Shine. Grow. Belong.
2022 Progress Report
What We Do
Creative Kids removes financial barriers to arts and cultural activities for Saskatchewan kids ages 4 to 19. Funding support is available for engagement in art, theatre, music, dance and cultural activities.
Our Vision
All Saskatchewan children and youth have opportunities to realize their potential through access to unique, life-changing artistic and cultural experiences.
We Believe
Creative activities are fundamental to the positive growth and development of children and youth.
Cultural programming is critical to a healthy vibrant community.
All children and youth should have the opportunity to participate in creative activities regardless of economic barriers they may face.
“I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it hadn’t been for the support of Creative Kids. Today I am happy, successful and so proud of where dancing has taken me. I have received awards and achievements, completed goals, travelled all over the world, met incredible people and graduated college.”
– N’Tanis Wuttunee
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Photo courtesy of Kori Wuttunee
Message from SaskCulture
This past year was filled with unexpected world events, new economic challenges, and a reemergence from the isolation of the previous two years. Those who work in and with the cultural community were again able to witness the magic that happens when we gather to participate in, and celebrate, creative activities. In particular, we were reminded how creative activities develop new connections and support growth in children and youth on a regular basis. We often hear about the long-term positive skills that are developed and contribute to success in their lives. We are honoured to share some of these stories in this year’s Progress Report.
For those kids facing financial barriers, the opportunities to participate in dance, theatre, language and music can be life-changing and often reroute the direction their life was taking to a more positive outcome. Access to these activities is not always easily attainable. This is why, after two years of isolation and increased financial challenges post-COVID, many children, youth and their families continue to need support from Creative Kids. They are looking for a creative activity that will help them learn new skills, get out in the community again and participate in something that brings them joy.
Thanks to Creative Kids and its continued vision of removing financial barriers to participation in growth-promoting cultural activities, over 1,231 kids were funded to take cultural lessons in 83 communities across Saskatchewan this past year. In addition, this support provided wages to 240 music, dance, theatre, art, and cultural instructors across the province.
Since its inception, over $5.9 million has been granted by Creative Kids to children and youth, thanks to donors and sponsors who believe in what Creative Kids does, as well as, how cultural activities provide life-changing opportunities of growth and connection for children and youth. While it is unfortunate that financial barriers continue for many families across the province, Creative Kids continues to be responsive to this need. Along with the generous support of donors and sponsors, we know opportunities for kids to participate in arts and cultural experiences will positively benefit their future for years to come.
Sincerely,
Jan Seibel
Chair, Creative Kids/SaskCulture
SaskCulture Inc. is a community-based, non-profit cultural organization that works with over 150 member organizations and other community partners to build a culturally vibrant Saskatchewan.
Since its inception SaskCulture has worked to support the launch and ongoing development of the Creative Kids program. Thanks to support from the Sask Lotteries Trust Fund for Sport, Culture and Recreation, SaskCulture Inc. is able to cover all administrative costs for Creative Kids including salaries and the cost of this publication.
This means that 100% of all donations and sponsorships to Creative Kids go directly to helping Saskatchewan children and youth to participate in arts and cultural activities. SaskCulture thanks all donors and supporters who contributed to this charity, supporting many kids dreams and helping to build a culturally vibrant province.
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OUR IMPACT SINCE 2010
251
$5.97
12,890
5,589
546
Million granted
Applications funded
Saskatchewan communities supported Facebook followers Music, dance, theatre, art, and cultural instructors paid
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SASKATCHEWAN KIDS Need Creative Connections
After two years of isolation, families across the province are facing even more struggles including cost of living increases that often lead to financial hardships. Our response continues to be creative. Even though there is still limited access to fundraising opportunities post-COVID, Creative Kids knows that children and youth need the connection to arts and cultural activities now, more than ever.
While 2022 applications for support were down from pre-COVID numbers, they were up from the previous year. This is telling us that there is a continued desire and need for families to connect and re-connect their children to creative activities, so that they can grow, learn, and cope with the stressful world around them.
In particular, this past year we noticed increased applications for Ukrainian dance as displaced Ukrainian families arrived in Saskatchewan. Ukrainian dance studios across the province offered a place of community, a place to meet, and a place to celebrate culture. Over the last year, Creative Kids supported dozens of Ukrainian children and youth to participate in dance lessons, connecting families to their culture, in a new country, proving once again that culture builds and grows community.
This past year, Creative Kids continued to support the ongoing need for a life-changing connection to culture by also providing grants of up to $750 to children and youth interested in creative pursuits. By the end of 2022, we had granted over $5.9 million dollars since 2010. For families, from across the province, who access the support we provide, this connective grant provides them access regardless of the financial and socio-economic barriers they face.
Besides helping kids, this support also provides a livelihood for the many arts and cultural instructors and workers who provide arts, culture, and creative training, programs and services each year.
As we move forward, it is extremely important that we continue to provide opportunities for children to connect and engage in creative activities. While we support thousands of children each year, we unfortunately have to turn other deserving kids away if funds are not available. Creative Kids depends on donations to be able to support the most vulnerable children in Saskatchewan. This is why we need your help!
Ways to donate to Creative Kids:
You can make a onetime donation or monthly donations, hold a fundraiser in support of Creative Kids, create a birthday fundraiser on Facebook, set up a planned giving legacy, and/or get your local business involved as a sponsor.
Or, watch for and support our online fundraising campaigns throughout the year.
Whatever way you plan to give is appreciated. To stay up to date with our campaigns, follow us on social media:
@CreativeKidsSaskatchewan
@creativekidssask
@CreativeKidsSK
Please visit CreativeKidsSask.ca or call toll free 1-855-277-9469 to make a donation.
Thanks to administrative support provided by SaskCulture, 100 per cent of all donations go directly to supporting children and youth.
Thank you!
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OUR REACH ACROSS SASKATCHEWAN
Creative Kids Grant Summary
With your help we can reach more kids. This past year, there was a shortage of $135,876.76, which meant 237 kids were denied funding.
COMMITTEE FUNDED APPLICATIONS TOTAL APPLICATIONS AMOUNT GRANTED AMOUNT REQUESTED Regina 293 331 $149,216.01 $172,878.25 Saskatoon 403 516 $206,948.47 $267,230.14 Lakeland District 124 136 $49,264.78 $56,734.48 Battlefords 128 128 $13,683.25 $13,683.25 Big River 3 3 $2,160.00 $2,160.00 Kindersley 5 5 $3,750.00 $3,750.00 Provincial 275 349 $162,841.30 $207,304.55 TOTAL 1,231 1,468 $587,863.81 $723,740.67
ACTIVITY KIDS FUNDED TOTAL GRANTED Art 181 $52,167.91 Culture 182 $16,168.00 Dance 463 $263,988.01 Theatre 18 $9,869.50 Music 387 $245,670.39 TOTAL 1,231 $587,863.81 AGES KIDS FUNDED 4 to 8 399 9 to 12 562 13 and older 270 TOTAL KIDS FUNDED 1,231
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47 75 180 127 293 70 36 403 EAST SASKATOON TO REGINA PRINCE ALBERT AND AREA SASKATOON WEST SOUTHWEST SOUTHEAST REGINA NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS Funded per Region in 2022 creative kids progress report 2022 7 our impact
Sisters See Dance as KEY TO THEIR SUCCESS
Thanks to Creative Kids, sisters N’Tanis and Kori Wuttunee were both able to take salsa dance lessons together. They credit the skills and opportunities they gained from their dance experience as the reason why they have already achieved so much in life.
“I still remember walking into the Saskatoon Salsa Dance Company for the first time and I fell in love with salsa dancing at my first lesson,” says N’Tanis Wuttunee, a recent grad from the Criminal Justice Program, Lethbridge College. “I am very fortunate that I had the opportunity to take part in dance companies growing up, learning important values that I still continue to use now. Dance was my ticket to success.”
In 2014, the sisters found out their application for support from Creative Kids was approved.
“At the time I didn’t understand our financial situation. My mother kept that away from my sister and I. We were a low-income family. Therefore, you couldn’t participate in much because you have to separate your needs and wants,” says Kori Wuttunee, who is now in her final year at the College of Education, University of Saskatchewan.
Kori, began her lessons at age 13 and continued for four years, only leaving because she was accepted to the Bold Eagle Indigenous Military Program. Starting at age 11, N’Tanis danced for over six years thanks to the support from Creative Kids.
Both sisters overcame their shyness and became confident through their dance experience. They went on to compete and attend workshops internationally, gaining experiences they wouldn’t have had without the support of Creative Kids.
“Dancing allowed me to travel. When I travelled to Puerto Rico and Los Angeles, it showed me a different perspective. I learned that there is more out there and to be fearless when chasing my dreams,” says Kori.
N’Tanis continued dancing longer than her sister and went on to perform solos and choreographing dances herself, which resulted in a first-place medal at the Prince Albert Dance Off in 2019. She also won numerous awards and championships through her involvement in her high school pom/cheer team. That same year, she was nominated by her school for a SaskTel Indigenous Youth Leadership Award and won!
She contributes the values she gained through dance, not only for fueling her passions and dreams of becoming a police officer for the Blood Reserve, but also as key drivers of her dedication and motivation. “Dance greatly impacted my life. I was able to learn the importance of teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, patience and commitment. If I had a chance to talk to my younger self, she wouldn’t believe where she is today,” says N’Tanis.
After graduating from a teaching program in April 2023, Kori has dreams of furthering her education, such as obtaining her Master’s degree. She is thankful that Creative Kids exists and goes on to add, “my sister and I
would like to express our thankfulness and gratefulness for the support we received, as it helped us a lot with our growth and development. If it wasn’t for dance we wouldn’t be who we are today. It built our self-esteem and we were able to travel places doing something we love.”
“I am very fortunate that I had the opportunity to take part in dance companies growing up, learning important values that I still continue to use now. Dance was my ticket to success.”
– N’Tanis Wuttenee.
N’Tanis (bottom) and Kori (middle) credit their success to salsa dance lessons. Photos courtesy of Kori Wuttunee. Upper photo: Kori (left) and Tanis (right) performing in the 2013 Saskatoon Salsa Dance Company recital. Photo courtesy of Saskatoon Salsa Dance Company.
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Thanks to Creative Kids’ Legacy sponsor for helping kids shine and grow in life-changing creative activities.
Young Musician Finds HAPPINESS THROUGH MUSIC
As a young pianist, Chen Ni Liang knows firsthand the importance of supporting a young person’s love of music.
“We can spread joy and creativity,” says Chen Ni, a 12-year-old musician from Saskatoon. “If more young people learn music, then when they grow up the world will be a more musical and creative place.”
Chen Ni has been playing the piano since 2015, when her family first applied to receive support from Creative Kids. Her mother, Zhi Ping Chen, remembers Chen Ni showing an aptitude for music by playing a toy xylophone at a young age. Unfortunately, at the time, financial barriers made it difficult for her to foster that budding interest.
When Zhi Ping heard about Creative Kids, she applied and it became possible for Chen Ni to enroll in piano lessons.
“It was a very good opportunity for her,” Zhi Ping says. “That was her first music lesson.” In the seven years since, Chen Ni’s talent and love for music has flourished. A stellar student, the young pianist finished her level six theory course early in 2022, with a final mark of 100 per cent! Eager to share her accomplishments, she takes every opportunity to perform when she can.
Chen Ni says, “I can play every day and it never gets boring. There’s always something new to add to a song, whether it’s changing the dynamics, or the tempo.”
Learning to play the piano has become a source of confidence for Chen Ni as she grows up, especially playing in front of a crowd. Despite her young age, she frequently performs for audiences at recitals and competitions. In May 2022, Chen Ni was a second-place winner at the 2022 Saskatoon Music Festival.
Her favourite memory of playing the piano is from her fourth-grade talent show. “There was clapping and a standing ovation –I was very proud,” Chen Ni says. “It’s made me more confident at school, because people liked my music. Playing makes me feel proud of myself.”
“I feel more happiness in our family since they started music lessons. It has created so many good memories,” she says.
Music also brings Chen Ni joy. Thinking about her future, she looks forward to continuing her lessons, and wants to learn how to play “many different songs, especially happy music,” she shares.
“I think that’s my strong suit. When I play those songs, it makes me feel the most happy and confident. I’m really grateful for Creative Kids.”
Her mother marvels at the fact that she has never once needed to remind her daughter to practice for her lessons, as music is a creative outlet that keeps her motivated.
Chen Ni’s two siblings are now also enrolled in their own music lessons, thanks to Creative Kids’ support. Zhi Ping is grateful for the impact the program has had on her children.
Creative Kids is thankful for the support of the for helping kids nurture their creative talents.
“It’s made me more confident at school, because people like my music. Playing makes me feel proud of myself.”
– Chen Ni Liang.
Chen Ni practicing the piano in her home. Photo courtesy of Zhi Ping Chen.
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New Champion’s Resolve to GIVE BACK GROWS DEEPER
In her first year as a Creative Kids Champion, Emily Tang realized that by sharing her story, she is helping others understand the importance of giving to Creative Kids, so that other children and youth have a chance to shine.
“Over the last year, thanks to my involvement as a spokesperson, not only have I benefited by the mentoring and training I have received, but I have gained the realization that my experience and voice are important as I talk about what the support from Creative Kids gave me,” says Tang, currently a Kinesiology student at the University of Saskatchewan.
Tang received support from Creative Kids from 2013 to 2016 and again in 2018 for dance lessons. The experience helped her understand why cultural activities are important. She says looking back at her experience in dance, she realizes she gained not only skills, but many positive attributes as well.
“When I received the support from Creative Kids to take dance lessons when I was ten, it really set me on a path for success that gave me the opportunity to learn new skills and to gain the confidence that I was lacking at the time,” she says.
She also credits the Creative Kids support of her dance ambitions for improving her physical and mental health, as well as, developing success-based mindsets such as perseverance and teamwork.
“It also helped me meet amazing life-long friends, and dance mentors. It sparked many passions in me, such as my dream of becoming a lawyer, joining the competitive Bedford Collegiate pom/cheer team in high school, and becoming an advocate for the mental and physical health of Canadians.”
Tang began her training as a spokesperson for Creative Kids last May and since has gained experience being interviewed, and telling her story effectively.
“Since becoming a spokesperson for Creative Kids, my commitment to talking about the life-changing benefits of a creative activity will continue as I want people to realize how much their donations really can make a difference in the lives of Saskatchewan children and youth.”
“When I received the support from Creative Kids to take dance lessons when I was ten, it really set me on a path for success that gave me the opportunity to learn new skills and to gain confidence that I was lacking at the time.” – Emily Tang.
Emily credits the support she received from Creative Kids for setting her on a course for success.
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Creative Kids thanks the for supporting Saskatchewan kids’ participation in creative activities.
Youths’ Confidence BLOSSOMS IN ART CLASS
Brandie Perkins, the owner of the Cathedral Arts School and Studio in Regina, believes in the power of the arts to change young people’s lives. She’s seen it first-hand.
“I love teaching art to children and youth. I think it is important to provide as much opportunity for kids to come and be creative, as well as, be a part of the creative community,” she says.
Out of all her students, Perkins sees about 10-15 youth a year go through her art classes thanks to Creative Kids support. She is thankful for the donors that help remove the financial barriers so kids can participate and gain skills that will benefit them as they grow up.
“The lessons teach children to think outside of the box, encourage creativity and imagination. Art can make you more observant as well. There are so many benefits such as expressing yourself, learning your own voice, your likes and dislikes.”
She notes that, at 9-years-old, she started painting and found a way to express herself despite her shyness, which allowed her to say on a canvas what she couldn’t through words. “I was more on the introverted side as a little one and I expressed myself through my paintings and I still very much do. I would rather paint you a picture of what I am feeling, even if it is abstract, than verbally do it.”
Perkins sees how art lessons have benefited a number of the kids supported through Creative Kids. One particular student stands out as a reminder of her own experience.
“After four or five sessions, she totally came out of her shell and changed from being very, very, shy to voicing herself more, as well as, taking instruction and running with it. I love seeing that kind of growth in any of the kids.”
In her classes, she starts her students with a theme and the fundamentals such as how to create a tree, hold their paint brush or how to use a paint knife. Then she moves into encouraging them to explore, finding their own style of art, whether it be painting with acrylics or trying a sponge, which leads to discovering their artistic voice.
Whatever medium her students settle on, she is just happy they have been given the opportunity to discover the practice of art because the financial barriers were removed to their participation.
“It makes my heart just grow. It makes me just so happy. Art brings all of us joy, especially when you make something that you are proud of and that you want to continue doing.”
for sponsoring creative passions in kids.
Brandie Perkins says Creative Kids’ support has been life-changing for her students. Photo courtesy of Brandie Perkins.
“The lessons teach children to think outside of the box, encourage creativity and imagination. Art can make you more observant as well. There are so many benefits such as expressing yourself, learning your own voice, your likes and dislikes.”
– Brandie Perkins.
Creative Kids thanks
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Playing an Instrument Can Build LIFE-CHANGING CONNECTIONS
The first time Tristen Durocher heard the sound of a fiddle he became enthralled and set out to learn how to play.
“I thought it was a very beautiful instrument. It was very calming and I was really perplexed by how small the instrument was and how much sound it could produce. I found it magical that the hair of the bow was made from a horse’s tail, and that when placed on strings could make all that music,” he says.
Growing up in northern Saskatchewan, Durocher was exposed to many rich Métis and Cree cultural traditions through his family. But, along with the fiddle, he also took up other artistic practices, such as writing and photography, to pass the time through the cold winters and to deal with the lack of electricity at his Dad’s cabin in the summer.
Playing the fiddle came naturally for the self-taught musician and by 12 years old he was paid to perform in front of audiences. More opportunities came when he started winning fiddle competitions across Saskatchewan, which led to him being invited to the Canadian Grandmasters’ Fiddle Competition.
Over the next five years, the competition saw him travel to a different Canadian city every year and, in 2019, he won the People’s Choice Award. In 2023, he will leave the country for the first time, travelling to Germany to perform at a number of venues.
When he started teaching he realized not everyone was able to pick up the fiddle and learn the way he could. They would require some focused instruction.
“Not all families in cities and northern communities can afford the price of lessons, so having access to a funding stream, such as Creative Kids, to access artistic facilitators, can have a very strong impact.”
For 17 years, he has played the fiddle and can’t imagine life without it now. The inclusivity and acceptance of the fiddle scene has given Tristen many things, such as joy, confidence, exposure to Elders and community leaders, as well as other artists and musicians. However, what he is most thankful for is the connections and friendships he gained. This is the reason, he would like to see more children and youth across the province have these creative opportunities as well.
“Artists are always trying to produce work that connects to their audience. You are trying to play a piece of music, or paint something, or tell a story that another person could relate to or connect with. You provide spaces where artists can get together and create together and people benefit from being in these spaces.”
Durocher adds, music is a healthy form of expression that can remove cultural barriers and can be therapeutic. “Music can help people process emotions and the musical language is a rich emotional vocabulary, which can have a cathartic healing effect.” He adds, “This is why children and youth without the financial means to access art lessons need the connections, help and healing that a creative practice can provide.”
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Tristen Durocher believs playing an instrument builds connections, helps remove barriers, and becomes a therapeutic part of one’s life. Photo by Mike Sanyshyn
“Not all families in cities and northern communities can afford the price of lessons, so having access to a funding stream, such as Creative Kids, to access artistic facilitators, can have a very strong impact.”
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– Tristen Durocher.
REMOVING FINANCIAL BARRIERS to arts and culture for kids important to K+S Potash Canada
It is always inspiring when businesses recognize the benefits of young people participating in arts and cultural activities of their choice. For the past three years, K + S Potash Canada (KSPC) has provided considerable support to Creative Kids helping to remove financial barriers and benefiting hundreds of children and youth across the province.
According to Paige Gignac, Community Investment Specialist, KSPC, “Supporting Creative Kids is an opportunity to help positively impact the growth and development of a young person through arts and culture. Saskatchewan has one of the highest kid poverty rates in Canada, and not all young people have equal opportunities to explore their creativity and passions.
Creative Kids makes this possible.” She adds that the partnership with Creative Kids aligns well with KSPC’s Youth + Us program, which focuses on providing young people with opportunities to engage, create, and discover through sports, art, culture and education.
It is important for KSPC to give back to the communities where their employees live, work and raise their families. KSPC has supported 500 organizations across Saskatchewan and British Columbia through their community investment program. Since 2020, Creative Kids has received $250,000 from KSPC, enabling children and youth across the province to participate in meaningful creative activities. To date, over 600 families have been supported because of this partnership.
KSPC operates its Bethune potash mine, near Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Their products are used as natural fertilizers and compacted for use in a variety of industrial applications.
Gignac says KSPC is proud to support Creative Kids and what they do. “At KSPC, we believe in providing young people access to more moments that inspire confidence, creativity and character. Opportunities to participate in activities that create joy and
harness potential—such as sports, music, art and immersive learning—allow young people to celebrate diversity, discover what drives them and develop essential life skills to help them grow mentally, physically and emotionally. Creative Kids is making these moments come to life for kids in our province.”
“Supporting Creative Kids is an opportunity to help positively impact the growth and development of a young person through arts and culture.”
–Paige Gignac.
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For K+S Postash Canada, it’s important to give back to the community where their employees work, live and raise their families. Photos courtesy of Greg Huszar.
CREATIVE KIDS BENEFITS From India Night Gala
Celebrating cultural food, fashions and entertainment has once again proven to be a great opportunity for community-building and raising funds for a good cause.
The 2022 India Night Gala, hosted by Cultural Connections Regina, raised over $167,000 for Creative Kids, which will go to children and youth facing barriers to exploring their creativity through arts and cultural activities in Regina. Thanks to Cultural Connections and other key sponsors, such as SaskMilk, over 500 people attended the sold-out event on October 1, at the Delta Hotel in Regina, to celebrate diversity, community and culture.
Helping kids access important arts and cultural pursuits inspired Cultural Connections to choose Creative Kids as the recipient of the 2022 India Night proceeds. “Not only did the Creative Kids mandate align with ours, it was really important that children have the opportunity to participate in creative activities, which help to build their confidence and selfesteem,” says Dr. Renu Kapoor, chair, Cultural Connections Regina. “Children shouldn’t lose out on opportunities because of financial barriers and COVID was tough on charities.”
Two years of isolation increased financial challenges for many Saskatchewan families and the province already saw one of the highest provincial child poverty rates in Canada. As of 2020 — the most recent numbers available — more than 55,000 children have limited access to essential daily needs and opportunities for positive growth and self-esteem.
Gloria Walsh, manager, Creative Kids
Saskatchewan says, “It is unfortunate that so many families face financial barriers and cannot afford to put their children in a cultural activity such as music, dance, theatre, and art. These activities are fundamental to the positive growth and development of children and youth, as well as, building confidence, self-esteem and a feeling of belonging.”
Thanks to the funds raised, more than 260 families will receive funding to support their kid’s creative pursuits.
Walsh adds, “Receiving these funds will make a huge difference for many Regina families. Our sincerest thank you to the Cultural Connections Regina board and our generous event sponsors and supporters, for changing lives and ensuring more Regina children will be able to ‘Grow, Shine and Belong’.”
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Entertainers From Do It with Class and dancers from Sampradaya Dance Creations contributed to the 2022 India Night. Photos courtesy BN Photography.
Co-op Fuels Support for Another Year
In 2022, Creative Kids was, chosen to receive the proceeds from the annual Co-op Fuel Good Day that took place in Humboldt on September 20th. Total funds raised for Creative kids were $2,359.06. To all the people that bought gas that day, thank you for supporting children and youth in your community to access creative and cultural activities.
TD’s Generous Support Continues
for Kids’Creativity
We are grateful for TD Bank Group’s ongoing support this past year. Thanks to their matching gift of $20,000 and your generous support, through two campaigns we raised $44,215! This sponsorship helped Creative Kids continue to support Saskatchewan children and youth’s participation in creative pursuits.
Moose Jaw Gamers Play For Kids
Moose Jaw Gamers Inc. donated $5,000 from their Gaming Association eXpo (GAX) events to Creative Kids. Thank you to those that supported these events. This gift will allow access to life-changing creative activities in Moose Jaw.
Photo courtesy of Fred Novecosky, Shine Media Group.
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Photo courtesy of Saddman Zaman, Moose Jaw Today.
Twice the Impact
THANKS to everyone for stepping up again for #GivingTuesday on November 29th in Saskatchewan! In one day, we raised $13,933. Add SaskTel’s matching gift of $10,000 to that amount and that brings the total to $23,933!
Making twice the impact in the lives of many Saskatchewan children and youth, your donations helped us help more kids. We couldn’t have reached this goal without your support.
Creative Kids is especially grateful to SaskTel for its support, which is making a difference for children and youth in Saskatchewan.
Giving the Gift of Creativity
THANK YOU for giving the gift of creativity and changing a life during our Holiday Campaign! Thanks to your generous support, we raised $12,934! A big THANK YOU to Harvard Media, our media sponsor, for supporting all our campaigns throughout the year.
Creative Kids Saskatchewan Thanks the Following Sponsors for their Support:
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Creative Kids’ Committees
All Creative Kids applications are reviewed by committees made up of community volunteers. There are six volunteer committees that review local applications in Big River, Kindersley, Regina, Saskatoon, the Battlefords, and the Lakeland District, and one Provincial Committee that reviews all other applications in the province. We owe them a great deal of thanks for their hard work throughout the year and for making a huge impact in Saskatchewan communities.
Provincial Committee
Applications from towns without a local committee are reviewed by the Provincial Committee. Many thanks to Sabrina Cataldo, Kerri Hill, and Lindsay Manko-Bauche, the provincial committee volunteers.
Sabrina Cataldo is leaving the committee in 2023. We thank her for her enormous contributions to the committee over the past several years.
Rivers West District for Sport, Culture and Recreation
In the west, the Battlefords and Kindersley Committees review local applications.
Thanks to Siobahn Gormley, Elaine Poirier, Cindy Tymoruski and Kerilyn Voigt, for their work on the Battlefords Committee. Additional thanks to Mei Shan Wan, Melanie Ward, Devon Coles, Lindsay Johnson, Pam Sawatzky, and Melissa Hynd whose dedication makes the Kindersley Committee shine.
We are also grateful to Chelsea Omness and the Town of Kindersley for Creative Kids administrative support.
RIVERS WEST DISTRICT FOR SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION 10 Biggar 1 Battleford 2 Kindersley 18 Lloydminster 127 North Battleford 8 Turtleford 14 7 other communities 180 Total applications funded FUNDED $48,397.37 18 creative kids progress report 2022 regional impact
Creative Kids thanks Sabrina Cataldo for her dedication and volunteer service to the provincial Committee and support to the charity.
Lakeland District for Sport, Culture and Recreation
The Lakeland District Committee reviews applications from the Spiritwood, Prince Albert, Nipawin, and Hudson Bay areas. Erin Standish, Cheryl Bauer Hyde, Crystal Clarke, Erica Cochrane, Melissa Sisson and Marion Conway do a magnificent job each year.
The Big River Committee is within the Lakeland District and assesses local applications for Big River and area. Many thanks to Paulette Atchison, Carla Chadwick, and Charlene Puddicombe for their impact in Big River this year.
We extend our appreciation to the Lakeland District office, as well as Judy McLeod Campbell and the City of Prince Albert, for their hard work supporting the Lakeland Committee applicants.
LAKELAND
3
3
7 other communities
Saskatoon
The Saskatoon Committee includes Jacquie Thomarat, Jody Hobday, Alex Brooks, and Erin Cook. Thanks to them for their thoughtful conversations and meaningful impact. They have helped so many kids in Saskatoon this year.
Thanks to SK Arts for their continued partnership with Creative Kids and for lending us the amazing Tracy Chudy year after year, as the Creative Kids contact in Saskatoon. Thanks to Tracy for her considerate approach and hard work.
403 Saskatoon FUNDED $206,948.47
Regina
Jessica Elsaesser, Alice Samkoe, Jason Sylvestre, and Don List are our wonderful Regina volunteers. Thanks for their unparalleled passion and energy and for making an impact in the Queen City.
Total applications funded FUNDED $51,424.78 creative kids progress report 2022 19 regional impact
DISTRICT FOR SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION
Big River
Canwood
293 Regina FUNDED $149,216.01 Marcelin
4
3
Prince Albert
Rostern
99
Tisdale
5
10
127
SOUTH WEST DISTRICT FOR CULTURE, RECREATION AND SPORT 5 Caronport 6 Gravelbourg 5 Maple Creek 33 Moose Jaw 13 Swift Current 13 8 other communities 75 Total applications funded FUNDED $44,634.80 SOUTHEAST CONNECTION SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION DISTRICT 3 Estevan 3 Grenfell 3 Indian Head 9 Weyburn 6 Wolseley 12 8 other communities 36 Total applications funded FUNDED $21,984.20 PARKLAND VALLEY SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION DISTRICT 8 Foam Lake 3 Invermay 3 Ituna 21 Melville 28 Yorkton 7 4 other communities 70 Total applications funded FUNDED $35,734.49
3 Dalmeny 6 Humboldt 3 Lanigan 7 St. Denis 3 Watrous 25 16 other communities 47 Total applications funded FUNDED $29,523.69 20 creative kids progress report 2022 regional impact
PRAIRIE CENTRAL DISTRICT FOR SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION (SASKATOON TO REGINA)
THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS
TITANIUM ($50,000 +)
Harvard Media, Regina/Saskatoon K+ S Potash Canada, Saskatoon
DIAMOND ($49,999 - $10,000)
Canada Life Winnipeg
South Saskatchewan Community Foundation: Regina
Harold Latrace Family
Saskatoon and Associates Foundation
Rawlco Radio Regina
SaskMilk Regina
SaskTel Regina
TD Canada Trust London
Access Communications Children’s Fund, Regina
Janice & Randy Beattie , Regina
JBL Charitable Foundation Inc. (The), Saskatoon
Barbara March-Burwell, Regina
Michelle Carr & Mo Bundon, Regina
Apex Active Entertainment Group, Regina
Bennett Dunlop Ford, Regina
David Bishop, Regina
Campbell & Haliburton (Regina) Ltd., Regina
Conexus Arts Centre, Regina
Delta Hotels by Marriott, Regina
Farm Credit Canada, Regina
Access Communications, Regina
Curtis Armstrong, Regina
Bee & Thistle Winery, Debden
Heather Cline, Regina
Jessica Coderre, Regina
Jo Bannatyne-Cugnet, Weyburn
Dance Saskatchewan Inc., Saskatoon
Kevin & Diane Ell, Regina
Encore, Regina
Dillon Fluter, Regina
Forster Harvard Development Corp, Regina
- Bill & Helen Davidson Foundation
- Donald & Claire Kramer Foundation
- G. Murray and Edna Forbes Foundation
- Lyn Goldman Charitable Trust
- Moffat Family Fund
- Verma Shore Hooper Non-Endowed Fund
PLATINUM ($9,999 - $5,000)
FCL Community Investment Fund, Saskatoon
Gibson Energy ULC, Calgary
Ikea Canada Limited Partnership, Burlington
Moose Jaw Gamers Inc., Moose Jaw
GOLD ($4,999 - $2,500)
Henderson Insurance Inc., Regina
Jerome Rink Realty Ltd., Regina
David Kohonick, Regina
Dr. Neil Kapoor, Regina
Lexcom Systems Group Inc., Regina
Prairie Skies Medical Imaging, Regina Regina Exhibition Association Limited, Regina
SILVER ($2,499 - $1,000)
Rose Gilks, Regina
Abhishek Gupta, Regina
Lyn Goldman, Regina
Megan J. Hazel, Regina
Humboldt Co-Operative Association Ltd., Humboldt
Dean & Sandra Kush, Regina
Richard Loffler, Regina
Hugh MacGowan, Saskatoon
Dawn Martin & David Forbes, Saskatoon
Joanne McDonald, Regina
MNP, Regina
RBC Wealth Management - Dominion Securities, Regina
R.J. Nelson Family Foundation, Lloydminster rSolutions, Regina
SaskTel Pioneers, Regina
SK Arts, Regina
Safeway Community Action Fund, Winnipeg Scotiabank, Regina
SGI, Regina
Signature Print-It, Regina
Taylor Automotive Group, Regina
Victoria Jewellers, Regina
WestJet Airlines, Regina
Mitchell Molnar, Regina
Drs. Kalpana & Rajni Patel, Regina
Path Cowork (Justin Lee), Regina
Platinum Concrete Creations Ltd., Regina
Dr. Bhanu Prasad, Regina
Rogers Communications, Toronto
Heather Salloum, Regina
Saskatchewan Knight of Columbus Charitable Foundation, Moose Jaw
Saskatchewan Network for Art Collecting, Regina University of Regina & Dr. Jeff Keshen, Regina
Drs. Ashok & Rani Verma, Regina
creative kids progress report 2022 21 donors
A1 Rent Alls, Regina
Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan Inc., Saskatoon
Iyanuoluwa Akinyemi, Regina
Anytime Fitness, Regina
Autism Resource Centre, Regina
Cheryl Bauer Hyde, Christopher Lake
Beachcomber Regina Hot Tubs, Regina
Bell Media (CTV), Regina
Calgary Stampede, Calgary
Canada Helps, Toronto
Creative Options Regina, Regina
Dr. Jorden A. Cummings, Saskatoon
Da India Curry House, Regina
Sanaz Dehghani, Regina
Dent Centre, Regina
Guardian Roofing & Exteriors, Regina
Harvard Developments, Regina
John Dipple & Michelle Sanche , Regina
Harvard Western Insurance, Regina
Atlas Hotel, Regina
Avante-Garde Beauty College, Regina
Avord Chiropractic, Regina
Battlefords & District Chapter Superannuated
Teachers of SK, North Battleford
Shawn Bauche, Regina
Troy Bigalky, Regina
BN Photography, Regina
Howard Brass & Jim Brass, Regina
Linda Burns, Wynyard
Calaway Park, Calgary
Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Winnipeg
Casino Regina, Regina
Sabrina Cataldo, Regina
Crave Kitchen + Bar, Regina
BRONZE ($999 - $500)
Paula Haubrich, Kindersley
Hill & Levene Schools of Business, Regina
JCK Engineering Inc, Regina
Dr. Ankit Kapur, Regina
Janette Kelly, Regina
John Kennedy, Regina
Knight Archer Insurance, Regina
Michael Kram, Regina
MacKenzie Art Gallery, Regina
Zanaib Manzoor, Regina
Ken McDonald, Indian Head
McDougall Gauley LLP, Regina
Doug McNair, Regina
MLT Aikins LLP, Regina
Mother Teresa Middle School, Regina
Nicor Group, Regina
North Central Family Centre, Regina
Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils, Leader
Phil-Can Building Services Ltd., Regina
Phoenix Group, Regina
SUPERSTAR ($499 - $250)
DirectWest, Regina
Exquisite Events & Wedding Décor, Regina
Tristyn Firth, Regina
Catherine Folstad, Regina
David Giffin, Saskatoon
Government of Canada Workplace Charitable
Campaign, Montreal
Kathy Hancock, Regina
Emmaline Hill, Regina
Ed Hobday, Saskatoon
Dr. Jody Hobday, Saskatoon
Danielle Hoffart, Saskatoon
HSBC Bank, Regina
James Ingold, Moose Jaw
Himanshu Kundra, Regina
Long & McQuade, Regina
ROCKSTAR ($249 - $100)
Quality Assured Manufacturing Inc., Regina
Regina Airport Authority, Regina
Regina Exhibition Association, Regina
Regina Retina Centre, Regina
Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board, Regina
SaskEnergy, Regina
Andrew Scheer, Regina
Jan Seibel & David Pattison, Regina
SLATE Fine Art Gallery, Regina
Sleek Signs, Regina
Nicola Straub, Kamsack
Studio S Fashion House, Regina
Murray Taylor, Saskatoon
Lynn Tomkins, Regina
Universal Collision Centre, Regina
Dr. Renatta Varma, Regina
Via Rail Canada Inc., Montreal
Dr. Robert Wagner, Regina
Gloria Walsh, Regina
Darren Zawyrucka - Campfire Grill, Regina
Mark McMorris, Regina
David & Anne Millar, Regina
Dean Murrison, Regina
Parkland Carpet One, Regina
Raef-Mgs, Regina
Ranch Ehrlo Society, Pilot Butte
Regina Endodontics (Dr. Phee), Regina
Regina Police Service, Regina
Saskatchewan Music Educators Association, Cudworth Service Hospitality, Regina
Sisters Stepping Stones, Regina
Alison Watson (Winecraft), Regina
Wilder Institute/ Calgary Zoo, Calgary
Vaughn Schofield, Regina Beach
Viscount Gort Hotel, Winnipeg
Agave Authentic Mexican Grill, Regina
Ingrid Alesich, Regina
D. E. Andreas, Regina
Sharon Assman, Regina
Phyllis Baker, Saskatoon
Kevin Bassendowski, Regina
Joan Baylis, Emerald Park
Jeff Beaton (Madroot Creations), Regina
Beever’s Electric, Regina
Andrea Bell, Arborfield
Ruthanne Bell, Saskatoon
Jared Berenbaum, Duck Lake
Anita & Gurpreet Bhatia, Regina
Rani & Hem Bilkhu, Regina
Robert Black, Regina
James Bowen, Richard
Donna Bruce, Saskatoon
CAA Travel, Regina
Chop Steakhouse, Regina
Faye Climenhaga, Kindersley
Cure Kitchen + Bar (The), Regina
D3h Hotels, Regina
Da Samosa N Curry, Regina
Karen Davidson, Swift Current Delta Hotel, Saskatoon
Lorelie DeRoose, Regina
Danielle Desmarais-Clace, Grand Coulee
Diplomat Steakhouse (The), Regina
Dosa Curry Garden, Regina
Teresa Drew, Regina
Dr. David Edney, Saskatoon
Donna Ell, Regina
Family Plumbing & Heating, Regina
Katherine Fiander, Saskatoon
Sheena Folnovic, Regina
Stephanie Frandsen, Regina
Funky Artsmith (The), Saskatoon
Dennis Garreck, Regina
Siobhan Gormley, Battleford
James Hall, Regina
Tracy Hamon, Regina
Michael Harmel, Regina
Russell Hart, Regina
Robert Hawkins & Marie-France Menc, Regina
Bryan and Joanne Hillis, Regina
Holiday Inn Express, Saskatoon
Rob Hopkins, Regina
Hotel Saskatchewan, Regina
D & S Hunter, Regina
Virginia Jedlic, Regina
JJ Voss Entertainment Inc., Regina
Mae Johnson, Regina
Michael Jones, Regina
Just Bins Waste Disposal, Regina
Just For You Day Spa, Regina
Don & Renu Kapoor, Regina
Cindy Kobayashi, Regina
Gwen Gordon, Saskatoon
22 creative kids progress report 2022 donors
David Kyle, Regina
Margaret Lamont, Martensville
Norman & Hazel Lavoy, Shaunavon
Jackie Lay, Regina
Luminesque Lighting, Regina
Luxe Artisan Chocolates, Regina
Sandra Masters, Regina
Karen & David Martinuk, Humboldt
N McBean, Regina
Roderick & Corrie McLeod, Regina
Memories Dining & Bar, Regina
Tony Merchant, Regina
Derry & Susan Millar, Toronto
Wendy Montano, Regina
David G. Morin, Saskatoon
Jess Moscaluke, Regina
Moxie’s Grill & Bar, Regina
Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan, Regina
Linda & John Nilson, Regina
Optical Shoppe (The), Regina
Busayo Oyebanji, Regina
Lynn Pawelko, Regina
Bryan & Ursula Acton, Saskatoon
Sekwun Ahenakew, Canwood
Ana Alarcon, Regina
Kathy Allen, Saskatoon
Jocelyn Anderson, Regina
Melody Armstrong, Regina
Brenda Baker, Saskatoon
Balloon Bar YQR, Regina
Robyn Barclay, Regina
Dr. Sanela Begic, Regina
Carla Beck, Regina
Anna Bekolay, Saskatoon
Elaine Bennett-Fox, Regina
Amy Briley, Saskatoon
Rodney F. Butler, Saskatoon
Elaine Bubnick, Saskatoon
Virginia Carpenter, Gray
Cineplex, Toronto
City of Yorkton, Yorkton
Crystal Clarke, Prince Albert
T. Chudy, Saskatoon
Margaret & Brian Cummings, Regina
Damara Day Spa, Regina
Barinder Dandiwal, Regina
Dr. Melissa Denis, Saskatoon
Joanne De Sarno, Regina
Shauna & Randy Dolter, Balgonie
Earl’s East, Regina
East Indian Grocery Store, Regina
Tracy Lynn Elliott, Regina
George Enns, Saskatoon
Anahit Falihi, Saskatoon
Dunc & Elyse Fisher, London
Bryan Foran, Comox
Michael Fougere, Regina
Crystal Lynn Frei, Regina
Thane Gaveronski, Regina
Greg Pinch, Regina
Prairie Meats, Regina
Queen City Cakes, Regina
George Rathwell, Saskatoon
Mark & Linda Reakes, Regina
Regina & District Chamber of Commerce, Regina
Regina Automotive Warehouse, Regina
Regina Symphony Orchestra, Regina
Royal Hotel, Regina
Saskatchewan Blue Cross, Regina
Saskatchewan Choral Federation, Regina
Saskatchewan German Council, Saskatoon
Saskatoon Inn & Conference Centre, Saskatoon
Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra, Saskatoon
SaskPower, Regina
Kate Scheurwater, Regina
Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan, Regina
Sen Nail Bar, Regina
Service Plus Inns & Suites, Calgary
Sheraton Cavalier, Saskatoon
Mark Simmons, Regina
Sherry Lea Sproule, Lafleche
RISING STAR (UNDER $100)
Good Earth Coffeehouse, Regina
Ross Grandel, Delisle
Gym Sask, Regina
David & Marilyn Hedlund, Regina
Darlene Hincks, Regina
Mac Hird, Regina
Kevin Joa, Regina
K Family Kitchen, Regina
Anjana Kaushal, Regina
Denise Kervel, Regina
Tayler Kiteley, Regina
Heather Kuttai, Saskatoon
Deanna Lang, Regina
Brian Le, Regina
Mary E Leggett, Saskatoon
Judy MacLeod Campbell, Prince Albert
Jennifer Marasity, Regina
Doug Marriott, Regina
Heather Millar, Saskatoon
Tom & Gail Minard, Weyburn
Minhas Sask, Regina
June Newsham, North Battleford
Abiodun Oyelami, Regina
Pacific Fresh Fish, Regina
Painted Hand Casino, Yorkton
Peking House, Regina
Chris Penner, Saskatoon
Dr. Meena Pole, Regina
Athanaso Poulos, Regina
Prairie Lily Cruises, Saskatoon
Pure Country 92.7, Regina
Dancing Ra, Quispamsis
Bahaneh Rahnama, Regina
Shobna Radons, Regina
Regina Pats Hockey Club, Regina
Lyla Reiche, North Battleford
Sandy Stepan, Regina
Structured Abstraction Inc., Calgary
SUDS, Regina
Dr. P Suri, Regina
Tandoori Kabab, Regina
Truong Tang, Regina
Andrew Taylor, Saskatoon
Jennifer Tenford, Regina
Unique Day Spa, Regina
Unique Florists, Regina
Al Valente, Regina
Kerilyn Voigt, North Battleford
Amanda Walsh, Regina
Kathleen & Blaine Watson, Saskatoon
Holly Weichel, Regina
Cameron Wensel, Regina
Donna West, Regina
Willow Park Wines & Spirits, Regina
Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Winnipeg
Margaret Woloshyn & Wally Wells, Saskatoon
Yorkton Film Festival, Yorkton
Remai Modern, Saskatoon
Rock Creek - Quance, Regina
Kaelum Rayn Rudy, Saskatoon
Nicole Sarauer, Regina
Neeraj Saroj, Regina
Saskatchewan Parks & Recreation Association, Regina
Saskatchewan Rush Lacrosse, Saskatoon
SaskMusic, Regina
Allyson Schmidt, Saskatoon
Chantel Sebastian (Zion), Regina
Karen Shepherd, Regina
Jodie Shupena-Soulodre, Regina
Ted & Gail Slawinski, Langham
Wade & Darlene Slorstad, Saskatoon
Soma Salon, Regina
Alexander & Grietje Spademan, Prince Albert
Spice Bazaar, Regina
Terresa Strohan, Saskatoon
Kathy Szarkowicz, Regina
Gail Taillon, Stoughton
Laura Teed, Saskatoon
Nora Thompson, Regina
Tommy Gun’s Original Barbershop, Regina
Joanne Torrie, Regina
Joyce Tremmel, Saskatoon
Valleyside Art Studio, Lumsden
Stacey Wanner, Regina
Waterfront Beach Bar & Grill, Regina Beach
Mark Wihak, Regina
Gwen Will, Saskatoon
Nichole Williams, Regina
Trent Wotherspoon, Regina
Aleana Young, Regina
Neal & Selina Zaluski, Saskatoon
Amanda Zarubin, Moose Jaw
creative kids progress report 2022 23 donors
T H A NK YOU for supporting Creative Kids!
100% of your donation goes directly to helping kids in your community. Donations over $20 are eligible for a charitable donation tax receipt. Donate online at www.CreativeKidsSask.ca
@CreativeKidsSaskatchewan @creativekidssask @CreativeKidsSK
Creative Kids Saskatchewan raises funds to remove financial barriers that prevent children and youth from participating in creative activities. Participants can receive grants of up to $750 per year to allow inclusion in arts and cultural activities.
To date, Creative Kids has granted over $5.97 million and helped 12,890 kids in 251 communities across the province.
Creative Kids Canada Inc. is a registered charity. The Creative Kids Charitable Number: #78725 7922 RR0001.
Creative Kids is a SaskCulture charitable giving program. SaskCulture Inc., a community-based, non-profit cultural organization, which receives funding from the Sask Lotteries Trust Fund for Sport, Culture and Recreation, covers all administrative and operating costs for Creative Kids.
Visit us at: 404-2125 11th Avenue, Regina, SK S4P 3X3 Or call our office at: 306-780-9361, 1-855-277-9469