #WelcomeHome150: Creating Welcoming and Inclusive Communities project that will become her life for the next 2 years. This project is part of the Canada 150 celebrations taking place across the country. Jamal is beyond excited; this is her opportunity to not only celebrate Canada but involve the whole province in the celebration. What better way to pay tribute to a country that embraced her lovingly and she is proud to call home!

---------------------------------------------------------------------JOHN LAGIMODIERRE

John is the President of ACS Aboriginal Consulting Services and the Publisher/Editor of Eagle Feather News. ACS provides Aboriginal awareness seminars to clients including PotashCorp, the Saskatoon Police Service, Provincial Court Judges and the University of Saskatchewan. The company also offers communication services. Eagle Feather News is Saskatchewan’s largest independent Indigenous media outlet with a monthly newspaper and daily news website. John is a recipient of the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal, the Queen’s Jubilee Medal and was honoured with a Living in Harmony Award from the City of Saskatoon in 2006. ACS also received the ABEX award for Aboriginal Business in 2009.

---------------------------------------------------------------------DONNA BOWYER

Donna has been with Canadian Mental Health Association for over 25 years and has worked directly with people with long term mental illness. She is a certified master trainer in Nationally Recognized Programs such as Mental Health First Aid, Working Minds-Road to Mental Recovery, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, safeTALK, as well as a number of programs for children. Donna Lives in Moose Jaw with her husband and scattered around the country are their 4 adult children and 1 granddaughter. Donna and her husband are avid campers and love to travel.

--------------------------------------------------------------------DR. LOUISE HUMBERT

Louise Humbert represents the University of Saskatchewan on the Partners for Physical Literacy and brings a strong commitment to research and evaluation for community and school-based Physical Literacy initiatives undertaken by the Partnership. Louise has over 20 years of experience working in community settings and is a founding member of both Saskatoon and Saskatchewan in motion. She is passionate about working to develop initiatives that will encourage healthy and active lifestyles for children. Louise is highly sought after by community leaders, educators, and aspiring researchers because of her exemplary reputation in community-based research within schools and community.

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COMMUNITY EXHIBITS Showcase your community during the event!

This is an opportunity for all delegates to showcase their communities and learn from each other. Be sure to register for your booth early, as space is limited. See the enclosed Registration Form.

(Community Exhibit booths will include a table and two chairs. Electricity is not available.)

Booth Setup: Wednesday or Thursday morning Booth Tear Down: Friday afternoon by 2:00 p.m.

CONFERENCE DETAILS

CONFERENCE VENUE The Legends Centre 701 Centennial Blvd, Warman, SK S0K 4S2 Website: www.warman.ca

ACCOMMODATIONS

A block of rooms has been held at the following hotels: Days Inn Warman (175 Clubhouse Blvd E, Warman, SK) King and Double Queen Rooms and Suites Available Block Reference: 2017 SPRA Book by phone: 306.477.3297 Group Rate: $125.00/night plus taxes/fees Reserve by: October 1, 2017 www.wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn/warman-saskatchewan Canalta Hotel Martensville (611 Centennial Dr S, Martensville, SK) King and Double Queen Rooms Available Block Reference: 2017 SPRA Book by phone: 306.249.2555 Group Rate: $132.50/night plus taxes/fees Reserve by: September 22, 2017 www.canaltahotels.com All individuals are responsible for booking and paying for their own accommodations.

Transportation will be provided to and from the host hotels listed above. For anyone choosing to stay in Saskatoon, travel will not be provided.

Supported by:

STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Eligible students are entitled to receive financial assistance in the amount of 75% of the Student Conference Registration Fee. Visit the SPRA website at www.spra.sk.ca/conference for eligibility criteria and to access the application form.

SPONSOR A STUDENT SPRA encourages recreation professionals and delegates to sponsor a student to attend the SPRA Conference. If you are interested in sponsoring a student, check the appropriate box on the Conference Registration Form and include the $135 with your Conference fees.

You will be contacted prior to the Conference and matched with a student.

REGISTRATION

There are two options to register: 1. Online by visiting www.spra.sk.ca/conference.

2. By completing the enclosed Registration Form and returning it to SPRA: 100-1445 Park Street Regina, SK S4N 4C5 Don’t forget to include your cheque, made payable to SPRA.

EARLY BIRD DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2017