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Black History Month

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February is devoted to delving into the vibrant history of Black Canadians, recognizing their substantial contributions to the growth and development of our nation. During Black History Month, people in Canada celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians and their communities who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada a culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous country.

Here in Brooks, AB, we take pride in being a home to individuals from many backgrounds. Did you know that Brooks has a significantly higher percentage (22%) of Black immigrants compared to many other places in Canada (Canadian average 4%).

This month, we are happy to suggest a thoughtfully selected list of books that illuminate Black history in Alberta and North America.

Here are some compelling selections:

  • “A Country You Can Leave” by Asale Angel-Ajani
  • “Change Sings” by Amanda Gorman
  • “How to be an Anti-Racist” by Ibram X. Kendi
  • “The Water Dancer” by Ta-Nehisi Coates
  • “The Hill We Climb” by Amanda Gorman
  • “Caste” by Isabel Wilkerson
  • “Little Leaders – Bold Women in Black History” by Vashti Harrison
  • “The 1619 Project” by Nikole Hannah-Jones
  • “The Light We Carry” by Michelle Obama
  • “The Story of Ruby Bridges” by Robert Coles
  • “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead

Dive into the diverse and impactful narratives that contribute to the intricate tapestry of Black history. Regardless of your location, it is essential for all Canadians to strive to deepen their understanding of Black Canadian history and the ongoing contributions that shape Canada.

Holiday Smile Cookies

Holiday Smile Cookies available Nov 13-19, 2023

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Holiday Smile Cookies available Nov 13-19, 2023

Tims Holiday Smile Cookie is here from November 13 – 19 with 50% of the proceeds going directly to groups like the SPEC Association, while the remaining 50% go to Tim Horton’s Foundation Camps!

Tim Hortons has been raising funds for local charities and community groups for over 25 years through their classic Smile Cookie program. In May of this year, Tims restaurants across Canada raised a record breaking $19+ million that went to over 600 local charities and community groups.

With the Holiday Smile Cookie, Tim Hortons is excited to be able to support an additional 400+ NEW organizations in Canada. This includes The SPEC Association in Brooks as well as their forever partner the Tim Hortons Foundation Camps, who provide thousands of underserved youth the opportunity to discover their true potential through a life-changing, multi-year, leadership development experience.

Spread Kindness by trying the delicious NEW Holiday Smile Cookie: a white-chocolate sugar cookie with red and green sprinkles baked into it, each hand-decorated with a perfectly-imperfect white smile.

Buy a Holiday Smile Cookie for a delicious way to give back to your community this holiday season!

For more information click here

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Partnership between PCN and SPEC

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Did you know there are FREE mental health services available to children, ages 10-17 right here in Brooks?  

 

SPEC is so excited to introduce an exciting and new opportunity for the children and youth in the Brooks Newell Region. Palliser Primary Care Network has hired a Child and Youth Behavioural Health Consultant to work with families and youth at the SPEC Association. 

 

We know that 70% of mental health conditions have their onset during childhood or adolescence and that 75% of children with mental health disorders do not access treatment. Mental illnesses involve changes in an individual’s emotions, cognitive functions, and both physical and behavioural management. Additionally, mental illness can be associated with significant impairment as well as challenges with distress and/or problems functioning in social situations, school, or within family dynamics.  

 

No referral needed, no long waits and quick access to solution focused help.  

 

Call SPEC at 403-362-5056 for more information or to book an appointment. 

 

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New FASD Program at SPEC

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New FASD Program at SPEC

SPEC is pleased to announce a new program partnership with The South East Alberta FASD Network Society (SEAFAN)

This program will have a regional outreach worker who will support individuals with FASD to navigate the systems that will provide long-term support. The focus of this program will be to provide support or help build connections with FASD individuals across the lifespan with the focus being on teens as they transition to adulthood, and adults that may not have other supports.

“This outreach position is in response to a recognized gap in service in our local area” states Amanda Goodnough, Executive Director, “we are thrilled that SEAFAN has chosen SPEC to offer specialized supports for those who are experiencing barriers to access needed supports, regardless of if they have a formal FASD diagnosis or not”.

SPEC is excited to continue working with existing local and regional FASD programs, in addition to providing much needed rural support. This new program will be delivered throughout SEAFAN’s catchment area that includes Cypress County, Medicine Hat, Redcliff, County of Forty Mile, Bow Island, Foremost, Newell County, Brooks, Bassano, Acadia District, Empress, Special Areas 2,3,4, Oyen and Duchess.

To learn more about this program or any other SPEC services, please call 403-362-5056 or email home@spec.ab.ca

volunteering

Volunteering

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How Can I Volunteer?

Where & How To Start

Together we can make a difference! By volunteering you can impact the lives of many children and families facing challenges in our community. The investment of your time or sharing of your skills will create a bright future for many.

There are many Volunteer Opportunities existing at SPEC in the following areas:

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

SPEC is seeking additional volunteer community members for our Board of Directors and Fund Development Committee. SPEC’s Board is a governance board responsible for the Society’s strategic direction and for ensuring SPEC is properly funded and managed.

Board of Directors Application
OTHER VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

General Volunteers

  • Office
  • Events
  • Building projects

LINKS Newcomer Services

  • Translation
  • Skill Sharing
  • International Cooking

MakerSpace

  • Mentoring
  • Program Activities Skill Sharing
Volunteer Application
For more information about volunteer opportunities and criteria, please call the SPEC office at 403-362-5056.

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