Connections  |  June 2015 
Every Woman's Place for Support, Connections and Community.
Child Care in Alberta 

 

"I can't be late on child care [payments] because I will lose that spot, and if I lose that spot I will lose my job."  

(Anonymous Women's Centre interview participant) 

  

The Women's Centre has been working to advocate for social and economic policies that reflect the realities and experiences of women in Calgary. Through ongoing events and consultation, women have consistently identified accessible, affordable, quality child care as a priority. The Social Policy Committee organized a Child Care round table last week to connect with our partners and work for change on this issue.  

 

As a group we were able to develop recommendations and strategies for engagement on this important issue. We've summarized some of what we learned in a blog, and a full report available here. Click the infographic on the side to see a full-size version.  

Around the Web
Social Issues Readings
Did you like those links? Would you like some more? The Women's Centre Social Issues Coordinator, Rhoda, puts together a monthly reading list of articles and essays on women's issues from here in Calgary, and around the world. Sign up today!

Help with Basic Needs 
Supplies are running low in the Basic Needs program! We are looking for donations of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and body lotion. All donations of new bottles with receipts over $10 can receive a charitable tax receipt.

Comings and Goings 
 
Carolina is heading out West! We'll miss her great laugh around the office and wish her all the best.

Now for something less sad, we're happy to welcome Katie to the WC team! She's our summer practicum student; you can read more about her here.

Please Support Our Important Work



Ways to Connect 

Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Visit our blog View our photos on flickr
Girl Power Camps are Back
Register and Vote! 

 

The Women's Centre is gearing up for another series of  summertime Girl Power Camps! Registration is open, and we're also in an online voting contest to win $5,000 of funding! Every vote makes a difference, so be sure to vote with every browser, computer, and cell phone you can find!
We offer Girl Power Camps to mentor girls (ages 10-12) and promote basic values of equality, self-determination and empowerment. Our hope is that girls will come away from the camp with a greater understanding of the strengths of being a girl, an appreciation of their own value and capabilities, and knowledge about how they can work to make change for girls.
Registration is now open for three weeks of camps from
July 13-17, July 20-24, and August 10-14.
Please call 403-264-1155 or stop by to register!
Thanks to all the Runners!   

 

Volunteers, visitors and staff would like to thank all the walkers, runners, movers and shakers who signed up and supported the Women's Centre during the Scotiabank Calgary Marathon! Over the last few months, 46 runners and walkers connected with hundreds of donors to raise $14,097!!!  

Upcoming Workshops 

 

Our workshops are free and open to all women. Click here to see the complete June calendar.  

 
Games Night | June 3, 6-8pm

Come and join us for a fun night of board games!  Meet some friends, share some stories, and learn some new games in a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. Come with your kids or bring a friend!

 

Express Yourself | June 10, 6-8pm
Stop by for coffee and a chat about improving communication skills. Participate in this interactive workshop that will look at how we can listen better to others and make our own lives easier! No children in this workshop please.

Guided Meditation | June 18, 6:30-8pm
Looking for some peace and serenity? In this class, you will be guided through a beautiful meditation that will bring your body into a state of relaxation. You will walk away feeling peacefully grounded. No children in this workshop please.

Women in the Workforce | June 25, 6-8pm
Want to learn more about employment standards, employment insurance and human rights?  Know your rights as a woman in the workforce and the programs and resources you can access to combat discrimination and harassment. No children in this workshop please.
Community Events 

 

EAT, COOK, GROW! | June 5, 11am-1pm
The Disability Action Hall is hosting their annual Speak Out in a community garden! Many people have a hard time accessing healthy food due to income, physical access and few affordable ways to learn. This event is tailored for the novice gardener and cook to learn simple ways to get started and learn what it is like to be part of a community garden!

Conversations about Poverty | June 27, 8:45-11:45am
Join Poverty Talks! for conversation cafe style discussions about poverty. Light refreshments will be served throughout the morning. Bus tickets and children's activities will also be available!

Women's Centre Stampede Lunch | July 8, 11am-1pm
You're invited to join us for food, music, line dancing and door prizes! Everyone is welcome. Bring your friends and family!
Our Vision: Women Supporting Communities, Communities Supporting Women.