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What is The Social Planning Council?

Activities:

o Monthly Meetings: Attend meetings with guest speakers from within the community &/or presentations at each meeting. We currently meet the fourth Monday of every month (excluding summer) at City Hall with light lunch by donation.

o Facebook & Email Group: Utilize the network on Facebook. Start discussions, learn about & share upcoming community events, projects and meetings. If you don’t use Facebook, then join the email network instead.

o Inform City Council: The SPC provides reports to City Council regularly and the City keeps the SPC informed. Use the network and have your voices heard.



Strategic Direction of the Social Planning Council of Williams Lake & Area:

o Poverty Reduction and the local Living Wage Campaign.

o Community Collaboration and Networking.

o Retention and Succession of residents within the Area.



Community Social Planning:

o Supports communities in building an integrated approach to complex problems that take into account social, economic, and environmental concerns.

o Maximizes the effectiveness of often scarce resources by working to reduce duplication, overlap and competition.

o Provides an ongoing forum for communication, coordination and conflict resolution.



Thursday, February 28, 2013

Jan 28/13 Meeting Minutes

SPC Monthly Meeting Minutes
Jan 28, 2013 - 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Location: GLASS SLIPPERS BOUTIQUE
In attendance (from sign-in sheet): Coleen Onofrechuk, Cody Slinn, Leah Selk, Claudine Kadonaga, Rosanna McGregor, Melissa Newberry, Sue Peterson, Veronica Berg, Alison Barr, Judy O’Neill, Bruce Mack, Jan Fichtner, Carla Bullinger, Krista Niquidet, Anne Burrill, Sharon Taylor, Jay Goddard, Monica Johnson, Shannon Thom and Jessica Knodel.

Accept Mins & Agenda

Review meeting minutes from Nov 26, 2012
Review the agenda for Jan 28, 2013 meeting, and
Sue Peterson & Jay Goddard will introduce a new TRU Transitions Service Learning Project.


Transitions Service Learning Project

Sue Peterson with TRU students Alison Barr and Veronica Borg introduce their Transitions Service Learning Project:

Sue Peterson is supervising a student project out of TRU by students Alison Barr and Veronica Borg to help mitigate the challenges that people who have previously been in care face when their care ends. Many people “in transition” do not have all the skills/experience required to function completely independently in society, yet there is a large gap in services available to them during their transition.

Examples of where these youth often need help with during transition are: where to find resources, how to file tax returns, how to make down payments for utilities, where to get a Medical Services Plan CareCard, etc.

If you have any input or ideas on this subject, or want to get involved, or even just speak to the leaders of this project please contact the team: Sue Peterson Sue@lumen.ca, Alison Barr ajbarr123@live.com, and Veronica Borg Veronicaborg@shaw.ca.

Discussions that followed:

One direction of the school project is to advocate for the creation of a resources book that youth can carry around with them (Langley has a “Black book”). A phone app was also suggested (as most youth carry cell phones).

Melissa from United Way spoke to one of the youth initiative grant that was awarded as a great link to this project’s vision. It is the “Keystone Pamphlet”/guide by youth for youth. Access Williams Lake is another resource database that can help.
Carla spoke of the financial literacy programs offered by the CCPL as a program that can help people in transition.

Rosanna notes that the Friendship Society helps people in transition and two common themes include: how to make a down payment for utilities, and how to be a responsible tenant.

Coordinator Report – Jan 2013

1) United Way Funding: We are happy to officially announce the United Way TNC’s Community Impact Council has granted the Social Planning Council of Williams Lake $8500 in operational funding for the 2012 – 2013. There was a celebration ceremony at the Williams Lake & District Credit Union on Friday Jan 25th with the Community Partners where the media came and took pictures with the large group cheque for $97,000 which was the money raised and invested back into our community by the United Way.

2) Board Executive positions: After the Nov 26 meeting, Jay Goddard allowed his name to stand as Chair. Rosanna McGregor allowed her name to stand as Treasurer. Not all Board members were able to attend this meeting, so the other positions will be discussed at the next Board meeting (to be held at 1pm Jan 28 after the monthly meeting).


3) Monthly Meeting Schedule: Jan – October 2013

Reminder emails will be sent out prior to the meetings with a confirmed location and agenda.

Monday Feb 25/13 – 11:30 am – 1 pm – Living Wage & Poverty Reduction – Location TBA

Monday Mar 25/13 – 11:30 am – 1 pm – Succession & Retention – Location TBA

Monday Apr 22/13 – 11:30 am – 1 pm – Community Collaboration – Location TBA

Monday May 27/13 – 11:30 am – 1 pm – Living Wage & Poverty Reduction – Location TBA

Monday Jun 24/13 – 11:30 am – 1 pm – Succession & Retention – Location TBA

Monday Sept 23/13 – 11:30 am – 1 pm – Community Collaboration – Location TBA

Annual General Meeting – October 2013 – date, time and location TBA
4) Webpage and Facebook Update: Based on the latest stats from the SPC webpage since July of 2012, we are receiving between 350 – 500 visits a week in response to our weekly community updates. This significant increase appears linked to the creation of our Facebook page last year which expanded the SPC’s audience. These weekly emails are also being shared with the media, and most notably, the www.welcometowilliamslake.ca online newspaper has been sharing this information in the SPC updates to their large readership (approx 4000 people are viewing their site at any time). Continue to send your updates for distribution, and share this valuable resource with others.

5) Membership Reminder – Thank you to those who have renewed their SPC Membership for the 2012 – 2013 year. For those of you who need another form, or more information please send an email to spc-coordinator@xplornet.com or call 250-243-2126. Memberships are greatly appreciated to help support the council, but everyone (regardless of membership) is always welcome at the table.

Community Collaboration
1) Overview of what came out of the AGM: See handouts and/or visit http://socialplanningcouncil.blogspot.ca or email the SPC

2) Highlight successful Community Collaboration Projects

a) The Glass Slippers Boutique:

Like the SPC table, Communities that Care (CTC) Community Board is a collaborative group where ideas float around the table, and last January Lora Fairbrother identified the need for the Glass Slippers Boutique to reopen after being unavailable for years due to space and capacity. Lora identified this need at the table and within a few months the boutique was up and running and available in time for graduation.

The Glass Slippers Boutique needed a “home”, resources, volunteers and renewed energy – and our community members responded.

At the SPC table, Danica Hughes heard about the Glass Slippers project and thought of a potential space that could be used. After pursing this idea, the owner of the building where Haines Office World is, donated the space above Haines for 5 years lease free. The boutique contributes to the utilities and the building space is no longer empty = win win for everyone.
Other community organizations pitched in – Mirrors and racks were donated by local businesses, the United Way’s Youth Grant funds contributed to the setup and repairs of the location, Skyline also helped with repairs and donations of dresses started arriving from within WL and other parts of BC. Elementary students helped create the table artwork, and volunteers helped the day of with hair and makeup.
There is a “wish list” for the boutique and it can be found on the Boys & Girls Club website. Mens tuxedos and suits are also needed and donations can be dropped off anytime to the B&G Club.

Now this program is in full swing (served more than 60 grads last year), and the space is also made available as a community board room for organizations that need meeting space.

b) Youth drop-in centre at the Library:

Caroline Derkson noticed a trend outside the Library – Many youth have been using it as a “hang out” spot. This got the group talking and this “potential problem” was creatively solved by asking the youth themselves to help plan activities rather than just “hanging”. This has lead to youth nights at the Library = win win for everyone.

3) Summary – this is “how it happens”.

When people and organizations come together amazing results are the outcome. The right people at the table makes all the difference and this networking process needs to be nurtured, celebrated and continued.

Discuss next steps: What areas in our community would benefit from increased community collaboration, how can we help this process continue; Invite people you know who would benefit from increased collaboration – bring ideas and people to the table. Celebrate successful collaboration efforts.
Inviting new people to the table is also very important from a “Succession and Retention” viewpoint. As Rosanna points out, many very involved people will eventually be retiring and that new fresh faces are faces of the future.

When people have a connection to a collaborative group, there is greater success and less “drop off” happens.

And participating goes further than just attending meetings. Many people who cannot attend meetings can still be involved via this networking. In addition to meetings – a) highlight the meetings direction each month, b) community updates, and celebrate collaborative works in progress, c) support each other via social media (LIKES), d) encourage increased involvement – if you find information useful – pass it on., and e) extend an open invitation for ideas.
Roundtable Updates

Roundtable updates from around the community are sent out via the weekly community updates. Some additional information not sent out by email include:
Deb Radolla – Recreation Services – they are happy to be back at our table as it gives them a pulse about what the community needs.

Danica Hughes– City Council - it is always very encouraging to sit at this table.

Melissa Newberry – United Way – Youth Initiative grants have been awarded. The UW received 21 applications and they were able to fund 7 (three of which are in WL – Keystone Pamphlet, Youth Drop in Centre, and Street Party. Melissa was happy to note that all of these projects have some connections to this table.

Bruce Mack - CCPL – the Reach a Reader campaign last week was a huge success. Thank-you everyone who supported the cause. Volunteers are always needed so please contact the CCPL for more info on how to get involved.

Carla Bullinger – CTC & CCPL – The CTC has brought the Positive Action Program to 22 schools (in 2010 when the project began there were only 3. Carla is always available to talk to new groups and organizations. Everyone is encouraged to get involved.

Monica Johnson – Boys & Girls Club – The National Youth Conference this year is in Kamloops which means they can send more people (last year it was back east). Monica also mentioned that she will be leaving the Boys & Girls Club in April, but that she will continue her work with the SPC and on the local Living Wage campaign.

Meeting adjourned – the next meeting (Living Wage) will be held on Feb 25/13, from 11:30 am – 1 pm, location TBA.

Friday, February 22, 2013

Community Updates – Feb 22, 2013

Community Updates – Feb 22, 2013

1) SPC Monthly Meeting Reminder – THE LIVING WAGE – Mon Feb 25 11:30 am at the LIBRARY (parking lot entrance).

Join us on Monday Feb 25th at 11:30 am (light lunch provided) at the Library for the SPC’s “A Living Wage” Meeting.

A Living Wage is the minimum income for each wage earner in a 2-income family of four. It’s the hourly wage that would allow a family to cover rent, groceries, child care, health and dental care, clothes, etc.; the basic necessities to live a decent, healthy life.


For your review, last month’s meeting minutes will be available at the meeting, and subsequently online at http://socialplanningcouncil.blogspot.ca/


2) Williams Lake Food Policy Council Update - Cody Slinn

a) FOOD POLICY COUNCIL QUARTERLY MEETING - OUR NEW 3 YEAR ACTION PLAN!!!


The WLFPC will be holding its quarterly meeting this month, where we'll be discussing our new 3 year plan. This is a GREAT opportunity to see where and how you or your group/organization/business might want to get involved or collaborate with the FPC.


WHERE: Community Board Room (Corner of 3rd and Oliver, between the Cariboo Growers Coop and the BIA, across from Subway/KFC)
DATE: Wednesday, February 27th
TIME: 1-2:15 pm


b) URBAN CHICKENS AND BEES IN WILLIAMS LAKE


The Williams Lake Food Policy Council is currently getting ready to present a delegation to the WL City Council (in collaboration with the Potato House and other organizations) regarding the issue of amending bylaws to allow urban chickens and bees in backyards within the city (with restrictions, of course), and we are hoping to present within the next month or two.


Meanwhile, it's come to my attention that a WL resident has started a petition to raise awareness about the issue and gather support for the idea. As best I can tell, it gathered over 75 signatures in its first week! However, the more names, the louder the message will be heard.


So... please consider 'signing' the petition, here:


http://www.avaaz.org/en/petition/Allow_Urban_Chickens_and_Bees_in_Williams_Lake/?fwAnHab (and don't forget to forward the link to friends, and/or post the link on Facebook (both options done with a clink from the petition website, above).


3) Media Release – City of Williams Lake

The Unionized employees of the City of Williams Lake are still on strike.

“An essential service order remains in place. The Airport will continue its normal operations. The RCMP may have somewhat restricted counter service but will otherwise continue to provide normal services. All activities at the Cariboo Memorial Sports Complex are cancelled. City Hall will continue to provide reduced service from 8:30am to 4:30pm.”


For more information, contact:
Ashley Williston
Manager of Human Resources
250-392-2311


4) Boys & Girls Club’s Youth Coffeehouse Arts Event - “Singing Out Loud” Feb 28th

Sponsored by the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society, this event features music, art and more – by local youth for the community.

Feb 28/13 – 7 – 10 pm
Everyone welcome
No charge
Snacks & beverages provided


Location – Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society (CCACS) 90 - 4th Ave N., Williams Lake (the Old Fire Hall).


For more information visit the Boys & Girls Club website at www.bgcwilliamslake.com or call 250-392-5730.


5) UBC Aboriginal Youth Learning Circle’s "HIV 101" Presented by Jessica St. Jean from YouthCO on Thursday, February 28


Join the UBC Aboriginal Youth Learning Circle on Thursday, February 28 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for an exciting and interactive online session with YouthCO HIV and Hep C Community Outreach! Jessica St. Jean, Program Manager of YouthCO's Aboriginal Youth Program will be presenting up-to-date, non-judgmental information which is key to keeping youth healthy. In this workshop we will explore stereotyping, social determinants of health, testing, prevention and much more!

Date: February 28, 2013
Time: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Place: Attend by video conference OR online via Adobe Connect (for computers)
Topic: "HIV 101"
Registration*: http://learningcircle.ubc.ca/youth/registration/


*Pre-registration is required to attend: 1) You can join this interactive, online presentation via videoconference or, 2) You can participate online via Adobe Connect from the convenience of your office, school, or home computer.


The Youth Circle is oriented towards Aboriginal youth aged 12 to 29 throughout BC. There are approximately two Youth Circles per month. The Circle gives young Aboriginal people a place to express themselves, to be entertained and to learn and teach others about what’s going on and what they want to do in their communities.


6) Enterprising Non-Profit Workshop in Williams Lake – Mar 6/13 from 6 – 8 pm


United Way Thompson Nicola Cariboo and the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society are partnering to present an Enterprising Non-Profit Workshop in Williams Lake. David le Page of ENP will be presenting an information session to Arts Groups on Wednesday March 6th from 6pm-8pm. The full day workshop will take place the following day, Thursday March 7th from 9am to 3pm. If you wish to apply for any ENP funding, attendance at the full day workshop will be required.


“This is your opportunity to learn about social enterprise – a tool for supporting healthy communities, creating supported employment/training opportunities, and financial sustainability for non-profit organizations.”

There will be 15 spaces available at the information session for Arts Groups and if you wish to attend please contact Leah at the CCACS (info@centralcaribooarts.com) so that she can register you for the session. For more information on ENP please visit the website at www.enterprisingnonprofits.ca. If registrants would like further explanation about this workshop, please contact Melissa at melissa@unitedwaytnc.ca.

7) CTC’s Positive Action Word of the Week

The Positive Action Word of the Week is: Love – to show unconditional caring.


For more information please contact: Carla Bullinger, Facilitator, Communities that Care, comthatcares@sd27.bc.ca or 250-267-8249.


8) The Williams Lake Field Naturalists present a FREE public talk - Tales of Toiling for Turtles on Wed Mar 6/13 at 7 pm


Background: In 2012 Williams Lake resident Roy Argue volunteered for 2 months in Uruguay with Karumbe, an organization consisting of passionate locals, fishermen, researchers and foreign volunteers attempting to take some of the pressure off local populations. Roy will share pictures and stories of his work in La Coronilla, Uruguay, 22 km south of the Brazilian border.

9) YOU ARE INVITED! Embracing our Diversity – Mar 12/13 - A one day FREE forum on Building an Inclusive Community


This interactive forum will use an arts-based process to explore community issues and experiences around multiculturalism and inclusion.

Tuesday March 12, 2013
9 am to 4 pm (door open at 8:30)
Central Cariboo Arts Centre (old Fire Hall)
Lunch provided


Hosted by: the Fraser Basin Council, Canadian Mental Health Association, City of Williams Lake, Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society and PeerNet BC


Come and learn more about the Williams Lake Celebrating Diversity Mural Project.


Funding for this initiative provided by the BC Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training; EmbraceBC Arts Engagement Program.

For more information and to register for this FREE event, contact Gail Lucier, Fraser Basin Council, 250 392 1400 or glucier@fraserbasin.bc.ca


10) Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex Free Skate


Free Skate – Sponsored by Canadian Tire on Sunday Mar 3rd from 2:45 pm – 4:15 pm. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Food Bank. For more info please contact the Cariboo Recreation Memorial Complex at 250-398-7665


11) Reminder – next Wednesday, Feb 27th is PINK SHIRT DAY


This anti-bullying day of awareness takes place on Feb 27 – show your support and take a stand against bullying by wearing a pink shirt next Wednesday.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Community Updates – Feb 15, 2013

Community Updates – Feb 15, 2013


1) From the City of Williams Lake


a) Accessibility Award of Merit Nominations Now Being Accepted

The mission of the City of Williams Lake Accessibility Advisory Committee is to remove physical and social barriers which impede the full participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of community life. The committee would like to invite the public to nominate individuals, groups or businesses that have made a significant contribution to improve accessibility within the City of Williams Lake.


More information, eligibility criteria & nomination forms visit www.williamslake.ca - Nomination form can be completed and forwarded to the Williams Lake Advisory Committee:


Williams Lake Accessibility Advisory Committee
c/o Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex
525 Proctor Street, Williams Lake, BC V2G 4J1
Email: acail@williamslake.ca
Fax: 250-398-788


Application deadline is May 3, 2013. Awards will be announced during Access Awareness Day on Saturday June 1, 2013. For more information please contact Deborah Radolla at 250-392-1788.


b) Celebrate Heritage Week Feb 18-24

Williams Lake - Williams Lake City Council has proclaimed the week of Feb. 18-24, 2013 as Heritage Week in the City. This year’s Heritage Week theme is Good Neighbours: Heritage Homes and Neighbourhoods.


To celebrate Heritage Week and to promote the city’s historic sites and buildings, the Heritage Advisory Committee will offer a walking tour on Feb. 19 at 1 p.m. Join Heritage Committee members for a one-hour walk downtown and around the Stampede Grounds to learn about buildings and sites of historical significance in the downtown area in the neighbourhood.


The City of Williams Lake Heritage Advisory Committee and the Cariboo Regional District’s Heritage Committee have teamed up to bring a number of speakers together for a moderated, conversational event called “Heritage Circles”. The event takes place Feb. 23 from 1-5 p.m., at the Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin located at 113 Fourth Ave. N. Attendants are encouraged to bring personal stories about growing up in the area to share.


The City of Williams Lake Heritage Advisory Committee will also be launching its Memory Map: A Project to Build A collective Memory of the Past.


So much history is stored in boxes and old photo albums. Many stories are untold about the history of our City and region, and how we got to where we are today. Do you have photos you’d like to share? Artifacts you think are important to our history? We not only want to hear from you, we want to see what you’ve got! Take a picture of an old tool or piece of machinery; show us a copy of an old letter. Log in, write us, or put it on the map! The Williams Lake memory map will be touring the community over the next few months and we want to see what you can find.


For more information about all events, please contact Chris Hutton, Planning Technician at (250) 392.1770, e-mail at heritage@williamslake.ca; or check us out on Facebook by liking our page: “Williams Lake Heritage Advisory Committee.”


c) Upcoming dates

Chamber of Commerce Week is Feb 18-23, 2013
Heritage Week is Feb 18-24, 2013
Rotary Day is Feb 23, 2013


2) Transitions Project – out of TRU


Sue Peterson is supervising a student project out of TRU by students Alison Barr and Veronica Borg to help mitigate the challenges that people who have previously been in care face when their care ends. Many people “in transition” do not have the skill set to function independently in society, yet have no choice because their care is ending and there is little support for them. If you have any input or ideas on this subject, or want to get involved, or even just speak to the leaders of this project please contact the team: Sue Peterson Sue@lumen.ca, Alison Barr ajbarr123@live.com, and Veronica Borg Veronicaborg@shaw.ca.


3) Updates from the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society (CCACS)


a) GRANT WRITING WORKSHOP - For those who missed or weren't able to attend the workshop, you may find Dr. Kelsey's article "Grant Getting: A Different Sort of Art" very useful. Pick up a copy at the CCACS office at the Central Cariboo Arts Centre, request a pdf from info@centralcaribooarts.com, or read it online at http://www.artsbc.org/resources/for-organizations/grants-and-fundraising.


b) February Newsletter is available to read online at http://www.centralcaribooarts.com/news/ccacs-newsletters.html


In this month’s Edition:

EVENTS & LOCAL NEWS
CCACS Grants 2013
Arts and Culture Organization Listings: Request for information update
Enterprising Non-Profits Workshop in Williams Lake
Gift to the Central Cariboo Arts Centre


FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Canadian Arts Training
BC Creative Communities Program
Building Communities through Arts and Heritage
Governance Essentials Scholarship
Western Diversification Program
Inter-Action: Multiculturalism Grants and Contributions Funding
The History Education Network
EmbraceBC: Multiculturalism Grants and Funding
Community Futures Regional Contributions
Cariboo Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition

WORKSHOPS for ARTISTS and ORGANIZATIONS
Children's Art Classes
Exploring Music with Angelkeys:
Innovative Music Instruction for All Ages with Angela Sommer
Square Dancing for Beginners
Art is Your Business
Workshops within Organizations


OPPORTUNITIES & CALLS FOR...
Call for Submissions (Station House Gallery)
Call for Performers (Arts on the Fly)
Call for Vendors and Entertainers
Call For Actors
An invitation to join the Williams Lake Writers Group
Seeking Volunteers
What is the future of Follies?
An invitation to join the Williams Lake Community Band


OTHER ARTS NEWS
B.C. Liberals announce $6.25M to support 'creative minds'
Arts Research Monitor: The Arts and Individual Well-Being in Canada
Aboriginal Experiences Create the Best BC Moments
Culture continues to drive Ontario tourism: Report
Harper Government Supports Private Sector Investment in the Arts

For more information contact CCACS Coordinator Leah Selk at:

Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society
90 Fourth Avenue North, Williams Lake, BC V2G 2C6
Telephone: 778-412-9044
Email: info@centralcaribooarts.com
http://www.facebook.com/CentralCaribooArts


4) Boys & Girls Club – Executive Director’s Position

The Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing high quality programs and services to the youth and families of Williams Lake. We help young people learn the skills they need to grow into happy and healthy adults.

The Opportunity: Do you have a passion for working with youth so they can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and life skills? Do you pride yourself on your ability to build strong relationships across a wide spectrum of stakeholders within your community? Do you have a proven track record of implementing creative and effective fundraising campaigns as well as strong financial management skills? Are you a strong team builder recognized for your success in effectively managing non-profits, ideally with organizations serving youth? If so, we would like to hear from you.

Visit http://www.bgcwilliamslake.com/content.asp?DocId=6 for job description and more information. Deadline is no later than March 8th, 2013


5) Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex Free Events


Free Skate – Sponsored by Oliver & Co. on Sunday Feb 17th from 2:45 pm – 4:15 pm. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Food Bank.


Free Skate – Sponsored by Canadian Tire on Sunday Mar 3rd from 2:45 pm – 4:15 pm. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Food Bank.


*All free events are advertised under the FREE events tab on the www.activewilliamslake.ca website. For more info please contact the Cariboo Recreation Memorial Complex at 250-398-7665


6) Reminders:


a) Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy (CCPL) is proud to bring you Family Fest 2013 on Feb 17th

It’s fun & free – everyone welcome from 10 – 2 pm at the Marie Sharpe School Gym (260 Cameron Street). Enjoy: Games, crafts, puppet shows & music, story-telling and educational activities, free snacks, free books, face painting, door prizes, photos with “Sir Read A Lot” the Literate Moose, and more. Book Swap: If you have any, please bring along your gently used books to swap.


b) Be a Citizen Scientist! - Sat Feb 16 from 1-3


This is the 16th year that Cornell University has been collecting data on back yard birds, and our local data will be added to their international checklist. Scout Island is hosting a family event Saturday Feb 16 from 1 – 3 pm at Scout Island Nature Centre. All families are welcome; kids need to bring an adult. For more info call 250-398-8532.

c) Make some noise against bullying – Pink Shirt Day Feb 27th

This February 27, 2013 we encourage all of you to wear something pink to symbolize that we as a society will not tolerate bullying anywhere.


Visit http://www.pinkshirtday.ca/2013/02/06/our-2013-tv-commercial/ for more information and join the Facebook event by visiting facebook.com/pinkshirtday


T-Shirts Now Available: 1) visit www.pinkshirtday.ca (proceeds go towards the Boys & Girls Clubs) and 2) NOTE - The Cariboo Friendship Society also had some t-shirts printed (including larger sizes) and are available for $5


d) FREE SCREENING EVENT – The Vanishing Point Wednesday Feb 20th 7:00pm

Location - Williams Lake Longhouse on Stampede grounds, access from Pinchbeck Street

Friday, February 8, 2013

Community Updates – Feb 8, 2013

Community Updates – Feb 8, 2013
1) Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy (CCPL) is proud to bring you Family Fest 2013 on Feb 17th


It’s fun & free – everyone welcome from 10 – 2 pm at the Marie Sharpe School Gym (260 Cameron Street). Sponsored by Success By 6, and supported by many community partners, enjoy: Games, crafts, puppet shows & music, story-telling and educational activities, free snacks, free books, face painting, door prizes, photos with “Sir Read A Lot” the Literate Moose, and more.


Book Swap: If you have any, please bring along your gently used books to swap.

Posters to put up are available by emailing Kirsten Stark at literacyoutreachworker@gmail.com

2) Be a Citizen Scientist! - Sat Feb 16 from 1-3


This is the 16th year that Cornell University has been collecting data on back yard birds, and our local data will be added to their international checklist. Scout Island is hosting a family event to teach us how to collect local data and recognize the birds we see on a nature walk. This free outdoor event is open to all families, and it’ll be an exciting way to help create a real-time snapshot of where the birds are around the world. This project is another collaboration between the Williams Lake Field Naturalists and the BC Young Naturalists’ Club.


Cathy Koot will lead a birding walk and observe birds at the feeder with you and Environmental Educator Julianne Trelenberg. Our data will be added to Cornell University’s international checklist. Then we’ll do an origami craft to explore beak size and function. All families are welcome; kids need to bring an adult


Saturday, Feb 16 1-3 pm
Scout Island Nature Centre
Info: 398-8532


3) Enterprising Non-Profit Workshop in Williams Lake – Mar 6/13 from 6 – 8 pm


United Way Thompson Nicola Cariboo and the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society are partnering to present an Enterprising Non-Profit Workshop in Williams Lake. David le Page of ENP will be presenting an information session to Arts Groups on Wednesday March 6th from 6pm-8pm. The full day workshop will take place the following day, Thursday March 7th from 9am to 3pm. If you wish to apply for any ENP funding, attendance at the full day workshop will be required.

“This is your opportunity to learn about social enterprise – a tool for supporting healthy communities, creating supported employment/training opportunities, and financial sustainability for non-profit organizations.”


There will be 15 spaces available at the information session for Arts Groups and if you wish to attend please contact Leah at the CCACS (info@centralcaribooarts.com) so that she can register you for the session. For more information on ENP please visit the website at www.enterprisingnonprofits.ca. If registrants would like further explanation about this workshop, please contact Melissa at melissa@unitedwaytnc.ca.


4) CTC’s Positive Action Word of the Week


The Positive Action Word of the Week is:


Friendship – Caring between two people who choose to be together.


For more information please contact*:


Carla Bullinger, Facilitator
Communities that Care
Williams Lake, BC
email: comthatcares@sd27.bc.ca
cell: 250-267-8249

*The next CTC Community Board meeting is on Tuesday Feb 12th from 1:00-3:00 in the library meeting room. (contact Carla for more information about how to get involved).


5) Make some noise against bullying – Pink Shirt Day Feb 27th


This February 27, 2013 we encourage all of you to wear something pink to symbolize that we as a society will not tolerate bullying anywhere. Pink Shirt Day is your chance to stand up against bullying which is a major problem in our schools, workplaces, homes, and over the Internet.


Visit http://www.pinkshirtday.ca/2013/02/06/our-2013-tv-commercial/ for more information including how to purchase your pink shirt to show your support. Also, join the Facebook event by visiting http://www.facebook.com/pinkshirtday (last year over 160,000 people committed on Facebook to wear pink and help stop bullying).


Your Support/Participation Helps the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Vancouver Target Bullying:

Every day at Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Vancouver, where no one is ever turned away because of an inability to pay, children and youth get the help they need to learn to develop positive relationships—with peers, family, teachers and the community at large. We know that countless children are at risk of spending their out of school hours alone, left to their own devices and/or vulnerable to the influences of unsupervised street-based activities. Our mission is to provide a good place to be—regardless of their circumstances—for kids during their out of school hours.

Many people believe, likely because they experienced it themselves, that bullying is a “rite of passage” for kids—required in order to deal with the tough realities of life. At Boys and Girls Clubs, we know that victims of bullying, witnesses of bullying and bullies themselves all experience the very real and long term negative impacts of bullying regardless of its forms—physical, verbal, written or on-line (cyber-bullying). We also know that there are constructive and supportive ways to develop skills to prevent bullying and to thrive. And, we know that by developing those skills in a supportive environment, the emotional and psychological scars from bullying that haunt and shape people’s futures can be avoided.

Boys and Girls Clubs programs foster self esteem, social engagement, academic success, inclusion, acceptance, respect for self and others, and connection to community—all of which are key elements of bullying prevention. Boys and Girls Clubs proudly participate in Pink Shirt Day because it promotes awareness, understanding and openness about the problem and a shared commitment to a solution. BGCGV relies heavily on community support to deliver our daily Club programs. Supporting Pink Shirt Day supports everyone who has experienced bullying as well as Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Vancouver’s anti-bullying programs.

2013 T-Shirts Now Available: 1) visit www.pinkshirtday.ca, 2) NOTE - The Cariboo Friendship Society also had some t-shirts printed (including larger sizes) and are available for $5

6) Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex Free Events

Free Skate – Sponsored by Oliver & Co. on Sunday Feb 17th from 2:45 pm – 4:15 pm. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Food Bank.


Free Skate – Sponsored by Canadian Tire on Sunday Mar 3rd from 2:45 pm – 4:15 pm. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Food Bank.


*All free events are advertised under the FREE events tab on the www.activewilliamslake.ca website. Feel free to print off posters to display throughout town. For more info please contact the Cariboo Recreation Memorial Complex at 250-398-7665


7) KidSport of Williams Lake & District – information and Chapter Involvement


Mission: KidSport of Williams Lake & District is a non-profit organization that is part of a national and provincial network of community based volunteer groups whose goal it is to ensure that all kids in need have access to the positive experience of sport and physical activity. We believe that sport and physical activity provides life-long opportunity for self-expression, goal setting, dedication, and positive-thinking and increased self-confidence for kids.

We achieve our mission by: 1) Facilitating the acquisition of funds from existing and new community events that have the capacity to generate resources for KidSport of Williams Lake & District., 2) Developing partnerships with individuals, organizations and foundations whose philanthropic objectives match with those of KidSport of Williams Lake & District, 3) Communicating the opportunity for physical activity and sport program funding for financially disadvantaged families, and 4) Demonstrating the value of gender equity in our organizational structure and in the allocation of resources.

Values: 1. Kids are important, 2. Fairness and equity, 3. Sport is a positive life choice, 4. Defendable decisions, 5. Dignity, 6. Ethnic diversity, 7. Security, 8. Respect, 9. Inclusions/inclusiveness, 10. Equity, 11. Flexibility & opportunity, 12. Honesty, 13. Gender equity when allocating resources, 14. Leader in the community regarding “equity”, 15. Proactive, and 16. Value and celebrate volunteerism.

KidSport provides funds to cover the costs of sport registration for kids who might not otherwise get the chance to play sports. The statistics are clear: a child involved in sport is likely to be a better student, is less likely to be a burden to the social justice system and will develop life-long physical activity habits which reduce health care costs. The benefits to the child are immeasurable.


This local Chapter is run by Volunteers and is always looking for more citizens to get involved at the committee level. For more information on how you can help or how to register a child or youth, please contact Deb Radolla at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex at 250-398-7665 or visit www.activewilliamslake.com/files/8/KSF%202010%20Application%20Form%20Williams%20Lake.pdf

8) Tax Information Session for Immigrants – Tuesday Feb 12/13 from 7 – 8:30 pm.

This FREE information session about filing Canadian tax returns will answer questions about tax deductions, RESPs, and the best savings plan for you and your family. All New Canadians are welcome. Led by Susan Nelson, IMSS and Debbie Seland, Quality Tax Service. Session is being held at the IMSS Centre, 118C North First Avenue, Williams Lake.


Learn more about Welcome WL projects and ways you can get involved by going to our Facebook page: Welcome WL (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Welcome-WL/140988839389257)


9) FREE SCREENING EVENT - Wednesday Feb 20th 7:00pm


Location - Williams Lake Longhouse on Stampede grounds, access from Pinchbeck Street


Directed by Stephen A. Smith and Julia Szucs: A dog team pulls an Inughuit family across the vast sea ice of Greenland. But with the terrain melting beneath them, the dogs break through the surface, plunging into frigid polar waters. Navarana, an elder and one of the passengers on this sled, is coming to terms with the unprecedented changes facing all Arctic peoples. In the 1860s, Navarana’s visionary ancestor—a shaman from Baffin Island, Canada, named Qitdlarssuaq—embarked on a legendary and epic journey, leading an Inuit migration to Greenland. Over 150 years later, Navarana travels to her ancestor’s homeland to connect with her distant Canadian cousins.


The viewpoints and opinions expressed in these presentations are strictly those of the producers and may not reflect those of the Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors, staff or volunteers.


10) Graduation season is coming up… and the Glass Slipper Boutique is open:

Boutique Description: Helps graduates with low income attend their festivities. Loans prom dresses, arranges tux rentals; possible support with grad fees, hair appointments, or other grad expenses. Phone: (250) 267-1467 Email: lora.fairbrother@sd27.bc.ca.

This year, sponsor a grad, help rent a tux, assist with hair and makeup the day of, or help get the boutique items on their “wish list” - see the Boys & Girls Club website http://www.bgcwilliamslake.com/assets/new%20glass%20slipper%20wish%20list.pdf


11) From the City of Williams Lake


a) Council receives 2012 Crime Outlook: Crime rates in 2012 remained below 2008 rates, which are a baseline for the previous 10 years, City Council heard at its Jan. 22 meeting.

RCMP Inspector Warren Brown and Safer Community Coordinator Dave Dickson presented Council with a 2012 Crime Statistics Overview, which shows crime rates up over 2011, but down significantly from the baseline level represented by the 2008 numbers.


Calls for service declined by roughly 300 calls between 2012 and 2008, and were just slightly higher in 2012 than 2011. Insp. Brown attributed some of the reduction to the False Alarm Bylaw Council passed in 2011. False alarms have fallen from nearly 900 in 2008 to less than 600 in 2012.


Theft of vehicle declined to roughly 100 in 2012, down from more than 250 in 2008, and up from roughly 30 in 2011. Break and enters to both business and residences also declined from 2008.


Domestic violence incidents have increased since both 2008 and 2011, to nearly 100 reported cases from just over 80. It is believed increased awareness and education may be leading to more victims reporting domestic violence than previously.

“As Inspector Brown told Council, these are not numbers to be content with, but they show we’re going in the right direction,” says Mayor Kerry Cook. “Council is exploring more initiatives to help reduce crime and increase safety even further.”


The RCMP’s 2012/2013 Annual performance Plan calls for continuing to improve and enhance police and aboriginal relationships, contributing to safer youth, and contributing to community safety.

Volunteer programs such as Restorative Justice, Business Watch, and Operation Red Nose have also had successes in 2012, with 125 businesses participating in Business Watch, and Operation Red Nose providing 280 rides to more than 639 riders over the 2012 holiday season. The program also accepted $8,000 in donations.


b) Community Services Committee to review Station House Gallery Goals and Objectives


Council recently received the Williams Lake Railway Station Building Condition Assessment and Redevelopment Options report, which assesses the Station House Gallery’s structural condition, review fire and life safety conditions, develops two schematic redevelopment options for the building, and provides cost estimates based on the schematic design drawings.

The report found that overall, the building’s structure is sound and adequate for its intended use as an art gallery, and included three potential site plans for the building. Estimates for restoration of the building, either at the current Station House gallery site, or at a site previously identified, the Royal Bank parking lot at the corner of 4th Avenue and Borland Street, are approximately $1.1 million. A number of heritage and community grants have been identified as possible funding sources.

In 2010, as the City was evaluating the costs of stabilizing the building in its current location, the question arose if it made sense to spend funds to construct a new basement and undertake repairs to the building on the current site or move the building to a more visible location in the community. In March 2011, a grant application for provincial funding through the Towns for Tomorrow program was denied, and as such, no work was completed on the gallery.

At its January 22 meeting, Council resolved to refer this issue to the Community Services Committee to develop a set of goals and objectives for the Station House Gallery building, and to present them back to Council.


“This project remains an important one, but it will require a partnership with a senior level of government to make it a reality,’ says Mayor Cook. “I look forward to the report from the Community Services Committee as we look for ways to move forward.”

12) SPC Living Wage Meeting

At the next SPC meeting, the topic will be our local Living Wage Campaign. Save the date – Monday Feb 25th from 11:30 am – 1 pm, location TBA (stay tuned for more information).

Friday, February 1, 2013

Community Updates – Feb 1, 2013

Community Updates – Feb 1, 2013

1) Human Services Information Night – Feb 6/13 from 7-9 pm

On Wed Feb 6 from 7 – 9 pm at the TRU Campus in room 1258 a) Explore educational and career opportunities in the Human Service Sector, b) Speak with potential employers about their organizations and employment qualifications, c) Work with people and make a difference in your community!


This is an evening for individuals to explore educational options to prepare for working in the field of Human Services as well as the kind of work and volunteer opportunities available both in our community and as a career path.


The evening will involve a panel presentation of former students, persons working in Human & Social Service and local employers who will speak about the field, educational and personal requirements and what opportunities there are for entry level work and volunteering.


The event is aimed both at individuals who are considering working the field as well as people who have started working in Human Services and want to explore additional educational options.


If your agency would like to participate, we are asking you bring some information about your agency and the opportunities you have for work and volunteering. After the panel presentation, we will invite participants to meet with agencies for a Q& A.


For more information please contact Jacquie Johnston at jjohnston@tru.ca

2) Williams Lake Employment Services (WLES)


Horton Ventures Inc. operates as Williams Lake Employment Services and is a WorkBC Employment Services Centre, providing full services and programs to job seekers and employers. They offer individualized service with experienced Case Managers, a staffed resources areas, regular resume workshops and assistance, specialized programs such as Skills Training, Self Employment, Wage Subsidy and Apprentice information and support. We also post free job listings for local area employers. Visit www.hortonventures.com for more information.


281 First Avenue N. - Job seekers, Service Providers and Employers Welcome.


Call WLES at 250-398-5133 or email inquiries@hortonventures.com for more information.


3) LIKE and Learn on Facebook – Welcome WL


Welcome WL is a new local community-led project dedicated to fostering a community where new Canadians can realize their full potential, racism is eliminated, and cultural diversity is valued and celebrated.

Welcome WL will facilitate a public discussion about inclusion and diversity in a vibrant and multicultural Cariboo, engaging employers, service providers, new Canadians, and local stakeholders in making Williams Lake and the surrounding area a place where families and skilled workers from around the world can settle and enrich our community.

Learn more about Welcome WL projects and ways you can get involved by going to our Facebook page: Welcome WL (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Welcome-WL/140988839389257)


Welcoming Communities programs are funded by both the B.C. government and the Canadian federal government under the terms of the Canada-British Columbia Immigration Agreement.


For more information, please contact
Sharon Taylor, Project Coordinator
sharont@imss.ca
Immigrant and Multicultural Services Society
118C N. First Ave. Williams Lake, BC
778-412-2999


4) Update from the Women’s Contact Society


Women’s Only Zumba is happening Mondays from 5:15 pm to 6:15 pm with child-minding available, Thursdays 5:15 pm to 6:15 pm Please register at 250-392-4118.


Women’s Get Together for February 26 is Aboriginal Medicine Bags with Stephanie 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm – Please register at 250-392-4118 – limited space available


Family Law Workshop for the community – Tuesday February 19, 2013 – 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm open to all public – please call to register 250-392-4118


Family Law Workshop for service providers only is March 4, 2013 – Please call Ashlee for details – 250-392-4118


Noon Hour Workshop with Shoppers Drug Mart- Arthritis – Feb 5, 2013 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm please register at 250-392-4118 lunch provided


Financial Noon Hour Workshop with Jim Tanis – RRSP – Tuesday Feb 12, 2013 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm lunch provided Please register 250-392-4118 women only


Exploring Music with Angelkeys for Women – Wed February 6, 2013 10:00 am to 11:00 am please register at 250-392-4118


For more information please contact Ashlee Turatus at the WCS at 250-392-4118 orm officeassistant.wcs@telus.net


5) CTC’s Positive Action Word of the Week

The Positive Action Word of the Week is:

Feelings: Emotions such as anger, fear, love, and worry.

Feelings is the third component of the Thoughts, Actions, Feelings circle. If you’ve been thinking positive thoughts, which has been leading you to do positive actions, then you are probably reading this email with positive feelings inside.


We can help others flip things, so they can experience the good “feeling” of being in a positive cycle.


Here is an example of a lesson in this unit. It focuses on identifying the positive action of managing discouragement:


“Have you ever felt discouraged? Many people get discouraged when things are hard. It’s important to talk about how we feel. We can tell someone when we feel discouraged. We can get our feelings out there, and get encouragement. Then we can try again. Everything gets easier the more we practice it. What are some good ways to manage our discouragement? Sometimes we need to take things in little steps. Sometimes we need to ask for help. Sometimes we need to wait until we are just a little older. We can do positive actions. We can talk about what makes us discouraged.”


As adults, we can give encouragement. We can also model how to change our feelings from discouraged to encouraged and, let’s face it, we all have days when we need to remember to practice this skill! 


Have a great week,
Carla Bullinger, Facilitator
Communities that Care
Williams Lake, BC
email: comthatcares@sd27.bc.ca
cell: 250-267-8249

6) Williams Lake BIA – downtown Events


Turn down the Heat Week – save some power from Feb 2 – 9th as part of the “turn down the heat week”. Join other local businesses in the downtown core by wearing a sweater, rather than turning the heat higher.


Kiss in the City – celebrate Valentine’s Day in the downtown core this February. Enter photo contests, win prizes and have fun downtown!


More information on both of these events can be found online at http://www.wlcbia.com/ or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Williams-Lake-Central-Business-Improvement-Area



7) Family Fest – This free event is organized by Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy (CCPL) and strongly supported by our community partners. It will take place on Sunday, February 17 from 10:00 – 2:00 in the Marie Sharpe gym. Lots of hands on activities, a story time tent, music and song, puppet shows, and kids can have their photo taken by CCPL moose mascot Sir Read-a-Lot.


8) Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex Free Events


Free Skate – Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club on Saturday Feb 2 from 1 – 2:30 pm


Free Skate – Sponsored by Oliver & Co. on Sunday Feb 17th from 2:45 pm – 4:15 pm. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Food Bank.


*All free events are advertised under the FREE events tab on the www.activewilliamslake.ca website. Feel free to print off posters to display throughout town. For more info please contact the Cariboo Recreation Memorial Complex at 250-398-7665


9) Cariboo Regional District Library Updates


Teen Drop In: Every Tues: 6:30-7:30pm Games and more in the program room. Denise Deschene and Sam Hinter have been helping out. However, it would be awesome to have a male volunteer and/or youth worker drop by as a high number of the youth is male.


Teen Advisory Group: Meets once a month and makes decisions for the Young Adult Collection

Wii Games: Every Thursday 3:30-4:30pm in the program room for ages 8-14 years (must register by Wed. 4:00pm at front desk)


Wednesday Night Williams Lake National Film Board Screening: Vanishing Point – Synopsis: Navarana is an Inughuit elder, a Polar Eskimo from the most remote corner of the planet: the northwest tip of Greenland. Thanks to her ancestor, an Inuit shaman who led an epic journey across the High Arctic in the 1860s, she is connected by blood to a group of Canadian Inuit. Today Navarana worries about the future of her people, as they face the greatest social and environmental challenges in their history. She embarks on hunting journeys with families of two communities—one on Canada’s Baffin Island, the other in neighbouring Greenland—and discovers that while the two groups share common values, they are adapting differently to outside influences and to the inescapable changes that affect their way of life. Navarana draws inspiration and hope from the ties that still bind the two communities, as well as from the legacy of her intrepid ancestor. In 100 Mile on Thurs February 21 - 6:00pm, and in Williams Lake on Wed February 20th - 7:00pm



10) Updates from the Communities That Care, Community Board Meeting Minutes (Jan 15/13)


a) Updates from the Key Leaders Meeting:


Jan provided an update of the Key Leader meeting which took place on Jan. 11, 2013


MCFD representation – Susan Murray, who has been acting Community Services Manager since September, was able to attend our meeting. Diane McHardy, also representing MCFD, attended with Susan. It was good to make the connection and start discussions around CTC sustainability needs. Susan has been very impressed with the work the group is been doing and to see Positive Action move into so many different venues and be embraced by the community.


Sustainability – Monica Johnson, ED of the Boys and Girls Club, has been leading the group through an exercise that is focused on sustainability. A working group has been established to craft a document based on our discussions. This will be presented at the next Key Leader meeting in April


Community Agency Newspaper Ad – Carla presented the idea of the one page community service agency ad and has been given the go ahead to pursue this.


b) Third World Canada & The Commemoration Project:


Commemoration Project - Anne provided an update on the Commemoration Project which will take place May 16 & 17. There will be speakers; workshops; a dedication ceremony; a monument will be installed at the residential school site; and a second monument will be erected in Boitanio Park. In addition, the school district will be offering workshops at its pro-d event in April that will look at the impacts of residential schools on First Nations peoples. The committee also hopes to have a youth component, including possibly a youth video project that would document these events.


Third World Canada – Anne has been working with the library to purchase the Third World Canada DVD. She first saw the DVD at a conference at UNBC. The viewing was followed by a discussion which was facilitated by the film maker, Andree Cazabon. The film is a documentary of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (the people of the lake) a remote Native community bound by reserve laws in the forgotten North of Ontario. This Nation dates back to 7,000 years where bones of their ancestors were discovered on the shores of Big Trout Lake. Today this proud Nation is deeply impoverished in 3rd World conditions bound by Treaty laws signed by their non-English speaking ancestors. Set in the backdrop of the aftermath of the suicide of three parents, the documentary explores the impact of 3rd world conditions on the children left behind and a community’s courage in looking after them.


Anne would like to work with the Community Board to show the film during or close to the Commemoration Event or as part of the SD27 pro-d event, and perhaps bring in the filmmaker who could share her experiences. The film’s website is: www.thirdworldcanada.ca/index.php


There is also a site about a tour of the film that Andree started last fall: http://productionscazabon.wix.com/tour, along with a guide to doing an outreach project http://media.wix.com/ugd//b0ef19_ee28afe2dc121fc9255f68cc43bca34c.pdf.


These would probably be good resources for people to look at as it might help some ideas converge beyond just a screening of the film.


Suggestion to include people from TRU Gathering Place and identify other aboriginal representatives to participate in the planning.


There was agreement to view the DVD at the next Community Board meeting, it’s only 46 minutes long, to see if we want to move forward with this.


c) From the CTC Round Table Updates:


Diversity Mural, CMHA – An all day community forum will be help on Thursday, Mar. 7 at TRU to begin the process of developing the diversity mural. The forum will include workshops, guest speakers, and lunch. Dwayne Davis is the artist who has been engaged to help create the mural.


Multicultural Cookbook, CMHA – “Spicing Up the Cariboo: Characters, Cuisine, and Culture”. Look for the launch to be around Mother’s Day.


Anti-Bullying Day, Feb. 27, CMHA – If anyone has anything planned for this day, CMHA would be happy to participate.


Welcoming Communities – Sharon Taylor introduced herself and this new project. She is working for Immigrant and Settlement Services in Prince George. The purpose of this project is to make Williams Lake a more welcoming community for new immigrants. Suggestion to look at a health care/ multicultural fair and/or ESL cafes.


The Welcoming Communities working group is very interested in linking this initiative to others that are happening in our community. The library is looking at augmenting its ESL collection. Sharon will get Susan, her IMSS contact, to connect with Caroline on this.


Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy, (Carla Bullinger): Read for 15 Challenge – This is a new initiative in partnership with School District 27. We are inviting schools to participate in an intentional 15 minute reading activity and encouraging them to make it different from the usual. We have purchased nifty neon pencils with the phrase “Readers are Leaders” on it, which teachers or principals will give out to each student after they have Read for 15. Schools are asked to email their results to Carla. Agencies and businesses are invited to participate.


City of Williams Lake, (Anne Burrill): The city is offering a six week Shuswap Language Lunch and Learn opportunity. It starts January 25 and runs for 6 Fridays. This learning opportunity is designed to bridge the relationships between the Northern Secwepemc people of the Williams Lake area and the service sector, such as government, health care providers, social service providers, schools and those who work with children and youth. In this course, participants will learn some basic Secwepemctsín (Shuswap language), and will develop an understanding and appreciation of the Northern Secwepemc history, governance structures, traditions, customs, membership and the


Treaty process. The cost is $60.00 person and includes lunch. Anne indicated that there were only 2 spaces left.

Safety Bus, Sally Errey (BGC): Sally is spearheading a project for the Boys and Girls Club. She is working at getting a “Safety Bus”, a mobile health unit, up and running. It would be safe, accessible and free. The target group is 15-29 year olds. Services offered by the Safety Bus would be pregnancy testing, testing and info on STDs, getting condoms, info on services, answering any questions youth may have, among other things.


There’s recognition that a visit to the Safety Bus might have a stigma attached to it, especially in small communities, so BGC is looking at perhaps expanding the mandate to include tatooes, piercing, etc.


Sally has identified 5 areas in which she needs help: 1) Fund development, 2) Vehicle management (Jan F. said she might be able to find support for this), 3) Community based health research (Sally is currently working with TRU nursing students to do a practicum in this area), 4) Youth and Community Forums (Has identified two practicum students who will do this. They might be in touch with service providers to help connect them to the target population) and, 5) Project management.


If you are interested in or have resources that could support this project, contact Sally at prevention@bgcwilliamslake.com


Denisiqi, Kerry Chelsea – He is starting the second round of workshops on substance use in communities out west.


CCRR, Beulah Munson – A pediatric first aid workshop is being offered.
The next CTC Community Board meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 12 from 1:00-3:00 in the library program room. We will be viewing Third World Canada towards the end of our meeting. (See meeting minutes for background information on this). For more info contact Carla Bullinger at comthatcares@sd27.bc.ca or 250-267-8249.


11) Reminder – Community Updates


Send your community updates to the Social Planning Council for weekly distribution. Send information to spc-coordinator@xplornet.com

Contact Us

The Social Planning Council is made up of volunteers from the community. Many of us work in social services agencies or also volunteer for other organizations.

Our Mailing Address is Box 20045, Williams Lake BC V2G 4R1

To reach the Society Coordinator Jessica Dunn please email spc-coordinator@xplornet.com or call 250-243-2126

To reach the Communities that Care Project Facilitator Barb Jones please email communitiesthatcare.wl@gmail.com or call 250-305-4838

To reach the THRIVE Williams Lake Project Manager Anne Burrill please email annelburrill@gmail.com or call 250-267-7211

To reach the current SPC Chair Larry Stranberg please email happytrails@cfdccariboo.com or call 250-392-3626