Monthly update – CASASC Connections

 

This month we are introducing a new monthly update called CASASC Connections. This is a space where we will provide updates on our services, programs and all things CASASC.

 

Clinical/Counselling

Counselling can be accessed Monday – Friday and does not require a referral or special circumstances. Individuals can call the main office to start their counselling journey anytime at 403-340-1124.

  • Sessions are offered in-person, through secure video chat or by phone
  • Masks are required for in-person sessions

Adult clients: Call the main admin line. An intake appointment will be booked with our Intake Worker, then you will be set up with a counsellor. We have a session cap of 15 counselling sessions.

Child/youth clients: We will need to ensure consent forms are in place (both parents or legal documentation) and the same process will happen – an intake appointment is booked, followed by appointments with one of the child counsellors.

 

Kinship Intervention Program (KIP)

KIP offers a combination of early intervention practices and a community-based approach, integrating anyone in the youth’s support network or community.

Available to any Indigenous youth (age 6 -17) who exhibits sexualized behaviour concerns or engages in “sexual acting out” or who has experienced sexual violence. The program works collaboratively with the youth’s family and elders.

KIP builds relationships throughout Central Alberta with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous service providers and communities. We can provide in-person mental health services for Indigenous youth and adults, including crisis intervention and remote counselling services.

 

24 Hour Sexual Violence Help Line

1-866-956-1099 www.casasc.ca

Available through call, text or webchat – We provide 24/7 confidential and anonymous support and a friendly conversation with the end goal being information, support and referrals.

December saw 191 contacts with the Crisis Line: 145 phone calls and 46 text/webchats.

Volunteer Opportunities – email casasc@casasc.ca

Join our team. We continue to accept applications for virtual and remote volunteers on the 24/7 Help Line and an on-site admin/reception volunteer.

 

Police, Community + Court Support

For more info email courtsupport@casasc.ca

The CASASC Police, Community + Court Support program is your safe place. We are dedicated to being that place where you work through your options, navigate the system, and process a traumatic experience. Our support workers are here to listen and support you while you are considering or navigating the criminal justice system. We are advocates and sources of information for you – that safe guiding presence throughout the process.

The Community + Court Support Program is available to anyone (age 16+) who has experienced sexual violence. You’d don’t need to be an existing CASASC client.

No matter where you are in your healing journey, or whether you choose to report, the Police, Community + Court Support Program is here to provide:

  • Support, information, and advocacy. No legal services or advice is provided
  • Can discuss options for legal advice and provide resources and referrals
  • Information about reporting, the court process and court preparation
  • Accompaniment to report and/or court proceedings
  • Assistance with filling out forms and applications

 

Education – Prevention and Awareness

education@casasc.ca

A well-rounded way to approach prevention education involves adults learning and being engaged, not just the youth. School staff and parents can help to create safer school environments where students can learn and have relationships with others without fear. Having adults who are equally as informed and involved sends a message of support to their students and can impact the school’s wider #cultureofrespect. It says, “we care about what you are going through!”

CASASC offers, at no cost, programs to help educate adults on supporting the youth in their lives. These programs are meant to help teachers, staff, and adults who work with youth feel empowered to know healthy relationship, prevention and support concepts and be able to support the youth in their life.

These presentations fit great within a PD setting or as a whole team discussion and can be offered in person or virtually.

  • Intro. to Sexual Violence: A 60 min presentation focused on introducing definitions and concepts related to sexual violence. The presentation discusses how to respond to and support disclosure and usually ends with a brief overview of all CASASC’s free services.
  • CASASC Services presentation: This is a shorter 30 min presentation geared towards highlighting all of CASASC’s free services.

If you are interested in booking either of these presentations, please reach out to us.

 

Let’s connect

Follow us on our social pages to stay updated with what we are up to

  • Twitter @CASASC2
  • Facebook @CASASCRD
  • Instagram @CASASC3

 

Community Connections

Ask an Expert” Parenting + Sexualized Behaviour conversations with our clinical expert

Join us for an informal session with our Child Therapist to learn information related to parenting and supporting children and youth who display concerning sexualized behaviours.

OR join us to discuss a situation or behaviour your child/youth is engaging in, get some advice on what is developmentally appropriate, how to support and respond.

We can give a short overview of the sexualized behaviour program and go over frequent concerns and conversations, leaving us with plenty of time for participants to ask questions and join in the discussion with our clinical expert.

Find more info here

 

First Responder to Sexual Assault and Abuse Training

This comprehensive training is intended to build the capacity of professionals, paraprofessionals and community members to respond effectively to disclosure of sexual abuse, assault, and harassment from children and adults. Training covers the full continuum of topics related to sexual violence across the lifespan. Delivered online or in-person.

For more information and current training dates visit https://aasas.ca/initiatives/first-responders-training/

*Community training opportunities are available with a local facilitator. Can’t make a pre-scheduled training date, reach out to book a special training just for your organization and/or community. (Connect with cschwab@casasc.ca)

 

WiseGuyz + CASASC Program Opportunity

The Centre for Sexuality and their WiseGuyz Training Institute is looking for organizations who would like to provide the WiseGuyz program in their own community.

WiseGuyz is an evidence-informed program designed for young men (in grade 9) to promote healthy relationships and prevent adolescent dating violence.

With enough community interest, CASASC is hoping to be one of the applying organizations with the goal of making available the WiseGuyz program to schools and communities across Central Alberta.

For more information or if you feel your organization or a local school would be interested in having the WiseGuyz program please reach out to Carlia (cschwab@casasc.ca). Consider partnering with CASASC and providing a letter of support to our application so together we can bring this program in to your schools and community.

 

#MomentsMatterAB

Has your workplace shown their commitment and support towards preventing Sexual Harassment and creating positive workplace environments? Have you joined the #MomentsMatterAB movement?

If not, consider learning more and signing up

Find out More about Moments Matter here

Research shows that a caring and inclusive workplace culture is an important defense against sexual harassment.

 

Only Yes Means Yes campaign

Have you seen our Only Yes Means Yes (OYMY) posters around your community?

YES – Consider taking a picture and sharing it with us so we can show are appreciation and support!

NO – Well, what are you waiting for? If you know a great place for the posters let us know and we’ll make a connection and start the conversation.

What does consent sound and look like? Can you pinpoint the last time you gave or received an enthusiastic “yes!”?

When it comes to consent, Only Yes Means Yes.

Read more about the campaign here

Ask an Expert Clinical Series – Parenting Conversation March

Ask an Expert – Parenting + Sexualized Behaviour Conversations With Our Clinical Expert

Join us for an informal 60 minute virtual session with our Child Therapist. Learn information related to parenting and supporting children and youth who display concerning sexualized behaviours.

Or maybe you want to join us to discuss a situation or behaviour your child is engaging in and get some advice on what is developmentally appropriate, how to support and respond.

Our expert will give a short overview of the Sexualized Behaviour Support Program (SBSP) and share about frequent concerns and conversations. This will leave plenty of time for participants to join in a discussion and to both privately and publicly ask questions.

Date:

Tuesday, March 29 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. via Zoom

 

Register via Eventbrite here for the March 29 session

Now Hiring Educator (Casual)

CASASC is seeking to fill the position of Educator – Casual

 

The job details are as below:

Position: Educator

Reports to: Education Program and Community Relations Manager

Number of positions: 1

Job Type: Casual

Location: Red Deer, AB & occasional daily travel to schools within Central Alberta

Hours per week: As and when required.

Hourly rate: Determined based on education and experience

Anticipated Start Date: ASAP

 

Position Summary

Reporting to the Education Program & Community Relations Manager, the Educator is an integral part of the Education team, responsible to support CASASC’s goal to increase the personal safety awareness through education and empowering them to prevent sexual violence.

Based on CASASC’s mission and vision, the Educator acts as a liaison between CASASC, Community, Schools, and Organizations, focusing on delivering education programs to create awareness and prevention strategies among K-12 students, adults, parents, professionals, and other individuals of the community.

The Educators are also expected to represent CASASC in a professional manner, work according to the missions and vision of CASASC and build community relations including (but not limited to) conducting community visits, attending meetings, staffing booths, and events organized by partner agencies and other organizations within Central Alberta.

The Educator is expected to have full knowledge of, and to follow the Philosophy, the Guidelines for Personnel Policies & Practices, and the Policies & Procedures of the CASASC while upholding our mission, vision, and values.

 

Qualifications and skills:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Education with 1-2 years of related experience. A combination of education and experience may also be considered for the position.
  • Must have knowledge and understanding of sexual violence prevention and intervention strategies. Experience of working in a non-profit would be considered as an asset.
  • Must have excellent communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills.
  • Experience of working in, facilitating, or teaching in a classroom and/or group settings.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English is essential.
  • Ability to work as a collaborative team member as well as an independent key player with minimum supervision.
  • Ability to build rapport with children and youth from Kindergarten to Grade 12
  • Ability to relate to adults and professionals for the successful delivery of education and awareness information
  • Superior time management skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks with minimal supervision
  • Proficient using computers and presentation equipment (incl. basic troubleshooting) of virtual and presentation platforms (zoom, google meet, projector, and sound setup)
  • Proficient in Windows, MS-Office, Internet, email & social media is essential.
  • Availability to work occasional evenings/weekends for special events, be able to travel within Central Alberta to fulfil job responsibilities.
  • Should have professional, responsive, and positive work attitude
  • Must be able to submit a clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.
  • A valid Driver’s License with a satisfactory Driver’s abstract is essential.
  • Should be able to fulfil the physical demands of the job such as the ability to lift at least 20lbs, climbing the stairs while carrying supplies, above-shoulder lifting, overhead reaching, frequent use of office equipment, sitting for longer periods and other relevant physical tasks.

 

Responsibilities:

  • Plan, prepare and deliver all CASASC education programs by providing interactive and dynamic presentations, and education material by using age-appropriate methods and activities, either in-person or virtual; in schools and communities throughout the CASASC service region.
  • Design and deliver tailored education programs as/if requested by the schools, community and/or other agencies within CASASC’s service region.
  • Participate in community public education forums and/or events to promote the awareness of sexual violence issues & CASASC services. (Attending interagency meeting, staffing booths and events, conducting community visits)
  • Update education programs statistics in the tracking program and submit monthly/quarterly/annual reports to facilitate grants and internal requirements.
  • Conduct regular research and keep education programs’ content up-to-date related to CASASC’s prevention education such as (but not limited to) sexual violence, teen dating, consent, healthy relationships, and any other program that supports CASASC’s mission and vision.
  • Ensure that Education department’s events and programs are posted on CASASC’s social media platforms by submitting relevant and timely information to the Education Program and Community Relations Manager. In the absence of the Manager, work in direct collaboration with the Communications Manager to ensure the same.
  • Keep the schools and community contact list up-to-date. Stay in regular contact with the schools and community through different mediums to ensure the regular delivery of education programs to the target audience.
  • Communicate with internal departments of the organization and share departmental updates on regular basis.
  • Connect with newly hired employees of the organization and briefly introduce them to the operations of Education Department.
  • Design tailored education programs to cater the needs of diverse community including the Indigenous Communities.

 

Team Responsibilities/Staff Development:

  • Adheres to the values and guiding principles, policies, and procedures of CASASC and supports the strategic direction of the organization.
  • Participates in staff meetings and offered trainings.
  • Acts as a responsible team member by demonstrating initiative, completing work duties, and by maintaining clear, direct, and respectful communication with everyone in the work environment.
  • Proactively stays current with best and emerging practices in the field. Participates regularly in the staff development activities according to a learning and development plan identified through supervision and the on-going performance review process.
  • Provides back-up coverage to CASASC as required in response to the needs and priorities of the organization which includes other duties as and when assigned.

 

Organizational Responsibilities: 

  • Maintains agency confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential.
  • Represents CASASC in a professional manner.
  • Maintains on-going positive public relations with external agencies, groups, and individuals (if required).
  • Uses appropriate mechanisms for resolving internal agency problems.
  • Maintain professional relationship with internal and external stakeholders.

How to Apply:

CASASC is an equal opportunity employer, and we value the importance of diversity, dignity, and worth of every individual in the workplace.

Email your resume and cover letter to education@casasc.ca by Dec 21, 2021. Mention the position in the subject line.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview.

Application deadline: Ongoing

Now seeking new Board members

Summary

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) provides support services for individuals who are affected by sexual violence. We believe that our Board of Directors should be representative of our community and are seeking new Board members to bring their unique voice and experiences to our Board governance.

 

Description

CASASC Seeking New Board Members

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is seeking new Board members to bring their unique voice and experiences to our Board governance. Currently we have excellent skills and a variety of life and work experiences within our Board of Directors. CASASC continues to seek further diversity of our Board in order to better understand our clients’ and the community’s needs. We are currently seeking new Board members with financial experience and legal backgrounds. If you have accounting or law experience, we are looking for you.

New Board members are not required to have previous Board experience, although this is a plus. We consider the desire to be guided in decision-making by CASASC values, the ability to think objectively, to be actively involved in open and curious discussions, and to understand and accept other perspectives as part of the consensus-building process as being highly valued skills for any new Board member.

About Us:

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is a voluntary, non-profit organization serving the Central Alberta region under the direction of a community-based Board of Directors. We provide a range of support services for individuals who are affected by sexual violence including counselling, play therapy, police and court support, crisis support and education.

Our Mission: The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is committed to ending the culture of sexual violence and helping to build safer communities for all Central Albertans through promoting awareness and healing, education, empowerment and renewal

Our Vision: Central Alberta will be a safer, healthier and more informed community surrounding the issues of sexual assault and sexual abuse.

Our Goal: Individuals will be empowered to make informed choices about personal safety, sexual interactions and/or emotional distress.

 

More information on Board opportunities

As a CASASC volunteer Board Director, you will be one of several who is committed to CASASC values to prevent sexual violence in our community. Board meetings are held regularly on the third Tuesday of each month. You may also participate in committees, working groups and other events.

 

How to Apply:

Tell us about yourself along with any skills and experiences you can bring to CASASC by sending a resume and short email expressing your interest to Lisa Spicer, CASASC Board Member, at lisa.spicer@rdpsd.ab.ca

Volunteer Application deadline: Ongoing

Brave Noise promotes safe spaces

Let’s create some noise around positive workplace culture.

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) and Troubled Monk have partnered together for Brave Noise.

Brave Noise is a global collaboration beer with a very brave purpose – stepping up and speaking out for equity in the beer industry. It’s a call to fight for safe places and inclusive environments.

On October 28 Troubled Monk released Brave Noise Pale Ale with a portion of proceeds going to CASASC. Donations will help support survivors of sexual violence, specifically those who connect with the CASASC 24 hour Sexual Violence Text, Webchat and Phone Help Line.

Brave Noise is also connecting with CASASC’s newest campaign – Only Yes Means Yes (OYMY). Brave Noise and OYMY reflect on the same goal – to encourage conversation and give those who have been victimized a safe space to share their story.

“We are happy to be partnering with Troubled Monk, one of our local businesses, and be connected to the global Brave Noise initiative and their advocacy for safe places and inclusive environments for women, BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals,” said CASASC Education and Community Awareness Manager Carlia Schwab. “Troubled Monk’s Brave Noise Pale Ale connects central Albertans with our OYMY consent campaign that changes how we look at and understand consent and focuses on creating a positive consent culture.”

Supporters can stop by Troubled Monk (5551 45 Street, Red Deer, AB) today to enjoy a pint or pick up a four-pack to get behind an amazing cause. Brave Noise is also available in select stores and on tap in area restaurants and bars.

Read more here about Brave Noise on the Troubled Monk blog here: https://troubledmonk.com/blog/2021/09/24/brave-noise/

Only Yes Means Yes when it comes to consent

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is excited to officially launch the Only Yes Means Yes (OYMY) campaign.

The education, community relations and communications teams have collaborated to create this ongoing poster and awareness campaign around positive consent conversations.

The OYMY campaign challenges our consent conversations by reinforcing that our bodies are always conveying a lack of consent (always saying “no”) and that consent can only happen when a person actively and consciously says “yes” and gives or shows their consent.

Through three simple, relatable posters, CASASC is showing central Albertans what consent can sound and look like, prompting adults to ask the question “Did I get a yes?” and showing what that “yes” can be.

Consent is an important concept in sexual violence prevention. Speaking positively about consent can change our community for the better. OYMY focuses on what positive consent can sound and look like as a way to promote healthy relationships and increase a greater sense of consent culture.

These posters are geared for adult audiences who visit public spaces like bars, restaurants, medical clinics, services agencies and many more. We are asking workplaces to place posters in their staff rooms and places where clients/customers may gather like bathrooms, tables, bulletin boards and gathering spaces in our communities.

We have also developed a FAQ for the campaign that can be used to promote the campaign in the communities we serve.

Over the summer months, OYMY was soft launched into the central Alberta community. Our education team visited over 19 central Alberta communities to have in-person conversations with organizations and business to bring awareness of our services and to share the campaign and posters.

Family Violence Prevention Month 2021

 

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is dedicated to supporting those affected by sexual violence each and every day of the year.

In Alberta, November is Family Violence Prevention Month (FVPM). The goal of FVPM is to raise public awareness around family violence and to educate communities on how to prevent it.

What is Family Violence:

Family violence is when someone uses abusive behaviour to control and/or harm a member of their family, or someone with whom they have an intimate relationship.

Family violence includes many different forms of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, as well as neglect carried out by family members or intimate partners. It may include a single act of violence, or a number of acts that form a pattern of abuse. Family violence can have serious and sometimes fatal consequences for victims and for those who see or hear the violence.

Family violence can happen to people of all ages, abilities, cultural and spiritual backgrounds, gender identities and sexual orientations. Victims can be in romantic relationships, divorced, children (birth, step, adopted or foster), grandparents, or individuals with guardians or caregivers.

 

Family Violence and COVID-19:

Rates of family violence increase during and following natural disasters, public health crises and economic downturns. It is important to know where you can turn if you are experiencing family violence during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Child sexual abuse

With the added stress and time together caused by COVID-19, families with unhealthy relationships are more likely to experience child sexual violence.

Social isolation

Isolation is a risk factor for family violence. Many people who experience family violence use their support of friends and family to manage their situation. Social distancing and self-quarantine or isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic can make it more challenging to access valuable relationships, but there are ways to stay connected.

 

How You Can Stay Involved All Month Long

Throughout November we’re featuring different ways you can get involved by promoting awareness. Want to get involved? We’ve got you covered. We’ve created custom FVPM graphics for you to share, tweet and tag CASASC throughout the month, along with many other resources and events:

-Purple ribbons – Small silk purple ribbons will be available at both CASASC locations throughout the month. Wear the purple ribbon in unity to show survivors of family violence that they are not alone.

-Purple #iRespect t-shirt – CASASC will have a special edition iRespect t-shirt available. Individuals are encouraged to wear theirs throughout the month, and on Purple Day and the Day of Action.

 

Events:

-Silent Witnesses (Purple Silhouettes) – Friday, November 26th and ongoing

CASASC will be hosting an outdoor exhibit with silent witnesses (purple human figure cut outs) to bring awareness to the issue of family violence in our community. The exhibit will be able to be viewed from your vehicle or on foot on Friday, November 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the north corner of Centennial Plaza Park (52nd Ave. and 48 Street).

The purple silhouettes are also popping up around the community, “hanging out” with our community partners over the next couple weeks. Silent witnesses can can be found at Cilantro and Chive Red Deer (1927 50 Ave.), Troubled Monk (5551 45 Street) and The Outreach Centre (4101 54 Ave.).

-Info Booth at Lacombe Farmer’s Market– Friday, November 19th

Visit our team at the Lacombe Farmer’s Market. We will be handing out information on family violence prevention and info on our services and campaigns.

-Purple Day of Action – Friday, November 26th

On this day, bring out your purple once again to take action against family violence. Show your purple and make a statement that family violence must be prevented in our community.

-Info booth at Red Deer Rebels game – Friday, November 26th

Visit our team at the Red Deer Rebels game in the community corner. We will be handing out information on family violence prevention and info on our services and campaigns.

Emergency Mental Health Week – Office closed Oct 25-29

The CASASC office and services will be placed on “pause” from Monday, October 25 to Friday, October 29. During this time, we will be prioritizing our staff’s mental health and well-being. We aim to revitalize our team in order to provide the best services possible.

The office will re-open and all services will resume on Monday, November 1st at 1 p.m.

If you do need assistance during this time period, please contact by text or phone the CASASC 24 Hour Sexual Violence Help Line at 1-866-956-1099. Webchat is also available at www.casasc.ca

Over $1,800 raised for July Burger of the Month

 

The Burger of the Month numbers are in.

We are so happy to announce CASASC received the proceeds from the July Burger of the Month at Cilantro and Chive Red Deer.

CASASC Executive Director Patricia Arango (middle left) accepted the $1,835 donation from Kim Kay of Cilantro and Chive (left) and Matt and Andy Cassidy (right) of Excel Beyond Insurance this afternoon.

The funds raised equal around 900 burgers sold. Thank you to the community for embracing the Summer Smash Burger.

We are thrilled to accept an additional donation of $1,000 from Matt and Andy. Thank you so much for selecting CASASC as the chosen charity for July.

Admin volunteer opportunity

Administrative Volunteer

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is seeking vibrant and organized individuals to join our administration team in a volunteer capacity.

About Us:

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is a voluntary, non-profit organization serving the Central Alberta region under the direction of a community-based Board of Directors.

We specialize in healing sexual trauma so you can talk freely about the hard stuff with no judgement. We provide a range of support services for individuals who are affected by sexual violence including counselling, play therapy, police and court support, crisis support and education.

 

Volunteer Position: Administration volunteer

Department: Administration

Accountability to: Administration Manager

Location: Red Deer, Central Alberta

 

Position Summary:

The Administration Volunteer is a collaborative member of the Administration team. This is an opportunity to use your skills to help in the day-to-day operations of CASASC. You will connect with individuals, provide in-person reception and support, field inquires from the community by telephone and assist individuals along their healing journey. If you are willing to help out front and centre for about four hours a week, we would love to have you join our volunteer team.

 

Responsibilities: As a volunteer on the Administration Team you will

  • Provide professional customer service and information to clients and the community both by telephone and in-person.
  • Manage the admin desk. This involves answering telephone calls and electronic enquiries, relaying calls and messages to the appropriate team members.
  • Greet in-person clients and visitors professionally and direct them to the appropriate team member, department or program.
  • Create and maintain files on an electronic client database.
  • Schedule and follow up client appointments.
  • Open and distribute incoming regular and electronic mail and other material and coordinate the flow of information internally and with other departments and organizations.
  • Keep office areas tidy and alert supervisor when maintenance or supplies are required.
  • Complete any other duties or tasks as assigned by the Administration Manager or CASASC Leadership Team.

 

Qualifications: You will bring many talents and skills to this role including these basics

  • Training in office administration AND/OR one year of work-related experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including handling interactions with the general public, clients and coworkers.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills in English, including telephone etiquette.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to work as a collaborative team member.
  • Dependable and a willingness to learn.
  • Organized and resourceful.
  • Ability to multi-task and prioritize tasks to meet tight deadlines.
  • Strong computer skills, with working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Where and when you would volunteer:

  • You would commit to volunteering approximately once a week for a four-hour period during CASASC office hours between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • You would work in-person at one of the CASASC offices, the main admin office (A201, 5212 48 Street) or the clinical office.

How to Apply:

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

This volunteer position requires a satisfactory criminal record reference check and reference check.

Tell us about yourself along with any skills and experiences you can bring to CASASC by sending us your resume and a short email. Email your info to Erin Willmer at ewillmer@casasc.ca

Volunteer Application deadline: Ongoing