WINTER 2017 | VOLUME 9 | NUMBER 2
S A S K AT C H E W A N PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N A S S O C I AT I O N
Saskatchewan Successes Our People, Our Stories
WINTER 2017 | VOLUME 9 | NUMBER 2
SPRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President’s Report
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Creating Opportunities in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks
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Swift Current Wildlife Trout Pond
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Building Bridges
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On the Hunt for Quality Recreation
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SPRA Awards Gala - Walking the Red Carpet 07 HR Boot CampTM 10
Communities in Bloom 20 Years of Success 11 Grants and Funding 12 Framework for Recreation in Canada - Engagement Strategy 13 Nature Grandparenting Program 15 Saving Space in Balcarres 16
President Coralie Bueckert
Director for Villages Taylor Morrison
Director at Large Jody Boulet
Director for Cities Ken Ottenbreit
Director at Large Chrisandra Dezotell
Director at Large Chris Keleher
Director for Towns Jaime Helgason
Director at Large Guylaine Green
Director for the North TJ Biemans
SPRA STAFF MANAGEMENT Chief Executive Officer Norm Campbell Program Manager John Firnesz Field Services Manager Randy Durovick Communications, Information and Research Manager Chantel Doerksen RECREATION CONSULTANTS Information and Research Services Nancy Young Communications Lori Ross Christian Bates-Hardy
DIRECTION is published four times a year (December, March, June and September). The publication is provided to members of the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association. Direct all communications to: Editor, DIRECTION #100 - 1445 Park Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4N 4C5 You may also send letters or comments to Lori Ross, Communications Consultant, at 306.780.9370, by fax at 306.780.9257, or by email at lross@spra.sk.ca. Articles within this magazine are the opinions of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of SPRA. Articles in DIRECTION may be reprinted, provided that full credits are shown for the author and the magazine.
Supported by:
Human Resources and Funding Lee Anne Balliett Parks and Open Spaces Andrew Exelby Physical Activity and Fitness Wendy McKellar Leadership and Evaluation Karen House Recreation Facilities Vacant
Youth Engagement Kelsey Michaluk
FIELD CONSULTANTS/ ADMINISTRATION
Inclusion and Access Audra Isaac
Swift Current Jaclyn Davis Phone: (306) 778-1093
Assistant Consultant Andrew Millard ADMINISTRATION Consultant - Finance Mark Sather Business Administrator (halftime) Linda Arnold Executive Assistant Lois McNaught Administrative Technician Ryan Monks Administrative Assistant II Kayla Lazeski Administrative Assistant I Mary Anne Schuweiler Fitness/Administrative Assistant II Lynn Bradley
Regina Office: Phone: (306) 780-9231 or 1-800-563-2555
Rosetown/North Battleford Kerry Bailey Phone: (306) 882-6607 Prince Albert Rob Boulding/Shari Morash Phone: (306) 953-0052 Weyburn Dan Gallagher Phone: (306) 848-0274 Yorkton Darren Spelay/Tracy Malayney Phone: (306) 782-1072 Humboldt Clint McConnell Phone: (306) 682-5265 La Ronge Daniel Longman Phone: (306) 425-1910
PRESIDENT’S REPORT Recreation activities are often done for enjoyment, amusement, or pleasure and are considered to be ‘fun’. A Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Wellbeing states “Recreation fosters the wellbeing of individuals and communities, and of our built and natural environments”. The Framework describes five goals: Foster active living through recreation; Increase inclusion and access to recreation for populations that face constraints to participation; Help people connect to nature through recreation; Ensure the provision of supportive physical and social environments that encourage participation in recreation and build strong, caring communities; and Ensure the continued growth and sustainability of the recreation field.
A strong community benefits individuals, the community itself and the greater society. People of all ages who feel a sense of belonging tend to lead happier and healthier lives. Strong communities create a more stable and supportive society. In addition, reconnecting residents to each other and nurturing connections and relationships increases the community’s capacity to care for one another.
Recreation in Canada has many unique qualities, as we are a very diverse country. The way people recreate is greatly shaped by their history, culture and interests. Further to that, the way we look at and enjoy recreation has greatly changed in the past number of decades. We have gone from a predominately free play environment to one that is mostly structured, device oriented and facility driven.
Take some time to break down and understand each pillar. You will see how we are already using them each day. Our policies currently allow for parks and green spaces in our community, our programs already provide for family and child involvement, and our work encourages recreation for all. Use the base of what we have already established in our communities and build on it utilizing the pillars of the Framework as a guide. Join us at the Forum in May and see how other practitioners and volunteers from across the country have incorporated the Framework into their policies and practices. Recreation is what we do for others and what we love to do for ourselves. So, celebrate what you have accomplished so far and appreciate that you are already moving forward in incorporating the goals of the Framework into your community. We are all stronger because of it!
Humans are inherently interested in connecting with the natural environment. Increased urban constructions not only impacts the environment, but also separates us from nature. To promote the concept of healthy living lifestyles at the local community level, we must design spaces that trigger the curiosity and interest of citizens and motivate them to explore the nature of space within their community and throughout their neighbourhoods. This can influence their living habits, enhance their health and well-being, and build healthier families and communities.
Active Living
Each of the pillars of the Framework has an important part to play to redirect us to this way of thinking. As we move forward into 2018, we should focus our attention on using the pillars to drive and guide our direction - in both our personal and professional lives.
Coralie Bueckert SPRA President
Connecting People and Nature
Supportive Environments
Recreation Capacity
Inclusion and Access
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CREATING OPPORTUNITIES IN SASKATCHEWAN PROVINCIAL PARKS Saskatchewan provincial parks offer a variety of recreation opportunities for people of all ages, physical abilities, experiences or backgrounds. The Framework for Recreation in Canada is a pathway to engaging all Canadians in accessing and receiving the many benefits of recreation. The Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport is working to ensure that Saskatchewan’s provincial parks are accessible to all. With the diverse range of abilities and needs of park visitors, SaskParks continuously looks for new ways to accommodate needs so that everyone can experience what our parks have to offer. This summer, in response to a suggestion from a park visitor, SaskParks purchased five beach wheelchairs for Saskatchewan’s provincial parks so that more people will have access to our beautiful beaches and lakes. Implementing the Beach Wheelchair Program has allowed many guests and families to spend time at the beach and in the water without being restricted by limited accessibility. With a lightweight aluminum frame and three buoyant tires, the beach wheelchairs navigate over sand with relative ease, can be taken into shallow water and can be used by both children and adults. The beach wheelchairs can be reserved in advance at any of the parks on a first-come, first-served basis and Parks staff will relocate the chairs to another park upon request. The beach wheelchairs received such an overwhelming amount of support around the province after the initial implementation that SaskParks saw the need to invest in more. The number of beach wheelchairs quickly doubled, with a total of ten chairs now available for use throughout the province. In addition to the beach wheelchair program, SaskParks expanded the Lifejacket Loaner Station Program this summer. The loaner stations, now available at five locations, provide free life jackets to borrow and encourage guests to practice 03
water safety. For those who don’t own a lifejacket or have forgotten one at home, this program makes sure all visitors can still enjoy water activities. This summer, SaskParks also offered Learn to Camp and Learn to Fish programs. These programs are tailored to anyone who is new to nature or would simply like a refresher course. Fishing is a popular activity in Saskatchewan and is a nice complement to any camping trip. Learn to Fish sessions are two hours long and include instruction in fish identification, tackle and accessories, fishing rules, regulations and safety, casting, proper fish handling and filleting. Equipment and instruction from an expert are provided. The Learn to Camp program teaches parti cipants the basics of camping over a two-day period. Equipped with tents, camp stoves and lanterns, participants learn how to set up a campsite, how to start a fire and how to cook outside. Creating opportunities for more individuals to be able to enjoy the beaches and lakes allows more people to participate in recreational activities, while making memories with friends and family and supporting an overall emotional and physical well-being. To learn more about recreation initiatives like these and much more, register for the 2018 Framework for Recreation in Canada Forum from May 8-10. The Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association and the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport are co-hosting the first of its kind Forum to help continue the pathway towards our national goal. For more information visit www.gatheringstrength.ca.
SWIFT CURRENT WILDLIFE
TROUT POND
The Swift Current Wildlife Federation (SCWF) Burnett Recreational Site began development in 1999. The SCWF branch of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation (SWF) leased a 37 acre site from the City of Swift Current, which was named after the Burnett family, long-time supporters of both the local and provincial organizations. This land contained a 10-acre pond that formed on the site after the ground had been excavated for the base of an inland terminal, with the intent to create a desirable habitat for stocking rainbow trout. . The site was embraced by the community of Swift Current, and brought plenty of opportunities for year-round hiking, running and working dogs, cross country skiing and many other outdoor activities. It was soon determined fish would not survive in the pond due to its shallowness and subsequent lack of oxygen. Then, in 2015 after receiving a call inquiring about wheelchair-accessible fishing in the area, the local branch decided it was time to form a committee and upgrade the site to provide more accessible outdoor activities to the people of Swift Current and area.
landscaping complete, with plans to build a gazebo and enhanced walking path in 2019.
With long-time member Bobbi Cooledge chairing the committee, the rest of the committee got to work to first bring the capacity for irrigation and aeration to the pond site. Thanks to additional aid from both the City of Swift Current and the support of local businesses, work was swift, and by 2016 the site was ready for the most intensive part of the project – digging. Working closely with two earth moving companies, digging began in October of this year after pumping out over 5.5 million gallons of water to reach the bottom of the pond. With a drag-line, a track hoe and a D-7 Cat they began to widen and deepen the east end of our pond. We wanted to create an area that allows the fish to move back and forth freely from the original pond to the newly developed area, as well as create an area that is accessible for fishing. It is also very important in the new area to have different levels of depth and slope to allow the fish to warm and cool themselves depending on time of year, to feed, and allow for our aeration system to function properly so the fish can survive the winters. With digging complete, an earth pier off the south shore was built both as a wave break and as another spot from which to fish. Screw piles were also installed, which will be the base for a wheelchair accessible dock. The dirt from the digging will be groomed into a hill on the site to enhance the hiking and to become a windbreak. By summer of 2018, we will have an aeration system in place, docks installed and
This project has been funded though tireless fundraising by the SCWF, generous donations and support from local businesses, and through our provincial Fisheries Enhancement programs, accessed with help of our SWF central office. A portion of our Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation membership fees also helped fund this project. We would like to thank all who have helped throughout the project through offering time, equipment or donations. It’s been a long road and a lot of effort, but we believe in supporting a community that offers opportunities to enjoy the outdoors through heritage activities fishing, or through simply offering a place to enjoy a beautiful sunset. If you are passing through Swift Current please stop in and enjoy our site on the south side of the city. Clark Schultz Member of the Swift Current Wildlife Federation Committee 04
BUILDING BRIDGES Since the lands were formed, Wakamow Valley has remained open and welcoming whether as a winter camp and conflict free trading area for the First Peoples, or its current incarnation as the soul of the Friendly City. Wakamow Valley continues to offer many opportunities to explore the trails and the beauty of this natural river valley. Wakamow Valley Authority, as a member of the Association of Urban Parks and Conservation Agencies (ASUPCA), whose mission is to conserve and protect the natural environment in the hearts of our cities and create recreational areas where people and wildlife exist together, was looking to connect their trail system along the valley bottom, however doing so meant the need to build bridges both figuratively and literally. The development of Wakamow’s trail system would see partnerships at the local, provincial and national level in addition to the construction of new river crossings. This all began in 2014 when Wakamow Valley was fortunate to receive funding from Trans Canada Trail as well as enter into a partnership with 38 Combat Engineering Regiment (CER) to build a new pedestrian suspension bridge. In keeping with the tradition of acknowledgement that Wakamow Valley is on Treaty 4 land, the new wooden suspension bridge would be named The Saulteaux Pedestrian Bridge in honour of the Saulteaux tribe, the second biggest tribe in Saskatchewan and an important signatory of Treaty 4. 05
From September 14-27, 2016 members from the 38 CER gathered in Wakamow Valley to construct the Saulteaux Pedestrian Bridge. Lieutenant Colonel Paul Davies, Commanding Officer of 38 CER stated that the construction of a suspension bridge was a new challenge for their Combat Engineers, from overcoming construction challenges as they arose, to gaining valuable construction experience that included reading drawings, operating power tools and working with fall arrest equipment. Building the bridge was, “A great way to say thank you to the community for all the support given to the men and women of the military”. “Working on this project allowed the members of 38 CER to practice their skills in an exciting environment”. Master Corporal Nicholas Mack, a member of 38 CER in Saskatoon, specified “Building the Saulteaux Pedestrian Bridge was a fantastic opportunity to make a lasting impact in the Moose Jaw community and on the Trans-Canada Trail (The Great Trail). A lot of hard work, ingenuity and long hours were put in by the unit to make this project happen.”
On August 26, 2017, the completed bridge was officially named through a community celebration. Wakamow Valley already recognizes its location on Treaty 4 land with the Sioux, Blackfoot, Assiniboine and Cree Bridges and now the Saulteaux Pedestrian Bridge in recognition of the Saulteaux Nation being one of the Indigenous signatories of Treaty 4 the Qu'Appelle Treaty.
was appropriate as it was a way of recognizing the Métis’ long standing presence in Wakamow Valley as well as representation of the area”, explained Margaret Moran CEO of Wakamow Valley Authority. Wakamow Valley Authority will continue to recognize our Indigenous people and the importance of Treaty 4 while providing a premiere recreational opportunity in the province. Margaret Moran, CEO Wakamow Valley Authority
The 2017 Conference Committee would like to thank all those who attended the 2017 SPRA Conference and AGM in Warman. We hope that everyone had a wonderful time and enjoyed the Conference and were able to take back knowledgeable information to their communities.
Jeff Cappo, Chair of the Wakamow Aboriginal Community Association (WACA) says, “It’s a big step in the right direction. We all talk about truth and reconciliation, so to have one of the First Nations tribes recognized is a great thing.” Lori Deets, Vice Chair WACA added, “WACA and Wakamow Valley Authority have built a strong community partnership. WACA is proud to be a part of this celebration and the naming of the Saulteaux Pedestrian Bridge. These are all treaty lands, so to have all the bridges in Wakamow Valley named after the tribes and people recognizing the history is a wonderful thing”. In addition to naming the bridge, an area of the Wakamow Valley near the bridge will now be known as Paashkwow Park. Wakamow Valley Authority solicited community suggestions to name the park and from the many entries submitted chose ‘Paashkwow’ which means ‘meadow’ in the Michif language of the Métis peoples. “The Board of Directors felt the name
Our theme for this year was “On the Hunt for Quality Recreation”. As professionals, we are always on the look out or “Hunt” for the next quality program, event, facility and lifestyle trend. The Conference educational sessions aligned with the pillars from “A Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Wellbing”. These sessions allowed attendees to recognize that recreation is more than a sport, it provides multiple pathways for individuals, communities and our environment as well as reflecting on the unique and diverse qualities of communities within our province. Our “Hunt for Quality Recreation” has not ended and as recreation professionals, we will continue to search for the next great idea through investigating, and researching the recreation trends, programs and events. We look forward to the 2018 SPRA Conference and AGM in Maple Creek and Cypress Hills from October 18-20. 06
SPRA AWARDS GALA
WALKING THE RED CARPET On October 20, 2017, over 250 people gathered in Warman to celebrate individuals, groups and organizations that have made significant and meaningful contributions to the recreation and parks field. Read on to learn more about the 2017 SPRA Award Winners!
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR - MARION HOUGHAM Presented to a volunteer to recognize outstanding achievements in the improvement of recreation opportunities at the local level. In the small community of Paradise Hill, Marion spearheaded, fundraised and facilitated the development and continued operation of a 5 million dollar Community Centre - The Paradise Hill Community Centre. The Centre supports partnerships with seniors, music, gymnastics and fitness programs, dance classes, the school and daycare. She has also volunteered with Paradise Hill Minor Hockey, Figure Skating, Gymnastics, 4-H Club, Medical Clinic Committee and many more. Marion’s skills in fundraising, planning and administration have positively contributed to the health and wellbeing of the entire community.
COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD - PARADISE HILL COMMUNITY CENTRE Presented to a long-term practitioner whose leadership in the facilities sector demonstrates extraordinary achievement in the enhancement and operation of a recreation facility in Saskatchewan. In 2008, the need for a new Community Hall led to the idea of a multi-use facility attached to the school. It was concluded that attaching to the school would maximize utilization and provide a cost effective solution to the ongoing maintenance issues that plague many small community facilities. After 8 years of fundraising and planning, and countless hours of volunteer effort, construction of the 5 million dollar facility was completed in 2016. The result is a 19,000 square foot facility with countless opportunities for sporting, art, cultural and recreational programming.
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FACILITY OPERATIONS AWARD - CALVIN BRUNEAU Presented to a long-term practitioner whose leadership in the facilities sector demonstrates extraordinary achievement in the enhancement and operation of a recreation facility in Saskatchewan. In 2005, Calvin became the Supervisor of Warman’s Parks Branch. This includes operations and maintenance of the Diamond Rodeo Arena, Legends Arena, Legends Leisure Ice, 8 softball diamonds, 3 soccer pitches, a football field, a skate park, 2 tennis courts, a spray park, 2 outdoor skating areas, an off leash dog park, 17 parks, a RV park, a beach volleyball court, a community garden, 2 cemeteries and the streetscaping program. Calvin has worked his way up from an entry level position to where he is today by showing teamwork and a great work ethic.
PARKS AND OPEN SPACE AWARD - SANDRA SCHMIRLER OLYMPIC GOLD PARK Presented to a private/public park or open space for excellence in the planning, design and development or redevelopment. The Sandra Schmirler Olympic Gold Park was officially opened on August 6, 2000. Planning for the Park began in 1998 to celebrate the curling achievements of Biggar’s own, Sandra Schmirler. The Park covers a large area and encompasses many outdoor recreation facilities within the town. There is a walking trail that circles around the playground equipment and play area for Biggar Central School 2000, a football/soccer field, 3 ball diamonds, a concession and washroom area and a beach volleyball court. The Park is adjacent to the St. Gabriel Catholic School where there is additional playground equipment as well as a community garden.
continued on page 9
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SPRA AWARDS GALA continued CECIL NOBES FACILITY AWARD OF EXCELLENCE - LEROY COMMUNITY CENTRE Presented to a municipality for construction of a new facility, where the unique or outstanding design contributes to the overall efficiency or accessibility of the facility operation component. In 2013, the LeRoy Memorial Arena was lost to fire. Within a week, a committee was formed consisting of members from all areas of the community. Volunteers travelled the province to tour facilities, talk with planners, engineers and general contractors to complete a design that was not only cost effective but would allow the community to enjoy a truly four season facility. Low-cost construction was balanced with low operating costs. Construction commenced the summer of 2015 and the facility was completed and opened in October 2016.
FITNESS LEADERSHIP AWARD - ELLI NEB Presented to a current SPRA Certified Fitness Leader who is a strong and successful promoter of fitness and physical activity in their community. Elli has been an SPRA Certified Fitness Leader since 1993. She has a passion for teaching and working with people to help them adopt healthier and more physically active lifestyles. Her classes are organized, start on time and music and equipment are always in order. She is also very capable of switching gears during fitness classes and adapting to give people options, modifications and challenges as needed. She has coached thousands of people to successfully improve their health, fitness and quality of life.
For more information on the SPRA Awards Program, vist www.spra.sk.ca/awards. Also watch for the 2018 Awards Nomination Brochure being distributed in February and nominate a deserving individual or group in your community. What better way to say thank you!
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HR BOOT CAMP
TM
The HR Boot CampTM, offered by the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA), provided training and understanding to those that were new to or less experienced in HR and those that deal with HR matters besides their regular duties.
There were four modules held in three different locations in the province - to ensure training opportunities were convenient and accessible to as many participants as possible. Case studies, group work, games, stimulating questions, discussions and role play were used to explore the material.
“Through the course, I learned the importance of having an HR Policy and the need for it to be reviewed and updated” - Participant
Each of the four one-day modules provided information, training and exercises in key strategic HR areas including: ■ Legal? Ethical? How Would You Like to be Treated? (Humboldt) ■ Getting the Right People (Saskatoon) ■ Developing Your People (Regina) ■ Consider the Right HR Stuff - HR Policy (Saskatoon)
The HR Boot CampTM was led by Knibbs/associates HR Consulting, a professional human resource management (HRM) consulting service that provides a broad range of HRM consulting services.
“This was a great experience and I highly recommend the HR Boot CampTM to all managers and board members” - Participant
“The Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association is always looking for ways to help build stronger recreation organizations. It was identified that Human Resource Management was not only a weakness, but a potential liability with many of the organizations. In most non-profit, volunteer organizations, Human Resource Management is beyond the skill set of the volunteers (and many staff). The HR Boot CampTM was an opportunity for SPRA to help provide information that will help individuals grow and avoid the time and energy that is associated with Human Resource legal action. The participants found the information gained from the four sessions valuable in running their non-profit organizations.” - Lee Anne Balliett, SPRA The HR Boot CampTM was made possible with financial assistance from the Community Initiatives Fund. The Community Initiatives Fund makes knowledgeable and effective investments in community-based initiatives throughout Saskatchewan that strengthen the capacity of communities. For more information on the HR Boot CampTM contact SPRA at (306)780-9261. 10
COMMUNITIES IN BLOOM
20 YEARS OF SUCCESS Since 1997, Communities in Bloom (CiB) has been coordinated in our province by the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association. Over 140 different communities have participated in the provincial CiB program since its inception with 33 communities participating in 2017. All of these participants have experienced the local successes that are achieved through the dedicated Communities in Bloom volunteers and supporters within communities across the province. The Communities in Bloom motto, “People, Plants and Pride… Growing Together” instills the importance of community enhancement through activity, access and outdoor environments. Key goals of Communities in Bloom include participation from all across the community, from people of all backgrounds, from residents to businesses to institutions and non-profits. The purpose of Communities in Bloom is to pull the community together, so of course everyone can be involved!
connecting people to nature through project activities such as outdoor school classrooms, habitat restoration, green space development and community gardens.
“A lot of people have the notion that Communities In Bloom is just about floral displays in the summer months, but the objective is to help the community itself bloom and achieve its full potential as a desirable, welcoming and sustainable place.” - Royce Pettyjohn, Maple Creek, Manager of Community and Economic Development “This program is about so much more than blooms. It is about sustainability, it is about the environment, it is about the urban forestry, the way we preserve our heritage. It’s not about just looking pretty today, it’s about where are we going to be five years from now.” - Peggy George, Melfort Communities in Bloom
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As we surpass the thought that Communities in Bloom is all about flowers, and realize that it is actually about the long term success of the community, the linkages between Communities in Bloom and residents can be cultivated. The local activities of Communities in Bloom have the ability to encourage active living, provide occasions for volunteerism and increase social opportunities to both existing and new residents while also
By continuing to expand the program into its key areas including Tidiness, Environmental Action, Heritage Conservation, Urban Forestry, Landscapes and Floral Displays, Communities in Bloom can truly begin to pull in people from across your community which results in huge successes. Communities have established new parks, restored heritage building facades, created community tree planting and pruning policies and developed new recycling/transfer station sites all through ideas gained in the Communities in Bloom program and support generated by the community.
For more information on the Communities in Bloom program, contact SPRA at 306-780-9262 or by email at aexelby@spra. sk.ca or visit www.spra.sk.ca/cib.
Saskatchewan “Over the 14 years that Indian Head has been participating in Communities In Bloom, a remarkable thing has happened! Increased community pride, community involvement, and care of both public and private spaces has made our community shine. Decreased vandalism, a greater awareness of environmental issues, and reclamation of historical sites have been a few of the positive aspects of this program. We are thrilled with the results this program has given us!” - Gwen Johner, Indian Head Town Councilor As SPRA celebrates the 20th year of the Communities in Bloom program, communities across Saskatchewan celebrate their own milestones. Many have been involved in the Communities in Bloom program for over 10 years and Eston is recognized as Saskatchewan’s longest running Communities in Bloom participant with 18 years of participation and evaluation in the program. Whether your community has been involved for many years or just one year, or is still considering its involvement in the program, be sure that Communities in Bloom can help you achieve success!
GRANTS AND FUNDING Harry Boothman Bursary
Application deadline: March 31 annually Parks and Recreation Practitioners can apply for an $1,000 Harry Boothman Bursary to support their participation in the CPRA Professional Development Certification. Visit: www.cpra.ca
Métis Recreation Development Grant
Application deadline: April 1, 2018 The SPRA Métis Recreation Development Grant assists SPRA Active members to develop recreation opportunities for Métis people in Saskatchewan. Visit: www.spra.sk.ca/funding/spra-grants
Community Cultural Diversity Inclusion Grant
Application deadline: April 1, 2018 The SPRA Community Diversity Inclusion Grant assists SPRA Active members in offering recreation programs or events that target the diverse populations within the member’s community. Visit: www.spra.sk.ca/funding/spra-grants
Leadership Development Grant "It's a volunteer group, we go out and try to make the community a better place. It's a partnership between the town and Communities in Bloom. Everyone benefits if we are showing pride in our town and wanting to keep it looking good." - Sandy King, Eston Communities in Bloom
Application deadline: February 1, 2018 The SPRA Leadership Development Grant encourages members to develop human resources needed to continue building community capacity that will advance recreational opportunities. Visit: www.spra.sk.ca/funding/spra-grants
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FRAMEWORK FOR RECREATION IN CANADA
ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY The Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Wellbeing provides a new vision for recreation and identifies common ways of thinking about the role of recreation in Canadian life, based on clear goals and underlying values and principles. To date, the Framework has been endorsed by the Government of Canada, Provincial and Territorial Ministers, the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association, Provincial and Territorial Parks and Recreation Associations and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. To further support the implementation of the Framework in Saskatchewan, SPRA has developed a Framework for Recreation in Canada Provincial Engagement Strategy to develop long term, sustainable processes and strategies that will engage Saskatchewan communities, SPRA members, decision makers and provincial and local governments and get them using the Framework to support the sector and guide their own work. The Engagement Team (E-Team) represents target organizations of the SPRA membership and more importantly, people 13
who are in touch with the grassroots of the recreation sector in their respective communities and organizations whose knowledge and experience will guide and add value to the provincial strategy for the Framework. Members of the E-Team include: ■ Jasmine Jackman – Chairperson ■ Darcy McLeod – City of Yorkton ■ Randy Goulden – Tourism Yorkton ■ Andrew Crowe – Town of Rosthern ■ Jaimie Helgason – Town of Foam Lake ■ Crystal Longman – Touchwood Agency Tribal Agency ■ Joni Hagen – Southeast Connection for Sport, Culture and Recreation District ■ Kristeen Cherpin – Radville Laurier Regional Park ■ Peggi-Lynn Gatin – Prince Albert Parkland Health Region The E-Team has developed an implementation plan for the Framework in Saskatchewan and will focus on 3 key areas: Advocacy and Awareness, Resource Development and Sector/Community Engagement.
SPRA has developed several tools and resources that are available on the SPRA website and hard copies are available upon request. Framework presentations have been made to sector practitioners and key stakeholders over the past year. Several communities have begun implementation of the Framework in their communities. As an example, the City of Yorkton has created awareness on their website, www. yorkton.ca: “Connecting the Framework for Recreation in Canada into my planning and operations was simple and didn’t take very long at all. We quickly added the newly accepted recreation definition to our website along with what the Framework is, who was involved with developing it, what is being done in Saskatchewan by SPRA and what we do locally that ties it all together. It was simple using the resources provided in the Framework document as well as what SPRA has developed. We recently connected our local Saskatchewan Lotteries Community Grant applications to the Framework by simply listing the goals of the Framework and asking them to check off which ones are being addressed in the project.” - Darcy McLeod, Director of Community Development Parks & Recreation - City of Yorkton Several Urban Municipalities, including Saskatoon and Martensville, have utilized the Framework in the development of their Recreation and Parks Master Plan. The City of Prince Albert also shares how they are using the Framework in their planning: “The City of Prince Albert will be finalizing the Community Services Master Plan by the end of 2017. Through the planning process it was important to align with the Vision, Values, Goals & Priorities of the Framework for Recreation in Canada. The new definition for Recreation is widely accepted and is incorporated into our Master Plan documents. Criteria for
programs such as the City’s Saskatchewan Lotteries Community Grant Program will also be updated to reflect the goals & priorities in the Framework. Aligning with the Framework can help build a stronger case for future investment in the recreation sector so it will be a priority to incorporate this message into our Communications Plan. Upon approval of the Community Services Master Plan by City Council in January 2018, we will be proceeding with a Promotional Campaign to highlight this alignment with the Framework for Recreation in Canada.” - Jody Boulet, Director of Community Services - City of Prince Albert The Engagement Strategy is focused on connecting to grassroots Saskatchewan. This will be done through the pilot of a Municipal Audit Tool. This Tool will assist SPRA members communities and organizations in aligning with the Framework. SPRA Field Consultants will be piloting the audit tool throughout the province over the winter months. The audit Tool will re-affirm the work that communities are currently doing and assist with identifying any gaps as it relates to the goal areas of the Framework. SPRA is also seeking the input and feedback of the membership regarding the implementation of A Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Wellbeing in your respective communities. Please send us any success stories, and/or best practices, and we will consider them for DIRECTION magazine, on our website, Blog, and Facebook and Twitter accounts. For more information on the Framework or to share your success stories, contact Darren Spelay, SPRA Field Consultant by phone at 306-782-1074 or by email at dspelay@spra.sk.ca.
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NATURE GRANDPARENTING PROGRAM “Hurry grandma! The hawk is coming!” These are the sounds of grandparents and grandchildren scurrying from tree to tree pretending to be squirrels. They are the playful participants in the Nature Grandparenting program facilitated by Wildernook Fresh Air Learning. The seasonal nature program is designed to support grandparents interested in becoming nature mentors for their young grandchildren. The program is an opportunity for grandparents and grandchildren to kickstart their tradition of outdoor exploration together. Once a week children age three to five arrive at a local Saskatoon park with their grandparent, eager to explore nature together. The hour-long experiences focus on different learning themes such as Measuring with Nature or Busy as a Beaver, and highlight different learning activities, which grandparents can later facilitate on their own. One week the group might be searching for shapes in nature, and another pretending to be bats using sonar to hunt for food. Several constants throughout are sensory learning, role-play, and small nature activities for grandparent and grandchild to complete together. In addition to learning, the nature activities facilitate bonding between one another and the land. The weekly routine of discovering seasonal changes together is an important part of establishing an emotional connection to nature over time. Why grandparents? Growing up in urban neighbourhoods where supervision and numerous scheduled activities are the norm, children are increasingly dependant on adults to access nature spaces. Wildernook director, Jana Miller, believes grandparents should be valued as an educational resource for connecting young children to nature. She thinks “many grandparents are in a better position than parents to be able to slow down, play and relax with children –they often aren’t juggling as many day-to-day demands as working parents are.” While mom and baby programs and parent and tot programs are common in cities, programming designed specifically for grandparents and grandchildren is rare. She views demographic gaps in programing like this one as a challenge for Wildernook to try to address. The Nature Grandparenting program began as a research project for Jana’s Masters degree, which focused on placebased intergenerational learning. While on maternity leave in 2016 Jana ran the Nature Grandparenting pilot project. She received keen response from families in the community and shortly after established the business Wildernook Fresh Air 15
Learning to offer a variety of demographic specific programming. Each year Wildernook strives to increase the availability of the Nature Grandparenting Program, and with it increase the awareness of the important nature mentorship role grandparents can play in the lives of their grandchildren. What began as a four-week pilot project has grown to an eight-week established program previous participants eagerly anticipate.
Wildernook has been fortunate to receive support from SaskOutdoors in establishing the Nature Grandparenting Program. The non-profit organization, dedicated to connecting people of Saskatchewan to the outdoors, has hosted the Nature Grandparenting Program each spring and fall, thereby providing valuable administrative and communications support. This support has enabled Wildernook to develop and grow a quality intergenerational program. Thank-you SaskOutdoors! Wildernook specializes in outdoor experiential education. Our goal is to engage groups of people on the environmental education sidelines through demographic-specific environmental education programming. If you would like to work together, please visit our website at www.wildernook.com, or contact Jana Miller at jana@wildernook.com. Jana Miller BA, BEd, MES Director
SAVING SPACE IN BALCARRES With the help of the Canada 150 Grant and some hard working community members, the Town of Balcarres transformed the curling rink into two 50 by 40 usable gym spaces.
The Balcarres Curling Club was a vibrant club with over 120 registered curlers in 2004. We had curlers of all ages and three leagues and curling 4 to 5 nights a week. However the next 5 years we saw a decline in curlers. In 2010 we had 20 curlers and curling was only one afternoon a week. At this time the Town of Balcarres had to make the tough decision and close the curling rink down for the upcoming season due to lack of interest and funding. The Balcarres curling rink building was in great shape, Council was queried on many uses, from grain storage, business opportunities to a New Town Hall. One opportunity peaked councils interest, a recreational facility. With a vibrant dance club and a newly formed martial arts club there was a need for indoor recreation space. With the help of the Canada 150 Grant and some hard working community members the Town of Balcarres transformed the curling rink into two 50 by 40 usable gym spaces. Two change rooms which can double into conference rooms for meetings of 10 or less people. Opening in the fall of 2016 with the grand opening held April of 2017 the “Polar Dome Rec Center” is the home to an 81 person Dance Association and a 40 person Martial Arts Club. Indoor walking and dryland training for hockey also use the facility which is now a staple during the winter season in the Town of Balcarres.
Total cost of the Project was $275,000 with the balance of the project being paid in full in January of 2018. The “Polar Dome Rec Center” is something the rural community of 617 people can be very proud of for years to come as they leave a viable recreation facility for everyone of all ages to enjoy!
The renovation of the curling rink has gone from a single use facility into a multiuse one. The local Dance and Kick Boxing Clubs have seen an increase in numbers due to the extra room for more equipment and the dedicated space has been seen as an attractive asset to both clubs. The Lounge that was created has been a watering hole for those hockey players who want to wind down and enjoy some beverages and wings or to watch a sporting event on the big screen TV’s. All in all this renovation has been a welcome addition to our town. - Kent Esplin, Mayor of Balcarres
Craig Geisler Recreation Director - Town of Balcarres
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