West Central Abilities holds official sod turning
By Joan Janzen
joanjanzen@yahoo.com
West Central Abilities Inc. officially turned sod for their new day program location at 122 - 1st Avenue West on Wednesday, September 22 at 1:00 p.m. Board member, Lloyd Griffith introduced the special guests, which included West Central Abilities clients, Board of Directors and staff, and the project contractor, Mark Kolla from Saskatoon.
MLA Ken Francis, spoke on behalf of the Honourable Lori Carr, Minister of Social Services. “Good things come to those who wait,” Francis said. “When everybody works together, great things happen. This project took precedence over many others in the budget and we’re excited to see it move forward and are happy to support it.”
Mayor of Kindersley, Rod Perkins expressed similar sentiments, saying, “I’m sure Kim Edmunds (Executive Director) and staff are more than happy to see this move forward and I wish you nothing but the best of luck.”
Lorne Pincemin, Councilor for the RM of Kindersley said many of the RM’s and the Town worked together to raise funds for this much needed project.
Emcee, Lloyd Griffith said the project encountered many detours and challenges along the way, making this a very exciting moment for everyone involved. Assessments on the original facility were first done in 2010. From there a vision developed. In 2018 it was decided to move ahead with the help of many organizations.
The new facility allows West Central Abilities to become more visible, however he stressed that the primary focus is never about the building; it always centres on the clients. Mark Kolla, the contractor, estimated the project will be complete by spring, 2022.
Following the presentations by special guests, five individuals picked up their shovels for the official sod turning. They included MLA Ken Francis, Board Chair Tamara Wiebe, Director Mr. Lorne Kelsey, Mayor Rod Perkins and RM Councilor Lorne Pincemin.
PHOTOS BY Joan Janzen: L-R: MLA Ken Francis, Board Chair Tamara Wiebe, Director Lorne Kelsey, RM Councilor Lorne Pincemin and Mayor Rod Perkins.
