NEWSLETTER

SEPTEMBER 2023

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The Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations is a membership organization for the civic sector in the Northwest Peace Region, serving charitable and non-profit community organizations in the City and County of Grande Prairie and beyond.  Our member agencies and clients represent a broad region. They range from; small rural agricultural groups to large agencies providing services to families and individuals in distress, through to indigenous agencies, cultural agencies, sports groups, and more.

I wish to take this moment to share my heartfelt wishes for our vibrant and enduring sector.

Inclusivity: May we foster a space where every voice is heard, and every idea is welcomed. Here’s to a sector that values diversity and thrives on the rich tapestry of perspectives it brings.

Creativity: As we forge ahead, let’s carry with us a spirit of innovation and creativity. May we never cease to think outside the box, approaching challenges with a fresh, solution-oriented mindset.

Collaboration: Above all, I cherish the hope of a sector grounded in collaboration. May we build bridges, not barriers, working together to forge a path of unity, understanding, and mutual respect.

As we enter this chapter of new beginnings, let us not forget to celebrate the small victories along the way. Each step we take forward is a testament to our collective strength and the vibrant community spirit that we have cultivated together.

With the scent of fresh opportunities in the air, I invite you to join with neighbors, colleagues, and friends as we step into this promising new era. Let’s share smiles that reach our eyes, warm embraces, and ideas that spark innovation and unity.

From the bottom of my heart, I wish each one of you joy, success, and a journey filled with beautiful promises and successes. Together, we are unstoppable. Together, we are weaving a tapestry of dreams, ready to conquer the world with kindness, courage, and a spirit of community.

Let's embrace the magic that new beginnings bring, sprinkled with laughter, love, and a dash of hope.

To another Autumn, new beginnings and endless possibilities.

Cheers,

Carol-Anne

We would like to welcome the following new members!

Grande Prairie Highland Games Association

Wood's Homes

EmployAbilities Society of Alberta

Kev's Kids Society

Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch)

Peace Area Motor Sports Association

Thank you for joining our Association.

You are invited to Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations Grand Opening



The Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations is thrilled to announce an exciting glimpse into the organization’s future. Please join us for our Grand Opening on; September 21 at our office at 101 10101 100 Ave.

The event will start at 5:00 PM. Guests who attend will receive a sneak peek of our upcoming renovation plans. These renovations, when completed, will improve our facility and enable us to provide even better services to our members and the wider community. This occasion also presents an excellent opportunity to acquaint yourself with our organization's core values and mission, gaining insights into how we support the community. As attendees explore the enhanced facilities, they'll also be able to enjoy refreshments provided throughout the event.

A highlight of the Grand Opening will be the renewal of our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Grande Prairie Regional Sport Connection. First signed in 2017, the agreement solidifies both organization’s continued partnership. The MoU allows the two groups to continue sharing resources, information and more that benefits both parties and their respective member agencies.

Guest will also have the chance to interact with our dedicated team, foster connections with fellow attendees and expand professional networks.

We invite all community members, stakeholders, and interested parties to join us in this significant step forward for our organization.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, September 21, 2023

Time: 5:00 PM

Location: 101, 10101 100 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Arthritis Awareness Month

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) Awareness Month

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Craniofacial Acceptance Month

Duchenne Awareness Month

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month

Inherited Retinal Disease Awareness Month

International Pain Awareness Month

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Sickle Cell Awareness Month

World Alzheimer's Month

National Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Awareness Day - September 4*

Fibromyalgia Awareness Week - September 4 to 11

World Duchenne Day - September 7*

World First Aid Day - September 9*

International FASD Awareness Day – September 9*

World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10*

Mennonite Heritage Week - Second week of September

World Sepsis Day - September 13

World Conference on Women Health Science and Care - September 14 to 15

Myotonic Dystrophy Awareness Day - September 15

Terry Fox Run - September 17

World Rabies Day - September 28*

Gender Equality Week - Fourth week of September

Sport Purple for Platelets –

September 29

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation - September 30

Nominations are now open for Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations’ Annual Volunteer Awards

The International Volunteer Day Celebration Breakfast organized by the Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations, in partnership with the City of Grande Prairie, is coming up soon, and we are inviting nominations for our Annual Volunteer Awards. Let's recognize the volunteers who contribute to making our community extraordinary. Get ready to showcase their efforts and achievements!

The Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations invites YOU to play a vital role in recognizing and celebrating the dedicated volunteers who make our region thrive.

Nominations are now open for the following Awards:

The Leaders of Tomorrow Awards

It's time to recognize and celebrate the young trailblazers dedicated to creating a better future through their unwavering commitment.

Whether they inspire through leadership, lending a helping hand, raising their voices for causes, or showing unyielding perseverance, we want to hear about these outstanding youths. Nominate a remarkable individual aged 13-15 or 16-18 who embodies qualities like fearlessness, inclusion, creativity, and passion in one of our award categories: Leadership, Volunteerism, Advocacy and Perseverance. Let's recognize and empower our youth to keep inspiring and fostering volunteerism in our community!

Click Here for Leaders of Tomorrow Nomination Form

The Volunteer of the Year Award

Has someone you know shown remarkable compassion and commitment to our community? It's time to acknowledge their outstanding efforts! This prestigious award is your chance to highlight an individual who has made a significant impact through volunteerism in the Grande Prairie region in the last twelve months (November 2022 through October 2023).

The Volunteer of the Year Award is sponsored by - Servus Credit Union.

Click Here for Volunteer of the Year Nomination Form

The Corporate Volunteer of the Year Award

Is there a company that's made a profound mark on local non-profit organizations? We're giving a standing ovation to one corporate hero who seamlessly woven volunteerism into their work culture in the Grande Prairie region in the last twelve months (November 2022 through October 2023). Whether it's through their staff's dedication or impactful policies, this company is a true community champion. Self-nominations are welcome!

The Corporate Volunteer of the Year Award is sponsored by - the Prairie Mall.

Click Here for Corporate Volunteer of the Year Nomination Form



Make your nominations now! Whether you are part of a community group, educational institution, voluntary organization, or an individual with a heart full of gratitude, help us acknowledge deserving individuals and businesses. The nomination deadline is October 20, 2023.

For more details about the awards and to access nomination forms, visit www.volunteergrandeprairie.com. You can also request a nomination form by emailing cdcoordinator@volunteergrandeprairie.com or calling 780-538-2727.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Carol-Anne Pasemko, Executive Director

Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations

780-538-2727

director@volunteergrandeprairie.com 

The Alberta Healthy Living Program (AHLP) offers free workshops to help adults better manage their chronic conditions. Monthly workshops are offered virtually (by Zoom) to all those living in Northern Alberta. Visit www.healthylivingprogram.ca for more information and to register.

Volunteers of the Week receive a $5 Gift Card & Travel Mug from Tim Hortons! They are also entered into our Volunteer of the Month Draw!

The winner of July’s Volunteer of the Month draw is Sean Garvey! Sean was nominated for Volunteers of the Week by Bandaged Paws Animal Rescue Association!

They wrote ‘Sean is an incredible volunteer! He takes the time out of his weekend to come and walk some of our dogs that need it the most. He is always eager to learn and help out in any way he can while he’s here.’

Congratulations Sean!

The winner of August's Volunteer of the Month draw is Brad Carriere! Brad was nominated for Volunteers of the Week by Naviah Elliasen from Grande Prairie Minor Baseball!

Naviah wrote ‘What makes Coach Brad awesome is his dedication to the team. He’s funny, approachable, makes us work hard, doesn’t play favourites, sets the expectation for either practices or games and allowed us rise to that expectation. He gives out compliments when earned and corrects when needed. And always, always made me feel welcomed.’

Congratulations Brad!

The Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations would like to thank Tim Hortons for continuing their sponsorship of our Volunteer Recognition programs.

Starting in early 2023 - the newly formed non-profit organization Grande Prairie Regional Latin Association is dedicated to celebrating and promoting Latin culture, heritage, and traditions within the community of Grande Prairie.

Their mission is to foster cultural exchange, diversity, and inclusivity by offering engaging programs and events that showcase the richness of Latin American arts, music, dance, cuisine, and history.

Still in its early stages, the Latin Association is eager to engage with the community, Representative Braulio Molina stated, “We plan to participate in local multicultural festivals and events, showcasing the diversity and contributions of Latin culture. Collaborate with other community organizations, such as the Cultural Diversity Alliance, to co-create inclusive events celebrating different cultures and traditions. And partner with local businesses and sponsors to support our events and enhance community outreach.”

In the future, the organization plans to provide a range of programs and services that cater to the diverse needs of the community, such as:

• Host an Annual Latin Festival: A vibrant and immersive event celebrating Latin Culture through music, dance, food, and art. 

• Welcome new Latin Community Members to the Grande Prairie Region. 

•  Offer Dance Workshops: Interactive workshops allow residents to learn Latin dance styles such as Salsa, Tango, Cha-Cha, Mambo, Bachata and more.

• Hold Art and Cultural Exhibitions: Showcasing Latin American art, crafts, and cultural displays to promote cultural understanding and appreciation. 
• Introduce educational sessions and talks to raise awareness about Latin American history, traditions, and contemporary issues. 

The Grande Prairie Regional Latin Association has an exciting road ahead. For more information about this organization, visit their Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/125226027539021/?mibextid=lURqYx or email gprlatinassociation@gmail.com. 



The Association’s board and staff would like to thank the Grande Prairie Regional Latin Association for being a member of our Association.

Association Members take your turn in the Spotlight!

Email communications@volunteergrandeprairie.com for how your organization can be featured in our next Member Spotlight!

Tim Hortons Volunteers of the Week recognizes volunteers who contribute to communities in the Grande Prairie Region. Volunteers can be nominated by anyone, whether they volunteer regularly or occasionally.

To thank your volunteer, fill out the form at https://www.volunteergrandeprairie.com/tim-hortons.../.

The Association acknowledges the homeland of the many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Metis people whose ancestors have walked this land since time immemorial. I am grateful to work, live and learn on the traditional territory of Treaty 8.

Disclaimer of Liability: This newsletter contains links to third-party service provider websites. Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations is not responsible and assumes no liability for the content or materials available on any linked third-party sites.