Variety in programming for youth of all ages in small rural communities is oftentimes limited, but that’s not the case in Beaverlodge.
Working with local school liaisons, the community youth programming was able to reach a variety of youth with different needs and provided an opportunity to take part in unique classes without having to leave their own community.
Beaverlodge Family and Community Support Services had close to 175 young residents take part in a variety of programs designed especially for them in 2018, all free of charge thanks in part to a grant from the Community Foundation of Northwestern Alberta and the Jeff Toews Memorial Foundation Fund.
“The positive feedback we received really reinforced the need for these programs in our community,” says community programmer Trudy Hodges. “Youth were able to develop new relationships with others as well as build on their self esteem and emotional wellness,” she adds. “During the card making class the youth made thank you cards for our annual volunteer recognition event. This was a very special opportunity for the youth to learn about volunteerism and give back to their community.”
“Our future goals are to continue to offer accessible and affordable youth programming in our rural community.”
The Jeff Toews Memorial Foundation Fund was created at the Foundation in memory of Jeff who passed away in 2007. The creation of the fund, by the Toews family, was put in place to remember Jeff. Jeff was a giver. Whether on the field of sport, in the work environment or with family and friends; that is his legacy. And with the creation of this fund, Jeff will live on in the hopes and dreams of others.
You can make a difference in our community – not only for today but forever. When you make a donation to the Jeff Toews Memorial Foundation Fund, we invest that gift into a permanent endowment fund and the original gift is never spent. Earnings from your gift are distributed in our community to support all needs in the community. Donations can be made online here – https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/47037 or by calling the Community Foundation at (780) 538-2820.
