2022 Creative Kids Progress Report

Shine. Grow. Belong.

2022 Progress Report

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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.

“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

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.

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Photo courtesy of Kori Wuttunee

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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.

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.

Sincerely,

Jan Seibel Chair, Creative Kids/SaskCulture

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OUR IMPACT SINCE 2010

251 $5.97 12,890 5,589 546 4

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Saskatchewan communities supported

Million granted

Applications funded

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 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

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.

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NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS Funded per Region in 2022

127 180 WEST

PRINCE ALBERT AND AREA

SASKATOON

403 SASKATOON TO REGINA

REGINA SOUTHWEST

75

47 293

EAST

70 SOUTHEAST

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highlights

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.

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.

“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.”

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.

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.

“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.

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“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

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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.

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.”

Thanks to Creative Kids’ Legacy sponsor

for helping kids shine and grow in life-changing creative activities.

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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.

“It’s made me more confident at school, because people like my music. Playing makes me feel proud of myself.”

– Chen Ni Liang.

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 practicing the piano in her home. Photo courtesy of Zhi Ping Chen.

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.”

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.

“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.”

Creative Kids is thankful for the support of the

for helping kids nurture their creative talents.

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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.

“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.

“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.”

Emily credits the support she received from Creative Kids for setting her on a course for success.

Creative Kids thanks the

for supporting Saskatchewan kids’ participation in creative activities.

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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.

“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.

“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.”

Brandie Perkins says Creative Kids’ support has been life-changing for her students. Photo courtesy of Brandie Perkins.

Creative Kids thanks

for sponsoring creative passions in kids.

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highlights

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.

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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

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.

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“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.”

highlights

“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.”

– Tristen Durocher.

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fundraising

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

“Supporting Creative Kids is an opportunity to help positively impact the growth and development of a young person through arts and culture.”

–Paige Gignac. 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.”

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.

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CREATIVE KIDS BENEFITS From India Night Gala

fundraising

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.

Entertainers From Do It with Class and dancers from Sampradaya Dance Creations contributed to the 2022 India Night.

Photos courtesy BN Photography.

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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fundraising

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.

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.

Photo courtesy of Fred Novecosky, Shine Media Group.

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 Saddman Zaman, Moose Jaw Today.

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fundraising

Giving the Gift of Creativity 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!

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.

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.

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.

Creative Kids thanks Sabrina Cataldo for her dedication and volunteer service to the provincial Committee and support to the charity.

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 8 14 180

North Battleford Turtleford 7 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $48,397.37

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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 DISTRICT FOR SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION 3 Big River 4 3 99 3 5 10 127

Canwood Marcelin Prince Albert Rostern Tisdale 7 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $51,424.78

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.

293

Regina

FUNDED $149,216.01

c r e at i v e k i ds p ro g r e ss r e p o r t 2022

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r e g i o n a l i m pac t

PRAIRIE CENTRAL DISTRICT FOR SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION (SASKATOON TO REGINA) 3 6 3 7 3 25 47

Dalmeny Humboldt Lanigan St. Denis Watrous 16 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $29,523.69

PARKLAND VALLEY SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION DISTRICT 8 3 3 21 28 7 70

Foam Lake Invermay Ituna Melville Yorkton 4 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $35,734.49

SOUTH WEST DISTRICT FOR CULTURE, RECREATION AND SPORT 5 6 5 33 13 13 75

Caronport Gravelbourg Maple Creek Moose Jaw Swift Current 8 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $44,634.80

SOUTHEAST CONNECTION SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION DISTRICT 3 3 3 9 6 12 36

Estevan Grenfell Indian Head Weyburn Wolseley 8 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $21,984.20 20

c r e at i v e k i ds p ro g r e ss r e p o r t 2022

donors

THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS TITANIUM ($50,000 +) Harvard Media, Regina/Saskatoon

K+ S Potash Canada, Saskatoon

DIAMOND ($49,999 - $10,000) Canada Life Harold Latrace Family and Associates Foundation Rawlco Radio SaskMilk SaskTel TD Canada Trust

Winnipeg Saskatoon Regina Regina Regina London

South Saskatchewan Community Foundation: 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) 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

FCL Community Investment Fund, Saskatoon Gibson Energy ULC, Calgary Ikea Canada Limited Partnership, Burlington Moose Jaw Gamers Inc., Moose Jaw

RBC Wealth Management - Dominion Securities, Regina R.J. Nelson Family Foundation, Lloydminster rSolutions, Regina SaskTel Pioneers, Regina SK Arts, Regina

GOLD ($4,999 - $2,500) 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

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

Safeway Community Action Fund, Winnipeg Scotiabank, Regina SGI, Regina Signature Print-It, Regina Taylor Automotive Group, Regina Victoria Jewellers, Regina WestJet Airlines, Regina

SILVER ($2,499 - $1,000) 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

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

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

c r e at i v e k i ds p ro g r e ss r e p o r t 2022

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donors

BRONZE ($999 - $500) 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

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

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

SUPERSTAR ($499 - $250) 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

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

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

ROCKSTAR ($249 - $100) 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 22

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

c r e at i v e k i ds p ro g r e ss r e p o r t 2022

Gwen Gordon, Saskatoon 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

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

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

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

RISING STAR (UNDER $100) 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

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

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 c r e at i v e k i ds p ro g r e ss r e p o r t 2022

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THANK 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 Visit us at: 404-2125 11th Avenue, Regina, SK S4P 3X3 Or call our office at: 306-780-9361, 1-855-277-9469 @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.