From community and cultural events to new CRNs and volunteers, developing resources and delivering educational programs, our Mentors, Coordinators and host organizations have been hard at work and this roundup is jam packed with updates. Here are some of the highlights from around the province.
CRN projects and events
Kitimat CRN and host Tamitik Status of Women, facilitated two events this month. Joining with Second Stage Housing they worked together to provide a safe place to meet and receive guidance on life, culture awareness, resume building, and advocacy, as well as making medicine bags and baking. Pride Prom: 220 people attended a Pride Prom for LGBTQ and allies community, this event was open to all members.
The Nelson CRN together with the Circle of Indigenous Nations Society hosted an intergenerational ribbon skirt making and educational event. Nine participants and two facilitators made 11 colourful skirts and 3 shirts together. While sewing, the participants learned about Indigenous culture and practices to keep people safe and less vulnerable to abuse and neglect.
Powell River CRN prepared 500 Personal Records in Medical Emergency (PRIME) packages for distribution to seniors in the community through a local pharmacy. Wallet cards with agency numbers were included.
Sunshine Coast CRN and Salt Spring Island CRN coordinators teamed up with an information table at a two-day film festival and had the opportunity to address an audience of 200 at a film screening about aging and MAID. The Coordinators talked about CRNs and our mission to stop elder abuse, neglect and self neglect. They were also invited to speak at the Meadowbrook, independent living residence.
Campbell River CRN hosted a Community Education Series, holding 4 learning events to local service groups and the community which resulted in 4 more requests for learning events with service organizations in the future. They went out into the community to create more engagement by reducing the barriers to participation by meeting people in a safe place. Topics included legal and financial advocacy, health resources and adult guardianship.
LOVE Central Island CRN The Improving Safety in Human Services for Sexual and Gender Diverse People project met to identify products and ways to implement a community awareness and education campaign.
Burnaby CRN hosted Healthy Aging and Age with Love events that were attended by 206 attendees. Presentations covered such topics as elder abuse, neglect, the importance of connection, safe transportation, and other community services available in Burnaby.
JQT Seniors Initiative developed a Jewish Queer & Trans Seniors Resource Guide for adults over 55 years old including Jewish Queer and Trans people of all ages. There will also be a series of 8 videos released as part of the social media campaign to spread awareness.
New CRNs with new Coordinators
We are excited to announce the establishment of three new CRNs and introduce the new Coordinators. We look forward to doing good things in these new districts and working with these folks. Please join us in welcoming:
- Bowen Island – Colleen O’Neil
- Ashcroft-Cache Creek – Jessica Clement
- Vanderhoof – Jeannie McGregor
New Coordinators joining existing CRNs
With every season comes a little change. We are always sad to see our volunteers step down from the team and we are grateful for the work they have done. A warm welcome to goes out to some new faces at the following CRNs:
- Chetwynd – Kelsey McFeeters
- South Cariboo – Sally Watson
- Penticton – Gail Mansell
- Vancouver West End – Joe Humphries
- Vancouver Renfrew Collingwood – Anna Hofmarks
Visit our website to learn more about BC CRN or connect with your local CRN for more information or resources.
