June 2021 Vulcan County Family Resources

Survey

Act4Health is doing a survey about health eating in our community.  If you live or work in Vulcan and surrounding communities, please take a minute to fill it out.  It is only 4 quick questions to help see how see how the community feels.  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BM6LRLW

Monday’s 

Feeling lonely or isolated and need to connect with people?  Did you know anyone can join Conversation Café on Monday’s at 7pm online via Zoom?  If you are you wary and don’t know how to zoom, we will do a practice session with you. Find the link at vulcanandregionfcss.com under Cafés or call 403-485-2192.  See poster.

Tuesday’s  

Tot Lot – Free play session at Vulcan Birch Park Tuesday’s at 1pm.

 Prenatal Support Group – Families Matter 6-8pm online by Zoom. Pregnancy is both an exciting and challenging time and for some it can feel overwhelming.  For women who are experiencing anxiety/depression. Your well-being matters too! Tuesday’s 6- 8pm via Zoom

To register either go online at www.familiesmatter.ca or call: 403-205-5194 or 403-205-5180

An intake will be completed upon registration.

Wednesday’s  

Time for Rhymes via zoom 10-11:00am. Register with Rainbow Literacy 403-485-3107. 

SMART Recovery – Addiction Support Meeting.  7pm at Vulcan FCSS. Call Beth at 403-485-1054 for information.

Flex Your Head – 12 week online program for youth age 13-18. Promoting positive youth mental health. Boys and Girls Club. 4:30pm starting June 9. See poster.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/BGCF-Flex-Your-Head-Virtual-June-to-August-2021.pdf” title=”BGCF – Flex Your Head (Virtual – June to August 2021)”]

Thursday’s  

Family Park Fun – For the young and old.  Outdoor games.  Bring your own picnic.  6pm. Vulcan Pool Park

Beach Volleyball 7pm Vulcan Pool Park

Friday’s 

Have a youth looking for work?  The Get-A-Way Youth Centre has a job board.  Call 403-485-6033 or stop by to check it out.  105A 3rd Ave. S.  Check it out on Free Food Friday’s between 12:30-4pm. See poster.

May 31 – June 7 Storywalk in Vulcan.  See poster.  Read a story as a family as you walk or ride around town.  Registered participants receive a craft kit.

June 3 – Champion Kindergarten Grad Drive-by Parade.  6:30pm Please meet at the Firehall at 6:15pm.

June 4, 8 and 9th – Developmental Check-Ups – See poster. Vulcan June 4, Milo June 8 and Champion June 9.  Call your local school to register

Important Information for parents of children turning 3 and up to 5 years old – What is a Developmental Check-up? Can your child hop on one foot? How does he hold a crayon? Can other people understand her when she speaks? Just like checking your baby’s height and weight, or getting regular eye and dental check-ups, it is important to check up on their development physically, socially and in language and communication.  The first 5 years of life are very important because this time builds the foundation in the brain for success in school and later adulthood.  This is the optimal time for your child to learn through play and experiences. It is important to help along each child’s development during this period.

Parents that register for the Developmental Check-Up will complete a simple screening tool while doing fun actvities with their child.  Referrals can be made if needed.  Find out about resources for children under 6 in Vulcan County. Ask questions about the preschool program in your area. Go home with a goodie bag of tools to help growing minds and bodies.

 

June 5-12 – Storywalk in Arrowwood. See poster.  Read a story as a family as you walk or ride around town.  Registered participants receive a craft kit.


June 5 – Darkness to Light Walk – Participant walk from darkness to light at 4:45am in the morning in the name of mental health awareness and suicide prevention.  Presented by the Vulcan Mental Wellness Support Community.

June 7 – 13 is Seniors Week.  Vulcan and Region FCSS and Vulcan Municipal Library are celebrating the senior members of our community by handing out a special Seniors Celebration Package on Monday, June 7th at the   Library.  Limited quantities.  Then on Thursday, June 10th there will be a drive-thru continental breakfast from 9-11:00am in the Senior Centre parking lot off Centre Street.  See poster.

June 8 – Q&A Session on Sleep Behaviour by Centre for Sleep.  Email [email protected] to register.

June 8 – Carmangay Library is offering Virtual Macramé Class – $20 – All materials provided, instructor led.

June 8 and June 10 – Don’t Get Scammed! Online workshop for Seniors Week.  See poster.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Dont-get-scammed-Seniors-Week-Online-Workshop-CRA.pdf” title=”Don’t get scammed – Seniors Week Online Workshop CRA”]

June 10 – Champion Grade 9 Grad Parade Thursday at 5:30pm.  Line up at the Firehall at 5:20.

June 13 – Champion 5km Walk and Run.  Meet at 3pm at the school.

June 15 – The Great Disconnect via Zoom Why are people feeling more and more socially isolated in a world seemingly more connected than ever before? 7pm email [email protected] to register and receive the link.

 June 15 – 17 – Friends of the Library Bottle Drive in Arrowwood.  10am-7pm the Collection Trailer will be in front of the library.

Financial Fitness Workshops – Lunch and Learn via Zoom 

Fill your mind while you fill your stomach.  We are not taught a lot in our lives about how to manage our finances.  Learning a little more is time well spent.

June 15 – Retiring without Debt – Tuesday, 12-1pm

Participants will learn about debt elimination options so that they can enter their golden years without the shackles of debt.

June 16 – Making Cent$ of Money – Wednesday, 12-1pm

Participants will learn the 7 steps to budgeting which will help them take control of their finances and give them peace of mind.

Presentations by Credit Counselling Society.  Register through FCSS by emailing [email protected] or calling 403-485-2192 and we will send you the link by email for the Zoom session

 

June 18 – Virtual Cloud Computing – Chinook Arch Libraries Online Class. See poster.

June 25 – Milo Kindergarten Bottle Drive – Friday 10am-12pm Milo Curling Rink

June 26 – Vulcan Porchfest – A grassroots community music spectacle downtown this year.  See poster.

June 27 – Carmangay Nature Walk consists of a 2+km walk through one of the most beautiful river valleys in Vulcan County.  It starts at the Lions Campground at 9am.

July 1 – Champion Canada Day Yard Decorating Contest and Scavenger Hunt.

July 1 – Vulcan Swimming Pool Grand Opening

Family Literacy Programs for Spring 2021 – See Poster.  

Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society – All Adult Literacy and Learning Programs are available either in-person (one-on-one) or on-line to accommodate for the learners availability as well as for COVID-19 restrictions that may be in place.  Please call Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society at (403) 485-3107 if you require assistance with adult literacy, numeracy, skills for learning, basic digital skills or English Language Learning.

Rainbow Literacy Family Programs Spring

Nominate a Youth for an Outstanding Leader of Tomorrow Award at the Volunteer Appreciation Event in September?  See the attached Poster (LoT) and forms or find them at vulcanandregionfcss.com.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/LoT-Nomination-Form-2021.pdf”]

 

Vulcan Outdoor Dance Fit – Mon. and Wed. 7:00pm VPE Parking Lot $10

Milo Outdoor Dance Fit – Tues. and Thurs. 5:00 Grass beside the Milo Hotel – $12

Check Life in Vulcan and Milo District on facebook for updates.

MCG Career Workshops are all free and online via Zoom

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/MCG-Career-Workshop-Descriptions-Apr-Jun-virtual.pdf” title=”MCG Career Workshop Descriptions Apr – Jun virtual”]

June 10 – LINKEDIN “Create and Advance your Online Presence!”  10am-12:30 pm 

June 16 – CONDUCTING AN EFFECTIVE JOB SEARCH “Pick up some Great New Job Search Ideas”  1:00 pm – 3:30 pm

June 18 – INTERVIEW SKILLS “Build your Confidence!”  9:30 am – 12:00 pm

Register on Eventbrite or Call High River 403-601-2660 or Toll Free 1-844-601-2660

Career Coaching can be booked for one-on-one help.

 

July 16 – Grill Classes at Furniture Villa 6pm.

www.eventbrite.ca/e/better-together-summer-grilling-series-episode-1-pork-tickets-156721643655

Join us for an evening of delicious food, beer and learn about the art of grilling from Rocky Mountain Smokers’ own Kris “Big Daddy” Valckx!

 

Parenting Workshops -Community Education Services, AHS

http://community.hmhc.ca/sessions/?p=webex&utm_source=mailpoet&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=May+26

Some of the sessions include:

June 1 Trans & Parent Perspectives: How to support transgender, non-binary and gender non-conforming youth  

June 2 Children and Parenting After Separation ‘ Parenting Coordination and other Dispute Resolution Processes ‘  

June 3 From Homework to Housework: Raising Responsible Children for parents of children 5 – 12 years old  

June 8 Habits of Mental Health  

June 9 Starting or changing medication for your child/youth’s mental health? An introduction to genotype-guided prescribing  

June 10 Understanding Childhood Stress & Anxiety  

June 10 Personal Safety in the Community, at Home and Online  

June 14 Helping Your Child Cope with Needles  

You can also click on the “Recorded Sessions” link at the top of the website to see other available webinars to watch at a convenient time.

www.cyfcaregivereducation.ca

 

Caregiver Education Sessions – AHS 

June 1 Supporting Self-Regulation in Elementary School Children

June 8 Technology and the Teenage Brain Digital Wellness for Families 

June 15 More Than Just a Bad Day:  Understanding Depression and Self-Injury in Youth 

 

Lunch & Learn Webinars 12:00 – 1:00 pm

Mindfulness: Benefits for the Whole Family Part 1 – May 31, Part 2 – June 7

Parenting Teens in the 21st Century Part 1 – June 2, Part 2 – June 9

Sleep and Your Family’s Mental Health – Part 1 – June 14, Part 2 – June 21

Drop-In Series 6:00 – 7:30 pm

June 2 SEEDS: Growing Parenting Skills, Managing Meltdowns and Shutdowns

June 9 Helping Our Kids Figure Things Out

June 16 Effective Consequences

June 3 Anxiety Part 1: An Introduction

June 10 Anxiety Part 2: Calming Our Bodies

June 17 Anxiety Part 3: Settling Our Minds

June 24 Anxiety Part 4: Overcoming Avoidance

Resources

New2U Bikes – Do you have a child in need of a bike? Greater Foothills Family Centre has donated, used, inspected bikes. Call them at 1-877-652-8633 to see what inspected bikes they have available.

 

Healthy Futures – Support for pregnant women and after the baby is born.  For anyone needing extra support.  Can help with food, vitamins, emotional support and planning. Provided by Foothills FAS.  Available in Vulcan County. 1-403-336-8556.

 

Youth Engaging Workplaces – Inclusion Foothills for any youth 16-24 years old facing any kind of barrier to employment.  See poster.

Connections Registry – Inclusion Foothills

Respite Care Providers, Community Assistant/Job Coach, Developmental Assistant, SLP, OT,PT, Behavior Supports – Connect screened providers looking for work with and clients looking for support.  See poster.

Are you between 18 and 29 years old? Finding that getting a job/going to school/getting training is turning out to be more difficult than it should be? PolicyWise is looking to meet with those age 18 thru 29 who are without work and not currently in school or training to hear about your experiences. They are working to identify gaps and challenges faced by opportunity youth (that’s you), and find ways to remedy them and help young folks find employment and success. Check out our Facebook (@getawayyouthcentre), website (www.vulcanandregionfcss.com/wp/youth/youth-centre), or drop us a line (403-485-6033) for more information.

Vulcan County Wide Wellness Challenge Kicked off on May 31, 2021, there is much to share. All of the information is available on the VCHW Foundations Website.

https://www.vchwfoundation.com/county-wide-fitness-challenge/  This year’s challenge focuses on the 7 pillars of Wellness, and that includes Sleep.  You can still do all the activities without tracking points even if you did not register.  Community Better Challenge  – If you’re planning (or hoping) to be active at all this coming month, go download the ParticipAction app and get signed up for this community challenge (simply entering the T0L 2B0 when setting up your account links you to Vulcan). Or maybe you’re looking for a little bit of extra motivation to get moving or get exercising…. Use this challenge and help Vulcan try to win the grand prize of $100,000 towards local physical activity initiatives!

If you wear an activity tracker (Fitbit, Google Fit, Garmin) it can be synced to this app and your active minutes are automatically logged. If you don’t wear one of those trackers, your active minutes can be manually logged through the app. It’s very simple.

Just about any activity counts – walking, running, cycling, swimming, racket sports, weight lifting, general exercise, house or yard work, yoga, gardening, dance, etc.

I know our community has a LOT of active residents, so spread the word and let’s get everyone that I see on the walking path to download this app and sign up!

Free Swimming – Town of Vulcan Recreation

One of the biggest challenges with learning to swim and having fun in the pool is access and cost barriers. The Wayne Ericksen Memorial Swim Lessons has provided the opportunity for youth to learn to swim and we thank Donna Ericksen and the Vulcan Lions for providing those opportunities.  Swimming Lessons for Vulcan County Residents are free this year.

In keeping with that generous donation, today I had the wonderful experience to chat with someone in the community that gave the Recreation office a generous donation to provide free swim passes to those who face financial barriers to getting into the water this summer. Thanks to our generous donor who recognizes the importance of enjoying the summer in the water. If you are considering helping others out by a donation, give me a call at 403-485-2554.

https://mentalhealthfoundation.ca/impact/programs-initiatives/family-connections/

Willow Creek Immigrant Services (WCIS) – Provides connection to local services and assists with the resettlement process for newcomer immigrants and refugees in rural Alberta. All services are free.  Serving Vulcan, Claresholm, Nanton, Stavely and surrounding areas. 403-973-5583 [email protected]

Rosie’s Gift of Love 

Hello friends! I’ve been chilling out with mom during all this Covid. Just wanting to let everybody know we are planning on doing our Rosie’s Clothing Give-away again this year, late August. We are accepting new and used clothing for all ages. Children and adults. Donations can be dropped off at Quarks or 617 Centre St. in Vulcan .call mom at 403 485 5507 she can also pick up. The last 2 giveaways have been very successful. Thank you everybody for your donations.

 

Camp

Town of Vulcan Recreation townofvulcan.ca/recreation

Basketball Camp July 19-23 – Grade 5-9 and Grade 9-12

Vulcan Volley July 26-30 – Grade 5-9, Grade 9-12

Golf Camp July 12-16 and July 26-30- Ages 7-9 and Ages 10-18

Tumbling Tots Camp August 3-6 – Ages 5-8

Creative Camper August 16-20 – Ages 7-14

Camping at Camp as a Family – Families are welcome to come together to enjoy what camp has to offer. Home away from home, and a safe Harbour to dock and rest in. Register to bring your family to camp at www.sabc.ca

Summer Day Camp Program at the Carmangay Library – Dates TBA

 

From Canada Revenue Agency: See poster fact sheet about modest income earners

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Factsheet-about-Modest-Income-Earners.pdf” title=”Factsheet about Modest Income Earners”]

For Senior’s Week our program is running TWO virtual webinars, “Don’t Get Scammed!” June 8th at 10am OR June 10th at 2pm. Please email [email protected] to register!

Nicole Frandsen, Outreach Officer, [email protected], 1-866-837-1531 or directly at [email protected] or 403-829-3850.  Reach out to me for FREE virtual presentations on all our benefits and credits and financial literacy presentation!

 

Donate to Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society and Shaw will match your donation

Chip in for Kids today by texting KIDS173 to 30333 and help us sustain our Family Literacy and Learning programs here in Vulcan County. Shaw will match your donation and the matched donation will then be matched again by the Shaw Charity Classic, up to an additional 50%. Your $10 can grow into a donation of $30 to Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society.

o With Shaw’s text-to-donate initiative, Albertans can easily support the charities they care about most like Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society!

o To help your contributions go further, Shaw is matching text-to-donate donations until August 15, 2021.

o The matched donation will then be matched again by the Shaw Charity Classic Foundation, up to an additional 50%. This means that an individual $10 donation can grow into a donation of$30, with Shaw and Shaw Charity Classic Foundation matching.

  • The donations and matched contributions raised through Chip in for Kids will help support charities like ours, that need support now more than ever as we recover from the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

o If you would like to donate more than $10 you can text to donate up to 10 times during your billing cycle till August 15th or stop by our office to pick up a pledge form.

Food Bank Wish List

This is the time of year the shelves get a little bare.

-Salad dressings

-Snack Crackers

-Cookies

-Shampoo/Conditioner

-Ketchup, Mustard, Relish

-Mayonnaise

 

Employment Opportunities

Looking for work but not getting called back?  Did you know that MCG Careers can help you for free with your resume, cover letter, job searching and interview skills either one-on-one online with a career coach or in a workshop?  Call them at 1-844-601-2660 to book now.

 

Shawne Excavating – Labourers 16+, Pipe Layers, Class 1 truck Drivers, Equipment Operators (facebook jobs)

Aspen Crossing – Landscape labourer, servers, marketing assistant, and customer service (Canada job bank summer jobs)

Home Hardware – Part-time 2-4 days a week for an adult. Apply in store.

Furniture Villa – Delivery Team Member drop off resume at the store or email [email protected].

Premium Farms – Pork Production Worker (jobbank.gc.ca)

Carmangay Library – Summer Program Coordinator and Assistant – Temp, P/T must be between 15 and 30 years old. Email [email protected] for information.

AHS Vulcan – Casual Unit Clerk, LPN and Environmental II Housekeeping (Linked In)

Extendicare – RN, LPN and Health Care Aides (Linked In)

Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society – Adult Program Coordinator email [email protected]  See Poster

Vulcan Golf and Country Club – 2 Labourer positions for grounds crew. Email Duke [email protected]

Medical Radiation Technologist – AHS Vulcan (Linked In)

Occupational Therapist II – AHS Vulcan (Linked In)

Horizon School Division – Regular Assistant Lomond Colony and Temporary Assistant Prairiehome Colony School

horizon.ab.ca

Coming in June – opening with PCL Construction for installation of the Travers Solar Project

KPCL – Dozer, excavator, grader, and other heavy duty operators needed for the Travers Solar project. kpcldirtmovers.com

Articles

Step Away from the Tech

Typically, kids spend several hours a day immersed in low-sensory, pixelated landscapes rather than outdoors playing in the mud, climbing trees, examining bugs, rolling down hills, or making up games. As a consequence, kids are less focused, get frustrated more easily, and struggle with more advanced social skills like negotiation, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.  “Technology is addicting and it’s keeping kids from engaging the senses, developing the muscles, and all of the fundamental things that help children develop properly,” says pediatric occupational therapist Angela Hanscom, author of Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident and Capable Children. “We’re at the point where we are seeing kids have pretty significant sensory issues because it’s almost like a sensory deprivation of our environment.”

 

Lori Gair
Community Liaison
Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services
Phone: 403-485-2192 ext. 103
Email: [email protected]

Vulcan County Family Resources- May 2021 (updated)

 

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/PCL-Builders_Virtual-Hiring-Event_v2-4.29.21-3.30-PM.pdf”]

“APPLY TODAY for this Vulcan County Funding Opportunity sponsored by Community Futures Highwood to become certified to work in the solar industry! Submit your funding request by May 10th, and begin class May 11th!  To apply, inquire at [email protected] for a Funding Program Package.”  A limited number of qualified applicants will be accepted.

There is Cultural Diversity Awareness training available through Willow Creek Immigrant Services.  The one on May 12th is aimed at service providers and the one on May 26th is meant for volunteers and community members but will have similar information if one date works better for you than another.  See the attached posters.

Just a heads up for anyone looking for a volunteer opportunity: Vulcan FCSS and volunteers are delivering Resource Directories door-to-door and doing a community “check-in” as we go.  We are doing May 13, 14, 20 & 21 but other shifts can be arranged.  We do ask that volunteers wear masks and are willing to speak to people if they answer the door to find out how they are doing.  If you are interested in helping out contact Lori at 403-485-2192 ext. 103 or [email protected]

SMART Recovery Addiction support Meeting happen on Wednesday’s at 7pm 105B 3rd Ave. in Vulcan.  Call 403-485-1054 for information.  Joining online is an option.

AA – Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Contact Gary at 403-485-5818 Meetings are Tues. and Thurs. 8pm

Al-Anon – Al-Anon Family Group -meetings as needed. Contact Betty W. at 403-652-8285 for information.

 

Vulcan and Region FCSS can still see clients individually, if you need to connect to a real person. We are available to talk to you,  work on life skills, talk to you about budgeting, housing, emergency needs and we can help you explore options for counselling whether online, in-person, free, paid or subsidized. FCSS also offers the Volunteer Income Tax program to help file taxes for those with low income.  Call 403-485-2192  or visit us at 105B  3rd Ave. S.  Please only one person in the entry way at a time.

Join an online café by phone or computer for a chance to socialize and talk to more people.  Monday’s at 7pm.  If you don’t know how to zoom, the people at FCSS can walk you through it. Call 403-485-2192.  The link to join is:

https://zoom.us/j/94945035177?pwd=d0FSSUZ5UWEzZ2FoN1N1bFY0V3NTQT09

Dial in by phone at 1 587 328 1099 and follow the prompts.

Meeting ID: 949 4503 5177

Passcode: 190288

As schools go back to at-home and online learning, the Get-a-Way Youth Center is available to children by registration during the day while schools are closed.  If parents work and need a supervised space for their child for a few hours or don’t have internet, they can book an appointment with Josh at 403-485-6033 or Deanna at 485-2192 ext. 101. We cannot provide daycare or any group gatherings, so appointments are necessary.  Unfortunately, our Friday meal will only be available by pre-booking a bag lunch. It will always be free. We also provide Thursday Snack Packs for kids who may need a little more.  If you are aware of anyone who could use any of our services, then please pass on the information.

Conversation Cafe.  The link to the zoom meeting is https://zoom.us/j/94945035177?pwd=d0FSSUZ5UWEzZ2FoN1N1bFY0V3NTQT09 Monday’s at 7pm.  Starting May 10 (No session May 24th) This group is for anyone looking for some engaging conversation.  Questions are shared to get the group talking with the intention of feeling connected and enhancing our feeling of well-being.  Social connection is a pillar of health.  Call 403-485-2192 to register or click the link. If you need help learning zoom give us a call and we can walk you through a practice meeting
Rainbow Literacy Family Programs: Storywalks, Scavenger Hunt, Time for Rhymes, Building Blocks and more!
Register at 403-485-2192

Rainbow Literacy-Family Programs 2021

Greater Foothills Family Centre Programs: Growing Gardeners, Crafty Creations, Kids in Motion, Tiny Two’s, Music Makers, Mothers Day Make and Take, Kids Clubs for 9-12 year olds, Triple P Parenting Program and more!

Early Learning Developmental Check-ups – 2 posters Arrowwood May 20, Brant June 3, Vulcan, May 28 and June 4.
Appointments can be booked at your local school.  IT’S FREE! and available in your community! You can access expertise including a Speech & Language Pathologist, to assess your child’s strengths, and learn how to best support your child in areas of growth.  It’s fun, it’s informative, it’s important and can save tears later.

May 19 – Food Rescue Pop Up – to deliver in Milo, Arrowwood, Lomond and Vulcan – Call to register for your bags and help rescue some food.

Free Swimming Lessons for Vulcan County residents. Register May 3.

MUMS Peer Support for prenatal and postnatal support for parents.

Prenatal Support Group

Speaker Series – Bouncing Forward into Well-being with author David Irvine. May 3 Live streamed.

Rowan House Emergency Shelter Outreach Services

New2U Bike Donation Program – Greater Foothills Family Centre

MCG Careers offers workshops and Career Coaches are available to provide guidance and support as you strive to achieve your career and employment goals All of our services, programs and supports are at NO COST.  To book an appointment call 1-844-601-2660
[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/MCG-Employment-Services-Information-and-Events.pdf” title=”MCG Employment Services Information and Events”]

AHS Nutrition Services virtual classes,  Mealtime Struggles to Mealtime Success and Feeding Your Baby. Registration is through birthandbabies.com, or by calling 403-955-1450. Registration closes the day before each class at 12 noon.  All classes are currently being held virtually, through Zoom, therefore the classes are no longer location specific for participants when registering.

Mealtime Struggles to Mealtime Success: May 11th 6:30 pm 8:00 pm, May 26th 1:30 pm 3:00 pm, June 9th 6:30 pm 8:00 pm
Feeding Your Baby: May 4th 10:30 am 12:00 pm, May 19th 6:30 pm 8:00 pm, June 2nd 1:30-3:00 pm, June15th 6:30-8:00 pm
[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Mealtime-Struggles-Feeding-Your-Baby-2021.pdf” title=”Mealtime Struggles & Feeding Your Baby 2021″]

Rowan House Podcast

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Rowan-House-Podcast.pdf” title=”Rowan House Podcast”]

Language Matters – Naming Mental Health: Check out the poster to learn a little more about mental health.
[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Language-Matters-Understanding-Mental-Health.pdf” title=”Language Matters – Understanding Mental Health”]

SAH MHR – Safe at Home Men’s Healthy Relationship Group
[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/SAH-MHR-Poster.pdf” title=”SAH MHR Poster”]

Other Activities:

Fourth Annual Adopt a Pot: Carmangay Horticultural Association needs volunteers to adopt a flower pot in various locations around the village. Duties are as follows: supply flowers , plant and maintain the pots till end of September 2021. Please at the end of September clean your pot back to soil . Thank you   Also there will be first, second and third prize that will be awarded in late July. For your pot , further details and info contact Tanya (587)678-0244

Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society is offering the PAL (unrestricted firearm safety) again on June 19th from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. to register please call: 403-485-3107  We are offering the Restricted Firearm Course on June 20th from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. to register please call: 403-485-3107

Wellness Wednesday’s, hosted by FCSS – One more week left of free lunches at 12pm downtown Vulcan.  The first 20 people get a free lunch purchased from a local restaurant.  They go fast but you can bring your own and enjoy the picnic tables in the empty lot beside Home Hardware. Smile and say hello to the rest of the community.  Please sit with your own household and social distance from others but that does not mean you can’t talk to someone, friend or stranger from a distance.  All those positive experiences give your brain and mood a little boost.  Please use that space respectfully any day and support our local businesses.  Wellness Wednesday only runs if the weather is great.  If it is cold, windy or rainy we will postpone to the following week.  And make an effort to get out and enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces in all our communities.

Resources

On May 27 at 1 PM there is a webinar about the Centre for Suicide Prevention’s Buddy Up campaign. In Canada, men have a suicide rate three times higher than women. Why? We have socialized men to be strong, stoic and self-reliant; showing emotion is a sign of weakness, as is asking for help. Men are dying in alarming numbers, all around us, alone. How can we change this reality?

Buddy Up is a campaign by men for men, promoting authentic conversations and teaching how to support a buddy if they’re struggling with thoughts about suicide. Learn how to look out for your buddy and raise awareness for men’s suicide prevention. Buddy Up campaign month is in June 2021. Learn more at www.buddyup.ca   Here is the Eventbrite link to register for this webinar:   https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/152428671259
Maybe during the pandemic, you have not been doing as well as usual but also not doing really bad either.  You might be languishing.  Here is a good article that explains languishing.

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/19/well/mind/covid-mental-health-languishing.html

CYF – Children, Youth and Families

To register for a session, follow the links found in the newsletter or visit: https://www.cyfcaregivereducation.ca/virtual-education 

Community Education Services has some great workshops this month. Register for these free online workshops at:  http://community.hmhc.ca/  Some are listed below

 May 03 From Homework to Housework: Raising Responsible Children For parents of children 5 – 12 years old 
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Parents have a role to play in helping children establish good homework habits. Parents also play a critical role in building healthy school attitudes and effective home/school communication. Being responsible is more than just doing what you’re told; it involves problem solving and decision making. Children are not born responsible; parents must teach the skills to their children. Children need to learn that their actions have consequences, good and bad and that it is their choices and decisions that largely determines what that consequence will be. They also need to learn from the consequences so that they can be a part of any solution that is required if their choices result in a need to “fix” things.
In this workshop, Parents will learn:
What role they play in teaching their child responsibility
The 3 parts to responsibility
Ways to encourage children to become responsible for themselves and their chores
How and when to start giving children chores and some age appropriate chores
Should we pay children to do chores?
Whose problem is it if the chores aren’t completed?
Tips on setting up a family chore chart?

May 3 “All of my coping strategies went out the window”: How neurodivergent individuals and their caregivers are coping during the pandemic 
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

May 4 Employment Workshops for caregivers and their youth: Resume Writing & Work Search Strategies, Networking and Conflict Resolution 
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
One-hour workshops, for parents/caregivers & their youth, covering:
May 4 & 8: Resume Writing – Learn how to create a youth resume, including an exploration of the different styles and uses for resumes.
May 10 & 15: Networking and Work Search Strategies – An exploration of youth job search strategies and how to create networks.
May 17 & 22: Conflict Resolution – Gain an understanding of what conflict is and how to resolve it in the workplace.

 May 5 Understanding Teen Mental Health & Wellness 
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

 May 6 Juno House presents: Healthy Brains = Healthy Children 
10:30 AM – Noon
Before High School graduation, one third of adolescent girls will experience depression, anxiety disorders, self harm or an eating disorder.
At Juno House www.junohouse.ca we believe in the extraordinary healing power of parents and caregivers. We believe that you can learn all of the skills that you need to become your teen’s emotional coach. We believe that talking does not grow neurons; experience grows neurons. We will share steps and strategies from the Juno House Therapeutic Model that will give you effective emotional coaching tools for your children as they develop through adolescence and into young adulthood. You will learn about :
• Neuroscience and the developing brain,
• Brain integration of the left and right brain,
• How anxiety develops,
• The background of emotions and how to understand them in your child,
• The five emotional coaching steps,
• Strategies to help guide your adolescent through the challenges they will face in their academic, peer, and emotional environments.

 May 6 Emerging from the shadows – recognizing signs of mental distress in our children and youth as we navigate through the pandemic and beyond 
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Overview on current mental health trends seen in children and youth, we will share universal approaches and an introduction to some easy screening tools parents can review and implement. The session will review the mental health impacts of the last 18 months – what physicians have seen and what is still emerging. Participants will learn to recognize normal distress reactions, including physical signs of emotional stress, when further assessment is needed and the importance of early detection. It will also explore who to turn to for more information and support. Building resilience together – takes a village. 02

May 11 Understanding and Using Mental Toughness to Enhance Performance: When Toughness is Really NOT About Being “Tough.” 
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Mental toughness (MT) has a great deal of evidence to support its use in education, but is also broadly misunderstood because of its roots in competitive sport and in high-performance arenas such as the military and business worlds. There are lots of stories of professional athletes and folks like Navy SEALS who talk about MT. But what about the rest of us? What about kids? In this webinar, we will discuss what MT really is – and the critical value of mental sensitivity and mental flexibility in enhancing our performance and in supporting kids and ourselves to become more willing risk takers, be more resilient, have more interpersonal success, and how to not only learn from mistakes but also actively seek out opportunities for new learning.

 May 12 Intergenerational Trauma- Learning and Healing 
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
In this session, you will be walked through some information about intergenerational trauma and how it has impacted the Indigenous peoples of Canada and societal imprints on a specific population. With this information participants will learn through questions, videos and examples and hopefully spark attendees to learn more. Attendees will also learn about a Boys & Girls Clubs of Calgary Indigenous led program for youth that is challenging systems and creating space for healing.

May 13 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Caregivers – What’s it all about? 
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
This workshop is about caring for the caregiver. Participants will be taught tools and techniques towards taking care of themselves so that they, in turn, can mindfully connect with their child/young adult. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) processes and how they can support caregivers of neurodiverse individuals (including autism and other developmental differences) will be discussed.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) seeks to help individuals to manage difficult things in their lives and mindfully connect with things that are most important in a way that is loving and respectful. With an introduction to the concept of ‘mindfulness,’ ACT helps to develop a new mindful relationship with unwanted thoughts and feelings. This process helps a person to be more open, and to take action consistent with what they care about.

May 18 Resilience 
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Resilience is the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties or hardship. So what makes humans resilient? And what is the role of resilience in our lives? Additionally, how does resilience relate to mental wellbeing? Resilience can also help offset factors that increase the risk of mental health conditions and can help keep mental health concerns like depression or anxiety at bay. Come join us for this presentation as we uncover the five pillars of resilience: self awareness, mindfulness, self care, positive relationships & purpose. By strengthening these pillars, we in turn, become more resilient.

 May 20 Play with Purpose: The Impacts of Play on Development & Incorporating Play into Learning 
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Play is one of the most important and impactful ways children learn. In this workshop, we will explore a variety of skills that can develop through play, the different types and stages of play, as well as working through those tricky moments when conflict arises during play. By the end of this presentation, you’ll have a better understanding and appreciation for play, and more playful tools that you can incorporate into your household or classroom!

May 27 Supporting Your Children to have Healthy Relationships During a Pandemic 
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
This presentation will focus on how parents can help children develop and maintain positive healthy relationships in their children. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a requirement for physical distancing from peers and increased social connection online. Physical distancing does not mean the same thing as social and emotional distancing. Children and teens can and should stay social and emotionally connected with their peers and others. Healthy relationships and social connections are key in fostering positive social-emotional development and resilience. Strategies to help parents promote healthy and positive relationships during a time of increased physical distance and stress will be provided. Parents will be empowered to have meaningful conversations with their children to build the parent-child relationship, as well as help their children develop and maintain healthy relationships with their peers in person and safely online.

 May 31 Understanding Social Media Use in Teens 
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
The world of social media is constantly changing, and it can be hard to keep up. This session will look at some of the most popular platforms among Canadian youth and how to protect privacy and keep everyone safe. We will also discuss the effects of social media use on teen mental health and how to promote healthy social media habits in a digital world.

 June 1 Trans & Parent Perspectives: How to support transgender, non-binary and gender non-conforming youth 
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

 June 2 Children and Parenting After Separation ‘ Parenting Coordination and other Dispute Resolution Processes ‘ 
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Court is not the only way to resolve family law problems, and it’s not always the best way to resolve family law problems. In this webinar, we’ll talk about some alternatives to court. We’ll cover mediation, where a neutral person helps people reach an agreement on their own, and arbitration, where a neutral person makes a decision resolving a problem, just like a judge. We’ll also talk about parenting coordination, a long-term process that combines parts of mediation and parts of arbitration to resolve problems while helping people learn to communicate better and resolve problems on their own.

 June 2 Parenting, Pedantics & Peculiarities during the Pandemic 
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM UN2021

June 3 From Homework to Housework: Raising Responsible Children For parents of children 5 – 12 years old 
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

 June 8 Habits of Mental Health 
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Everyone has mental health which is equally important as physical health. Just like physical health, we need proper supports, strategies, and healthy coping habits to maintain an optimal wellbeing. In this webinar we will go through various ways to facilitate positive mental wellbeing as well as the many benefits of positive mental health.

 June 9 Starting or changing medication for your child/youth’s mental health? An introduction to genotype-guided prescribing 
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Read more at https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/three-early-childhood-development-principles-improve-child-family-outcomes/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_campaign=april_2021

Have a great May,

Lori Gair
Community Liaison
Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services
Phone: 403-485-2192 ext. 103
Email: [email protected]

Tollestrup Construction in Arrowwood Area this Year

Tollestrup Construction will be performing work in the community of Arrowwood this year.

They specialize in:

–          Paving & Asphalt (driveways, paths, sidewalks, road repairs)

–          Aggregate Products (landscaping, other applications)

–          Concrete Work

Please visit their website at www.tollestrup.com for full details on their products and services.

If you have any upcoming projects this year, and are looking to save money…now is the time to act.

For a free estimate, please contact Kaitlyn at 403-360-7859, or email:  [email protected]

Vulcan County Family Resources- February 2021

Vitality Café – Monday’s at 7pm you can break your isolation and connect with other people in some authentic conversation via zoom.  Improve your personal wellbeing.  Join any week.  Email [email protected] to get the link or find it on the website www.vulcanandregionfcss.com, the link is under the poster.

 

Parent Café – These are for parents to engage in real conversations about parenting and just a chance to connect with other parents. Will begin via zoom Feb. 16 and in person in March if regulations allow.

Winter Walk Day  – Winter Walk Day – Open the Door and go for it! Get more active outdoors this winter. Register at shapeab.com/winter-walk-day/

Coping with Covid-19 – Addiction and Mental Health Resources. There are a lot of links to resources in this booklet on a variety of topics.  Helplines, Wellness, Finances, Families, Seniors and Suicide

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/COVID-19-Coping-Addiction-Mental-Health-Resources-002.pdf” title=”COVID-19-Coping-Addiction Mental Health Resources (002)”]

MCG Careers is thrilled to be offering a virtual job fair as an opportunity for job seekers to connect with employers. In addition to the main event we will be offering some Bootcamps the days leading up to the job fair. One of these boot camps will be all about Zoom and is in partnership with the Literacy for Life Foundation. If someone you are working with is unable to attend the job fair but is interested in one or both of the bootcamps they are welcome to attend! All three events are being offered at No Cost to attendees or to employers.  Interested parties can register by following the link to our listings on eventbrite on the corresponding attached poster.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Foothills-Virtual-Job-Fair-Feb-4-2021-1.pdf” title=”Foothills Virtual Job Fair – Feb 4 2021 (1)”]

Career Planning Online – “Kick-start your next career path”    Friday February 5, 2021, 9:30am – 12:00pm

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/CPO-Workshop.-Virtual.-Feb.05.2021.pdf” title=”CPO Workshop. Virtual. Feb.05.2021″]

Resume Building and Cover Letter Writing – “Tailoring and targeting”  Tuesday February 9, 2021, 1pm – 3:30pm

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/RBCLW-Workshop.-Virtual.-Feb.09.2021.pdf” title=”RBCLW Workshop. Virtual. Feb.09.2021″]

Resume Scanners? – “Getting your resume past the system and in front of the hiring manager” Friday February 12, 2021, 9:30am – 12pm

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/RS-Workshop.-Virtual.-Feb.12.2021.pdf” title=”RS Workshop. Virtual. Feb.12.2021″]

LinkedIn – “Create and advance your online presence” Thursday February 25, 2021, 9:30am – 12pm

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/LI-Workshop.-Virtual.-Feb.25.2021.pdf” title=”LI Workshop. Virtual. Feb.25.2021″]

Greater Foothills Family Network – List of Programs Pre-register for programs at 1-877-652-8633. Supplies are provided.

Be my Valentine – Create a special gift – Feb. 12 10:30am –   0-12 years old

Daily Discoveries – Wednesday’s at 1:30pm – Preschool

Design Squad – Engineering challenges for 9-12 years old. Tuesday’s at 4:30pm

Family Fun Night – Wednesday’s at 6:30pm

Game Show – Friday, Feb. 5 for  3-6 year old

Junior Inventors – Thursday’s at 10:30 for 3-6 year old

Kid’s Paint Night – Friday, Feb. 19 at7 pm for 7-12 year old

New 2 U – Skate Donation Program

Space Adventures – Wednesday’s at 10:30am for 3-6 years old

Sunshine Stretches Yoga – Friday, Feb. 26 at 10:30 for 3-6 years old

Holiday Craft-a-Long – Feb. 2 for Groundhog Day 2- 5 year old’s at 4pm, 6-8 year old’s at 6:30pm Register at Rainbow Literacy at 403-485-3107

Census Jobs 2021 – March-July

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Census-Recruitment-poster-EL.pdf” title=”Census Recruitment poster-EL”]

Vulcan Lifeguard Jobs – Summer 2021 Apply now

Resources

The Making Connections Program for Palliser Schools now has a Facebook page. It will be a place where we post different events, tips, etc. Here is the link if you wanted to include it in your emails/ news letter and let parents know they can like it for all different sorts of awesome information 🙂 https://www.facebook.com/Palliser-School-Divison-Making-Connections-Program-104502814933151/?view_public_for=104502814933151 

Rosie’s Gift of Love

Hi friends!. It’s a good day to stay inside and keep warm . If anybody is still in need of a warm coat, mitts, hat or scarf, let us know. Mom says she still has some to give away. Share the love, Rosie.  Visit Quarks Consignment or Facebook Message Sandy Stoddard.

Community Education Services provide free public education available via webinar   https://community.hmhc.ca/

Tues Feb 2 @ 6:30 pm  

Thur Feb 4 @ 1 pm (rebroadcast of Feb 2 live presentation) Friend or Foe? How to create healthy relationships with digital devices in the family 

Wed Feb 3 6:30 pm Managing Anxiety within the COVID-19 World
SATURDAY Feb 6 10 am Putting Stress Under the Microscope: Parenting Stress and Its Relationship to Parenting 

Tues Feb 9 @ 1 pm  

Wed Feb 24 @ 6:30 pm Supporting Your Children to have Healthy Relationships During a Pandemic 

Thur Feb 11 6:30 pm Bullying and ASD 

Wed Feb 17  6:30 pm School-and-community-based strategies to support newcomer youth and families: Taking relational and culturally responsive approaches to promote resilience and mental well-being 

Thur Feb 18  10 am Teens in Trouble With the Law: What You Need to Know 

Tues Feb 23 6:30 pm The COVID-19 Pandemic: Pedantics and Peculiarities 

Fri Feb 26 11 am Put the Pro in Cognitive Proficiency   

Sat Feb 27, Mar 6, Mar 13 11 am Teens Talk Transition

A Simple Plan to Get Your Family Outside More Often

“The premise is really simple,” she said, “but the impact is really profound. You have to make a conscious choice of what you want to fill your life with. Otherwise, time just slips away.”

The Importance of Teaching Life Skills 

In her book, “How to Raise an Adult,” Julie Lythcott-Haims makes a case for breaking from over-parenting and doing your children a favour by doing less for them.

As a parent, the goal, apart from surviving each day, is to get your beautiful little babies though childhood, thriving and alive, and launch them into adulthood with skills to make their way in life with an attitude, of “I can do this.”  That attitude is “Self-efficacy” and it means having the belief in your abilities to complete a task, reach goals, and manage a situation.  It means believing in your ability and effort – not in your parents’ abilities to help you do things or to do them for you.  Childhood is about the endless and repeated trial-and-error opportunities that allow us to learn. As long as we let the kids fail, do the work themselves, experience the discomfort and help them believe that they can learn something if they keep trying, they will gain valuable life skills.

Whether it is learning to read or managing a difficult friendship, we need to provide support rather than the solve the problem. We cannot just do everything for them, prevent them from failure or discomfort and then dump them out in the world at eighteen and wave bye-bye.  We can talk about how to let go of hurt feelings with a friend, and how to see someone else’s perspective.  We can expect them to clean up their own toys or help clean up the spilt milk.  We can involve them in cooking and get them to the point of leaving them in charge of cooking something nutritious for the whole family.  We can set expectations that they study for a test and work towards getting a better grade by putting in the effort.  We can skip teach them about the safety and how to stay at home alone safely, before they are old enough to become a babysitter and be in charge of other people’s children.

As parents we want to keep them safe, see them feel success at school, sports and in relationships and reduce their pain in difficult situations but we need to let them learn from their own mistakes too.  To take our “pounce” instinct and tone it down to a “wince” reaction when our child gets a boo-boo or fights with a sibling.  Can you watch at a distance to see if they can work it out or suck it up without your intervention? Can we help them mature into a responsible adult that can handle responsibilities and obligations beyond their own personal care and pleasure?

One strategy for parenting with a practical path toward independence involves teaching new skills in steps:

-first we do it for you

-then we do it with you

-then we watch you do it

-then you do it completely independently

Think of teaching your child to drive a car.  What skills can you teach a preschooler following this method?

Lindsay Hutton, “I Did it All by Myself” an Age-by-Age Guide to Teaching Your Child Life Skills,” https://www.familyeducation.com/teens/6-life-skills-every-teen-should-master-before-college

Ages 2 and 3: Small Chores and Basic Grooming

This is the age when your child will start to learn basic life skills. By the age of three, your child should be able to

  • Help put his toys away.
  • Dress himself (with some help from you)
  • Put his clothes in the hamper when he undresses
  • Clear his plate after meals
  • Assist in setting the table
  • Brush his teeth and wash his face with assistance

Ages 4 and 5: Important Names and Numbers

Safety skills are high on the list, now. She should know

  • Her full name, address and a phone number to reach you
  • How to make an emergency call

Your child should also learn how to

  • Perform simple cleaning chores like dusting in easy-to-reach places and clearing the table after meals
  • Feed pets
  • Identify money denominations and understand the very basic concept of how money is used
  • Brush her teeth, comb her hair and wash her face without help
  • Help with basic laundry chores, such as putting her clothes away and bringing her dirty clothes to the laundry
  • Choose her own clothes to wear

 

Ages 6 and 7: Basic Cooking Techniques

Kids at this age can start to help with cooking meals, and can learn to

  • Mix, stir and cut with a dull knife
  • Make a basic meal, like a sandwich
  • Help put the groceries away
  • Wash the dishes

Your child should also learn how to

  • Use basic household cleaners safely
  • Straighten up the bathroom after using it
  • Make her bed without assistance.
  • Bathe unsupervised.

 

Ages 8 and 9: Pride in Personal Belongings

By this time, your child should take pride in her personal belongings and take care of them properly. That includes being able to

  • Fold her clothes
  • Learn simple sewing
  • Care for outdoor toys such as her bike

Your child should also learn how to

  • Take care of personal hygiene without being told to do so
  • Use a broom and dustpan properly
  • Read a recipe and prepare a simple meal
  • Help create a grocery list
  • Count and make change
  • Take out the trash

 

Ages 10 to 13: Gaining Independence

Ten is about the age when your child can begin to perform many skills independently. She should know how to

  • Stay home alone
  • Go to the store and make purchases by herself
  • Change her own bed sheets
  • Use the washing machine and dryer
  • Plan and prepare a meal with several ingredients
  • Use the oven to broil or bake foods

Your child should also learn how to

  • Read labels
  • Iron clothes
  • Use basic hand tools
  • Look after younger siblings or neighbors

Ages 14 to 18: More Advanced Skills

By 14, your child should have mastered of all of the previous skills. On top of that, she should be able to

  • Perform more sophisticated cleaning and maintenance chores, such as plunging a toilet, cleaning the stove and unclogging drains
  • Fill a car with gas, add air to and change a tire
  • Read and understand medicine labels and dosages
  • Interview for and get a job.
  • Create and maintain a calendar

Young Adults: Preparing to Live on His Own

Your child will need to know how to support herself when he goes away to college or moves out. There are still a few skills she should know before venturing out on his own, including

  • Make regular doctor and dentist appointments and other important health-related appointments.
  • Have a basic understanding of finances, and be able to manage his bank account, pay a bill and use a credit card.
  • Understand basic contracts, like an apartment or car lease.
  • Schedule oil changes and basic car maintenance.
  • How to deal with an illness, when to seek a doctor, how to make up an exam, etc.

It’s a process.  If there is a skill that is missed, you still have time to teach it.  Just don’t expect them to know how to do things without the time to teach them.

Take care of yourself and the people around you,

Lori Gair

Community Liaison

Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services

Phone: 403-485-2192 ext. 103

Email: [email protected]

Vulcan County Family Resources- Jan 2021

Parent Cafe’s are an opportunity to connect with other parents. Which is important now, more than ever.  Parent Cafés are emotionally safe spaces where parents and caregivers talk about the challenges and victories of raising a family. Through individual deep self-reflection and peer-to-peer learning, participants explore their strengths, learn about the Protective Factors, and create strategies from their own wisdom and experiences to help strengthen their families.  These will begin as soon as it is safe to do so.  Please take the Parent Cafe survey to help us plan for the best time.

Parent Cafe’s Survey Link https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PGYRC2D

Vitality Cafés are peer-to-peer guided discussion groups that use the six Vitality Domains and empowered engagement techniques to help participants come up with strategies to improve their overall holistic health.  Vitality Cafe’s will be offered virtually at first.  Please take the survey to help us plan for the best time.  

Vitality Cafe’s https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/62PR65L

Virtual Winter Wellness at the Carmangay Library will begin in January.  Watch for posters and on their Facebook page for details. Prizes to be won.

Skating  – Champion has their outdoor ice open. Please skate with your own households and respect space from other skaters.

Fundamental Digital Literacy Skills:  Online Privacy – Chinook Arch Libraries in January. Check your local library website or chinookarch.ca and go to Events.

Posters

Snow Angels – Be a Snow Angel in your neighbourhood. If you have a shovel and see someone’s sidewalk not yet cleared, pitch it and help a neighbour out.  You are also helping the people who want to get out and walk safely, free from ice.  You can also sign up with FCSS at 403-485-2192. We will be out of the office until Jan. 4 but you can try us on Facebook messenger.

Fireworks – Vulcan Recreation presents New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Dec. 31 at 7:30pm Vulcan Arena parking lot.

Read With Me – Ages 3-6

Ages and Stages – Development for kids 0-6years

Building Fine Motor Skills for ages 3-6

January programs at Greater Foothills Family Centre

More programs from the Family Centre

Kids in Motion – Ages 3-6

Glow – For girls 9-12

Winter Reading Challenge through Chinook Arch Libraries

MCG Careers – Job Searching During Covid

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Job-Searching-DC-Workshop.-Virtual.-Jan.12.2021.pdf” title=”Job Searching DC Workshop. Virtual. Jan.12.2021″]

MCG Careers – Interview Skills Workshop

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Interview-Skills-Workshop.Virtual.-Jan.20.2021.pdf” title=”Interview Skills Workshop.Virtual. Jan.20.2021″]

MCG Careers – “Linked In” Create and Advance Your Online Presence

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Linked-In-Workshop.-Virtual.-Jan.28.2021.pdf” title=”Linked In Workshop. Virtual. Jan.28.2021″]

65 years or older? Join a research study about games created to help keep your mind vibrant.  Must have an android device.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Games-for-Vibrant-Minds-Research-Study.pdf” title=”Games for Vibrant Minds Research Study”]

Triple “P” parenting courses online for parents of all ages https://www.triplep-parenting.ca/alb-en/find-help/triple-p-online/?itb=4dcfbc057e2ae8589f9bbd98b591c50a

Top Parenting Tips for School Life during Covid

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/tpi-top-tips-covid19-school-life-ltr-can-en.pdf”]

Balancing Work and Life during Covid

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/covid-19-guide-work-and-family-ltr-can-en.pdf”]

First Nations Health Consortium December Newsletter

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/FNHC-December-2020-Newsletter.pdf” title=”FNHC December 2020 Newsletter”]

Vulcan Library is open for Curbside Pick-up

December 14-January 12

Monday 10-3

Tuesday 10-5

Wednesday Closed

Thursday 10-5

Friday 10-3

 

Resources

Al-Anon Family Group -meetings as needed. Contact Betty W. at 403-652-8285 for information.

Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society and Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services will be closed from Dec. 24 at 12pm – Jan.3.  If you are without food, there are Emergency Hampers at the Vulcan Hospital 24 Hour Reception.

There is also a new Give-and-Take Pantry For anyone in need of food or for anyone to drop off donations. Please only take what you need or donate unopened goods that have not expired. Outside the Vulcan Library.

Mental Health Support  Help Lines

Family Ties Association Clinical team can provide subsidized counselling. Currently the service is available through Zoom.  Referrals can come from the FCSS office or clients can call Family Ties directly and ask to speak to Clinical Intake at 403-320-8888.  We ask that the clients pay what they can.

 

Online resources:

–      https://www.anxietycanada.com/articles/covid19-balancing-public-health-and-mental-health/

–    Online Mental Health Resource from the U of A – a newly developed online mental health resource that provides tools for families and individuals.   http://www.comhs.health/  this is postponed until January 2021

 

Text4Hope – Incoming positive daily messages.  Text COVID19HOPE to 393939 to subscribe.

Caring Connections Program by Wild Rose Community Connections  

Contact us at 403 437-4984  Phone or text        Monday – Friday 10:00 – 5:00   or by email at  [email protected]   Emotional Safe Spot for anyone feeling disconnected, alone or just need to chat.   

 

Help Lines 

Mental Health Help Line: 24 hour- 1-877-303-2642

Distress & Suicide Prevention Line of Southwestern Alberta
1-888-787-2880 Lethbridge and Area

Distress Centre: 403-266-HELP (4357) Suicide Prevention

Family Violence Info Line: 310-1818

Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868

Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-387-5437

Alberta’s One Line for Sexual Violence. Call or text: 1-866-403-8000

AADAC Help Line: 1-866-332-2322  Addictions

Alberta Health Link:  811 or 1-866-408-5465

Alberta Info Helpline: 211  – connects you to community and social services in your area 24 hours a day in over 150 languages.

Income Support Contact Centre 

Albertans can call the Emergency Income Support Contact Centre 24-hours-a-day to get help in an emergency for basic needs like shelter, food, clothing and transportation.  1-866-644-5135

Canadian Red Cross: 24 hour disaster services – 1-888-800-6493

Vulcan Community Health Center (Hospital): 403-485-3333

Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-8477

Vulcan RCMP Detachment: 403-485-2267

Poison Control: 1-800-332-1414

Article by Dr. Jody Carrington about her family getting Covid-19.

The mental and emotional toll that comes with contracting this virus is just as bad, if not worse, than the physical. There is an astounding amount of shame, guilt and fear associated with contracting Covid, and we need to be talking about it more. When you are surrounded by good people, you will be surprised by their grace and kindness, and you will rise. I would have very likely fallen apart on day three if it weren’t for this community holding us up. The love and support we were shown reinforces what I already know: We were never meant to do this alone, and I have never been more confident that we are #bravertogether. 

 
Click to read an article by a recent CES presenter Tanya Mudry, Assistant Professor, Educational Studies in Psychology, University of Calgary.
With the pressures of the holiday season, rising COVID-19 rates, and the resulting social isolation from friends and family, people can easily fall into addictive or excessive behaviours. These are behaviours that are sometimes done to excess, taking on an addiction-like quality….

Pandemic and Isolation Stress

This is stressful for everyone. And it is not short-term stress, we have been in this pandemic for a long time and new lockdown restrictions are a stressful blow to almost everyone.  Not being able to be with your loved ones at Christmas and being further isolated from connections and support is going to take a heavy toll on everyone’s mental health.  When you do not get a break from stress, it becomes toxic stress that affects your physical health as well, because your brain is telling your nervous system that it is constantly under threat.

It is important to take charge of the stress so you can get through this long term.

  1. Acknowledge that the stress is real. Comparative suffering is not helpful, “I am better off than Mary because she can’t see her sick husband who is battling cancer, so I shouldn’t complain or ask for help.”  Suffering is suffering and knowing that your stress is making you snap at your spouse or drink too much is still real to you and your brain. Just being aware of it and going easy on yourself allows you to take away some of the power the stress holds over your emotions.
  2. Forgive others. Remember they are stressed too.  Everyone is trying to process this new reality to make sense of all the new information coming at us.  If they react poorly to a situation, take a breath and try to think, maybe they are having a hard day too. If people are being opinionated or insensitive, remember that your experience and their experience might be totally different and going on the attack is not likely to change their mind.  You might help yourself more by just sending them good thoughts for understanding than to actually engage in a confrontation.  We all tend to find the information to confirm our biases rather than seek to understand more about the other side of an issue.
  3. Take care of your body. Sleep is a big one.  Your body is better able to cope with stress if you are getting a good night’s sleep (at night, not all day).  Pick a get up time and a go-to-bed time and stick to it.  Make a routine to make it work better for you and lessen your restless mind.  Have a warm bath, read an interesting book, try meditation or make a gratitude list of small things before you go sleep.  But give up the screen time, phones, tablets and TV’s that will disrupt sleep before bedtime.
  4. Choose healthy food. While many of us turn to comfort food and Netflix, what our bodies need to cope with stress is a balanced diet of real food.  Your mother was likely right, you need to eat your vegetables.  Make sure you are getting your daily servings of vegetables, fruit, grains and protein before you dip into the snacks so you are not tempted to overeat.
  5. Exercise – Not only is it good for your body, it also boosts your mood. Exercise is good stress and can reset and refocus your brain.  Put on some cheerful music and get moving: dance, stretch, lift, jump, walk or run.
  6. Find things that you can control and that you enjoy to “fill your bucket.” Make an effort to make some moments special, even if you are alone. You are worth it.

 

Furniture Villa is doing a cool thing to support local business….from Facebook

With the new strict restrictions that our government has put in place, we know that times are going to be tough for a lot of our amazing local businesses in the Vulcan County. We at Furniture Villa are strong believers in supporting the local business community, and as such we are starting our “Bring it Home” campaign as a way to help support others in the community.

Here is how it works:

From now until December 31st (or we reach $5000 converted), bring in a gift card to a “Big Box” store and trade it in for a coupon of equal value to a local Vulcan County business that has been affected by the new restrictions.

A few conditions apply:

  1. The gift card balance must be verifiable.
  2. You must leave your name & contact information.
  3. Coupons will only be accepted at the single designated business of your choice, from the list of participating businesses.
  4. Coupons valid starting January 2nd.
  5. See store for details, other conditions may apply.

Here are the participating businesses:

Hair by Jordyn Cornet

Kona Fitness

Mind Meld Massage Therapy

Vulcan Yoga and Wellness

Vulcan Art Studio

The Hair Hut

Mama’s Pizza

Center Street Eatery – Arrowwood, Alberta

Mossleigh Bar N Grill

Aspen Crossing

Clever Scoops

The Great Full Cup

Lynn’s Place

Village’s Bistro

New Club Cafe

Amy’s Family Restaurant

Denver’s Diner

Milo Hotel/T’s Saloon

Lisa Blair’s Beauty Room

Habitat Lifestyle Boutique

Full Motion BodyworX

ASANI Healing

Bodyworks Fitness Centre

Nails and Hair By Robyn Mears

Lori Gair

Community Liaison

Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services

Phone: 403-485-2192 ext. 103

Email: [email protected]

Vulcan County Family Resources- Dec 2020

Posters 

Youth Centre Space open for Bookings as a safe space for all ages

Family Literacy Programs – NOTE most of these programs are currently being offered online. In-person classes are suspended.

Greater Foothills Family Programs for December – Curiosity Kids, Messy Make and Take, Triple P Parenting and more.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Greater-Foothills-Family-Centre-December-Programs.pdf” title=”Greater Foothills Family Centre December Programs”]

Vulcan Recreation Programs and Facilities Notice

Food Drive – Vulcan County Wide – Fire departments will come right to your house if you pre-book

Angel Tree for the Vulcan Regional Food Bank – Thank you to everyone who has adopted families and individuals for Christmas Hampers, almost all the tags on the tree at Vulcan Bell Park have been claimed.

Lomond Lions Food Drive at S&S Grocery Store

Holiday Train at Home Dec, 12 – The 22nd annual #CPHolidayTrain is back. And this year, its first—and only—stop is your home! Virtual concert via Facebook Live on December 12 at 6 MT to raise money for food banks across North America. Performances by Serena Ryder, The Trews, JoJo Mason, Logan Staats and Kelly Prescott.

Career and Employment Services – MCG Career Remote

Message from Vulcan Medical Clinic

Write to Santa – He’ll write back!

Champion Gingerbread Houses-

   The Champion FCSS has a limited number of gingerbread house kits available! Once completed, they will be put on display at the

   Champion Pioneer Club. Please message below, or call the Village Office (897-3833) if you’d like to kit!

Vulcan Snow Angel Program – FCSS will take the names of those willing to volunteer and those who need help with snow removal.  Or just be an Angel and help a neighbour out!

Canada Benefit Programs

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Canadian-Benefit-Programs-NOV26.pdf” title=”Canadian Benefit Programs-NOV26″]

Service Canada Outreach Brochure

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Service-Canada-Community-Outreach-Brochure.pdf” title=”Service Canada Community Outreach Brochure”]

Free Virtual Nutrition Tour

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Virtual-Nutrition-Tour_Poster-1.pdf” title=”Virtual Nutrition Tour_Poster (1)”]

How Racism can affect Child Development

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/How-Racism-can-affect-child-development-Infographic_2020.pdf” title=”How Racism can affect child development Infographic_2020″]

Covid care kits

16th Annual Milo Family “Virtual” Christmas – December 1 – 31, 2020
Merry Christmas everyone! Since the Milo community can’t get together to have our annual Christmas celebration, I thought we could share our Christmas spirit online together! In a similar format to the Milo Facebook Fall Fair, below are categories to share our holiday pictures, videos and greetings to help lift everyone’s spirits. Add your photos/videos as comments to the discussions below.
1. Christmas Decorations – show us your indoor and outdoor decorations or lights. Try to outdo your neighbours!
2. Christmas Tree – let’s see who has the best looking tree this year! We put all the work into putting the tree up, we might as well share our work.
3. Holiday Greetings – share your family photos and well wishes with the Milo Community.
4. Food – yes, my favourite! Show off your Christmas baking, cooking and goodies!
5. Humorous – share what made you laugh this season. That holiday baking flop? The horribly wrapped present? The cat in the Christmas tree? Whatever made you chuckle, we would love to laugh with you (or at you ;-))!

Christmas Shopping 

Some local Black Friday sales will be happening all week in Vulcan.

Milo Library has some local vendors and artisans’ items available in December.

Arrowwood Library has a shop local market available all December.

SABC had to cancel their Christmas Market but a vendor parade is planned check out their Facebook page for info.  They also have truckloads of firewood for sale.

 

Resources 

Family Ties Association Clinical team can provide subsidized counselling to Vulcan County residents.  This service is available through Zoom.  If you do not have computer and internet access, an office at FCSS can be booked at 403-485-2192.  Call Family Ties and ask to speak to Clinical Intake 403-320-8888.

Mental Health & Wellness

Beverley Edwards  Self referrals welcome.

Provides counselling for children ages 6 and over, adolescents, adults and seniors.

Phone for an intake appointment.  403-485-3356

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.   Vulcan Community Health Centre

 

Al-Anon Family Group—meetings as needed. Contact Betty W. at 403-652-8285 for information.

 

Calgary’s Child Magazine always has some great articles and fun activity ideas.

https://www.calgaryschild.com/

Read about the survey results from The Covid-19 Parent Stress and Resilience Survey was assembled to learn about the experiences of parents and families in the Lethbridge area as they respond to the ongoing realities of Covid-19. This survey is a follow-up to the initial Covid-19 Isolation Parent Survey Building Brains Together conducted in the spring of 2020. The data from this survey is being used to make recommendations regarding supports and services during the ongoing pandemic and in future crisis situations.   Although the data was collected in Lethbridge, there are likely similar concerns in your communities.

https://www.buildingbrains.ca/stress-and-resilience-survey

Tips for the Month 

    1. Be forgiving.  Of yourself and others.  People are short, saying things they wouldn’t normally say, are quicker to upset, maybe more withdrawn, sensitive or more defensive.  Remember that even when things look okay on the surface, adults and children are dealing with the added stress from the pandemic on top of whatever else they would normally be dealing with.   Whether it is financial stress, loss of activities, added work, no work, Christmas pressures, feeling confined at home and especially being separated from our social connections and supports, people have up and down moments that do not define them.  Rather than responding to someone’s negativity with your own anger, take a cool down period and imagine that they are having a hard day and come back with compassion rather than anger.  Grant yourself that same compassion too. Learn about Ambiguous loss at www.psychologytoday.com/
    2. Make the effort to do something you love (that is still on the approved list). Drop whatever you are doing and go outside for a walk while there is a beautiful sunset.  Book the arena for skating or find a swimming pool taking private bookings. Enjoy some pet therapy if you have an animal.  Play a silly board game with your family, make it mandatory even for the ones who think they’re too cool.  Create a playlist of light and cheerful songs.  Do something artistic.  Make some food that that feeds your soul and savour it slowly.  Ask your spouse to keep the kids busy for an hour or two so you can have some alone time.  Return the favour.
    3. Do a project.  Tackling and finishing a project can give you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that is worth the work.  Just be honest with yourself.  Don’t take on more than you can handle.  If you can trade in a bit of screen time to finish a job that has been hanging over your head you will feel lighter when it is done.  December’s project might just be Christmas.  And remember, if it is overwhelming already, you don’t have to invite the Elf on a Shelf back.  He might be too busy working overtime in the Elf Covid Recovery Centre!
    4. Limit screen time, exercise and eat healthy.  All the things we know we should be doing.   They are still true during a pandemic and still true at Christmas time! If you eat lots of vegetables and have a balanced diet, it will fuel your mind and body and help you fight sickness.  Exercise helps you feel better physically and mentally.  If you attend to your mental health you are more likely to eat healthy and exercise.  If you have too much screen time you are more likely to eat poorly, exercise less and feel worse mentally.  Start with small goals and challenge yourself to improving one good habit at a time.  Start a positive cycle today.

Participaction

December can be a cold, busy month – but making time to move your body is KEY to combating stress and being at your best. We invite you to take our annual 12 Days of Fitmas Challenge – where every day from December 1st to 12th we will provide an activity that contributes to your overall health and wellness (like moving more, reducing screen time, and drinking more water). It’s that simple. You’ll see how a little effort can go a long way into helping you move a bit more each day. #EverythingGetsBetter #StayActiveStayHealthy #12DaysOfFitmas

Charity

THE VULCAN PALLIATIVE CARE COMMITTEE

Will be accepting donations to decorate for The TREE of HOPE

Your $10 donation can be made at the Vulcan Hospital front desk in memory of your loved one that has passed away. A decoration with your loved one’s name will be added to the tree. All money raised stays in our county and is used to assist families with palliative needs.

Don’t forget about other local charities on Giving Tuesday:

Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society

Vulcan County Health and Wellness Foundation

Kidsport – Town of Vulcan Recreation

Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Rowan House Emergency Shelter

Vulcan Lions Club Recreation Fund

Vulcan Healthcare Auxillary

Vulcan Daycare Society

Vulcan and District Historical Society

Local Churches who do amazing charitable work all year.

 

A little laugh for the Day:

-I told my wife she was drawing her eyebrows too high.  She looked surprised.

-Yesterday I ate a clock.  It was very time consuming.  Especially when I went back for seconds.

– My doctor just informed me that I have color-blindness.  It came out of the purple.

-I was selling my dirtbike and the buyer asked, “How low can you go?” I replied, “Well not less than 2kmph or you will tip over!”

-I asked my 91-year-old father, “Dad, what were your good old days?” His thoughtful    reply: “When I wasn’t good, and I wasn’t old.”

-A woman in labour suddenly shouted, “Shouldn’t! Wouldn’t! Couldn’t! Didn’t! Can’t!” “Don’t worry,” said the doctor. “Those are just contractions.”

-There is a new movie coming out called “Constipation.”

-Really? 

It is waiting to be released.

-What do you call a parade of rabbits hopping backwards?

A receding hare-line.

A Little More on Christmas this Year

There are traditions and festivals all over the world in the wintertime which are centered around lighting up the darkness – local firework, electric light, candle procession and lantern festivals, and (of course) Hanukah, Diwali and Christmas, to name only a few.  Embrace the season of light this year and make the most of putting up your lights and decorations if it brings you joy, or just walk or drive around in the evening to enjoy the lights others have put into their displays.  Just like spring and summer when people covered windows and sidewalks with encouraging messages, let the light bring some cheer during a difficult year.  At home use some of the candles sitting in drawers, make mood lighting during dinner, or bundle up to enjoy a backyard fire pit time.

  How the Grinch stole Christmas (I borrowed this from some wise person in Lomond on Facebook who made this analogy of Covid being the Grinch that tried to steal Christmas)

“It came without ribbons! It came without tags!

It came without packages, boxes, or bags!”

He puzzled and puzzed till his puzzler was sore.

Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before.

Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store.

Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more!”

So, this Christmas let’s show that Grinch! Let’s light up the town!

Regardless of where you live, anywhere in the world. Put up some lights. If you’re in an apartment light up your balcony, if you own a business light it up. If you’re up the meadow on a farm light up the barn. Decorate your house, yard, whatever you have! Put them up early and leave them up later. We can go for a walk or a drive after dinner and see the bright lights of Christmas!”

Lori Gair
Community Liaison
Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services
Phone: 403-485-2192 ext. 103

Vulcan County Family Resources- Nov 2020

Attached Posters

Pillowslip Stories – Make your own Workshop – In person or via zoom Nov. 5.  Rainbow Literacy will supply the materials and you create an interactive play experience to go with a story.

Nov. 5 – Make Your Own Story in a Bag – Pillowslip Stories

Nov. 4-25 -Curiosity Kids – Vulcan Playgroup Wednesday’s

Nov. 16 – Literacy and Parenting Skills, Monday’s

Literacy and Parenting Skills (LAPS) – Monday’s 6:30-7:30 FCSS Office starts Nov. 16th.  Register with Rainbow Literacy at 403-485-3107

Thursday’s – Mentorship Program

Mentorship – Thursday’s 3:30-5pm Youth Centre Register with Rainbow Literacy 403-485-3107

The Great Pumpkin Walk – Champion Nov. 1

On Monday’s they will be in Milo! Beginning November 9, they will be running a Little Carpenters program for 3-6 year old’s at the Milo Library. Registration is required, please call 1-877-652-8633 to register, spaces will be limited and health and safety protocols will be in place.

Little Carpenters – Milo Mondays in November ages 3-6 years

Family Literacy Programs Fall 2020

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Family-Literacy-Programs-Fall-2020-1.pdf” title=”Family Literacy Programs Fall 2020 (1)”]

Mealtime Struggles and Feeding Your Baby.  Courses online.  Most parents have many questions about difficulties with babies and small children around food.  Learn a few new skills to help ease struggles.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Mealtime-Struggles-Feeding-Your-Baby-Fall-Schedule-2020-Posters-Printer-1.pdf” title=”Mealtime Struggles & Feeding Your Baby Fall Schedule 2020 Posters – Printer (1)”]

SABC Drive Through Pumpkin

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/SABC-Drive-through-Pumpkin-Festival.pdf” title=”SABC Drive through Pumpkin Festival”]

Play Infographic – Think Play is not that important? – Think again.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/PlayInfographic.pdf” title=”Play+Infographic”]

Nov. 16 – Community Connection Cafe – An opportunity to learn something and then discuss and visit.

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Community-Connection-Cafe-Nov-16.pdf” title=”Community Connection Cafe Nov 16″]

Nov. 18 – Paint Day and Elder Abuse Information session.

Step Up Parent Support Group  – Nov 26 from 1-2pm Vulcan Youth Centre Register at 403-652-0566

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Vulcan-Step-Up-Support-Group-Nov-2020.pdf” title=”Vulcan Step Up Support Group Nov 2020″]

New 2 U Skates


For those of you who have children in the early years,  there are many things available to support you:

-The Greater Foothills Family Centre is doing the play program this year at the Lodge Hall in Vulcan on Wednesdays.  You must register even if you can only come once. Call to register at 1(877) 652-8633.  This is a great opportunity to connect with other families and get out of the house for a bit.

-Rainbow Literacy has Time for Rhymes in Vulcan and Carmangay on Friday’s, Champion on Thursday’s and Milo via Zoom on Wednesday’s.    Learn some rhymes and stories that are not only important in building language skills in child development but they can help you as a parent when establishing routines and teaching appropriate behaviour. The best part is that it is fun.

Inside Out –  Your Child’s Social-Emotional Development

A Learning Series for Parents and Caregivers Wednesdays beginning November 4th at 7pm via Zoom

Each week will feature a different age group   November 4    0-3 months

November 18     3-9 months         November 25    9-15 months

To register for one or more of these sessions, please call 1-877-652-8633

Triple P Parenting – Offered through Zoom by the Greater Foothills Family Centre

– The Power of Positive Parenting: learn about reasonable expectations, assertive discipline, positive learning environments and looking after yourself as a parent.  November 16, 2020 7:00 – 8:30 pm

-Raising Competent, Confident Children: learn how to help your child express their feelings appropriately.  November 23, 2020 7 – 8:30 pm

-Raising Resilient Children: learn about emotional resilience in children and six important life skills that help children deal effectively with life’s challenges and thrive.  November 30, 2020 7:00 – 8:30 pm

Learn and Play – Tiny Two’s at the Greater Foothills Family Centre in High River 1-877-652-8633

Other Activities

-Carmangay After School Program – Tuesdays right after school – 6:30. Call the Carmangay Library for details.  Located at the Curling Rink.

Snowflake Festival– Either the First Friday or Saturday of December.  Pictures with Santa (maybe with a green screen) and some family activities.

Recreation

Town of Vulcan Recreation programs at the CRC. Must register at www.townofvulcan/recreation  (See attached posters)

Youth Sport Ball – Tuesdays’s 4-5:30 age 6-12

Strength and Conditioning – Friday’s 4:30-5:30 Ages 12+

Ball Hockey – Wednesday’s 4-5:30

Walking – Mon + Thurs 4-5:30pm, Fri. 3-4pm 18+

Basketball – Wed 8-9:30pm 14+

Volleyball and Badminton – Tues. 8-9:30 14+

Karate Monday’s and Thursdays at the CRC ages 8+ 7:30-9:00pm

https://www.vulcanyogaandwellness.com/

Milo – Dance Fit – Tuesday’s and Thursday’s at 5, Yoga Friday’s at 10am

Looking to join a curling league this year? Please contact the league organizers in Vulcan.

Doubles (Monday nights) contact Rick at (403) 485-6766

Mixed  (Tuesday nights) contact Linda at (587) 436-7028

Mens  (Wednesday nights) contact Troy at (403) 495-8699

Ladies  (Thursday nights) contact Katrina at (403) 485-5897

Sturling (Afternoons)  contact Ron at (403) 485-2118

or contact John Cumiford  at (403) 485-2214

Remembrance Day

Champion 

Vulcan – The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #21, Vulcan will be having a scaled down tribute to the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom and the men and women who still serve to protect that freedom. On November 11th beginning at 11 AM, the ceremony will take place in the parking lot of the Legion.

Following the ceremony, lunch will be provided in the Legion Hall. In keeping with Alberta Health protocols seating is limited to 50 people. (as per current restrictions for our area) There will be two seatings:

  • The first seating will be at 12 PM to 1 PM.
  • The second seating will be 2 PM to 3 PM. This will allow time in between to re-sanitize all the tables.

In order to attend either one of the seatings, you must have a ticket. Tickets are available starting Friday October 30th at the Legion. There is no charge for the tickets; but you must have one to attend the lunch. No exceptions. Only fifty tickets will be available for each seating.

Help is out there

-It’s freezing out ! If you need a warm jacket head to Quarks in Vulcan and see if we have one in your size . If not let us know your size and we will find you one . Open until 5 . Sat 11-4 Free jackets for those in need of a warm jacket.

-Frozen Meals are still available for anyone who is isolated, struggling or been affected by Covid-19.   If you know someone who would benefit from some pre-made meals call the Vulcan Food Bank for Stone Soup Meals at 403-485-2192.  Reach out to someone with some meals today.

Christmas is only 56 days away!

-Kinettes Christmas Market has been cancelled.  They plan on being back next year.

-Arrowwood Library Shop Local Market

-Christmas Market at SABC:

Dec 4-5th   Friday 11am-8pm,   Saturday 10am-4pm

$2 at the door (kids under 10 free), Come kick off your Christmas shopping at SABC – Enjoy a Festive Coffee, Pick up some gifts for your Christmas list and be sure to plan to check off some of your own wish list!  Vendor list to be updated as confirmed.  Vendor’s welcome to apply

Getting a COVID-19 test in Vulcan

You can call the Vulcan Hospital if you need a COVID-19 test and you are symptomatic.  They do testing daily at 11:30 in the ambulance bay but you must call 403-485-3333 for an appointment time.  If you would like an asymptomatic test, you must call 811.

Flu Shots look Different this Year 

-Influenza Immunizations will be available at many Pharmacies for Adults and Children 5 years old and up.  You must call to book an appointment.

-Public Health will provide Influenza Immunization for families of children under 5.  Appointments can be booked by calling the Vulcan Health Unit at 403-485-2284, calling 811 or booking online at https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/influenza/influenza.aspx

-Physicians will offer vaccines to all Albertans 9 years of age and older.  Some physicians may be offering vaccines to children 6 months up to and including 8 years of age as well, please check with your physician’s office

Milo – Public Health will do a clinic on Nov. 17 in Milo by appointment only.  Call 403-485-2285 to make your appointment.

-Arrowwood Pharmacy has Flu shots available Monday-Friday 9-5 and Saturdays 9-2 Call for an appointment.  403-534-3333

 

Employment Opportunities

Need assistance with your Career and Employment Goals?   A Career Coach is available at NO COST In Person – Tuesdays at the Vulcan Municipal Library Appointment is Required. Virtual/Phone appointments available.  1-844-601-2660 www.mcgcareers.com

Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services: 

Temporary Part-time Receptionist/ Office Assistant

Start Date November 4, 2020 until January 15, 2020.  End date may change based on staff leave.

24 hours a week.  $17.00 – $19.00/ hour based on qualifications.  Responsibilities include answering calls and greeting visitors, organizing volunteers, making service referrals, write and edit documents, verify invoices and other general administrative task.  Minimum 2 years of office experience. • MS Office skills. • Attention to detail. • Confidential and professionalism a must. • Clean, current, Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check.  View the full job description at www.vulcanandregionfcss.com    Email: [email protected]

Youth Program Manager 30-37.5 hours/week.  Evenings and weekend work will be required.  Post-secondary degree/diploma in education, social work, or related field.  Minimum 5 years’ experience working directly with children and youth ages 8-18.  Supervise youth, volunteers and staff at the Youth Centre (YC).  Lead the development and implementation of programs, services, activities and events in Vulcan and other communities in Vulcan County.  Act as a resource and advocate for participating youth.  Provide a clean Criminal Record Check Intervention Check and possess a valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.  View the full job description at www.vulcanandregionfcss.com   Email: [email protected]

Casual Relief Worker Position to cover Home Support, and Youth Centre duties.  www.vulcanandregionfcss.com Contact Joan at 403-485-2192

Volker Stevin is hiring snow plough drivers [email protected] or call 403-485-1888

Vulcan Daycare Society is hiring Early Childhood Educators

vulcandaycaresociety.weebly.com/

Canada Post – Postmaster in Champion indeed.ca

– Post Office Assistant in Blackie

County Central High School – Learning Commons Facilitator https://www.pallisersd.ab.ca/

Carol Seaman’s Rise and Shine– Support Staff for Person’s with Developmental Disabilities 403-485-0609

Inclusion Foothills 

Respite Care Provider, Behavioral Assistant, Community Assistant, Developmental Assistant, Job Coachin Vulcan County  **Inclusion Foothills serves as a referral agency only to assist in introducing individuals and/or families and care providers. www.inclusionfoothills.org

Volunteer Opportunities

Wheat Country Special Needs Society ( A Not-for-Profit Society) is looking for Board Members. The Society is a vital part of the fabric of this community, providing services to individuals with Developmental Disabilities for over 30 years.  The Society offers the full spectrum of service including Vocational, Residential and Community Access services. The Board member would be responsible to attend monthly meetings on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7pm. Meetings run about 2 hours. Some committee work is involved.   If interested, please contact Linda Schierman at 403-485-4733.

Learning Opportunities

Online Conference with lots of great sessions for Parents on many interesting topics https://instituteofchildpsychologyconference.com/

  

Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more.  If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.

         -Oprah Winfrey

Social Connection

Excerpt from … Borrowing a Cup of Sugar from a Neighbour Benefits Everyone  ..by Katherine Martinko at treehugger.com

Even though it is easier and cheaper than ever to find what we need without borrowing, BORROW WE MUST. It’s a habit that builds community, fosters connection, counteracts loneliness and incidentally, saves planetary resources. 

Borrowing is also good for your soul, especially when you ask a neighbor for something. It creates an easy opener for conversation, an opportunity for connection, a chance for someone to demonstrate generosity – and you get a task done more easily.  Borrowing, in fact, has little to do with saving money. It’s more about creating a culture of sharing, of investing in the people who live around us, which in turn creates a safer and more cohesive community. It increases the amount of social capital, or our level of connection to others.

Lazarovic writes,  “The more people you feel comfortable asking to borrow sugar, the more likely you are to get the things you want and need out of life. In these increasingly unequal times, what many people lack is social capital.”

I’ve experienced this in my own life. I grew up on a small lake in rural Ontario, surrounded by seasonal neighbors who, over the years, enriched my life in more ways than I can count. We got many a cup of sugar (and eggs and butter) from our closest neighbor, who received a flow of baked goods in return.

But it didn’t stop there. Books, clothes, musical instruments, boats, bicycles, summer jobs, weekends in the city, even my career as a writer can all be traced back to connections made with those neighbors. Only now can I fully appreciate how my parents’ friendliness, openness, and willingness to loan and borrow freely helped build up that social capital, putting us kids at an advantage.

It shouldn’t feel like a chore because these mini connections make us happier. Humans are social creatures, whether we want to admit it or not, and science shows that even small talk boosts our moods. So, the next time you’re craving cookies warm from the oven and are short on sugar, ask a neighbour instead of racing to the store. Then share the cookies with your new friend! It’s a win-win situation.

Make today the day you help yourself.  Give, Share, Support & Do acts of service and kindness for others. Research shows that compassion and volunteering has huge health benefits and create a sense of connection and purpose.

Take care of oneself. Stress is linked to high self-focus and therefore a lower sense of connection. If you are happy from within, you are also more likely to feel connected.

Ask for Help. Research shows that people are willing to help us but if we don’t ask, they assume we don’t need help.

Join a class. It might have to be virtual or in a big space with a small number of people, but you are never too old to learn something new. Join a fitness class is a way of helping you physically but it also helps with your mental wellbeing.

Reach out to those around you today!

The Dangers of LOW Social Connection

* Worse for health than smoking, high blood pressure or obesity

* Higher inflammation at the cellular level

* Higher anxiety and depression

* Slower recovery from disease

* Increased antisocial behavior and violence

* Suicide

The Benefits of HIGH Social Connections

* 50% increased chance of longevity

* Lower rates of anxiety and depression

* Higher self-esteem and empathy

* Better emotion regulation skills

* Social connectivity creates a positive feedback loop of social, emotional, and physical well being

Virtually everyone experiences loneliness from time to time.  Social Connection is the best way to stem the feeling of loneliness.

Social Connection is one of the 4 pillars of cancer prevention.  

 

Local Resources 

Beverley Edwards– Vulcan Community Health Centre

Self referrals welcome. Provides counselling for children ages 6 and over, adolescents, adults and seniors. Phone for an intake appointment.  403-485-3356 FREE

Access to Psychologist and Child Psychiatric Services are available through the Vulcan Medical Clinic 403-485-2216 and the Arrowwood Medical Clinic 587-652-5999.

Rowan House Emergency Shelter Outreach can provide free counselling and will come to Vulcan.  24 hour crisis line 403-652-3311

MUMSPostpartum Peer Support 403-827-6245

Teen and Young Adult Clinic– Tues 2-6pm walk-in PCN Office 103, 303 -9 Ave SW High River Sexual Health can also docounselling 403-652-1654

Vulcan Lionettes Community Connection (Welcome Wagon) –will deliver a welcome bag to anyone new in town.  Call Marg at 403-485-2426 or Joyce at 403-485-6802 to arrange a pick-up or to let them know about someone new to our community.

Wild Rose Community Connections is reaching out 

www.wildrosecommunityconnections.com  Caring Connections Program

Contact us at403 437-4984 Monday – Friday 10:00 – 5:00  or by email at [email protected]   

Caring Connections is an Emotional Safe Spot for anyone feeling disconnected, alone or just need to chat. We hope we can make your day a little bit brighter and help connect you to other resources. We want to hear from you so that we can be here for you! 

 What can you expect from “Caring Connections” 

Individuals –  Check in and have a conversation about how things are going. We can start with a “How’s Your 5”check in: How is your Work, Love, Play, Sleep and Eat going? Then we can go from there and have daily or weekly check ins and chats if you want to continue the conversations.

-Seniors– We can have your groceries delivered to you. We would love to hear your experiences & wisdom and share them on our website.

Families –Parenting is a daily adventure complete with daily challenges. We all need a little help every now and then. We can help get more smiles from the kids!  Nobody’s Perfect-1:1 Parent Support and Groups for parents with children 0 -5 years. Smarter Parenting– Support and strategies for parents of children 3 -18 years to create more harmony in your home.

Service Canada – Support for Canadians, Youth, Businesses and Seniors

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Service-Canada-2020.pdf” title=”Service Canada-2020″] [pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/YOUTH_Service-Canada-2020.pdf” title=”YOUTH_Service Canada 2020″] [pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/SENIORS_Service-Canada.pdf” title=”SENIORS_Service Canada”] [pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/BUSINESSES_Service-Canada-2020.pdf” title=”BUSINESSES_Service Canada 2020″]

Lori Gair
Community Liaison
Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services
Phone: 403-485-2192 ext. 103
Email: [email protected]

Vulcan County Resources- October 2020

Raising a Resilient Child – Workshop with Dr. Robbin Gibb on Brain Development and the Importance of Play. Oct. 13 9-3:30 Lunch Included.

Art and Story Time – Vulcan Lodge Hall for parents with small children. Wednesday’s at 10am. Registration required at 1 877 652 8633

Carmangay Halloween Parade Oct. 31 2pm

Milo Calendar of Events

 

Family Literacy Programs Fall 2020

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Family-Literacy-Programs-Fall-2020.pdf” title=”Family Literacy Programs Fall 2020″]

Circle of Security Parenting Program

 

Family Centre Programs October 2020

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/October-2020-Family-Centre-Programs.pdf” title=”October 2020 Family Centre Programs”]

First Nations Health Consortium Newsletter

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/First-Nations-Health-Consortium-Newsletter-09-2020.pdf” title=”First Nations Health Consortium Newsletter 09-2020″]

Mealtime Struggles and Feeding Your Baby

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Mealtime-Struggles-Feeding-Your-Baby-Fall-Schedule-2020-Posters-Printer.pdf” title=”Mealtime Struggles & Feeding Your Baby Fall Schedule 2020 Posters – Printer”]

 

Other Activities

Milo Fall Spooktacular – Oct. 17 Milo Lions Park 1-3pm

Pickleball – this Saturday morning, north side of the Legion @ 11:00 am!  Let’s hope for great weather, last week outside!  Please bring your own chair, water and wear appropriate footwear!  Last chance for outdoor pickleball for this season!  Come and give it a go!

All of Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society’s programs require registration prior to attending an event.  Please call 403-485-3107 to register or email [email protected]

Program  Dates  Time  Outdoor/Online Venue  Indoor Venue 
Time for Rhymes (Vulcan) Every Friday starting October 16, 2020 10:00 am-11:30 am Allen Subdivision Park The community room in the new wing of the hospital (approx. the end of October)
Time for Rhymes (Carmangay) Every Friday starting October 16, 2020 10:00 am-11:30 am Carmangay Library Park Carmangay Curling Rink
Time for Rhymes (Milo) Every Wednesday starting October 14, 2020 9:30 am-11:00 am Online (Zoom) Milo Library (starting in approx. January)
Time for Rhymes (Champion) Every Thursday starting October 15, 2020 10:00 am -11:30 am Champion Hall Park Champion Hall
Pillowslip Stories November 5, 2020 6:30 pm-8:00 pm N/A Vulcan Legion Branch 21
Animal Tales October 16 to December 18 1:00 pm-2:00 pm N/A Porthos Pet Supplies
Mentorship October 16 3:30 pm-5:00 pm N/A Get-away Youth Centre (FCSS)
Alphabet Soup Every Tuesday 2:00 pm- 3:00 pm Online (Zoom) N/A

 

Getting a COVID-19 test in Vulcan

You can call the Vulcan Hospital if you need a COVID-19 test and you are symptomatic.  They do testing daily at 11:30 in the ambulance bay but you must call 403-485-3333 for an appointment time.  If you would like an asymptomatic test, you must call 811.

Flu Shots look Different this Year Starting October 19

-Influenza Immunizations will be available at many Pharmacies for Adults and Children 5 years old and up.  You must call to book an appointment.

-Public Health will provideInfluenza Immunization for families of children under 5.  Appointments can be booked after Oct.13 by calling the Vulcan Health Unit at 403-485-2284, calling 811 or booking online at https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/influenza/influenza.aspx

(Do not book until Oct. 13)

-Physicians will offer vaccines toall Albertans 9 years of age and older.  Some physicians may be offering vaccines to children 6 months up to and including 8 years of age as well, please check with your physician’s office

Milo and Lomond – As there are no pharmacies in these communities, Public Health will do clinics on Oct. 20 in Lomond and Nov. 17 in Milo by appointment only.  Call 403-485-2285 to make your appointment.

Employment Opportunities

Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services:

Youth Worker –Full time to manage the Youth Centre and provide outreach programming Contact Joan at 403-485-2192

Relief Worker– Casual position to cover home support, reception and youth centre duties.    http://www.vulcanandregionfcss.com/

Vulcan Regional Victims Services Society –Full time Program Manager – Recruits, manages and trains volunteers, provides court support, manages government reporting, works closely with RCMP and covers on-call phone. Details www.vrvss.com Deadline to apply Oct. 13, 2020 [email protected]

Carol Seaman’s Rise and Shine– Support Staff for Person’s with Developmental Disabilities 403-485-0609

Inclusion Foothills 

Respite Care Provider, Behavioral Assistant, Community Assistant, Developmental Assistant, Job Coachin Vulcan County  **Inclusion Foothills serves as a referral agency only to assist in introducing individuals and/or families and care providers. www.inclusionfoothills.org

Indeed.com

Pork Production Technician – Premium Farms

Parts Person – Arman Equipment Sales

Unit Clerk – AHS Vulcan

Child Care Worker – Vulcan Daycare

Food Services Supervisor – A&W

Farm Labor/Sheep Manager – Nolan Farms

Health Care Aide – Extendicare

AHS – Cook Vulcan

 

Interview Skills – Tuesday October 20th – 1:00pm-3:30pm @ Vulcan Municipal Library – MCG Careers

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Interview-Skills-Workshop-Oct.20.2020.pdf” title=”Interview Skills Workshop Oct.20.2020″]

NEW – Resume Scanners? The Who, What, Where, Why & How: Friday October 30th – 9:00am-11:30am VIRTUAL ONLY – via Zoom platform

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/RS-Workshop-Remote-Oct.30.2020-Virtual.pdf” title=”RS Workshop Remote Oct.30.2020 Virtual”]

To ensure everyone’s safety, proper PPE is available and protocols are in place registration is required. 

Keep Calm and Job Search on: Wednesday October 28th – 10:30am-1:00pm @ High River Public Library

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Job-Search-Workshop-Oct.28.2020-HR.pdf” title=”Job Search Workshop Oct.28.2020 HR”]

Volunteer Opportunities

Wheat Country Special Needs Society ( A Not-for-Profit Society) is looking for Board Members. The Society is a vital part of the fabric of this community, providing services to individuals with Developmental Disabilities for over 30 years.  The Society offers the full spectrum of service including Vocational, Residential and Community Access services. The Board member would be responsible to attend monthly meetings on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7pm. Meetings run about 2 hours. Some committee work is involved.   If interested, please contact Linda Schierman at 403-485-4733.

Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services and the Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society are seeking new Board Members.  Meeting are 10 times per year for FCSS and 4 times per year for the Food Bank.  Contact Joan at 403-485-2192.

 

Learning Opportunities

Online Conference with lots of great sessions for Parents on many interesting topics https://instituteofchildpsychologyconference.com/

Institute of Child Psychology 2020 Conference – Children’s Mental Health Conference 2020

was founded to educate parents and professionals on issues pertaining to children’s mental health and to promote the psychological and emotional well-being of children and adolescents.. Our mission is to empower caregivers (i.e., parents, teachers, therapists, social workers, psychologists) by giving them pertinent insights, skills and tools necessary to help children thrive.

instituteofchildpsychologyconference.com

Local Food and Delivery 

-Prairie Perfection Catering is available for small and large events. BBQ Dinner takeout from the Milo Curling Rink by pre-order. 403-485-8461 or email [email protected]

-You can order meals from Southern Alberta Bible Camp  www.sabc.ca/daves-meals/

-Stone Soup Meals are still available, frozen meals for anyone isolated or for frontline staff and first responders.  Nominate someone today, they can be delivered from the Vulcan Regional Food Bank.

-Meals in Minutes delivers meals anywhere in the County.  [email protected]

-Local Fresh Garden Veggies call Geri Budd to order Cell: 403.485.0873

Resources   

Mental Health & Wellness    October 10 is World Mental Health Day

Beverley Edwards – Vulcan Community Health Centre

Self referrals welcome. Provides counselling for children ages 6 and over, adolescents, adults and seniors.  Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.   Phone for an intake appointment.  403-485-3356 FREE

Access to Psychologist and Child Psychiatric Services are available through the Vulcan Medical Clinic 403-485-2216 and the Arrowwood Medical Clinic 587-652-5999.

Rowan House Emergency Shelter Outreach can provide free counselling and will come to Vulcan.  24 hour crisis line 403-652-3311

MUMS – Postpartum Peer Support 403-827-6245

Teen and Young Adult Clinic – Tues 2-6pm walk-in PCN Office 103, 303 -9 Ave SW High River Sexual Health can also do counselling 403-652-1654

 

Thanksgiving is about more than giving thanks one day of the year!

 Giving Thanks in your life can bring you greater health by making a choice to practice gratitude every day.  A growing body of research across multiple fields, shows us that you can create happiness in your life by practicing gratitude.  Even when terrible things happen that are out of your control, if you make an effort to think of things that are still good, it will help you get through each day for the better.  Even small things like, “I am glad my hands still work to write,” or “I’m thankful for food delivery.”  Many people have created a practice through a gratitude journal, through habits like counting gratitude’s instead of sheep, either when you wake up or before you go to sleep, by writing gratitude letters to others, through prayer or giving thanks together at the table.  Practicing gratitude can take time but research shows it can lead to lower levels of depression and even produces changes in our brain.  Give it time, savour little things and enjoy what feeds your soul and you might just see an increased sense of connectedness, enhanced satisfaction with daily life, optimism, and reduced anxiety.

Vulcan Lionettes Community Connection (Welcome Wagon) – will deliver a welcome bag to anyone new in town.  Call Marg at 403-485-2426 or Joyce at 403-485-6802 to arrange a pick-up or to let them know about someone new to our community.

Wild Rose Community Connections is reaching out  

www.wildrosecommunityconnections.com   Caring Connections  Program

Contact us at 403 437-4984  Monday – Friday 10:00 – 5:00   or by email at [email protected]    

Caring Connections is an Emotional Safe Spot for anyone feeling disconnected, alone or just need to chat.  We hope we can make your day a little bit brighter and help connect you to other resources. We want to hear from you so that we can be here for you! 

 What can you expect from “Caring Connections” 

Individuals –   Check in and have a conversation about how things are going. We can start with  a  “How’s Your 5” check in:  How is your Work, Love, Play, Sleep and Eat going?  Then we can go from there and have daily or weekly check ins and chats if you want to continue the conversations.

-Seniors – We have a real soft spot for supporting our seniors in our community.  Join our “Soup for the Soul” club and have a volunteer come for a visit and leave you with some Soup and a Bun (and some other goodies) to enjoy later.  We can also have your groceries delivered to you.  We would love to hear your experiences & wisdom and share them on our website.

Youth – LUNCH in a CRUNCH  Text 403 813-9819 and type in LUNCH.  We will connect with you and let you know where to pick up your free lunch. Available all summer long!

Families – Parenting is a daily adventure complete with daily challenges.  We all need a little help every now and then.  We can help get more smiles from the kids!   Nobody’s Perfect -1:1 Parent Support and Groups for parents with children 0 -5 years.  Smarter Parenting – Support and strategies for parents of children 3 -18 years to create   more harmony in your home.

We know that early experiencesrelationships, and environments matter. The latest science shows us just how much: We now know more clearly than ever how the conditions and environments in which young children develop affect lifelong health as well as brain architecture and early learningPoor nutritionexposure to pollutants, and high levels of family stress associated with poverty, racism, and other forms of economic or social marginalization can all have disruptive effects on the brain and immune, metabolic, and cardiovascular systems. Excessive inflammation in these systems can lead to adult health impairments like diabetes, heart disease, obesity, asthma, and even depression and dementia. We also know that these conditions and the resulting health problems are experienced disproportionately by families of color. The COVID-19 pandemic has made this even more obvious.

We believe the time has arrived for a mindset shift for the early childhood field as part of a broader movement for social change. The brain is indeed connected to the rest of the body—and early childhood policy in the 21st-century must focus on the overwhelming evidence that early experiences affect the foundations of both educational achievement and lifelong physical and mental health.

 

Lori Gair

Community Liaison
Vulcan and Region Family and Community Support Services
Phone: 403-485-2192 ext. 103
Email: [email protected]

 

Vulcan County Resources – September 2020

Employment Opportunities
Food and Delivery News
  • Carmangay has a new restaurant Villages Bistro 403-423-0324
  • Champion has a new coffee/ice cream shop next to the Library Clever Scoops
  • Cosmic Canteen – Is open at the Vulcan Country Inn for supper.\
  • You can order meals from Southern Alberta Bible Camp  www.sabc.ca/daves-meals/
  • Stone Soup Meals are still available, frozen meals from local caterers for frontline staff and first responders.  Nominate someone today, they can be delivered from the Vulcan Regional Food Bank
  • Meals in Minutes delivers meals anywhere in the County.  See the attached menu. (August 2020 Menu)
  • Thursday afternoons – Farmer’s Market at the Vulcan Legion
  • Arrowwood Farmer’s Market – Check the Village Facebook page to find out date and time.
  • Geri Budd delivers fresh produce to Vulcan many afternoons. See the attached list of produce (Spunky Gardener)
  • Champion Pop-Up Market – Sat., Aug. 29th -local artists, crafters & entrepreneurs.  Near the Clever Scoops Ice Cream Shop

 

Early Learning Program – will run a 3 and 4-year-old play based program in Vulcan.  Call your local school in any village to find out registration information for preschool and kindergarten.

Should my Child Attend School?

Tai Chi – Begins Sept. 8. Must register at townofvulcan.ca/recreation or call 403-485-6659

 

Seniors Helping Seniors – For those in need of a helping hand with yard work, minor carpentry, odd jobs around your home let us know. We are there to help those in need.

 

 

 

Service Canada Ready to Help

[pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Service-Canada-Ready-to-help-Businesses.pdf” title=”Service Canada Ready to help Businesses”] [pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Service-Canada-Ready-to-help-Seniors.pdf” title=”Service Canada Ready to help Seniors”] [pdf-embedder url=”https://villageofarrowwood.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Service-Canada-Ready-to-help-Youth.pdf” title=”Service Canada Ready to help Youth”]

 

Tax Information

File your 2019 taxes before September to keep getting your benefit payments

Canadians who receive the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and the Goods and Services Tax (GST/HST) credit need to complete their 2019 tax returns as soon as possible.Filing as soon as possible will ensure you receive the right amount and that your payments continue beyond September 2020.  Unsure about your eligibility to receive the CCB or the GST/HST credit? Please verify your status via My Account or MyBenefits CRA mobile app.

 

Need help filing?  Through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program community organizations are hosting free tax clinics where volunteers file tax returns for those who are eligible. Vulcan and Region FCSS can help you if you have a simple tax return with the Volunteer Tax Program.

File online  If you’re entitled to a tax refund, you will receive it faster when you file online. Use the CRA NETFILE and Refile services or Find a certified tax software you can use to file online, some of which are free.

Payment deadlines  The payment deadline for any tax amount owing on your 2019 income has been extended to September 30, 2020. Late-filing penalties or interests will not be charged if you file your return and make your payment by that date. For more information on the 2019 filing and payment deadline changes, please visit COVID-19: Income tax filing and payment deadlines.

More information and resources

You can find more information on filing your taxes and available benefits and credits:

·         Get ready to do your taxes – Helpful information to start the return filing process

·         Doing Your Taxes  – Step-by-step guide on completing your return

·         Canada child benefit

·         GST/HST credit COVID-19: Benefits, credits and financial support 

More attached posters from Service Canada

-Help for Businesses

-Help for Seniors

-Help for Youth

Krystalowich & Co shared this on Facebook about changes to CERB and EI – See the attached documents.

TRANSITION OF CERB TO EI 

The government has released details on the transition for those on CERB to EI. Special thanks to Video Tax News for providing a breakdown of the changes.   Highlights of the changes include:

– CERB is available up to September 26 and then the transition will commence on September 27

– EI insurable hours reduced to 120 hours in the 52 weeks prior to EI application

– EI minimum benefits increased to $400 weekly

– EI minimum eligible weeks increased to 26 weeks

– Canada Recovery Benefit of $400 for 26 weeks will be available for self-employed individuals and other individuals ineligible for EI

Also, it is noted that those individuals who received CERB through Service Canada may be automatically transitioned to EI, but it is not guaranteed.

The individuals who received CERB through CRA will be required to apply for EI through the usual EI online application process.

 

Donate Locally Today

The Shaw Charity Classic contributes to hundreds of thousands of children and youth across Alberta who rely on charitable organizations for support with literacy, food security, mental wellness, and much more. Organizations like Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society rely on donations and we need your support now more than ever as demand for our services continue to increase. Within the community we provide literacy programs for adult learners and children, and train facilitators to deliver programs throughout Vulcan County.  These programs are extremely beneficial for learners in their everyday lives — 97%of our adult learners demonstrated increased confidence in their skills and98% reported seeing an increase in their literacy and essential skills.

 

Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society and Shaw invite you to #ChipinforKids by texting KIDS158 to 30333 to donate $10 and help us continue to provide barrier-free educational services and literacy resources in our community. To make your generous contribution go further, Shaw will match your donation and the matched donation amount will then be matched again by the Shaw Charity Classic, up to an additional 50 per cent. Your $10 donation can grow into a donation of $30 to Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society.

 

The donations and matched contributions raised through the #ChipinforKids program will help ensure that charities like ours will be able to continue to serve Vulcan County.

If you would like to make a larger contribution to our family literacy programs through the Shaw Charity Classic fundraiser Birdies for Kids click the following link to our page:

https://shawcharityclassic.com/donate/rainbowlit/

We are pleased to announce that we are a Family Resource Network: Spoke #15 for Children’s Services within the High River and Area. Rainbow Literacy and Learning Society also delivers programming through (CALP) – the Community Adult Learning Program. These programs are funded through the Government of Alberta. For more information on our programs and learning opportunities please visit our website: www.rainbowliteracy.com
Helpful Resources

Calgary’s Child Magazine is free and online and always includes great parenting articles.  The September issue includes articles on:

-How to Manage School Anxiety: What Children Need from Us
-Raising a Reader
-How Mindfulness helps Kids Manage Stress
-Mask Wearing for Kids
-The importance of Play in a Digital World

Did you know there is a link between inflammation, child development and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma, and even depression and dementia?  Click on this link to read a very interesting infographic:

https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/what-is-inflammation-and-why-does-it-matter-for-child-development/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=august_2020

 

-Low German Mennonite Community Resource Inventory: Responding to Covid-19 in Southern Alberta – There are number of videos Low German explaining Covid.

 

-Children’s Cottage in Calgary provides respite for parents experiencing high levels of stress or losing patience with a young one at the Crisis Nursery.  It has a 24/7 crisis line 403-233-2272.  They also run Brenda’s House for those looking for housing support if your child is already 18 years old. 403-242-8576. childrenscottage.ab.ca

Text4Hope 

Supporting Mental Health & Wellness in a Time of Stress & Isolation

Feeling stress, anxiety and depression due to the COVID-19 crisis? We can help.

The Mental Health Foundation is supporting a new Alberta Health Services program

 

Text4Hope – a free service providing three months of daily Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)–based text messages written by mental health therapists.

An Alberta-based innovation, Text4Hope is an evidence-based tool that helps people identify and adjust the negative thoughts, feelings and behaviours a pandemic might be expected to provoke.  Through a set of daily messages, people receive advice and encouragement helpful in developing healthy personal coping skills and resiliency.  Community members simply subscribe to receive ongoing supportive content. There is no cost.  The program provides one-way communication and does not replace other mental health therapies and supports. It is a helpful option for people in self-isolation who can’t access face-to-face services, as well as those in remote locations.

How to Connect

Text COVID19HOPE to 393939 to subscribe.

Text4Hope-Addiction Support and Text4Hope-Cancer Care are also available and designed to help Albertans dealing with psychological issues related to addiction and cancer issues. The expanded services are funded by the Mental Health Foundation.

Text Open2Change to 393939 to subscribe to the addiction program.

Text CancerCare to 393939 to subscribe to the cancer program.

 

Some users may be charged per text message depending on their cell phone plan with their current provider. We encourage users to check with their provider. If they are unable to sign-up due to potential costs, we encourage them to visit Help in Tough Times where free resources are available, including variety of mental health related podcasts and videos for download.

Free Audio Meditation – to help you calm your nervous system and refocus your mind on what you can control

 

Information from Alberta Health Services about COVID-19 on Prevention, Wearing Masks, Symptoms and the Difference between Covid-19 and Influenza.  Click on Prevention on the right hand menu.

 

The Art of Motivation- A Guide to helping students avoid drug problems and reach their full potential

Art of motivation is an online resource for administrators, counsellors, teachers and others who want to help students avoid drug problems and other obstacles to reaching their full potential.