MFRC Annual General Report April 2018 – March 2019 by mfrcedmonton

Creating a

Community Connection

EDMONTON GARRISON MILITARY FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT APRIL 2018 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARCH 2019

“

A message from your Board of Directors

Alone we can do so little; together, we can do so much

– Helen Keller

Creating a supportive environment for military families relies heavily on making strong, effective community connections. The Board of Directors has made this one of their strategic priorities to ensure that families are provided programs and services that are relevant, connected and innovative. To fully support our families we need to draw on resources from the community, which align with the Centre’s philosophy of responsive family support. We work tirelessly to maintain our successful relationships with key partners, which include community and service agencies, local school boards and government departments. These relationships have resulted in two successful initiatives being implemented at the Centre; being designated as an Early Learning Childcare Centre, which focuses on providing supports to children with diverse needs and on improvements to address gaps in the system, and providing briefs to the Sturgeon School District on military life and its effects on children. Such partnerships would not be possible without the daily teamwork and effective collaboration among the staff at the MFRC. Their sense of purpose and commitment to military families is to be commended. In fact, the Army and 3rd Canadian Division Commanders recognized three members of our team, Roza Parlin with a Command Commendation from the Commander of the Canadian Army and the 3rd Canadian Division Commander Team Commendation to Angela Duckworth and Jerris Popik for their work with the families of the fallen during the Grief and Loss Conference in 2018. We have maintained a strong financial position throughout this year and extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners; staff and volunteers who continue to work together to make a difference in the lives of our families and who help to create a healthy, resilient community. Finally, we have assembled a diverse, skilled and inclusive Board of Directors to build on past successes and to continue the tradition of strong and thoughtful governance – Kaetlyn Corbould, Board Chair 2

Table of Contents Board and Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 4 - 5 About the Edmonton Garrison Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 5 Funding and Fund Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 6 - 7 CHILD/YOUTH DEVELOPMENT & PARENTING SUPPORT Child care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 8 Child, Youth and Parenting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 8 - 9 DEPLOYMENT SUPPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 10 - 11 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNITY INTEGRATION Employment and Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 12 Language Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 13 Welcome Services, School Outreach, Information, Referral, and Outreach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 14 - 15 MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 16 - 17 SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES WITH SPECIAL NEEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 18 VETERAN FAMILY PROGRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 19 VOLUNTEERING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 20 COMMUNITY PARTNERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 21 PLACEMENT STUDENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P. 21 SPONSORS AND DONORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 22 - 23

Board of Directors Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kaetlyn Corbould

Ex-officio members

Vice-Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alan Markewicz Secretary/Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kim Earles Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mireille Chamberland Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David Benaine Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alba Polonkey Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Allison Simmonds Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Samantha Maloney Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeffrey Fafard

CWO Wayne Bantock, 3 CDSB Edmonton Rep CWO Darren Hessell, 1 CMBG Rep CWO Dwayne Turple, 408 Sqn Rep CWO Jules Bérubé, 1 Health Services Grp Rep Roza Parlin, Executive Director MFRC MFRC Patron J’lyn Nye

Staff Along with the Management Team and Coordinators listed below, there are a number of key staff who work towards supporting military families on their journey. The MFRC currently employs a total of 65 staff; 19 Management/Coordinators, 6 Administrators, and 40 Direct Delivery staff. Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Roza Parlin Deputy Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Craig Cherrette Business Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barb Booker Child Care Coordinator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lucinda Humphries Child and Youth Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nancy Defer Community Development Coordinator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Donna Woodford Deployment Support Coordinator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jenny Greyling Mental Health Team Lead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jerris Popik Francophone Services Coordinator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Myriam Frenette Program Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brenda Davidson Senior Communications Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Angela Duckworth Veteran Family Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carrie Thompson

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

About the MFRC ABOUT US The Edmonton Garrison Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) is a charitable, non-profit organization registered under the Alberta Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Act. The agency is also registered with Revenue Canada as a charitable organization. The MFRC is committed to enriching the lives of individuals and families in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) through positive action, education, and support. Absences from family support systems, difficulties during deployments, solo parenting or coping with an injury or loss are realities for military families: realities which can have a significant impact on family well-being. For over 25 years, the MFRC has been committed to supporting military families as they navigate these unique challenges through programs and services that enhance the strength and resilience of military families.

OUR STRUCTURE We are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors comprised of military family members, CAF members, and ex-officio members. The MFRC depends on the talents and skills of these dedicated volunteers to make guiding decisions. At least 51% of the Board membership must be civilian family members of fulltime serving CAF personnel. Qualified staff from a variety of backgrounds direct and coordinate MFRC programs and services. MISSION The Edmonton Garrison Military Family Resource Centre supports military families as they navigate the unique challenges of military life through programs and services that enhance their strength and resilience. CORE VALUE STATEMENT Strong military families are the foundation of the Canadian Armed Forces.

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Funding and Fund Development The MFRC is funded through four major areas, each separate but equally important. These funding sources include the Base Commander, Military Family Services (MFS), Program Fees, and Fund Development. BASE COMMANDER In the 2018/2019 fiscal year, approximately 7% of the annual operating budget came from the Base Commander. This funding is directed to sitespecific and enhanced mandated services. MILITARY FAMILY SERVICES Approximately 39.5% of the annual operating budget for the 2018/2019 fiscal year came from Military Family Services to provide the Military Family Services Program (MFSP) to Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) families. This funding provides mandated services as set out in the annual funding application submitted to MFS for the provision of the MFSP. These funds ensure that all military families may access similar programs of consistent quality on any CAF base where they may be stationed. Mandated services include: • Personal Development and Community Integration • Child and Youth Development & Parenting Support • Mental Health and Wellness • Family Separation and Reunion • Veteran Family Support 6

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

PROGRAM FEES AND OTHER FUNDING Approximately 40.5% of the annual operating budget for the 2018/2019 fiscal year came from provincial funds as well as fees received directly from participants utilizing various user funded programs and services. FUND DEVELOPMENT Funds are raised from a variety of avenues, which include donations and proceeds from the sale of yellow ribbon merchandise. In addition, eventspecific fundraising initiatives are hosted every year by the MFRC in cooperation with various partners, sponsors, and donors. Approximately 13% of the annual operating budget for the 2018/2019 fiscal year came from fund development activities. The MFRC has had the privilege of working with several businesses and organizations to help raise funds and awareness through events. Some of our key events are highlighted on the following page. 13%

40.5%

Program fees and other funding

39.5%

Military Family Services Fund development Base Commander

Funding and Fund Development The 10th Annual Loops for the Troops Fun Run & Walk was a hugely successful event with over 400 participants. A special anniversary coin was created to mark the occasion! Once again a Military Mile, 5 km, 10 km & Half Marathon were offered. Servus Credit Union signed on as the event sponsor boosting the event with not only a $5,000 donation but also volunteers for the event as well.

dinner with a mouth-watering tomahawk steak, music performed by the Royal Canadian Artillery Band and am enlightening keynote speaker Lieutenant General P.F. Wynnyk, Vice Chief of Defence Staff. The Gala was proudly presented by the Edmonton Salutes Committee.

2019 will see the first CFB Edmonton Base Commanders Lobsterfest! This event will be held at EPCOR Utilities worked with the Edmonton Eskimos the Lamplighter Lounge, and feature a steak and in order to sponsor their Military Appreciation lobster dinner, as well as a live band and dancing! Night. Eskimo fans purchased customized For a complete listing of our sponsors and donors bandanas from EPCOR and MFRC volunteers see pages 22 and 23. outside the gates of the Commonwealth Stadium selling out before kick-off with EPCOR matching the proceeds! Special Fundraising Events The Grey Cup was held in Edmonton this year, bringing the return of the Capital Power Zip Line! This event gave participants a birds-eye view of the Edmonton River Valley. Participants were able to give a donation to the MFRC, in exchange for a copy of their photo. The MFRC was invited to accept donations for a specialty item during the RCA Band Christmas Concert. The Jingle Bells sold out quickly and added an element of guest participation to the concert! Our fiscal year wrapped up with our 15th annual Yellow Ribbon Gala. Guests enjoyed a four-course

Event

Amount

15th Annual Yellow Ribbon Gala 504 Air Cadets Chinthe Challenge

$41,466.90 $4,525.40

Capital Power Zip Line

$13,301.76

Casino

$55,891.10

Edmonton Eskimos Military Appreciation

$40,000

Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation

$10,000

Edmonton Petroleum Golf and Country Club Military Appreciation

$15,415.00

Loops for the Troops

$18,181.30

RCA Band Christmas Concert

$3,063.00

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Child/Youth Development & Parenting Support CHILD CARE The MFRC Day Care was proud to be named one of the 100 new Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) Centres across Alberta. Starting on June 1, 2018 day care fees were capped at $25/day per child. Implementation of the early learning and child care curriculum framework began as well as inclusive supports for children with diverse needs. Families in Alberta are likely to encounter waiting lists while attempting to secure a place for their children. The MFRC maintains an extensive waitlist which can be upwards of two to three years and is constantly changing. Staff attended training in Positive Child Guidance and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention.

“

The teachers at the MFRC playschool have managed to create a caring environment where the kids feel so welcomed and safe to play and explore. It really doesn’t stop there, they seem to always go above and beyond what you would expect from a playschool program… I think it is safe to say the MFRC playschool has exceeded every expectation I had for preparing my children for kindergarten and their future education.

“

- Anita, Playschool Parent

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

Annonce du programme d’apprentissage précoce en service de garde (Early Learning Child Care Centres)

CHILD, YOUTH, AND PARENTING The MFRC continues to offer a variety of activities and programs to promote healthy child and youth development as well as parenting support. Some of the programs include a licensed playschool, a terrific twos program and a drop-in youth centre. Various parenting support services were offered in the form of parent-child activities and parent/ caregiver education facilitation. Some of the parent workshops this year included Kids Have Stress Too, Sugar Shocker, and Bedtime Battles. There was an increased amount of participation in the Health for Two pre-natal program this year with several expecting mothers making new connections. Both the Playschool and Terrific Twos programs boasted maximum participation with extremely positive feedback from parents.

Child/Youth Development & Parenting Support This past year the Child and Youth Coordinator began to oversee the operation of the Youth Centre, which continues to offer both structured and non-structured programs for youth aged 9-17. Some of the year’s highlights included themed dances, a Kingsway Mall shopping trip, Landmark Cinemas movie trip, and a talent show. The MFRC also offered educational programs to youth which included Home Alone Safety workshops, Babysitting courses, and a Youth Paint Night to celebrate the Month of the Military Child. New this upcoming year, the MFRC will host a Babysitter Meet and Greet where babysitters and caregivers can meet with local families looking for childcare. With several upcoming deployments on the horizon, this event will offer an opportunity for families to make useful connections and build on their resilience.

• 335 families attended weekly drop-in playgroup programs. *This program was offered on a recurring basis and therefore attendance has been combined.

• 76 children in the Day Care (ELCC) • 39 children in the Out of School Care program • 5,036 hours of Casual Childcare was provided to 384 children from 266 families

Parenting Program Attendance Bedtime Battles

Books for Babies (parents)

Daddy and Me (parents)

Health for Two

Parents and Tots (parents and children)

Rhymes that Bind (parents and children)

S.P.E.A.K Presentation to Parents

Activities, Program & Workshop Attendance

Soirée de peinture pour les jeunes afin de célébrer le mois de l’enfant militaire

Babysitting Course

Friendship, Communication & Boundaries

Home Alone Course

Playschool

Terrific Twos

Youth Dance (average attendance)

Youth Paint Night - Winter

Youth Paint Night - Month of the Military Child

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Deployment Support

Just like the previous year, it has been a whirlwind! The MFRC Deployment Team adopted a new process to better manage the influx of Family Information Forms which are necessary to connect with families before during and after a deployment. This process resulted in many more families receiving direct contact from the Deployment Team. The CAF member remains the primary gateway to connect with families, however, families are encouraged to connect with the MFRC to add their names to our distribution list or to ask questions during the phases of deployment. The community responded positively to a new date for Pizza/Movie Night, changing from a weeknight to a Saturday evening. For those who are soloparenting, the weekends can feel like the longest two days of the week. By offering this program on a weekend, it allows families who cannot attend weekday programming a chance to connect with one another and relax. Building and maintaining positive working relations with Unit Family Support Representatives has resulted in the ability to connect with families collectively. This ensures they have a point of contact during all phases of deployment or workrelated absences.

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

I found R2MR very helpful. I am really glad you discussed boundaries and planning. I also like that you mentioned how each deployment is different. Though this will be our first one, it is good to know and keep in mind that as a family we need to revisit R2MR each time as a check-in to make sure things go as well as possible.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

The MFRC supports families before, during, and after a deployment or work-related absence.

- CAF spouse

By acknowledging different comfort levels, private and small group sessions of the R2MR (Road to Mental Readiness) are being offered. CAF personnel and families enjoyed the private and small group sessions and found it was easier to ask questions or voice concerns without the fear of judgment due to increased confidentiality. Moving forward, we will be assisting families who wish to access funding from Support Our Troops, that is intended to help children stay in touch with a parent who is deployed overseas for 90 days or more. For families supporting children of deployed members, up to $250 per family may be available to assist with the purchase or subsidization of a tablet/iPad. The intent of this support is to help children stay connected via social media with the parent that is away from home.

Deployment Support Deployment Program Attendance

• 291 families (regular and reserve force) accessed Deployment Services

Bus Trip to the Muttart

• 855 check-in calls were made

Christmas Lights Tour

169

Drop-in coffee

Operation Care Package

Pizza/Movie Night

114*

Road to Mental Readiness

Thriving Workshop (with Movie Night)

• 63 Build-a-Bear gift cards handed out

Families enjoyed our Operation Care Package workshop, as they prepared a custom and thoughtful care package for their loved one deployed overseas during the Christmas holidays. Families were invited to take a festive family portrait, enjoy some snacks, and create some unique crafts to include in their packages.

* This program was offered on a recurring basis, attendance was combined.

Operation Care Package program

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Personal Development and Community Integration EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION According to Statistics Canada, the unemployment rate in the Edmonton area remains above the national average, making employment support a vital resource for spouses who are recently posted to Edmonton. The MFRC partners with many employment agencies to offer this support. An Employment Agency Resource Fair was held in September in collaboration with Alberta Labour to support spouses looking for employment. Support Our Troops began a new funding opportunity for current serving CAF families in Alberta who require recertification/training/ education; the MFRC will assist families with their application with up to $3,500 available. PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS Several new workshops were offered in addition to our recurring programs. A BMO representative delivered a presentation on Defence Community Banking services as well as the mortgages offered to military personnel. Canada Revenue Agency offered a workshop to help understand and manage a yearly tax report and to benefit from it.

• 76 adults and 2 youth accessed education referral services • 69 adults and 3 youth accessed employment referral services • 77 applications submitted for Support Our Troops education funding • An average of 80 Units were collected during four Canadian Blood Services donation clinics

Program Attendance Prince’s Operation Entrepreneur

Scrapbooking

143*

Standard First Aid

* This program was offered on a recurring basis, attendance was combined.

Canadian Blood Services continues to offer clinics on base in partnership with the MFRC.

2018 Prince’s Operation Entrepreneur Workshop

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

Personal Development and Community Integration LANGUAGE SERVICES The MFRC Second Language Service helps military families improve or maintain their second language skills and assists with personal, family, and community integration to enable increased comfort and confidence in this community. The MFRC language services program went through some changes this year, as we were implementing new policies and options for Second Language Training (SLT), as well as new activities for community members. A pilot SLT program that blends online with in-class learning was offered for both the Fall and Winter semesters with very positive feedback. Moving forward, training will expand to offer both English and French classes. Two new bilingual social programs were offered at the MFRC this year. “Walk, Talk and Connect” was developed based on feedback from families looking to connect with their peers while doing something active. A lot of laughter and friendships were developed during our weekly morning walks as a group. “Supper Club” was developed to meet the need for families to connect with other adults in the community. Attendance was good and really picked up for a few favourite restaurants! An educational two-day workshop for caregivers as well as a tax information session was offered in French in collaboration with external organizations.

During the Month of Francophonie, the MFRC brought a Francophonie Sugar Shack Celebration to the students in grades one through nine at Guthrie School (as pictured in the cover photo). The students enjoyed the activities and learning about French-Canadian culture, traditions, and history. Students took part in some outdoor fun with delicious maple taffy on snow, music, horse-drawn sleigh rides, hot chocolate, and games! Guthrie staff expressed their interest and enthusiasm in holding this event every year! • 400-500 individuals joined us to celebrate St. Jean Baptiste Day • 33 Rosetta Stone Licenses were issued • 38 students attended language classes

Program Attendance Caregiver Workshop

CRA Workshop

Francophone Movie Night

165

Music and Art Workshop

Supper Club

45*

Walk, Talk and Connect

103*

* This program was offered on a recurring basis, attendance was combined.

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Personal Development and Community Integration WELCOME SERVICES Military families are often faced with the challenges of relocating in an unfamiliar province and away from close family and friends. The MFRC offers bilingual services to assist families as they are posted to Edmonton to help them integrate into their new community. Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare held a focus group at the MFRC with military spouses to gather information on the relocation process. The MFRC partnered with the PSP Fall Expo and held a Community Picnic to new and current families at the end of August. The 720 attendees enjoyed a catered barbecue, petting zoo, community booths as well as getting to know the MFRC’s staff, programs, and services!

SCHOOL OUTREACH The role of the School Liaison and Outreach Coordinator is to bring awareness and an understanding of the challenges of military life as well as the programs and services offered at the MFRC. The MFRC attended the Namao School, Sturgeon Composite, Bon Accord, Gibbons School Parent Council meetings, the Queen Elizabeth High School Teachers Resource Fair, arranged a meeting with Ècole Père Lacombe and arranged a presentation to the Teachers and Staff from Guthrie School. Moving forward, the MFRC will continue to open the dialogue with schools in the areas surrounding the base.

• 172 Family Welcome Packages distributed • 515 Single Welcome Packages distributed • 3 Pre-posting Packages mailed • 17 French Welcome Packages distributed • 48 Welcome Baby Packages distributed • 6 Youth Welcome Packages distributed • 121 individuals received a Welcome Line Call • 720 individuals joined us for our Fall Expo and Community Picnic

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

50 Guthrie School teachers and staff attended a presentation about programs and services for military families.

Personal Development and Community Integration INFORMATION, REFERRAL, AND OUTREACH The MFRC attended the following outreach events: PSP Halloween Party & Family Day events, Morinville Active Living Fair, 1 Field Ambulance Family Day, LdSH Family Day, Guthrie School Welcome event, Legal Meet the Community Night, 1PPCLI Family Day, as well as a number of Unit and Family Briefings. Thanks to some generous donors, the MFRC was able to distribute tickets to some amazing local events including Rod Stewart, Steve Miller Band, the Eagles, Queens of the Stone Age, Eskimos, Smashing Pumpkins, Nitro Circus, Oilers, FarmFair, Jack White, Rotary Club - Comedy Club Event, Justin Timberlake, Little Big Town and A Christmas Carol.

• 4,829 phone calls for info & referral • 129 social media requests for info & referral • 1,437 emails for info & referral • 493 times the computer lab was accessed • 29 families went on a guided tour of the centre • 2,393 donated tickets were distributed

Outreach Program Attendance Community Coffee events

17 individuals

Winter Welcome

22 families

COMMUNICATION STATISTICS 3500

increase

3000 2500 2000

April 1, 2018

13%

March 31, 2019

29%

increase

1500 1000

12%

500

29%

increase

French Facebook

Youth Facebook

Eblast

English Facebook

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Mental Health and Wellness The MFRC Mental Health and Wellness team enhances the social and emotional well-being of CAF families. Military life presents unique challenges to families; our services assist in the navigation of the programs and services available. The team offers confidential, short-term counselling and crisis support, as well as information and referral services. Programs are designed to be preventive in nature and can assist individuals and families in managing periods of high stress and crisis.

The team continued individual client support through short-term counselling with adults and children, supporting over 100 clients and providing information and referrals to over 400 new referral calls/intakes.

This year, information and community outreach information was provided regarding mental health supports on PTSD Awareness Day to 60 veterans and family members.

In October we introduced Mindfulness Coaching, a new program for adults. This four week group was a great way for both current serving members and their families to learn more about ways to work through stress and take care of their mental health.

“

Three Gender-Based Violence prevention and awareness events in partnership with SAFFRON, City of Edmonton and The Today Family Violence Centre were delivered.

In collaboration with the MFRC Child and Youth Coordinator, our team provided ongoing Health for Two sessions for expectant mothers from military families.

I’ve gained so many new tools now to help me reach for more personal successes than I felt I had before taking this course.

- Mindfulness Participant

Moving forward the team will continue to offer core programs with the greatest feedback such as Mindfulness Coaching, Yak and Gobble and iSTEP.

MFRC staff take part in “Hats On for Mental Health day” a campaign to raise awareness of the importance of good mental health.

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

The Mental Health and Wellness team is also excited about an upcoming expanded partnership with Sturgeon School Division, which will see our team working within schools with students from military and veteran families.

Mental Health and Wellness

• 1,107 hours of emergency, respite and casualty-support childcare were provided to 127 children from 86 families. • 6 flights were arranged to support families through emergency situations. • 110 Adult Client files • 20 Youth Client files • 448 families accessed information and referral services • 65 children and youth attended our preventative workshops including Yak and Gobble, Competent Kids and iSTEP.

Mental Health and Wellness Programs Competent Kids

Designating Assisting Officer training

iSTEP Program

Mindfulness

OSI Caregiver Group

OSI clinic round table

Thriving Workshop

Yak and Gobble

36*

* Three sessions of this program were offered, the attendance for this program was combined.

EMERGENCY AND RESPITE CHILDCARE Military families are encouraged to have a Family Care Plan (FCP). However, families may sometimes face situations where conditions of service in the CAF prove too challenging for the FCP to accommodate. When this happens additional child care support may be available. The MFRC may subsidize a family’s child care request through direct child care services, expense reimbursement or through the coordination of independent child care services on a short-term basis. Registration and eligibility changes will be taking effect on August 1, 2019. Each family situation will be considered on a case-by-case basis and assessed individually. Parents/guardians will speak with an MFRC Family Support Worker in-person or over the phone who will assist by developing a plan that best suits the well-being of the family and children, during what could be a stressful time.

“

While my wife was suffering from mental illness, I went to the MFRC to inquire about emergency child care. Rather than wait for the worst, the MFRC flew my retired mother out to assist my wife. This proactive approach has improved my wife’s condition, improving quality of life for my family. Thank you.

“

• $400 in financial support was distributed from the MFRC contingency fund.

- CAF member

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Support to Families with Special Needs The MFRC offers confidential support, information, and referral to individuals with disabilities as well as caregivers of children, youth, and adults with disabilities. An increased amount of applications were submitted to Support Our Troops for funding to assist with assessments and reassessments, as well as to offset some of the extraordinary costs associated with things like assisting devices, respite care, therapy, and medical travel. The MFRC offered a variety of parent/peer support sessions on the topics of anxiety, behaviour challenges, and speech. • The MFRC assisted families in applying for $7,377.07 from Support Our Troops.

The MFRC is looking forward to collaborating with Sturgeon Public School Board to offer “Find Your Village”, a parenting support group. This peersupport group will offer an opportunity for parents to learn from one another, through the many shared commonalities of parenting. Workshop Attendance Adult ADHD

Anxiety Tips and Tricks

Autism Speaks

Behaviour Specialist

Cyberworld for Parents

Speech-Language Therapist

• 59 Families supported with resources, referrals and one on one support

MFRC staff take part in Pink Shirt Day when people wear a pink shirt to symbolise a stand against bullying.

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

Veteran Family Program

During the past year, the Veteran Family Program Coordinator has provided information and resources regarding mental and physical health concerns, counselling, housing, employment, education, bereavement, legal services, and financial matters. In January, the MFRC partnered with the Mental Health Commission of Canada to host a no cost two-day Mental Health First Aid course. Twenty members of the veteran community attended the certified course. Participants were trained to identify an emerging mental health problem and respond effectively in the event of a crisis. Other programs offered by the Veteran Family Program Coordinator have included Shifting Gears, Veteran Family Program Information Nights, and SISIP Financial Matters for Transitioning Families workshops.

• 39 transitioning CAF Members supported • 27 Veteran clients supported • 110 Veteran Family Members supported

This coming year we look forward to forming a more collaborative working relationship with the newly formed CAF Transition Centre Edmonton to provide a seamless transition service to releasing CAF members and their family members.

“

The Veteran Family Program supports medicallyreleasing Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and medically-released Veterans and their families. As of April 1, 2018, the Veteran Family Program became a permanent program at all MFRCs across Canada. The Veteran Family Program offers programs and services that are designed to ease the transition from military to post-service life and highlight the resources available.

Amazing! Would highly recommend to anyone, particularly those supporting and/ or working with people struggling with their mental health.

-Mental Health First Aid course participant

Mental Health First Aid course participants

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Volunteering Volunteers are an essential part of the Edmonton Garrison community. The MFRC offers many opportunities for personal and professional growth within the military community. Volunteers gain new skills, meet new people, get involved in the community, explore career possibilities, and receive the personal satisfaction of making a difference. The MFRC partnered with 408 Squadron to offer the Air Force Family Sponsorship Program. The MFRC held a training session and offered support to volunteers as they made initial contact with assigned families via telephone or electronic means. Volunteers help out during the 2018 Loops for the Troops Fun Run and Walk

A Volunteer Appreciation event was held on October 13 at the Lamplighter Lounge thanks to CANEX sponsorship. The Edmonton Garrison Golf and Curling Club catered the dinner while volunteers enjoyed themselves with a fun money casino!

â&#x20AC;˘ 342 volunteers with 2,855 hours. â&#x20AC;˘ 90 volunteers attended our Volunteer Appreciation event

2018 Volunteer Appreciation event

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

Community Partners The MFRC continues to foster a wide range of partnerships with an array of agencies that help us reach our vision of resourceful and resilient families. Please note, this is not an exhaustive list. We maintain a close relationship with and are often supported by Edmonton Garrison Units and Agencies. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Accès Emploi Alberta Health Services, OSI Clinic Bredin Centre for Learning BGS Canadian Blood Services Centre for Family Literacy City of Edmonton Community Recreation Edge4Vets Edmonton Salutes Employabilities Glengarry Child Care Society GRIT-Getting Ready for Inclusion Today Guthrie School Health for Two Home Care Network Infinite Resources Landmark Cinemas MacEwan University Military Spousal Employment Network Nurse Next Door Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS) Prince’s Operation Entrepreneur Royal Canadian Legion SAFFRON Scholastic Canada

• • • • • • •

Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton Sturgeon School Division The Today Family Violence Centre University of Alberta Veterans Affairs Canada VETs Canada Winnifred Stewart Association

Placement Students 1,120 placement hours The MFRC hosted students from the University of Alberta Human Ecology and Nursing programs, as well as the MacEwan University’s Child and Youth and Social Work Degree Programs.

Students from the University of Alberta created a student portfolio resource.

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Sponsors and Donors PREMIER SPONSORS ($100,000 +) • The Estate of Dennis A. Strilchuk • Gordon Gent

GOLD SPONSORS ($25,000 +)

SILVER SPONSORS

• Capital Power Corporation • Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation • EPCOR • Kentwood Ford • The Edmonton Salutes Committee • The South Alberta Light Horse Regiment Foundation

• Edmonton Eskimos Football Club • Edmonton Petroleum Golf and Country Club • Edmonton Northlands • Frontline Golf Committee • KLM • The McCormack Family • Sarah Keller and Family • Servus Credit Union

($15,000 to $24,999)

BRONZE SPONSORS ($5,000 to $14,999) • Amarjeet Sohi Campaign in Trust • Angus and Heather Watt • Boston Pizza Namao Centre • The Breakfast on the Bridge Event • City of Edmonton

• Dennis & Doreen Erker • Douglas A Cox • Flaman Foundation • Lois Dvorsky • Oil Kings Alumni Golf Tournament • Oilers Entertainment Group

IN MEMORY OF…

GRANTS

Corporal Bryce Keller Corporal Zachery McCormack

Department of Canadian Heritage Celebrate Canada!

• Sturgeon County • The Dianne and Irving Kipnes Foundation • Wrangler

J’lyn Nye speaks during the 2019 Yellow Ribbon Gala

Thank you to the individuals and corporate sponsors for their generous support of the Military Family Resource Centre during the 2018 - 2019 fiscal year! Every effort has been made to ensure recognition for all sponsors and donors who contributed this fiscal year. If any errors or omissions have occurred; please contact MFRC Fund Development at (780) 973-4011 ext. 6328.

2018/2019 ANNUAL GENERAL REPORT

Sponsors and Donors YELLOW RIBBON SUPPORTER ($1,000 to $4,999) 504 Blatchford Field Royal Canadian Air Cadet Sqn Alberta I Accurate Screen Ltd I AECON I Alan & Valerie Markewicz Alex Haynes I Allan and Fran Olson I Allen Carter I All State Namao Centre I Army Navy and Airforce Veterans Association I Associated Engineering Alberta LTD I Athlete’s Advantage Physiotherapy I Brian & Wynne Nilsson Bill & Paulette Winter I Commissionaires - Northern Alberta Division I Cosmopolitan International Club of Edmonton Craig Toms TD Wealth Management I Crime Watch Publications I Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation and Connor McDavid I Edmonton Prospects I Edmonton Glenora Rotary Society I EMCO Corporation I Fountain Head Tattoo Fountain Tire I Hopewell Residential I Ironworkers District Council of Western Canada I Jack and Ann Wright John and Susan Hokanson I John M Stanton I John Slater I Ladies Potpourri Christmas Charity Dinner Lindsay and Doug Kelly I Lowe’s Namao Centre I Martin & Pegg Furguson - Pell I No Stone Left Alone Memorial Foundation Randie Potts I Shawna Bruce I Sobey’s Namao Centre I Solomon & Marilyn Rolinger I St. Thomas Anglican Church Tim Horton’s-Lancaster Park I Town of Beaumont I Uncle John’s Fireworks I Valour Law I Via Rail Wade Meyer I Yamnuska Mountain Adventures

YELLOW RIBBON FRIEND ($500 to $999) Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan I Andrew Sharman I Brooke McBride-Green I CANEX I Capital Mechanical Plumbing and Heating I Carolyn & William Patton I Computronix Canada I Darrell Loboucan Edmonton Garrison Memorial I Golf and Curling Club I EJS Investment Corp I Grey Cup Hall of Fame Event Hillberg & Berk I Juno Productions – Jake’s Gift I Kaetlyn & Andre Corbould I Keith & Teresa Corbould Kenneth Phillip I Laurie Haw I Lonely Cars I Ladies Auxiliary to the Royal Canadian Legion Wetaskiwin Ladies Auxiliary Kingsway I Mayfield Toyota I Northgate GM I North Canadian Brewhouse Pan Handle Productions I Paul Wynnyk & Marianne Howell I Royal Canadian Legion #37 – High Prairie Scona Electric Inc. I Sharon Aiken-Grant I St. Michael’s and All Angles Anglican Church I St. Albert Chamber Music Society I St. Albert Self Storage I SUNCOR

Team Zach during Loops for the Troops 2018

CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton

Military Families:

Strength Behind the Uniform

PO Box 10500 Station Forces, Edmonton, AB, T5J 4J5 Phone: (780) 973-4011 ext 6300 Fax: (780) 973-1401 Email: information@mfrcedmonton.com CAFconnection.ca/Edmonton