Connecting with community prevents violence

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By Kailee Mears

The central Alberta region has many amenities and attractions that draw people to settle in our communities. People from all walks of life choose to settle in our unique towns and neighbourhoods which offer a wide range of services, work, play and opportunities to connect.

Connecting with other people has benefits for our sense of belonging, self esteem, physical and mental health and even violence prevention.

When we feel we know our neighbours, we develop a sense of trust and friendship with them that allows us to better look after each other and our neighbourhoods.

When we connect with our close friends and family, we can better sense their appreciation and companionship, which increases our self-esteem and makes us feel better overall.

When we connect with others through sports, book clubs, walking groups, or working together to complete a neighbourhood task, we can make strides towards improving and maintaining our physical and mental health.

All these parts can contribute to a healthier sense of self and community. An additional bonus is that it can create safer communities that protect against various forms of violence and abuse.

When we are aware of our neighbours, friends and loved ones, we may be better able to spot situations or behaviours that seem “off” or unsafe.

Someone could be using their words or actions to put another person down or make that person feel afraid or controlled. Verbal put downs or social exclusion can make both adults and children feel small and isolated. Physical actions like pushing, slapping or harsh force can be used to punish a person or gain control over them.

Unwanted touching and not respecting a person’s “no” can break their consent and make people feel uncomfortable and unsafe in their relationships or friendships with others.

These behaviours can harm people and make them feel isolated from sources of support like family, neighbours and organizations. These behaviours can lead to bullying, dating violence or family abuse which have no place in our communities.

Connecting with others can create a stronger community that can lean on and look out for each other. We may be better able to recognize behaviours that lead to unsafe relationships.

We can offer our support to those who are impacted by these behaviours with a listening ear, affirming that we believe them and referring to professional support as needed. Saying “hi” to our neighbours, inviting them over for a barbeque, or spending time with those who mean the most to us can go a long way.

Together, we can create a culture free of violence, stronger neighbourhoods and enjoy a fun and safe summer.

CASASC offers a 24 hour help line for those dealing with sexual violence impacts in our community. Call or text 1-866-956-1099, or webchat at www.casasc.ca for confidential support, information and referrals.

Kailee Mears is a prevention educator at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre.

Article as published in the Red Deer Advocate.

Have a “hot” consent summer

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By Sarah Maetche

Summer is finally here. It’s time to come out of our dormant Alberta spring/winter shells and have a hot consent summer.

Like Megan the Stallion said about “hot girl summer,” we can enjoy this summer feeling confident in who we are, have fun and practice consent while doing it.

Coming out of our post-COVID reality, many are ready to get back to the things they enjoy – like hitting the beach, patios, going to social events, backyard barbeques, camping, rodeos and outdoor sporting events – especially during the summer months.

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) encourages you to be mindful as you go about these and many more social activities with the phrase “only yes means yes” when it comes to consent in your mind.

This is the idea behind CASASC’s campaign Only Yes Means Yes (OYMY) – speaking positively about consent to change our community for the better.

Consent is an important concept in sexual violence prevention. 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. OYMY changes the way we look at and understand consent.

Many of us may be familiar with the saying “no means no.” This is a frequently used statement when talking about consent. This statement indicates that we are always saying “yes” until we say the word or indicate “no,” which is a lack of consent. This statement tells people that unless they indicated “no,” that was clear and understood by both involved individuals, they were giving consent.

With OYMY, we have turned the above “no” conversation on its’ head. This campaign challenges the consent conversation by reinforcing that an individual is always conveying a lack of consent (always saying “no”). The default for consent then is “no.”

It’s literally a “no” until they say “yes” with their words, their actions or with their body. Consent can only happen when a person actively and consciously says “yes” and gives/shows their consent.

Consent can be simply defined as this: a voluntary agreement between people who want to do something together. Yes, this of course applies to sexual activity, but it also applies to our everyday lives, with things like driving down Lakeshore Drive in Sylvan Lake, lining up to get ice cream at the Little Ice Cream and Soda Shoppe, attending a staff backyard party and on. When defined like this, consent applies to everyday life.

Consent is given freely. It’s chosen and ongoing.

This is why we all should aim to have a hot consent summer. Showing and saying an enthusiastic “yes” is letting that other person know that you are interested in the summer activity.

Here’s an easy way, or rather process, to give consent: 1) Know how to ask for consent. Your words matter, 2) Saying and/or showing a “yes” or “no” for yourself, 3) Hearing and/or seeing if the other person is saying “yes” or “no” and 4) Recognizing and respecting the other person’s yes or no. That’s the process – knowing, saying, hearing, recognizing and then respecting.

Sarah Maetche is the communications and administration manager at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre.

Article as published in the Red Deer Advocate on July 7, 2022.

Volunteer dog walker opportunity

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Volunteer Dog Walker

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is seeking energetic and fur-loving individuals to join our 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: Volunteer Dog Walker

Department: Administration

Accountability to: Administration Manager

Location: Red Deer, Central Alberta

 

Position Summary:

The Volunteer Dog Walker is an important member of the CASASC team. This is an opportunity to use your skills and love of animals to help in the day-to-day operations of CASASC. You will take Oscar, our pet therapy dog in training, on one of his daily walks during his workday at the office. Oscar is a year and a half old Bernedoodle (large breed) – he is spunky, energetic and really such a sweet guy. If you are willing to help out in this capacity, we would love to have you join our volunteer team.

 

Responsibilities: As a volunteer dog walker you will

  • Pick up Oscar at the main office and take him for a guided 30-45 minute walk. Leash, treats and waste bags will be provided.
  • Ensure Oscar’s safety during the walk and return to the office.

 

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

  • Ability to work independently.
  • Dependable and a willingness to learn.
  • Have a genuine love of animals.
  • Previous experience walking dogs or owning a dog is preferred.

 

Where and when you would volunteer:

  • You would commit to volunteering approximately once a week for a 30 minute to hour period during CASASC office hours between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
  • You would check-in in-person at the main office (A201, 5212 48 Street) and take Oscar on foot for a walk anywhere near the office.

 

How to Apply:

Applicants must be 16 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

 

Education Program receives Inspiration Award

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The CASASC Education Program is the recipient of a provincial award recognizing leadership in sexual violence prevention.

CASASC Education team members attended the 2022 Inspiration Awards ceremony in Calgary on June 24.

A total of ten Inspiration Awards were presented by the Ministry of Community and Social Services to individuals and groups for their leadership in ending family violence and abuse in communities across the province. Awards recognized leadership in preventing family violence, sexual violence, child abuse and bullying.

The awards were presented by Jason Luan, Minister of Community and Social Services with the Honourable Lois Mitchell acting as Master of Ceremonies.

CASASC received its’ program award for showing leadership in sexual violence prevention.

“Having to adapt to COVID realities, in October 2020 the education program underwent a complete revision of all programming, developing content to virtual teaching modalities and adapting to meet the needs of in-person teaching dynamics,” said Lois Mitchell at the ceremony. “The CASASC Education Program grew in the following months from one solidified program into five formal school offerings for Grades K-12, with full availability to schools and community starting September 2021.

“Through the expansion of programs and age-appropriate content and topics, the education program has contributed to the enhanced awareness and prevention of sexual violence and the creation of healthy relationships for all schools within central Alberta. Offering programs at no-cost and either virtual of in-person delivery models, the education program helps to reduce barriers to their programs and are quickly becoming a recognized and recommended sources for primary prevention programming.”

The CASASC Education Program is a prevention-focused program designed to prevent sexual violence in the central Alberta region. It is the home of educational programming like No Secrets K-4 and Healthy Dating Relationships 101. The team currently consists of five educators who completed 477 presentations in the 2021-2022 school year.

This is the second Inspiration Award received by CASASC. In 2018, CASASC received a group leadership award for offering innovative and comprehensive programs and services.

Now Hiring – Community Engagement Facilitator

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The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is seeking to hire a Community Engagement Facilitator. The start date for the position is ASAP. The position may be fulltime term or part-time term depending on candidate’s availability, experience, skills, and other operational requirements.

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.

 

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting to the KIP Team-lead and responsible to the Executive Director, The KIP Community Outreach Facilitator works in partnership with the KIP Team-Lead to achieve the objectives of the Project, the prevention of sexual assault incidents within the Indigenous Juvenile population in Central Alberta. This involves evidence-based early intervention for issues including childhood sexual behavior concerns. The overall goal / objective of the project is to utilize a multi-systemic approach.

 

QUALIFICATION & SKILLS

– Bachelor’s in social work, Psychology or equivalent preferred. (A combination of education and relevant experience may be considered)

– At least 2 years of experience working in similar industry will be considered as an asset or a combination of education, knowledge, aptitude, and skills.

– Have a passion to work with Indigenous Community.

-Must have high cultural awareness and sensitivity.

– Must have excellent interpersonal skills and business development acumen.

– Must be empathic and have ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with community partners, clients, CASASC team members and other stake holders.

– Have flexible and adaptive approach and must be willing to take challenges, learn and gain knowledge and experience.

– Be a self-starter with ability and aptitude to achieve goals and work with different community partners.

– Must have proficient computer skills (MS Office), database management programs, reporting skills.

– Excellent time management, organization, and advocacy skills.

– The position requires travel to Indigenous Communities / Reserves within Central Alberta (approx. 50% of time). The Company’s vehicle will be used for official travel purpose. Candidate must have a valid driver’s license and be able to produce clean driver’s abstract.

– Must be able to provide a clear and valid criminal record check and vulnerable sector check.

– Must be able to meet the physical demands of the job and be able to lift minimum 40lbs as and when required to fulfill the job responsibilities.

– Must be legally entitled to work in Canada.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

– Establish and enhance communication and partnership with communities and key Elders in the communities.

– Build relationships with Elders in communities within Central Alberta for guidance on cultural approaches to add value to service delivery such as smudging the room prior to therapy sessions etc.

– Reach out to Indigenous Communities and/or Reserves and build rapport with Community Elders / Band Chief.

– Provide information to Communities about the services offered by CASASC under the KIP Project and other programs and services of CASASC.

– Connect clients with CASASC’s internal programs as required.

– Educate the community and work in partnership with KIP project-lead on sexual violence prevention within Indigenous juvenile and related issues.

– Educate and empower communities to understand sexual violence prevention and early intervention and educate communities to understand their rights and responsibilities as participating member of the society.

– Helps facilitate clients’ optimized utilization of all community supports and services.

– Work in collaboration with CASASC education team on developing resources and training material for staff interacting with Indigenous youth, their family, and the school system on cultural sensitivity, Indigenous therapies, and intercultural counselling methods.

– Develops and maintains effective teamwork relationships within CASASC and with external stakeholders.

– Keeps proper database of community partners and prepare reports as required.

 

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.

– Uses appropriate mechanisms for resolving internal agency problems.

– Maintain professional relationship with internal and external stakeholders.

Any other duties as and when assigned by the management

 

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Fixed term contract

Contract length: 9 months

Salary: $20.00-$23.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • Disability insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Life insurance
  • On-site parking
  • Work from home

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift

COVID-19 considerations:

Follows all COVID SoPs

 

How to Apply:

Email resume & cover letters to hr@casasc.ca. Please ensure your name and job title are included in the subject line. Attachments must be in either PDF or Word (.doc/.docx) format.

We thank all applications for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Application deadline: 2022-06-27

What we can learn from the Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard defamation case

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By Sarah Maetche and Carlia Schwab

Like so many out there, we have been combing through the depths of Twitter and reading story after story on the Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard defamation trial. After six weeks of testimony, and with the jury currently in deliberation at the time of writing, society has seen a gut-wrenching exposure of these two working actors’ relationship.

Depp, known from the Disney Pirates of the Caribbean franchise and Tim Burton films to name a few, claims a 2018 op-ed written by Heard where she described herself as “a public figure representing domestic abuse,” defamed him – his career and his reputation.

Heard, known from films like Aquaman, Justice League and The Danish Girl, has countersued with the claim that Depp’s attorney called her abuse allegations a “hoax.”

The defamation trial taking place in Virgina has been live-streamed and watched by millions across the globe. Depp has received waves of support on TikTok and Twitter, showing the scales of social media justice seem to be tipped his way.

Depp and Heard were married in 2015 after meeting on the set of the film The Rum Diary. Their relationship has been volatile with a highly public divorce, multiple court appearances and accusations of both verbal and physical abuse, including sexual violence during their relationship. The defamation trail has become yet another vehicle baring the shell of their relationship.

After the verdict of the trial is heard, the court of public opinion will also have its’ ruling. In the aftermath of this over exposure, there is much we can learn from this case and how it translates into a review of support services for all survivors of domestic violence.

Individuals will no doubt offer their opinions of the pair’s relationship, the information brought to light during the trial and the outcome of the trial, often in strong alignment to either Heard or Depp’s experiences.

Open dialogue and conversations are needed in this space, shifting away from a Depp vs. Heard, “she said vs. he said” narrative, or victim blaming statements towards an empathetic understanding that both individuals have experiences of being harmed by violence and participating in harmful, often violent, behaviors.

We can learn a lot from this case, in particular how society attributes violence and victim-identifying characteristics disproportionately to one gender over another. Media and public opinion often portray domestic violence impacts and the realities of survivors as highly one-gendered and female supported, often to the detriment of male identified survivors who are too looking for support.

Placing fame, wealth, socio-economic status, popularity, power, privilege, gender and sexual orientation aside, both male and female identified individuals can be impacted by and be survivors of domestic violence.

When engaging in conversations, providing support to disclosures of violence, and deep diving into media stories, we encourage individuals to focus not only on what their beliefs, thoughts and attitudes are about this case, but to be open to alternative ways of understanding domestic and relationship violence. Every individual who has experience violence should be offered support and understanding. They should have access to support without the fear of judgement, retribution, victim blaming or of not being believed.

Over half of adult Albertans have supported, or knows someone, who has experienced sexual violence. Given the highly public and social nature of the Depp vs. Heard defamation case, consider the tone of conversations you have. You can offer an open, unbiased and supportive space for your friends, family and peers to connect and debrief, and seek out resources for support. Remember that anyone of any gender can be impacted by violence and deserves access to support.

Sarah Maetche is the communications and administration manager at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre. Carlia Schwab is the education and community relations manager at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre.

Article as published in the Red Deer Advocate.

Now Hiring Educator (Casual)

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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

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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

Giving Tuesday 2021

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Tuesday, November 30th is Giving Tuesday, a global movement for giving and volunteering which takes place each year after Black Friday.

This year Once again CASASC is launching a donation drive to collect comfort items for the SART (in-hospital) program.

CASASC offers a 24-hour Sexual Assault Response Team (SART). This team is a collaborative partnership between CASASC and the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre. Together support and treatment is provided to those who have experienced recent sexual assault.

The Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre completes sexual assault exams for anyone within the Central Alberta Region and is the main regional artery and contact for towns and cities between Edmonton and Calgary. If a survivor decides to seek medical support at the hospital, it is reassuring to know a trained team is there to meet them and provide the best patient care and support.

When in the hospital, the survivor may also choose to speak with a CASASC trained SART member, who provide information and support. SART members offer each individual a care package that includes comfort items like a blanket, slippers or socks, a journal or a stress ball.

These comfort items provide individuals with a small piece of solace during a trying time. Each pair of slippers or blanket provided show compassion, care and love from the community.

SART members are there not only to support the survivor, but also their family members or anyone who may have come with them to the hospital.

The Central Alberta SART team provides in-hospital support to over 130 individuals each year.

 

Comfort items being collected include:

Fuzzy socks and/or slippers

Blankets

Journals

Stress balls

 

Due to COVID restrictions, only new items are being accepted at this time.

Donations will be accepted between 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 30th at the CASASC main office (A201, 5212 48 Street). A donation bin will be set up in the front lobby area, just inside the doorway. AHS health guidelines will be followed to protect the well-being of donors, clients, staff and community members.

Monetary donations will be accepted at the main office (cash, credit or cheque). Online donations to this campaign are accepted via our CanadaHelps page

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/central-alberta-sexual-assault-centre/campaign/giving-tuesday-comfort-and-care/

 

Emergency Mental Health Week – Office closed Oct 25-29

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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