r egions
what’s new in
Alberta CALGARY
Peer Programs in Calgary It’s hard to believe another year has passed. The Calgary Peer Program has hosted four major events with over 320 guests in attendance. With great support from four different companies, we were able to host the following events starting with the Fun Money Casino & Games Night sponsored by EllisDon; the Disabled Sailing and BBQ sponsored by Shoppers Home Health Care; the Peer Trade Show and Conference sponsored by Vogel Lawyers LLP; finishing up the year with the annual Peer Christmas Lunch sponsored by CanWest Elevators and Lifts and Motion Specialties. A huge thank you to our event sponsors, volunteers and guests.
Peer Programs in Edmonton There are lots of exciting events coming up in the next few months. To find out more, contact brian.mcpherson@cpa-ab. org or (780) 424-6312, ext. 2241 or go to www.cpa-ab.org/programs_services/peer_community/edmonton.
WEST CENTRAL Jasper Takes Action A group of citizens and community leaders are taking action to address accessibility issues in the Town of Jasper. The Access Jasper Committee will use their local knowledge and contacts to address issues of accessibility specific to their community. “Jasper has a unique set of circumstances due to the history and characteristics of the townsite and the local economy,” says Art Erickson, Community Development Coordinator, CPA (Alberta). “It’s extremely encouraging to see this level of support from the community that has the best understanding of the situation.” The committee will meet on a bi-monthly basis to form a strategic plan, specific tactics and action items. “CPA (Alberta) will assist, advise and provide whatever support they can to ensure the success of this development,” added Art Erickson. “As a visitor to the town, I don’t have the same depth of understanding regarding the challenges and opportunities specific to the community that their experience can provide.”
GRANDE PRAIRIE
Calgary’s Peer Christmas lunch was a resounding success. 2012 is shaping up to be another exciting year with new and fun events for everyone. Back by popular demand, the Fun Money Casino & Games Night coming up on March 31, 2012 and sponsored by EllisDon Construction - 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm at the Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre. Everyone welcome. For tickets/information, contact Marilyn Erho at (403) 228-3001 or marilyn.erho@cpa-ab.org. To find out about upcoming events and to see videos on past events, go to www.cpa-ab.org/programs_services/peer_community/calgary.
EDMONTON Taxis The City of Edmonton recently announced they will be releasing another 100 taxi licenses and of this number, 30 need to be wheelchair accessible vans. It is hoped this will help to resolve some of the issues related to the existing taxi service. Presently there are 35 wheelchair accessible taxis on the streets of Edmonton. With this limited number, it can be a long wait for a wheelchair accessible taxi, especially after 11 pm or if you live in the suburbs and need a short trip.
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A New Office The Grande Prairie office of the CPA (Alberta) has moved! They will continue to share an office with the Wolverines Wheelchair Sports Association, located in the Grande Prairie Aquatics and Wellness Multiplex which is fully accessible and located at #10 Knowledge Way (across from the RCMP and the Fieldhouse Reception). Membership with the Wolverines ($50.00) will provide full access to the Multiplex for people with disabilities www.gpwolverines.com. To find out more about the Multiplex, go to www.themultiplex.ca. Low-Income Grant The City of Grande Prairie is providing a grant of $100.00 per person with low income towards use of programs and services in city-owned facilities. Applications can be obtained at city offices, or from the CPA (Alberta) in Grande Prairie. We’ll be glad to email you a copy. For more information, contact Mieke or Winona at (780) 532-3305 or grandeprairie@cpa-ab.org. Peer Mentoring in Action It was a peer match that Mildred Sanderson will forever be thankful for. Mildred recently incurred a C6 incomplete spinal cord injury and is an active CPA (Alberta) client. She was excited to learn that she would be able to continue on with her rehabilitation in her own home. She was also interested in learning more about the benefits of CPA (Alberta)’s peer program. Peer mentor Holly Crichton was happy to be matched with Mildred and was able to encourage her to trial the EasyStand Glider and demonstrate how it could increase her own independence. Mildred adapts well to new situations and is willing to