Networking forum features valuable resources

By Joan Janzen

An informative networking forum kicked off on Tuesday morning, March 14th, thanks to the efforts of Ang Malcolm from West Central Play-Mobile, and the Community Inclusive Support Services Program. The morning and afternoon event took place at Clearview Church in Kindersley.

A wide variety of community service organizations and programs were represented, and each gave a short presentation detailing their mandates, programs and services offered. Not only did everyone in attendance become informed about the roles of each group, but they were also able to communicate with each other later in the afternoon, building new relationships.

Representatives from a wide variety of organizations had an opportunity to connect with one another later in the afternoon at the networking forum held on Monday, March 14th in Kindersley. PHOTOS BY JOAN JANZEN

Crystal Storey from the West Central Literacy Committee, said she was taking notes throughout the morning, listing groups she would be contacting for future references. Rev. Poitr Strzelecki, representing the Ministerial Association, said people are starting to recognize each other. “After multiple gatherings together, we’ll remember those people,” he concluded.

The forty-six individuals who attended the forum became equipped with new ways to serve our communities and their families. Unfortunately, due to winter road conditions, a few representatives were unable to attend.

The groups and organizations represented offered a wide variety of services for children, adults, families, as well as people with disabilities. Food distribution services, kids camp, churches, physiotherapy, herbal wellness, literacy, and early childhood intervention were just some of the services hi-lighted throughout the day. Although the groups were all different, they had one obvious trait in common; they all cover and serve a very large area. It was noted by one of the participants that the groups work along side one another, rather than compete with one another.

Ang Malcolm, who played a major role in organizing the event, expressed a desire to continue hosting these types of events in the future, with the possibility of rotating the venue in different communities. She was also responsible for providing a complimentary gift to each person in attendance.

Marge Bailey from the Better Together group said, “A connected community is a healthy community. There’s so many people here who care, and we’re so thankful to work with you.”

Simply Satisfied catering served delicious snacks and a lunch at noon. An evaluation survey was handed out to participants, which asked how likely they would be to attend a future networking forum. The twenty-three organizations, which were represented, provided a valuable list of resources which our communities can access.