Central Alberta
Child Advocacy Centre looking for $3.9 million to complete Centre of Excellence building project
Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre: Public Campaign for CACAC Building Project – Centre of Excellence
The Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre (CACAC) has officially launched into a public campaign for their building project – the Centre of Excellence. The 66,566 sq. ft. structure will be the new home of the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre, Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre, and Alberta Health Services: Red Deer Child and Youth Addiction and Mental Health Outpatient Clinic; Move your Mood Studio; and the Step Up Step Down youth live-in addiction and mental health program.
Mark Jones, CEO of the CACAC, says they need to raise $12M in order to cover the costs of the building. Of that $12M, they have already privately raised $8.1M. They’re appealing to the public to help them raise the remaining $3.9M.
“The business plan for this Centre makes a lot of sense for the community. Through 1st-tier tenancy agreements, and full integration with our partners, this project will be very sustainable. But more than anything else, this building project represents hope for these children. This one-of-a-kind centre is going to change the way society responds to child abuse, mental health, and addiction. These children and youths are at the core of everything we do. This public campaign is your way to
take an even bigger stand against child abuse.”
– Mark Jones, CEO CACAC
The building, constructed by Eagle Builders and located on the Red Deer Polytechnic main campus, aims to be open by the end of August 2023. The 3-story structure is being built with intentional common and shared spaces to better integrate crucial partnerships, and create an environment in which children, youths, and families feel comfortable and safe. The contemporary design of the exterior is meant to be inviting for the children and youths who will use the space, while also symbolising the integrated partnerships at work within the building and on campus.
“Eagle Builders cares about the protection and care of children and families in Central Alberta, which is why we were so pleased to be part of the construction of the Centre of Excellence and Child Advocacy Centre, “ said Dennis Haan, Director and President at Eagle Builders LP. “Once complete, this building will provide the very best in care for those that need it most – when they need it most. For us, this project is more than just putting up walls, it is an investment into the future of this province and a commitment to improving the lives of all Albertans.”
Terry Loewen, Chairman of the Board of the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre, notes that the CACAC addresses many of the mental health concerns faced by youth and families in Central Alberta.
”The CACAC is a transformational community project that rallies people to a common cause; that being mental health! Mental health has been something that never used to be talked about, and now it’s at the forefront of many discussions everyday. The CACAC has all the elements, and then some, in the area of mental health and is a game changer, not only for Central Alberta, but far beyond!”
– Terry Loewen, Board Chair, CACAC
Originally the vision of Sheldon Kennedy, the Centre of Excellence brings partners together for a fully integrated approach to addressing abuse. Additional research and programming will be introduced through Red Deer Polytechnic. The land was gifted to the CACAC by Red Deer Polytechnic as part of a strategic partnership that allows RDP to integrate the CACAC’s practices into its own research.
“Red Deer Polytechnic is excited to be partnering with the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre. Housing this newly constructed Centre of Excellence on our main campus will ensure that Red Deer Polytechnic is actively collaborating with the CACAC and helping to advance best practices related to childhood trauma and maltreatment. The Centre will have a profound impact on youth and families in our community and across North America will also provide critical applied research and learning opportunities for Red Deer Polytechnic’s faculty, staff and students.”
– Stuart Cullum, President of Red Deer Polytechnic
“So now we’re asking for your help. We’ve been meeting with donors and supporters, and we’ve been doing the work behind the scenes to bring this much-needed Centre to Central Alberta. We know the need is there, and that the need is growing. We’re building a path forward for these children and their families. We’ve brought together key partners, and we’re poised to meet the challenges head on. Now we’re asking your financial support, not just for us, but for a brighter
future for these children. We’re ready to build the future… are you in?”
– Mark Jones, CEO CACAC
To learn more about the project, or to donate, please visit: www.centralalbertacac.ca/centre-of-excellence/
You’re Our Biggest Advocate – And We Need Your Help
For six years, the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre (CACAC) has been advocating for children and youth who have had opportunities taken from them by abusers. The families we work with need support and guidance at a time that is often highly traumatic. In times of trauma, it’s hard – if not impossible – to navigate the system alone. That’s where the CACAC comes in.
When a child discloses their abuse to someone, it’s a moment of sheer bravery. That’s not to say that those who don’t come forward aren’t brave – in fact, simply getting dressed and trying to have a normal day at school is an act of bravery for a child who lives in an abusive situation. They deserve to have the best support imaginable, and when they tell their stories they should only have to do that once. After all, retelling one’s story of trauma can, in itself, be a form of re-traumatization. Before the CACAC, victims would have to tell their stories three, four, five or more times to different agencies and professionals. Thanks to changes in legislation, we have a multidisciplinary team comprised of many agencies and organizations that meets around the table to discuss these cases together.
These children, youths, and families have suffered from abuse, neglect, and/or sexual exploitation, and it is our job to advocate for them. You might be surprised to learn that one of their biggest advocates is you. The CACAC doesn’t charge these families a single cent to receive our services, and that’s largely thanks to you. Your support over the years has meant that we can continually offer the programs and services that these children need. The need is growing, and we’re poised to meet it head on, but we need your help.
The Centre of Excellence will be the new home of the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre, as well as the new home for the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) and select Alberta Health Services programs such as the Step Up Step Down youth live-in addiction and mental health program, Red Deer Child and Youth Addiction and Mental Health Outpatient Clinic, and Move Your Mood Studio. One and a half floors of our three-floor building will be leased to AHS, another half-floor to CASASC, and the CACAC will work from the third floor. The Centre of Excellence exists on the Red Deer Polytechnic main campus, and we’ve already begun integrating what we do into many of their curricula. Additionally, RDP will be creating a research hub dedicated to our field.
We need 12 million dollars for this building campaign, and we’ve already privately raised 8.1 million. We’re looking for your help to raise the remaining 3.9 million needed to get this life-saving system running. What we can do at the Centre of Excellence will change the ways in which society responds to child abuse. This project is the first of its kind in North America, and it will be built right here in Central Alberta. The children who need us deserve to have everyone standing up for them. With this campaign, and your financial support, we can make a greater stand. Let’s do this together for them. We’re ready – are you in?
Mark Jones, CEO Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre
Proposed area for development at Red Deer Regional Airport highlighted by bright colours
Building Alberta’s regional airport network
Alberta’s government is investing $1.13 million to support the development of regional airports across the province.
Alberta’s regional airports connect people, create jobs and help local businesses reach new markets. This investment will facilitate the growth of the province’s regional airport network, enabling the seamless movement of people and goods, and creating more opportunities for municipalities and local industry to thrive.
“Alberta’s aviation industry plays an important role in strengthening and diversifying our economy by expanding access to markets and creating jobs in the province. Regional airports are key assets in supporting the air sector and the movement of people. This investment will support the growth of Alberta’s regional airports and help restore and develop connections between our regional and international airports.”
The grant funding will support 10 regional airports in developing business cases and feasibility studies for improved airport infrastructure and air transportation. The projects will allow the airports to identify, explore and prioritize improvements and opportunities to increase their economic competitiveness, such as increasing the number of air carriers or the efficiency of aircraft movement to bolster the economic output of regional airports.
“Regional airports play a critical role in keeping Alberta connected and our economy growing. We are working with our partners to ensure all corners of the province are in the best position to attract job-creating investment and opportunities from around the world for all Albertans.”
The grants include $120,000 to the Red Deer Regional Airport for a land development strategy, which will inform the airport about how it can leverage infrastructure and facility improvements, such as terminal expansion and airside land development, that will better position the airport as a hub for economic activity.
“The continued support from the province positions the Red Deer Regional Airport as a compelling and competitive location to do business. Now more than ever, we are primed to attract new investment opportunities, create jobs and strengthen central Alberta’s economic landscape.”
The funded projects vary in scope and size depending on the specific needs of each airport. They include exploring airport certification to support scheduled air services, airport commercial development, commercial air services, hangar development and development of strategic business cases to restore regional airports’ positions as primary transportation hubs.
“CAEP is proud to showcase the importance of the Red Deer Regional Airport as a true ’hub‘ in the Central Alberta Region. Transportation is critical to a thriving region that leads to sophisticated manufacturing, technological innovation and investment attraction to enhance and support our economic corridors. Continued growth at the RDRA is proof that the region is thriving and a ’destination of choice‘ for investment.”
The projects will also support the creation of an air service business case to attract new airlines, analyzing highest-need routes, determining baseline capacities of airport infrastructure, and identifying capital asset rehabilitation and replacement requirements.
“Regional airports support economic development and serve as a hub for emergency services for rural Alberta. The funding provided today will benefit many rural communities and represents a strong step in maintaining Alberta’s rural transportation network.”
This investment demonstrates Alberta’s commitment to growing the aviation sector and diversifying the economy. Alberta’s government will continue working closely with regional airports to ensure they are drivers of economic growth in the province.
Quick facts
A total of $1,129,424 is being provided to support 10 regional airports:
- Cold Lake Regional Airport
- Feasibility Study for Airport Certification to Support Scheduled Air Services – $144,000
- Whitecourt Airport
- Commercial Development Feasibility Study – $78,684
- Lloydminster Municipal Airport
- Commercial Air Services Feasibility Study – $113,988
- Peace River Regional Airport
- Peace River Airport Master Plan – $57,552
- Lethbridge Airport
- Hangar Development Feasibility Study and Business Case – $150,000
- High Level Airport
- High Level Airport Master Plan – $56,000
- Red Deer Regional Airport
- Land Development Strategy and Implementation Plan – $120,000
- Medicine Hat Regional Airport
- Feasibility and Business Case for Airport Growth and Development – $150,000
- Grande Prairie Airport
- Canadian Border Services Agency Facilities Study – $140,000
- Fort McMurray International Airport
- Business Case to Recapture Lost Passenger Traffic – $119,200
Rural Albertans will be able to access surgeries quicker and closer to home now that the expansion and renovation of the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre is complete.
The Rocky Mountain House Health Centre has been providing residents with health care since 1971, including surgical services. Alberta Infrastructure has completed an addition to the facility, which includes a new operating room. This will enable approximately 120 Albertans per month to receive surgery, doubling the number of monthly surgeries. This additional, brand-new operating room is also expected to decrease the wait lists for surgeries.
The expanded Rocky Mountain House Health Centre provides an additional 440 square metres (4,736 square feet) and includes:
- a new operating room,
- 6 additional recovery beds,
- a patient support area, and
- an updated medical device reprocessing department.
The new spaces can be accessed from the existing site thanks to the addition of an upgraded hallway that connects the two buildings.
“Completing the expansion and renovation of the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre is a significant step forward in delivering Alberta Surgical Initiative projects province wide. This investment into health care infrastructure will increase surgical capacity, helping Albertans get treatment when and where they need it.”
The Rocky Mountain House Health Centre upgrade is part of the Alberta Surgical Initiative (ASI), which aims to enhance surgical capacity across the province by expanding and maximizing existing health care space. Over the next three years, the 2024 Capital Plan is providing $313 million for ASI projects throughout the province.
Alberta Infrastructure and Alberta Health Services share the responsibility for delivering ASI projects. Alberta Health Services leads the delivery of smaller projects, while Alberta Infrastructure delivers capital projects over $5 million.
“Albertans deserve timely access to surgeries, and they should be able to get them close to home. The expansion and renovation of the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre will increase its capacity so more Albertans can get the surgeries they need when they need them. Through the Alberta Surgical Initiative, we are improving access to surgical care and funding projects across the province, including in rural communities like Rocky Mountain House.”
Alberta Infrastructure is working on 20 ASI projects in communities across Alberta, including Brooks, Calgary, Camrose, Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, Innisfail, Lethbridge, Olds, Ponoka, St. Albert and Stettler. Lethbridge will be the next community to benefit from a completed ASI project. The expansion of two operating rooms and more surgical inpatient rooms at the Chinook Regional Hospital is anticipated to be completed later this fall.
“The expanded Rocky Mountain House Health Centre will help ensure more residents can access surgeries and receive the care they need in a timely manner. Investments like these in rural Alberta matter and I’d like to thank Minister Guthrie and Minister LaGrange for delivering on this project that will double our surgical capacity in Rocky Mountain House.”
Quick facts
- The total budget for the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre ASI project was $15 million.
- This Alberta Infrastructure project was completed on time and on budget. Approximately 85 construction-related jobs were created during the project.
- In addition to the new building, other renovations include new mechanical and electrical building systems.
- Alberta Infrastructure is managing other ASI projects at the following locations:
- Brooks Health Centre
- Calgary
- Alberta Children’s Hospital
- Foothills Medical Centre
- South Health Campus
- Camrose – St. Mary’s Hospital
- Edmonton
- Grey Nuns Community Hospital
- Misericordia Community Hospital
- Royal Alexandra Hospital
- Walter C. Mackenzie Centre (University of Alberta Hospital)
- Fort Saskatchewan Community Hospital
- Innisfail Health Centre
- Lethbridge – Chinook Regional Hospital
- Olds Hospital and Care Centre
- Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre
- St. Albert – Sturgeon Community Hospital
- Stettler Hospital and Care Centre
- Other ASI projects completed by Alberta Infrastructure:
- Grande Prairie Regional Health Centre (completed in July 2022)
- University of Alberta (completed September 2023)
Deborah Birx Gets Her Close-Up
Alberta moves to protect Edmonton park from Trudeau government’s ‘diversity’ plan
Maxime Bernier warns Canadians of Trudeau’s plan to implement WEF global tax regime
Coutts Three verdict: A warning to protestors who act as liaison with police
-
Business1 day agoDon’t be fooled by high-speed rail
-
Addictions1 day agoBritish Columbia should allow addicts to possess even more drugs, federal report suggests
-
Business1 day agoUN plastics plans are unscientific and unrealistic
-
Alberta1 day agoAlberta rejects unconstitutional cap on plastic production
-
Censorship Industrial Complex1 day agoAustralian politicians attack Elon Musk for refusing to remove video of Orthodox bishop’s stabbing
-
Also Interesting1 day agoIs the Anger Toward Fiat Currency Justified?
-
Alberta1 day agoActivity-Based Hospital Funding in Alberta: Insights from Quebec and Australia
-
Fraser Institute1 day agoCanadians should decide what to do with their money—not politicians and bureaucrats