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Shine. Grow. Belong. 2023 Progress Report

“Being part of the Creative Kids family brings a great deal of satisfaction to me on a very personal level. Families accessing Creative Kids funding have often reached out to us to express their deep gratitude. They tell us stories of how much their children have benefited from participating in these activities.

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.

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When I was a young aspiring student in university I saw a guitar at a garage sale. I had never played guitar but I knew a few of my friends and family that did. I bought one. I spent hours learning chords and trying to play along with some of my favourite songs. Then, somewhere along the way I found myself writing music. Decades later, I can reflect on a professional music career with three albums, many awards and a wealth of experiences no one can ever take away from me. Performing took me many different places, built my confidence and, most importantly, I harvested a truckload of friends along the way. I never became super famous or made millions of dollars, but music music changed my life. Back in the late ‘80s, I was fortunate to have some cash in my jeans to buy that guitar. Had I not, I am not sure what direction my life would have taken. Thank you to those who donate to Creative Kids. Your donations change lives!“ Dean Kush, CEO

Message from SaskCulture It has been another year of turbulent world events and unexpected changes, but we are starting to see a return to engagement within our communities, which has included an increase in the number of families who applied to Creative Kids. It is more important than ever that children have an opportunity to engage in cultural activities that bring out their creativity, give them a sense of belonging in their communities, connect them to their cultural heritage, and assist in their development. Creative Kids helps to maximize those opportunities. Each family that received support had the financial barriers removed that were standing in the way of their children’s participation in arts and cultural activities. This participation supports kids’ growth and builds skills that will contribute to their future success. This year, many former Creative Kids, who are now adults, stepped forward to give back to the charity that gave them access to creative activities when they were children. The stories they tell echo the research findings that children who participate in dance, theatre, language and music, benefit from involvement, moving their life in a more positive direction. You can read some of these stories in this year’s Progress Report, and we thank each one of them for sharing their experiences with us. In 2023, application numbers returned to pre-pandemic levels, and many children, youth and their families still continue to need support from Creative Kids. All parents want their children to participate in activities where they can build new friendships and learn new skills, as well as develop their esteem, resilience and confidence. Cultural activities contribute to developing healthy, active children and youth. Thanks to Creative Kids, over $6.6 million has been granted to children and youth since the program began in 2010. The 1,313 children and youth supported this past year, are part of the over 13,902 kids, from over 266 communities across Saskatchewan, who have received Creative Kids funding. This funding also contributes to supporting the work of over 598 music, dance, theatre, art, and cultural instructors across the province.

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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 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 the donors and supporters who contributed to this charity, supporting many kids’ dreams and helping to build a culturally vibrant province.

I want to express my sincere gratitude, on behalf of the charity, to the many Creative Kids donors, sponsors and champions who have continued to provide support over the years. We appreciate your belief in the program and that children and youth truly benefit from life-changing cultural experiences. Thanks to you, kids can shine, grow and belong! Sincerely,

Jan Seibel Chair, SaskCulture/Creative Kids Canada

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OUR IMPACT SINCE 2010

13,902 $6.66 266 598 5,900 4

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Applications funded

Million dollars granted

Saskatchewan communities supported

Music, dance, theatre, art, and cultural instructors paid Facebook followers

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SASKATCHEWAN KIDS

Need Opportunities to Grow Ways to donate to Creative Kids: You can make a one time 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 @creativekidssaskatchewan1955 Please visit CreativeKidsSask.ca or call toll free 1-855-277-9469 to make a donation.

In 2023, the cost of living continued to increase, bringing even more struggles for families across the province and, as a result, more applications to Creative Kids. While fundraising opportunities post-COVID were still limited, Creative Kids continued, despite these challenges, to ensure that as many children and youth as possible could access arts and cultural activities to build skills that will benefit their futures. Applications to the program in 2023 returned to close to pre-COVID numbers, and Creative Kids was able to meet this renewed demand by granting $100,000 more than the previous year. We also funded applicants from 15 new Saskatchewan communities, where children were applying for the first time to Creative Kids. Kids are returning to in-person activities and families are recognizing their children need the benefits and skills that creative activities provide. This past year, Creative Kids continued to help displaced Ukrainian families, funding 67 kids to connect to Ukrainian dance and art activities. Those opportunities helped whole families to connect with their cultural roots while building a new life in Saskatchewan and providing their children with a safe place to grow, shine and belong. Creative Kids also saw an increase in the number of Indigenous service providers, organizational partnerships and a growing emphasis on cultural programming through DreamBrokers. As such, Creative Kids increased the number of meaningful cultural learning opportunities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous children and youth, such as regalia-making, ribbon skirt/ shirt-making, traditional beading, Métis dot art, powwow dance and jigging instruction. This broadening of Indigenous cultural opportunities also led to increased participation by kids from new communities, such as Tyvan, Scott and Sintaluta, SK. Providing these opportunities for Saskatchewan children is critical to the healing journey of Reconciliation. Last year, thanks to generous donors, Creative Kids was able to support the ongoing need for life-changing connections to culture – by providing 1,313 grants, of up to $750, to children and youth interested in creative pursuits. By the end of 2023, we had granted over $6.66 million dollars since 2010. For families, from across the province, who access the support Creative Kids provides, this connective grant provides access regardless of the financial and socio-economic barriers they face.

Thanks to administrative support provided by SaskCulture, 100 per cent of all donations go directly to supporting children and youth.

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. The $688,460 granted this year goes directly to those cultural leaders or their cultural businesses.

We thank you, and the many others who give so generously, to support kids in our communities.

It is extremely important as we move into a new year, that we continue to provide opportunities for children to connect and engage in creative activities. While we support hundreds of children each year, due to limited funds, we unfortunately have to turn many other deserving kids away. Creative Kids depends on donations to be able to support over 1,500 applicants each year – the most vulnerable children in Saskatchewan. This is why we need your help!

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NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS Funded per Region in 2023

NORTHERN SaskCulture funded 1,343 children and youth’s participation in art and cultural activities through the Northern Youth Cultural Fund.

183 LAKELAND 148 RIVERS WEST

SASKATOON

362 PRAIRIE CENTRAL

REGINA SOUTHWEST

61 6

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315

PARKLAND VALLEY

90 SOUTHEAST

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OUR REACH ACROSS SASKATCHEWAN

Creative Kids Grant Summary COMMITTEE

FUNDED APPLICATIONS

TOTAL APPLICATIONS

AMOUNT GRANTED

AMOUNT REQUESTED

Battlefords

$12,650.00

$13,890.00

Big River

$5,510.00

Kindersley

$6,353.20

$9,853.20

Lakeland

173

208

$61,106.54

$83,681.66

Provincial

373

507

$218,607.6

$302,502.57

Regina

315

480

$174,447.58

$227,171.78

Saskatoon

360

526

$209,785.25

$314,686.68

TOTAL

1,313

1,821 $688,460.18

$957,295.89

ACTIVITY

KIDS FUNDED

TOTAL GRANTED

Art

192

$57,214.61

Culture

225

$46,467.43

Dance

490

$322,261.21

Music

383

$251,722.28

Theatre

$10,794.65

TOTAL

1,313

$688,460.18

AGES

KIDS FUNDED

4 to 8

440

9 to 12

592

13 and older

281

TOTAL KIDS FUNDED

1,313

With your help we can REACH MORE KIDS! This past year, there was a SHORTAGE OF $268,835.71, which meant 508 KIDS WERE DECLINED funding. C RE ATI V E K I DS PROG RES S RE P O RT 2023

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SISTERS ON A PATH TO SUCCESS Thanks to Creative Kids Elizabeth and Emily Kelln gained many opportunities of growth thanks to the support they received from Creative Kids for voice and choir participation. Both sisters developed many beneficial skills that set them up for success as adults, as well as, helping them find a deep joy and appreciation of music. When 22-year-old Elizabeth reflects on her experience, she says, “The Creative Kids support shaped the way that my whole family was able to experience music. Music is my soul. Every single part of my day, I have a rhythm, a beat in my head.” Emily, now 24-years-old, says that through singing, she found her purpose and developed confidence. “When you are performing, whether you’re the solo performer or a member of a choir, you realize your voice is powerful and you have an opportunity to say something to your audience.” Early on the sister’s began their musical journey by singing in church in Vibank, SK. By 2009, both sisters were in the Juventus Choir. In 2014, after their mom heard about Creative Kids through a friend and successfully applied for funding, they were able to access private voice lessons. A couple years later, Creative Kids also supported their participation in the Saskatchewan Youth Choir.

“I think Creative Kids provides amazing opportunities for kids that don’t normally get them.” – Elizabeth Kelln 8

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Elizabeth and Emily after a Juventus Choir Practice (left). Emily(middle) and Elizabeth (right) credit the support from Creative Kids for setting them on a path to success. Photos courtesy of the Kelln’s.

Without the Creative Kids funding, Emily says, they wouldn’t have received the quality of instruction they did or been able to afford lessons at all. “We were a single income family with four kids and we lived in a very small town. Money is always tight when you have lots of kids on one income.” Emily is very thankful of the Creative Kids’ support for voice lessons. She says, because of it, she came to understand there is a great deal of growth through learning. “The biggest thing that I learned through my voice lessons, was learning how to accept criticism and know that it’s not a reflection of yourself.” Elizabeth contributes the time-management and discipline skills that she developed through practicing music to how she was able to successfully complete her schooling while working. “I’d get up at 5:00 a.m. every day, study for three hours, go to work for eight hours, then come home. I did that for three years.” Elizabeth is now a licensed optician and contact lens practitioner managing two stores and ten staff. Having completed a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance and currently continuing her education in music, Emily says, she also gained self-awareness about what her body needed. “I got a better understanding of my own body. It’s something that’s very interesting with voice because you are your instrument. You start to think about things like: What am I eating? How is this going to affect my singing? Did I get enough sleep or drink enough water today?”

They also gained access to elite performance experiences with the Regina Symphony Orchestra and the University of Regina Wind Ensemble. In addition, they became a part of the choir community in the city. Elizabeth says, “It made me feel a sense of belonging because I was a part of a choir, gained a community and gained long-term friendships with people that I have known since I was eight-years-old. Emily is thankful to the donors that give to Creative Kids and wants them to know, “You had a huge impact on me. You should know your donation and your money is going somewhere important. It really impacted my life. Extremely. Because of you, I am where I am today. A voice student, teacher and performer.” Their two younger sisters were also recipients of Creative Kids funding for voice and choir. Elizabeth says, “My sisters and I feel that it’s pretty amazing we all got to be in music together.” She adds, “I think Creative Kids provides amazing opportunities for kids that don’t normally get them.”

Creative Kids is thankful for the support of the

for helping kids nurture their creative talents.

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MUSIC LESSONS HELP KIDS Unlock Unseen Potential When Adriana Sanchez was eight years old, her family unexpectedly received a piano as a gift from a generous neighbor. Seeing this beautiful instrument motivated her to learn how to play. After six years of receiving music lessons, thanks to Creative Kids support, the piano top is now full of Adriana’s trophies and medals from music competitions. Adriana’s mom, Sirely says that, having access to music lessons has given her child the opportunity to find talents and passions that she wouldn’t have found otherwise — an opportunity that every kid deserves.Her youngest daughter also receives support for music lessons.

“Everyone deserves the experience to be able to explore and grow. It’s important for everyone to have these opportunities, because you never know how it’s going to end up, and that is truly amazing.” – Adriana “Creative Kids is an amazing program, especially for families with low incomes. We want to give our kids the chance to learn and explore. Sometimes we want to give them more, but unfortunately, we can’t,” Sirely says. “Having access to this program — it’s been a blessing for Adriana, because through this she has actually developed so many skills.” Adriana started by taking piano classes, which led her to many gold trophies for her talent. But after a few years, her love for music transformed into a new passion for playing the clarinet. And, the clarinet became her instrument of choice.

Adriana enjoys practicing the clarinet.

“Everyone deserves the experience to be able to explore and grow,” Adriana says, of being able to learn more than one musical instrument. “It’s important for everyone to have these opportunities, because you never know how it’s going to end up, and that is truly amazing.” If you had told her only a year ago, she says, she wouldn’t have believed how much she would come to love the clarinet and the community she has found thanks to it. “I knew everyone there, so I wasn’t as nervous,” she says, remembering her experience winning first place at her first clarinet competition, considered the Rose Bowl in a local music festival. “Because I was competing with my friends, I knew that I was going to be happy either way.”

Adriana with her most recent trophy. Photos courtesy of Sirely Sanchez.

Sirley is grateful for how the support from Creative Kids has allowed her kids to grow and explore their fullest potential. Even though classes can be expensive for a single-income family, she says that giving her daughters the chance to explore music has always been important to her because of the long-term benefits it brings to their lives. “It’s not just about learning how to play. They are learning dedication, time management, and commitment,” Sirely says. “As a mother, we always want our kids to grow, be successful, and have all the tools they need. If we hadn’t had this chance, Adriana wouldn’t know now how much she can do — how far she can reach.”

Aside from nurturing her talent for music, Adriana says her years of taking music lessons have also given her a space to connect with the people around her. She now dreams of growing up to play in an orchestra.

Thanks to Creative Kids’ Legacy sponsor

“It would be a very cool experience, to get to learn all those songs and play with other people,” she says.

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

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FORMER CREATIVE KID is Championing the Program that Changed His Life For Creative Kids Champion Cole Knutson, giving back to the organization that gave him the ability to explore different musical instruments matters to him. He wants all Saskatchewan kids, who face financial barriers, to have the opportunity to pursue their artistic curiosities and gain the benefits through their journeys. Knutson, now 27-years-old, is an accomplished pianist and saxophonist who has received a number of prestigious scholarships to study abroad and perform around the world, including onstage at Carnegie Hall. This past year he reached out to Creative Kids, asking how he could help. He says, “The Creative Kids funding literally changed the course of my life. It breaks my heart to think about all of the children in the world who may not have access to music, when music could make such a positive difference in their life and the lives of people around them. And, they don’t have access to it simply because of money.” Knutson is thankful for the support he received from 2012 to 2014, which allowed him to play more than one instrument as a youth, as well as, explore other artistic activities, such as singing. Before the funding, Knutson’s mother sat him down to explain that he might need to choose only one artistic activity, as they couldn’t afford to pay for lessons in both piano and saxophone.

Creative Kids thanks

for supporting Saskatchewan kids’ participation in creative activities.

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Cole (left) regularly perforrms in prestigious venues around the world. Photos courtesy of Cole Knutson.

“The prospect of not being able to pursue my curiosity was really upsetting. Thankfully, my piano teacher told us about Creative Kids and my mother applied. When I found out I got the funding, I remember being absolutely overjoyed because it meant that I could participate then in a full range of experiences.” He also gained access and friendships, through his piano teacher, to the richness of the artistic community in Saskatchewan. As she often brought writers, artists and musicians, who were her friends, to North Battleford to introduce her students to other art forms. Another benefit Knutson gained was that his growing connection to music helped him to cope with adversity more effectively. “Music sort of provided me a literal sanctuary. Whenever I was going through something difficult in my life, I could go to this church and I would spend literally ten to 12 hours practicing there if I needed to, to just let my emotions out.” As his journey with music continued he gained more than strengths and abilities. “It taught me discipline. It taught me the idea of commitment, the idea of community, and allowed me to grow those concepts. It allowed me to understand deeper, more of what it means to be a human being on this

“Creative Kids is a great umbrella to facilitate growth in unconventional ways. It’s a miracle program really.” – Cole Knutson earth. Music also allowed me to understand that the world is actually much more accessible than I was led to believe.” He doesn’t like to think about what would have happened to him if it weren’t for the Creative Kids support. “Some of the greatest musicians I know, who are seriously intelligent, were sort of overlooked in a school setting, and it was art, in any sort of form that gave them an outlet to really find themselves and not feel like an outcast in society.” He says that is why he wants others to lend their support to this charity. “Creative Kids is a great umbrella to facilitate growth in unconventional ways. It’s a miracle program really. The gift of a donation I think is something that you can’t really measure. It has the potential to change the lives of children forever.”

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NEW SERVICE PROVIDER Connects Kids to the Art of Sewing “Creativity can empower people to have confidence in themselves — and that’s when people start to be able to express themselves for who they truly are.” – Bernadine Sapp Bernadine Sapp’s background in the mental health sector helps her appreciate how much her students gain from her sewing lessons. Throughout weeks-long courses, she has seen kids start expressing themselves more with their clothes and being more creative — discovering their Indigenous cultural identity. “As a mental health worker, I really want to reach people, to talk to them and share, because I think there’s a chance that people can use my work for their mental health and to connect with their culture,” she says. At her organization, Brave Girl Quilts, Bernadine offers courses that help revitalize the tradition of sewing, including ribbon workshops, regalia-making and beading classes. She became a registered Creative Kids service provider in 2023, and says her experience with the program has been wonderful. “The kids that I hope to reach include those from the inner city and those from lowincome families,” Bernadine says. “To help them improve their mental health along with their sewing skills is a gift. Sewing is not only a good skill to have — it’s also a way for kids to express themselves. So, thank you to Creative Kids for supporting kids in this way.” For Bernadine, it’s important to give all kids access to learning how to sew because it

Bernadine teaches kids to connect to their identity through the tradition of sewing. Photos courtesy of Bernadine Sapp.

comes with so many more benefits than one might think. She learned this firsthand years ago, when she first took up the craft, motivated by her daughter’s request for a Jingle Dress for dancing powwow. How much the learning transformed her was a welcome surprise. “I realized that this [sewing] is such a powerful tool that can be used to work with people in mental health,” she says. “After a couple years, I noticed I had become much kinder, and nicer. It was just the consequence of how intentionally I was thinking when sewing and making the things I was making.” While sewing her first Jingle Dress, Bernadine often thought of her grandmother, a quilter, and how she was always sewing star blankets at the kitchen table when she was growing up. Bernadine imagines that working on sewing projects must have been a great source of self-care for her grandmother — and many others, especially back when more people practiced traditional crafts.

“In my culture, we believe that when you create something, you put all of your good energy into it, and you think good thoughts for that person. You smile and you pray,” she says. “There’s no room for negative thoughts — if that happens, you stop.” Since starting to teach and founding Brave Girl Quilts, Bernadine has seen time and time again that learning a new craft or connecting to their culture through creative projects can be empowering for people of all ages. She hopes that her teaching will continue to give others the gift she got by learning how to sew -- a space to slow down and discover her unique creativity. “Creativity can empower people to have confidence in themselves — and that’s when people start to be able to express themselves for who they truly are,” she says.

Creative Kids thanks

for supporting Saskatchewan kids’ participation in creative activities.

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highlights

PERFORMER FINDS A DEEP Connection Through Music The first time JJ Voss played the guitar, not only did he find his vocation, but he found a tool to express himself. Now four decades later, he is an award-winning country singer, songwriter and performer. “Playing music and being in the entertainment business has been my focus, my whole life. My music has always been a way to connect with others in a way that I can’t always do through talking.” Voss believes that all children and youth should have the opportunity to enjoy a cultural activity of their choice that will give them avenues to express themselves. Growing up in the small rural community of Cupar, his passion for the guitar developed as a natural progression, as did his singing. As his three older siblings had left home, it became a way to pass the time. “I was at home by myself and music became my friend, my companion, and picking up the instruments was just a natural progression,” he says. His first guitar lessons were given by his father. By age 11, and showing a strong aptitude toward learning the guitar, he was enrolled in lessons in Regina. By 15 years old, he was performing in his first band. “It just made sense that, not only would I be listening to the songs, but of course, I’d want to be on stage, singing the songs and playing them.” After high school, Voss toured with numerous bands including Emerson Drive from Nashville for ten years. At the same time, he worked on his solo career, editing, producing and recording albums. Since then he has released three albums and one single. In 2008, he received the Western Country Music Awards (WMCA) Producer of the Year nomination for debut album Hillbilly Storybook. His Show ‘em Who’s Voss’ album in 2012, landed him a Saskatchewan Country Music Awards (SCMA) for Roots

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JJ Voss believes in the life-changing benefits of an artistic activity as he’s experienced it first-hand. Photo by Joanne Curtis.

Album of the Year and chart action for five singles on Canadian Country radio. The album also received international airplay leading Voss to his first overseas tour; playing shows in Germany, Ireland, France, the Netherlands, Colombia and Mexico. Through it all he has stayed true to his goal of becoming a troubadour, following in the footsteps of Steve Earle, Charlie Major, Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen. Songwriting fueled his career, helped him cope with difficult times and gave him a place to put his emotions. “It’s important to me because being creative allows me to explore myself, my feelings and my emotions. And when I’m creating, I learn a lot of about why I am who I am.” He adds, “I hope that at some point after I’m gone, a song that I’ve written will connect with somebody, or helps somebody feel like they are not alone, because to me that’s leaving my mark.”

Looking back he realizes his music also helped him fit in with his peers, gave him a community to be a part of and projected him on a positive path forward. “Art and culture can be life changing. If I wasn’t able to find music as a means to focus my passion and energy, I may have gotten into a lot of trouble.” That is why he now volunteers his time to, and believes in Creative Kids, and its support of kids facing financial barriers to participating in cultural activities. “It’s important that our youth have the opportunity to be able to access the lifechanging benefits of an art or cultural activity. I think it’s wonderful that there is an organization that is looking out for kids who don’t have the means to pursue that.”

highlights

“Art and culture can be life changing. If I wasn’t able to find music as a means to focus my passion and energy, I may have gotten into a lot of trouble.” – JJ Voss

Photo by Keith Hershmiller Photography

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fundraising

CO-OP FUEL GOOD DAY Raises Awareness and Funds For the third year in a row, several Co-ops in Saskatchewan, recognized how important it is for kids to participate in cultural activities by raising funds for Creative Kids through their annual Co-op Fuel Good Day. This year on September 19, the Co-ops in North Battleford, Norquay and Saskatoon raised close to $18,000 for Creative Kids, as well as raising awareness of the charity. According to Andrea Lauder, communications manager, Saskatoon Co-operative Association Limited, Creative Kids aligned well with the Co-op’s funding priorities, “We look to support our community, by finding the organizations that give back to community – connecting those in need with the resources that help them. In this way, Creative Kids was a natural fit for our support.” Helping communities has always been a part of what the Co-op is about. Operating as a co-operative, it is a jointly owned and democratically controlled business that meets the common economic, social and cultural needs of its members. All members are owners and the Co-op gives a percentage of their profits back to members. Co-op grocery stores and gas stations operate across Western Canada.

“We are glad we contributed to creative programming for kids as it gives kids such a healthy way to explore their imagination and discover new skills.” – Andrea Lauder Recognizing the importance of giving back to their communities, Fuel Good Day started in 2017. During Fuel Good Day, Co-op donates a minimum of five cents per litre of fuel purchased at participating gas bars to local charities and non-profits. Across Western Canada over $4.2 million has been raised since the event began. Gloria Walsh, manager, Creative Kids says, “Creative Kids is very grateful for all the people who purchased gas on Fuel Good Day. Because of Co-op’s efforts, over $27,000 has been raised in the past two years, which means many more kids in Saskatchewan can participate because the financial barriers

Fuel Good Days in Saskatchewan have raised $27,000 over the last two years. Photos courtesy of Gloria Walsh and Shawn Bauche.

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were removed to their participation in an art or cultural activity. We thank these local Co-ops for helping us give the lifechanging, positive growth and development opportunities that activities such as dance, music, theatre and art give to kids.” Lauder says they are very grateful and humbled that they were able to help so many youth access funding. “We are glad we contributed to creative programming for kids as it gives kids such a healthy way to explore their imagination and discover new skills. This helps build confidence and supports the continued growth and development of well-rounded kids.”

fundraising

DANCE-A-THON RAISES FUNDS so More Kids Can Participate

Dance-a-thon participants wait for the start of the event. Dance Innovations raised $7,000 through their Dance A Thon 2023 for Creative Kids. Photos courtesy of Tammy Kostersky.

For Tammy Kostersky teaching her students the value of giving back to the community is important. On March 25, 2023, Dance Innovations held their annual Dance-A-Thon and raised $7,000 for Creative Kids so more children in Yorkton are able to experience the benefits of dance.

Since 1997 Kostersky held an annual performance event bringing community members together raising funds for local charities. By 2017, they began doing a yearly dance-a-thon. This past year, more than 30 dancers participated in the day-long event after collecting pledges.

Kostersky says, since 2012 she’s seen over 100 students funded by Creative Kids take dance lessons at her studio. “We just feel it’s so important for all children, to have the opportunity to feel the joy dance offers. Supporting Creative Kids, is a way of ensuring that there are funds available in our community for other children who may want to dance but don’t have the financial means to do so.”

After 28-years of teaching, Kostersky has witnessed the many skills and benefits that participation in dance develops in children. She is happy the Dance-A-Thon funds will help more children receive those benefits. “They gain physical fitness skills and a connection emotionally through movement. Dance outside of school also offers students the opportunity to connect and feel a sense of belonging to a team sharing common interests. They develop confidence in themselves as individuals. ”

She adds, “I also feel it is my responsibility as a mentor to youth in our community to guide them in knowing and connecting with the needs in our community. Knowing that through their efforts in the Dance-A-Thon, they were able to raise funds so that other children, maybe their dance friends, have an opportunity just like they do it’s very powerful.”

She adds that raising funds for Creative Kids has a positive impact, “I’m very proud and very excited because I know the joy that a child feels when they leave the dance studio. For more children to get to feel that simply because we held a fun activity that was focused on team and community, that’s the dream.”

“We just feel it’s so important for all children, to have that opportunity. Supporting Creative Kids, is a way of ensuring that there are funds available in our community for other children who may want to dance, but don’t have the financial means to do so.” –Tammy Kostersky

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fundraising

TD’s Generous Support Continues for Kids’ Creativity THANKS to TD Bank Group’s ongoing support of the Arts for Kids Matching campaign, Creative Kids surpassed its 2023 goal and raised a total of $41,402! The funds raised will support Saskatchewan children and youth’s participation in creative pursuits.

Annual Race raises funds for Creative Kids THANKS to race participants for the $11,400 raised at the Ted Jaleta -10th annual Royal Road Race in partnership with RCMP Depot celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the RCMP. The funds raised will allow more kids to participate in life-changing creative activities.

Mexico Mágico benefits Creative Kids On September 21, 2023, $19,000 was raised at the inaugural Mexico Mágico event in Regina. THANKS to all the sponsors that made the night a success and contributed to more children and youth in Regina accessing creative and cultural activities.

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fundraising

Donors stepped up to #JoinTheCKidsMovement THANK YOU for giving the gift of creativity and changing a life during during our Holiday Camapaign. SaskTel along with generous donors stepped up to match donations on November 28th for Giving Tuesday. THANKS to your generous support over the entire campaign a total $55,079 was raised! Thank-you also to all the professional artists that helped us get the word out about the benefits of arts and cultural activities through their testimonials!

THANK YOU Harvard Media for supporting our fundraising events

Creative Kids Saskatchewan also THANKS the Following Sponsors for their Generous Support:

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CREATIVE KIDS’ COMMITTEES

We owe our volunteers a great deal for their hard work and for helping 1,300 children and youth access cultural activities this year. Six volunteer committees review local applications in the Battlefords, Big River, Kindersley, Regina, and Saskatoon, and the Lakeland District around Prince Albert. One Provincial Committee reviews all other applications in the province.

Provincial Committee

Applications from towns without a local committee are reviewed by the Provincial Committee. Many thanks to Kerri Hill, Lindsay Manko-Bauche, and Jessica Elsaesser who review the provincial applications.

Rivers West District for Sport, Culture and Recreation In the west, the Battlefords and Kindersley committees review local applications. Thanks to Siobahn Gormely, Elaine Poirier, Cindy Tymoruski and Kerilyn Voigt who form the Battlefords Committee. Additional thanks to Mei Shan Wan, Melanie Ward, Devon Coles, Lindsay Johnson, and Pam Sawatzky for their contributions to the Kindersley Committee. 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 17 Biggar 2 Kindersley 23 Lloydminster 71 North Battleford 5 32 148

Turtleford 17 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $58,086.13

NORTHERN SPORT CULTURE AND RECREATION DISTRICT 1

Creighton

FUNDED $750.00

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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. Cheryl Bauer Hyde, Erin Standish, Crystal Clarke, Melissa Sisson, Erica Cochrane, and Marion Conway are the fantastic Lakeland volunteers. The Big River Committee is within the Lakeland District and assesses local applications for Big River and area. Many thanks to Paulette Atchison and Charlene Puddicombe for their impact in Big River this year. Thanks to Crystal Clarke and the Lakeland District and Judy McLeod Campbell and the City of Prince Albert for their dedication to helping kids in Prince Albert and area.

LAKELAND DISTRICT FOR SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION 4 Big River 5 5 5 135 7 22 183

Birch Hills Canwood Marcelin Prince Albert Tisdale 10 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $67,846.54

Saskatoon The Saskatoon Committee members are Jacquie Thomarat, Jody Hobday, and Alex Brooks. Thanks to them for their thoughtful conversations and meaningful contributions in Saskatoon. 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.

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Saskatoon

FUNDED $211,155.25

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.

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Regina

FUNDED $174,447.58

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PRAIRIE CENTRAL DISTRICT FOR SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION (SASKATOON TO REGINA) 5 5 5 7 11 6 34 73

Bruno Davidson Fort Qu’Appelle Humboldt Raymore Regina Beach 12 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $47,772.40

PARKLAND VALLEY SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION DISTRICT 9 3 3 21 5 42 7 90

Foam Lake Invermay Ituna Melville Springside Yorkton 5 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $42,036.80

SOUTH WEST DISTRICT FOR CULTURE, RECREATION AND SPORT 5 5 25 6 10 10 61

Gravelbourg Maple Creek Moose Jaw Shaunavon Swift Current 6 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $37,019.72

SOUTHEAST CONNECTION SPORT, CULTURE AND RECREATION DISTRICT 7 5 10 23 20 15 80

Estevan Grenfell Indian Head Weyburn Wolseley 10 other communities Total applications funded

FUNDED $49,345.76 20

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donors

THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS TITANIUM ($50,000 +) K+ S Potash Canada Sask Lotteries Trust Fund

DIAMOND ($49,999 - $10,000) Access Communications Children’s Fund Canada Life CN Saskatchewan Community Board Elite Island Resorts Harold Latrace Family & Associates Foundation Harvard Media Royal Road Race Inc. Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority Inc. Saskatoon Co-operative Association Limited

SaskTel South Saskatchewan Community Foundation: • Bill & Helen Davidson Foundation • Donald & Claire Kramer Foundation • Lyn Goldman Charitable Trust • Moffat Family Fund • The Lorne & Evelyn Johnson Foundation TD Canada Trust

PLATINUM ($9,999 - $5,000) Affinity Credit Union - District Councils Jo Bannatyne-Cugnet Mo Bundon & Michelle Carr CityTV Saskatchewan

Gibson Energy R.J. Nelson Family Foundation Scentsy Family Foundation SK Arts

GOLD ($4,999 - $2,500) Lexcom Systems Group Inc. Hugh MacGowan

Micheal A. Riffel Catholic High School RBC Dominion Securities

SILVER ($2,499 - $1,000) Curtis Armstrong CJTR Regina Community Radio Discovery Co-Op District 3 Escape Rooms Do It with Class Young People’s Theatre Kevin & Diane Ell Peter England

Marie Ferguson Dawn Martin & David Forbes Henderson Insurance Inc. Dean & Sandra Kush Michael Lavis Ann Phillips Rogers - CityTV

Saskatchewan Knights of Columbus Charitable Foundation Saskatchewan Network for Art Collecting Saskatoon Lions Club SaskGaming - Casino Regina Shaunavon Public School Brian Stockton

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donors

BRONZE ($999 - $500) Iyanuoluwa Akinyemi BASF Regina Cheryl Bauer Hyde Troy Bigalky Cornerstone & Co. Real Estate Team Dance Saskatchewan Inc. Rose Gilks

Paula Haubrich Honey Badger Sewer and Drain Michael Jones Janette Kelly Norquay Co-Op Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils Jan Seibel and David Pattison Kenton Peterson

Regina Symphony Orchestra Rev Auto Group Alex Rogalski Rooted Living Designs Deigns Nicola Straub Murray Taylor Gloria Walsh

SUPERSTAR ($499 - $250) Assiniboia Gallery Battlefords & District Chapter, Superannuated Teachers of SK Shawn Bauche Beating Hearts First Aid Debbie Bechard Canadian Brewhouse Sabrina Cataldo Tara Leigh Heslip Emmaline Hill

Ed Hobday Dr. Jody Hobday Family Plumbing & Heating Kooler Refrigeration Tammy Kostersky Lisa McIntyre-The Optical Shoppe Dean Murrison Mohammad Nazari Oluabusayo Osobade Abiodun Oyelami

Joanne Rivers-Wing Christine Ruys Self Image Boutique Sherwood Co-op Association Ltd Christell Simeon Stonefield Systems Group Dr. Renatta Varma Weber Supply Company Inc. Lynne Yelich Patti and Rob Zerr

ROCKSTAR ($249 - $100) Jocelyn Anderson Sharon Assman Atlas Hotel Rebekah Bailey Phyllis Baker Jeff Beaton - Madroot Creations Biggar and District Arts Council Coreen Bodnar Kristie Bonstrom Donna Bruce Tammy Chen City of Yorkton Comfort Suites Cornwall Centre Faye Daborn Karen M. Davidson Chris Depko Lorelie DeRoose Detailz Spa Adebanke Disu-Adebara Susan Drader Dubord Enterprises Ltd. David Edney Famoso Italian Pizzeria + Bar (Eastgate) Donna Fehr Sheena Folnovic Catherine Folstad Robert Hawkins & Marie France-Menc Karen L. Frandsen Freshco 8949 Sherwood & Queen Fred & Evelyn Gardiner Dennis Garreck Randy & Dianna Gervais David Giffin Mari Grobler-Level Up Escapes 22

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Tracy Hamon Corinne Harle Stefanie Harrington Russell & Sheila Hart Sharon Haubrich Hector’s Auto Body Ltd. Joanne and Bryan Hillis Elizabeth Hobday Danielle Hoffart Patti Hoffmann Means Innate Body Therapies Industrial Park Café James Ingold Shannon & Randy Iverson Jal Holdings Inc Shannon Jardine Harry & Virginia Jedlic JJ Entertainment Inc. Joe Beeverz Canadian Pub Leah & Darwin Knibbs Laghos African Kitchenette Kevin Korchinski Norman & Hazel Lavoy Shawn Lawless Long & McQuade Musical Instruments Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan Corporation Gwen Machnee Maple Creek Music School Nancy McBean Joe W. McKeown Roderick & Corrie McLeod Dr. David & Anne Millar Derry and Susan Millar Montana’s

David G. Morin Brent Nerenberg Linda & John Nilson Tim Oliva Tracy Paridaen Lynn Pawelko Greg & Jane Pinch Mark & Linda Reakes Lidia Redekopp Regina Little Theatre Regina Pats Hockey Club Regina Productos Latinos Store Richardson Oilseed Royal Hotel Regina Saskatchewan Science Centre Saskatchewan Parks & Recreation Association Saskatoon Inn & Conference Centre SaskMilk SaskPower Robin Schlaht Chantelle Spokowski David Stanchuk Sticks & Doodles Jeffery Straker STREATS Quance Kitchen Jason Sylvestre Teppanyaki Japanese Steak House Tommy’s Speakeatery Victoria’s Tavern Tami Wall Winecraft Regina Yorkton Film Festival Geoffrey Zohner

donors

RISING STAR (UNDER $100) Joanne Aldag Lindsay Allin Rita Allin Applebee’s Southland Heather Appleby Tim Appleby Rhonda Bailey Eugenio Baraoidan Jr. Jody Bartel Jess Bartok Anna Bekolay Deanna Bergbusch Bryan Berger Kelsy Beuttner Sonya Biblow Kim Bircher Joanna Borys Erin Boychuk Grace Bracewell Dale Brock Launa Bruce Adele Buchinski Jeff Bashutski Kirby Buchinski Vivian Buchinski Ana Cristina Camacho Val Cameron Marilyn Card David Carlaw Dave Chaban Joanne Conan Aaron Coons Lileas Cortes Tracy Chudy Wilma & David Chudy Heather Cline Brett Cottrill Margaret & Tig Cummings Karen DeLong Chantel DeLorme Jessica Dieter Sally Dobko Shauna & Randal Dolter Kim Dorn Rose-Marie Dornstauder Philip Doucet Cara Driscoll Bojana Eberts Dawn Eckert Ron Ellert Tanis Ellwood

Cassandra Endicott Kris Evoy Shelley Fayant Helen Ferridge Heather Fetch Elyse Fisher Tara Fisher Bryan Foran Chandra Frei Laura French Fresh & Sweet Rachel Froh Tanis Gaudry Shannynne Gerish Shauna Gervais Deborah Griffith Jennifer Giovannetti Brian Gislason Emily Gloade Gomez Kitchen Eric Goodman Siobhan Gormley Yvonne Gulka Renee Haas Colleen Haider Lana Haider Carrie Halbgewachs Christopher Hall Donna Hall Paula Hamelin Lisa Hanson Brady Harland Shelli Hau Jared Hearn Katrina Helfrick Audrey Herman James Herman Jonathan Herman Kyla Herman Marc Herman Leah Hermanson Dallas Hesse Tana Hoff Katrina Hognerud Brenda & Ashley Holowatuk Lorin Hompoth Connie Honan Sheri Hornung Lorraine Huber Ben Hutchings Carienne Hutchings

Gloria Hutchings Miles Hutchings Fawne Inkster Crystal Jacobs Kevin Joa Ron Jones Gwen Just Elaine Kacsmar Ron Kerr Jaclyn Kilkenny Karlie King Chantel Kitchen Ron Kitchen Donna Kitzul Nicole Knezacek Maryna Korol Brian & Leanne Kostyshyn Fay Kostyshyn Meagan Labash Karen Lach Dr. Mary Leggett Kim Li Riana Liebrecht Dianne Liefso Terrie Littman Patti & Phil Lopinski Kayla Love Shawna Low Kent Lukey-Filigree Patisserie Daya Madhur Grace Madson Jonathan & Krista Malcolm Jim Manovich Rose Marchinko Joel & Kristin Martinuk Lynel Martinuk Stephen & Jana Martinuk Myron & Sara Matcyk Neil Matechuk Shelley Mazden Milos Menhart Todd McCleod Michael McCloy Brent McInnes Ian McWilliams Twyla Mensch Heather Millar James & Natalie Millar Curtis Moen Amy Monych Fran Morphy Jeff & Michelle Morley

Levi Morley Jacqueline Murray Tonia Myhra Brittannie Naphin Gwen Naphin Chet Neufeld Geralee Nicol Irene Nehring Donavon Nixon Florence Nordick Jordan Norstrom Candace Northey Joanne Obuck Lamarr Oksasikewiyin Kozue Okose Gillian Oliva Tanya Oliva Deidre Onslow Jolene Orthner Chris P. Sanjeeb Pandey Cindy Patenaude Matthew Pawlik Vince Pawlik Connie Perrault Linda Perron Kara Pinay Pink Tree Specialty Shop Kendra Pletz Bhavinkumar Popat Robert Purton Carl Qu Karlee Raiwet-The Alternative Christine Regnier Alida Remillard Richardson Lighting Kiana Rieger Bonnie Roche Romantic Nails & Spa Kevin Ross Robin Ruf SaskEnergy Donna Schick Matt & Sharon Schikowsky Brenda Schmidt Susan Schneider Danielle Sebulsky Faye Sebulsky Debra Shepherd Madeline Sheridan Kaitlin Sherven

Sandi Shewchuk Don Shivak Gail Simpson Kara Sirke Carla Skikewich Jadene Smith Lorrie Snook Audrey Soucy Southland Mall St. John’s Ambulance Dawn Stacey Lois Steinke Tammy Stevenson Maria Stott Jeff Swanson Roger & Elaine Sylvestre Tricia Sylvester Rosalie Synk Mandi Szabo Taco Time Regina Andrew Taylor Sherry Talman Bryce Thompson Simone Tocher Jennifer Toews Sara Tokarz Laurie L. Tomkins Heidi Topliss Jared Topliss Traditions Handcraft Gallery Terry Tyson Craig Van Parys Brandi Venne Michelle Verhaeghe Victoria Square Mini-Golf Vintage Vinyl Deb Ward Lisa Washington Jackie Weimer Ryan Westburg Nichole Williams Jamie Wlock Kevin Wlock Christine Woodcock Lacy Yaholnitsky Yorkton Hyundai Brenda Yusyk Ethel Zapata Sarah Zarazun Jenny Zarowny Susan Zeiler

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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

@creativekidssaskatchewan1955

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 art and cultural activities. To date, Creative Kids has granted over $6.66 million and helped 13,902 kids in 266 communities across the province. Creative Kids Canada Inc. is a registered charity. #78725 7922 RR0001.

Creative Kids is a program of SaskCulture Inc., a community-based, non-profit cultural organization.