Summer Guide 2026

Program Guide

SUMMER 2026 Registration Opens June 4th 2026 W W W. K A R A - F R C . C O M

Welcome!

About Us

Our Concept of Family

Our Vision

In adopting the term "family," we broaden its scope beyond the traditional structure of a two-parent and child dynamic.

Empower communities with resilient families.

At KARA, when we refer to family, we encompass anyone who has created a familial bond.

This includes grandparents, caregivers, aunts and uncles, adoptive parents, and individuals of all ages.

We acknowledge and celebrate the diversity of family structures across various cultures and formed communities.

Our Mission Championing a brighter future for families and communities through supportive programs and services that are rooted in education, connection, and acceptance.

What We Do

ALL OUR PROGRAMS & SERVICES ARE FREE!

We build meaningful relationships with our clients and community. We seek to meet every person and family where they are in their current life and family circumstance.

We strive to create safe and inclusive experiences that support clients in their parenting and family life.

Guide Contents Spring 2026

Locations At a Glance Events Children’s Programs Adult Programs Resources Support Us

E

very summer when my children were younger, we spent as much time outside as we possibly could. Parks, trails, spray parks, walks around the neighbourhood, collecting sticks, climbing rocks, getting muddy, and staying out later than we probably should have. Looking back, I can see how much those experiences shaped them. Nature gave them space to move, problem solve, build confidence, take risks, and learn independence. It built grit, creativity, emotional regulation, and a genuine sense of curiosity about the world around them.

As a parent, I also came to realize something else. Some of the strongest feelings of safety and belonging came from simply knowing the people around us. Seeing familiar faces at the playground. Talking to neighbours. Watching kids play together across different ages. Feeling connected to the community we lived in.

This summer, many of KARA’s programs are built around those ideas. We want families to reconnect with outdoor play, creativity, sensory experiences, literacy, and community. We are incredibly lucky in Edmonton to have access to beautiful green spaces, parks, trails, and gathering places right in our own neighbourhoods.

With so much of life becoming expensive, busy, and disconnected, there is something important about learning to fully use and appreciate what already exists around us.

We hope this summer’s programs encourage families to slow down a little, get outside, meet one another, and create the kinds of memories children carry with them for years.

Thank you for being part of our community this summer.

Stasia Quillian

Program Manager KARA Family Resource Centre

Our Locations KARA Family Resource Centre Unit #108, 5606 134A Ave NW KARA Family Resource Centre is located in the Ground-floor level of the Civida housing complex, beside Robert Brett Park.

If you are driving, there is plenty of street parking available.

When you arrive, dial unit #108 on the buzzer to be let in

Dunluce Tenant Centre

Castle Downs YMCA Northmount Community League

Kensington Community League

Kilkenny Community League Londonderry Community League KARA Family Resource Centre

Rosslyn Community League

Balwin Community League

Clareview Headstart

Balwin Community League

Castle Downs YMCA

Clareview Headstart

11510 153 AVE NW

1142 Hermitage Rd N

Dunluce Tenant Centre

Kilkenny Community League

Northmount Community League

14910 72 St NW

9208 140 Ave NW

Rosslyn Community League

Londonderry Community League

12904 74 St NW

UNIT 9, 11930 162 AVE NW

Kensington Community League 12130 134b Ave NW

11015 134 Ave

14224 74 St NW

If you need directions or navigational support to reach any of our community locations, please give us a call at 780-478-5396.

OUR LOCATIONS Located in the ground-floor level of the Civida housing complex beside Robert Brett Park.

If you are driving, there is plenty of street parking available.

When you arrive, dial unit #108 on the buzzer to be let in.

KARA Family Resource Centre 5606 134a Ave NW #108

If you are coming from the East on 162 Ave: Pass St. Lucy Catholic School on your right.

Then Dunluce School on your left.

It will be your first right turn into the housing complex Dunluce IV. If you are coming from the West: You will pass a shopping strip mall on your left.

Continue past the soccer field.

Dunluce Tenant Centre Turn left into the housing complex called UNIT 9, 11930 162 AVE NW Dunluce IV.

OUR LOCATIONS Driving from KARA (15 mins): Take Fort Road (northward) up to 137 Ave and turn left (West).

Follow 137 Ave to Castledowns Rd then turn right (north).

Continue on Castledowns Rd until you reach 153 Ave, and turn left (West).

The Castledowns Family YMCA will be on your right.

Castle Downs YMCA 11510 153 AVE NW

Clareview Headstart 1142 Hermitage Rd N

Driving From KARA: Take 134a Avenue to Fort Rd and turn left (North).

Continue until 137 Ave, and turn right (East).

Continue until 50 St, and turn right (South).

Continue until Hermitage Rd, and turn left (East).

Follow Hermitage Rd past the big open field on your right. e4c Clareview Headstart will be on your left, next to a small open field. If you reach Overlanders School, you’ve gone too far.

OUR LOCATIONS Driving from KARA (about 5-6 minutes): Take 134a Avenue Westward to 66 St. and turn right (North).

Follow 66 St. until 137 Ave, then turn left (West).

Continue 6 km to 119 St and turn left (South).

Follow until 134 Ave, and turn right, past Kensington School. It will be on your right.

Kensington Community League 12130 134b Ave NW

Driving from KARA (about 5-6 minutes): Take 134a Ave NW east to Fort Rd, and turn right (south).

Follow Fort Rd until 127 Ave, then turn right.

Continue to 76 St and turn right (north).

Balwin Community League will be in front of you, located in the middle of the park.

Balwin Community League 12904 74 St NW

OUR LOCATIONS Driving from KARA (5 mins): From KARA, take 134a Avenue westward to 66 Street and turn right (North).

Follow 66 Street to 137 Avenue and turn left (West).

Follow 137 Avenue past Londonderry Mall until 74 Street and turn right (North).

After you pass 141 Ave, it will be on your left.

Londonderry Community League 14224 74 St NW

Driving from KARA: Head west on 134A Ave NW from KARA. Continue onto 134 Ave NW, staying on 134 Avenue.

Follow 134 Ave NW straight until you reach 11015 134 Ave NW. that’s Rosslyn Community League.

Rosslyn Community League 11015 134 Ave

PROGRAMS AT A GLANCE Summer 2026 MONDAY

Nature Creators YMCA 0-6yrs Jul 13 - Aug 17 Break: Aug 3 10:00am-11:00am *Parented* Books and Bites Rosslyn Community League 0-6yrs Jul 13 - Aug 17 Break: Aug 3 10:00am-11:30am *Parented* Picnic in the Park Various Locations All Ages Jul 13 - Aug 17 Break: Aug 3 1:30pm-3:30pm *Parented*

TUESDAY LIttle Explorers Balwin Community League 0-6yrs Jul 14 - Aug 18 10:00am-11:30am *Parented* Kids in the Kitchen - Lunch Northmount Community League 6-12yrs Jul 14 - Aug 18 10:00am-12:00pm Bright Futures Schools Out Dunluce Tenant Centre 6-12yrs Jul 14 - Aug 18 3:00pm-5:00pm

WEDNESDAY

Meet Me at the Park Robert Brett Park 0-6yrs Jul 8 - Aug 19 10:00am-11:30am *Parented*

Family Fun Night Northmount Community League All Ages Jul 8 - Aug 19 Dinner: 5:00pm Program: 5:30pm -7:00pm

Glow Together Balwin Community League 6-12yrs Jul 14 - Aug 18 3:00pm-5:00pm

See full program guide for more information.

Register for FREE Programs: Phone: 780-478-5396 Email: registration@kara-frc.ca

THURSDAY Multi Splash Pad Various Locations 0-6yrs Jul 9 - Aug 20 10:00am-11:30am *Parented* Cafe Book Club Anti Bullying Loction TBA Parent Education 10:00am-11:30am Kids in the Kitchen - Lunch Northmount Community League 6-12yrs Jul 9 - Aug 20 10:00am-12:00pm Bright Futures School Out Dunluce Tenant Centre 6-12yrs Jul 9 - Aug 20 2:30pm-4:00pm

Glow Together Kilkenny Community League 10-13yrs Jul 9- Aug 20 2:30pm-4:00pm

Events Family Evenings

Community Events

Kickoff to Summer

BBQ

Fun Evening ALL AGES

DINNER INCLUDED

Kick off summertime with an evening of food, fun, and community connection! Families can enjoy food, outdoor games, activities, and opportunities to connect while celebrating the start of summer together. Come make memories, share smiles, and enjoy a welcoming evening for all ages.

Monday 5:00PM-7:00PM JULY 7

Robert Brett Park 134A Ave NW

Family Fun Night Bring the Whole Family!

Fun Evening ALL AGES

DINNER INCLUDED

In partnership with Amity House, Family Fun Night is a time to connect, play, and grow together. Designed for parents, caregivers, and children, each evening features fun activities, games, and opportunities to build stronger bonds while encouraging teamwork and communication. It's a chance to relax, laugh, make meaningful memories, and connect with other families in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Wednesdays 5:00PM-7:00PM Dinner served at 5pm Program: 5:30PM- 7:00PM JULY 8 - AUGUST 19

Northmount Community League 9208 140 Ave, NW

Children’s Programs Early Learners

Literacy Programs

Youth Programs

Ages 0-6

Ages 0-6

Ages 6-12

Early Learners Ages 0-6

Nature Creators

Little Explorers

Meet Me At the Park

AGES 0-6

AGES 0-6

AGES 0-6

PARENTED

Nature Creators invites children and caregivers to explore art, literacy, and creativity through hands-on experiences with natural and tactile materials. Using sensory-rich activities inspired by the outdoors, children build early language, imagination, fine motor skills, and brain development while discovering creative ways to connect with nature, storytelling, and selfexpression.

PARENTED

Little Explorers is a sensorybased nature play program designed for children under 6 and their caregivers. Through hands-on exploration, movement, and creative outdoor activities, children build confidence, curiosity, regulation, and developmental skills while caregivers learn playful, engaging ways to support early learning, connection, and discovery through meaningful experiences in nature.

PARENTED

This free parented summer program invites families to gather in their local park for crafts, outdoor play, and nature-based activities.

Through shared experiences, the program helps build neighbour connections, encourages playfulness and outdoor exploration, strengthens family relationships, and fosters a greater sense of belonging, safety, and pride within the community.

Mondays

Tuesday

Wednesday

10:00AM-11:00AM JULY 13 - AUGUST 17 (BREAK: AUGUST 3)

10:00AM-11:30AM JULY 14 - AUGUST 18

10:00AM-11:30AM JULY 8 - AUGUST 19

Balwin Community League

Robert Brett Park

YMCA Castle Downs 12904 74 St NW

12904 74 st NW

5606 134a Ave

Picnic in the Park ALL AGES

PARENTED

Pack a blanket and join us for a relaxing morning of o u t d o o r f u n , c o n n e c t i o n , a n d p l a y ! Fa m i l i e s w i l l e n j o y picnic-style activities, games, and oppor tunities to e x p l o r e n a t u r e w h i l e s p e n d i n g q u a l i t y t i m e t o g e t h e r. I t 's a wonderful way to connect with other families, enjoy t h e f r e s h a i r, a n d c r e a t e l a s t i n g s u m m e r m e m o r i e s .

Mondays 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM JULY 13 - AUGUST 17 (BREAK: AUGUST 3)

Various Locations Check website for updates

Multi Splash Pad AGES 0-6

PARENTED

Pack a blanket and join us for a relaxing morning of outdoor fun, connection, and play! Families will enjoy picnic-style activities, games, and opportunities to explore nature while spending quality time together.

It's a wonderful way to connect with other families, enjoy the fresh air, and create lasting summer memories.

Thursdays 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM JULY 9 - AUGUST 20

Various Locations Check website for updates

Books & Bites AGES 0-6

PARENTED

Books and Bites is a weekly parented program where stories come to life in the kitchen! Each session begins with cozy story time, followed by a hands-on cooking activity inspired by the book.

Children will practice simple, safe kitchen skills - like scooping, pouring, measuring, and cutting with wooden child - safety knives while creating a tasty themed snack to enjoy together. It’s a chance to learn, create and connect with other families in the community.

Mondays 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM JULY 13 - AUGUST 17 (BREAK: AUGUST 3)

Rosslyn Community League 11015 134 Ave

Kids in the Kitchen AGES 6-12 Lunch Session - Our Lunch Session for ages 6 -12 years will teach kids how to make delicious lunches, which they’ll enjoy together. Our young chefs will gain practical life skills and explore nutritious foods while learning kitchen hygiene adn safety in a fun, hands-on enviroment.

Tuesdays

Thursdays

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM JULY 14 - AUGUST 18

10:00AM - 12:00PM JULY 9 - AUGUST 20

Northmount Community League

Northmount Community League

9208 140 Ave NW

9208 140 Ave NW

To Register please email: m a r e s a @ k a r a - fr c .c a

Bright Futures - Schools Out AGES 6-12 Bright Futures After School Adventure is a dynamic and engaging program designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence in children beyond the classroom.Through a blend of hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, creative art, and guided learning, kids are encouraged to discover their strengths, build meaningful friendships, and develop essential life skills.

Our program provides a safe, supportive, and fun environment where everyone can explore new interests, express themselves freely, and grow into their fullest potential because every child deserves a bright future.

Tuesdays

Thursdays

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM JULY 14 - AUGUST 18

2:30PM - 4:00PM JULY 9 - AUGUST 20

Dunluce Tenant Centre

Dunluce Tenant Centre

Unit 9 11930 162 Ave NW

Unit 9 11930 162 Ave NW

Glow Together AGES 10-13 Glow together is a fun, supportive program designed to help young teens build confidence, friendships and essential life skills. Through creative activities like games, art, group discussions, and movement-based sessions, participants explore topics like communication, self-esteem, and problem-solving. The program also encourages community stewardship, giving youth the opportunity to take part in meaningful service projects that make a difference in their neighbourhoods.

Tuesdays

Thursdays

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM JULY 14 - AUGUST 18

2:30PM - 4:00PM JULY 9 - AUGUST 20

Balwin Community League

Kilkenny Community League

12904 74 St NW

14910 72 St NW

Parent Programs Group Programs LEARN WITH OTHER PARENTS

Cafe Book Club: Anti Bullying PARENT PROGRAM Ta k e s o m e t i m e f o r y o u r s e l f a n d c o n n e c t w i t h o t h e r caregivers in a welcoming and relaxed book club setting.

Each session will feature engaging discussions, oppor tunities to share perspectives, and meaningful conversations inspired by a selected book or reading.

Enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while building connections, reflecting on new ideas, and fostering a sense of community with fellow caregivers.

Thursdays 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM JULY 14 - AUGUST 18

TBA In - Person

Resources In-Person Resources

Online Resources

In Person Resources Unit #108 5606 134A Ave NW

Community Support

One-on-One Support

System Nagviation

O u r Fa m i l y R e s o u r c e S u p p o r t Wo r k e r s c a n o f f e r s u p p o r t e d r e f e r ra l s f o r y o u a n d y o u r f a m i l y. T h i s c a n include anything from recreation and child care to mental health support services.

O u r Fa m i l y N a v i g a t o r a n d Fa m i l y S u p p o r t Wo r k e r s c a n provide individualized suppor t services to help you find your way through the systems and circumstances y o u a r e n a v i g a t i n g . Yo u d o n’ t h a v e t o g o t h r o u g h i t alone.

In today's complex world, you may need a little help in navigating through various systems such as healthcare, education, social services, and more. Our Family Navigator, Stefanie, is a registered social worker and can help you access resources, understand processes, and overcome hurdles.

Contact to Book

Contact to Book

Contact to Book

587-525-7279 Familynavigator@kara-frc.ca

587-525-7279 Winifred@kara-frc.ca

587-525-7279 Familynavigator@kara-frc.ca

KARA

KARA

KARA

UNIT #108 5606 134A AVE NW

UNIT #108 5606 134A AVE NW

UNIT #108 5606 134A AVE NW

Online Resources www.kara-frc.com

Connecting You to Services www.kara-frc.com Whatever challenges you and your family might be f a c i n g , K A R A Fa m i l y R e s o u r c e C e n t r e i s h e r e t o suppor t you. Explore our free resources online d e s i g n e d t o h e l p f a m i l i e s l e a r n , g r o w, a n d t h r i v e .

While you’re there, be sure to check out our free p r o g ra m s a n d s e r v i c e s , a l l c r e a t e d t o s u p p o r t y o u e v e r y s t e p o f t h e w a y.

Parenting Tip Sheets

Sensory Activities

Big Life Journal

Self-Serve Online

Self-Serve Online

Self-Serve Online

Check out some of our Parenting Tip Sheets designed to suppor t caregivers through every s t a g e o f t h e i r c h i l d ’s development. These easyto-read resources cover topics like positive discipline, emotional regulation, healthy routines, and building strong family connections.

Looking for fun and engaging ways to suppor t y o u r c h i l d ’s d e v e l o p m e n t ?

K A R A’s K i d s ’ S e n s o r y Activities are designed to s p a r k c r e a t i v i t y, e n h a n c e learning, and help children explore the world through p l a y.

E n c o u ra g e g r o w t h , mindfulness, and outdoor adventure with the Big Life Journal and 1000 Hours O u t s i d e t ra c k e r s ! T h e s e t o o l s help families set meaningful g o a l s , c e l e b ra t e p r o g r e s s , and spend more time connecting — both indoors and out.

Support Us Volunteers Needed Email: maresa@kara-frc.ca We’ r e a l w a y s l o o k i n g f o r v o l u n t e e r s t o s u p p o r t o u r p r o g ra m s a c r o s s K A R A’s l o c a t i o n s . O p p o r t u n i t i e s i n c l u d e p r o g ra m s u p p o r t , f o o d p i c k u p , a d m i n i s t ra t i v e a n d c u s t o d i a l help, event assistance and more!

Donate Today!

Yo u c a n m a k e a n i m p a c t i n y o u r c o m m u n i t y. Yo u r d o n a t i o n h e l p s K A R A Fa m i l y R e s o u r c e C e n t r e p r o v i d e e s s e n t i a l p r o g ra m s a n d services to families in our c o m m u n i t y. E v e r y c o n t r i b u t i o n counts!

Email: marc@kara-frc.ca

CONTACT www.kara-frc.com 587-525-7279 f a m i l y n a v i g a t o r @ k a ra - f r c . c a

KARA UNIT #108 5606 134A AVE NW