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What is The Social Planning Council?

Activities:

o Monthly Meetings: Attend meetings with guest speakers from within the community &/or presentations at each meeting. We currently meet the fourth Monday of every month (excluding summer) at City Hall with light lunch by donation.

o Facebook & Email Group: Utilize the network on Facebook. Start discussions, learn about & share upcoming community events, projects and meetings. If you don’t use Facebook, then join the email network instead.

o Inform City Council: The SPC provides reports to City Council regularly and the City keeps the SPC informed. Use the network and have your voices heard.



Strategic Direction of the Social Planning Council of Williams Lake & Area:

o Poverty Reduction and the local Living Wage Campaign.

o Community Collaboration and Networking.

o Retention and Succession of residents within the Area.



Community Social Planning:

o Supports communities in building an integrated approach to complex problems that take into account social, economic, and environmental concerns.

o Maximizes the effectiveness of often scarce resources by working to reduce duplication, overlap and competition.

o Provides an ongoing forum for communication, coordination and conflict resolution.



Friday, September 28, 2012

Community Updates – September 29, 2012

Community Updates – September 29, 2012
1) Social Planning Council AGM – mark your calendars.

The Annual General Meeting of the Social Planning Council is being held on November 5th from 11:30 am – 1 pm (lunch provided), location TBA. This AGM is an open and relaxed café style where you can learn about the strategic directions of the SPC and give your input, recommendations and suggestions. More details to come.

2) Women’s Contact Society - Noon Hour Workshop: Menopause

October 2nd from 12 – 1 pm (call to register)
RSVP by Friday Sept 28 Time 12:00 – 1:00 pm call to register

3) Cariboo Regional District Library - Free Film Screening: Choosing to Smile

Thursday Oct 4th “Choosing to Smile: Inspirational stories of 3 friends who happened to have cancer”. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Glenda Standeven, coauthor of Choosing to Smile.

All screenings are in the CRDL Williams Lake Branch program room Suite A, 180 N. Third Ave, Call 250-392-3630 for details or email cderksen@cariboord.bc.ca.

4) Free SportSmart injury prevention workshop October 4th

The Gibraltar Room will host a free injury prevention workshop next month. The workshop, organized by SportMedBC, is designed to increase injury prevention knowledge among parents, coaches and managers of children and youth ages 5 to 19 who are involved in community sport programs. Through various resources, information and tools, sports leaders can learn how they can successfully apply proven injury prevention and athlete development principles drawn from the best research-based evidence.

In the fast-paced, 90-minute workshop session, SportSmart participants will learn how they can make a difference:
- How to ensure players are properly prepared for activity.
- How to recognize the signs and symptoms of serious injuries, including concussion, administer basic onsite sports first-aid.
- How to set up a safe, enjoyable environment.
- Where to find evidence based advice and guidelines.
- Where to turn in the event of an injury to their children.

SportMedBC has also built an online network that boasts the latest injury prevention information that is essential for parents and coaches. Access to the network is free for workshop attendees. SportMedBC will also be releasing a series of webinars from September through to March that will focus on relevant injury prevention topics.

The workshop will be held on October 4th at 7 p.m. in the Gibraltar Room. The workshop is free, but participants must pre-register. For more information and to register your team, club or community for the workshop, please contact info@sportmedbc.com or Recreation Coordinator Denise Skarra at 250-392-7665.
5) Welcoming Community program

Welcoming Community program is coming to Williams Lake. Please visit http://www.welcomebc.ca/wbc/service_providers/programs/welcome_program/index.page for more information.

The project will create a Community partnership to develop and implement the Welcoming Communities Action Plan for the community, to make it welcoming and inclusive of New Immigrants. Because IMSS has been in Williams Lake for several years, we are very interested in the Welcoming Communities program in Williams Lake.

Involvement will consist in sitting once a month in the advisory committee, and provide input and feedback about initiatives they feel appropriate to be implemented in the community, as well as participating in the activities organized throughout the project (if they desire!).
To get involved, please contact either Baljit or Romana at 1-877-562-2977.
6) The Recreation Centre’s free upcoming events:

Kiwanis Club sponsored FREE SKATE
September 29, 2012
1:00pm-2:30pm
Cariboo Dental Clinic sponsored FREE SWIM & ICEBERG
September 30, 2012
1:30pm-3:00pm
7) Scout Island Nature Centre’s River Walk

It’s the last weekend in September, so it is time to celebrate our rivers. We will be walking along the Williams Lake River on Saturday, September 29 from 1-3pm. It is one of our Scout Island Nature Centre free family events. There will be adventures along the marsh and river suitable for all ages (children must be accompanied by adults). No registration is needed. Just meet Julianne (leader for the day) in the lower parking lot off of Frizzi Road at 1pm. For information contact Julianne at j_trelenberg@hotmail.com or 250 392 5375
8) Interior Crisis Line & updated services – note the phone number change!

Regional Crisis Lines have amalgamated services to become the Interior Crisis Line Network with a new toll free contact number 1-888-353-2273 and are able to provide 24/7 service as part of this new network.
They will start a round of training on Oct 11th. They are looking for people aged 19 years or older who are good listeners and are teachable. If you are interested, please contact Janice at 250-398-8220 ext 2040 or Penny at 250-398-8220 ext 2031. Applications can be found at the CMHA office at 51 Fourth Ave or online at http://cariboo.cmha.ca.ca
9) Reminder - 2nd Annual “Shifting Gears” Mountain Bike Fundraiser:

The Boys and Girls Club will be hosting their 2nd Annual "Shifting Gears" Mountain Biking Fundraiser, Sunday September 30th. "Shifting Gears" is a non-competitive, fun “family friendly” event along the Snakes and Ladders/Spokey Hollow trails, followed by a barbeque in the park and prize draws. Registration is $10 per person or $25 for a family. All proceeds go to our after school programs.
Registrations forms are still available from their website at http://bgcwilliamslake.com/. Call 250-392-5730 and ask Stefanie or Monica for more details.

10) Community Investment Grant Funds available (WLDCU) – deadline Sept 30th

The Williams Lake & District Credit Union is now accepting applications from local organizations and community groups for projects and initiatives geared to helping local communities achieve greater economic success and improve quality of life. Grants are available for projects focusing on youth, entrepreneurs, immigrants, low-income working families and aboriginal peoples.

Information on the application process and requirements is available on their website at www.wldcu.com/Personal/InOurCommunity/CommunityInvestmentFund or at the branch. Preference will be given to organizations that are members of Williams Lake & District Credit Union. Application deadline is September 30, 2012.

11) Recreation Centre Newsletter

Please see forwarded email below

Friday, September 21, 2012

Community Updates – September 21, 2012

Community Updates – September 21, 2012
1) The next Social Planning Council Meeting is this Monday, Sept 24th at 11:30 am at the City of Williams Lake. Light lunch will be provided (donations appreciated). Please see attached the last meeting’s minutes draft, and draft agenda for Monday (available by email or at the meeting).
2) Take Back the Night Event – Sept 21

The annual “Take Back the Night” Walk takes place in Williams Lake this evening starting at 5pm. The walk raises the issue of violence against women starts in Boitanio Park and ends at Marie Sharpe Elementary School for a chili and bannock dinner and presentations.
3) Suicide Awareness Event – Sept 25th

A suicide awareness concert and gathering will be held Sept 25th from 3:30 – 7:30 pm at the Gwen Ringwood Amphitheatre in Boitanio Park followed by a walk to Williams Lake Secondary School for the concert in the school commons. The event will include dedication of a memorial tree and wall, moment of silence, information and resources, personal stories, plus musical performances by local musicians. This event is organized by the local Suicide and Sudden Death Committee. For more information contact Bettina Schoen at 250-305-4420.
4) Free events at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex:
Kiwanis Club sponsored FREE SKATE
September 29, 2012
1:00pm-2:30pm
Cariboo Dental Clinic sponsored FREE SWIM & ICEBERG
September 30, 2012
1:30pm-3:00pm
5) Interior Crisis Line & updated services

Regional Crisis Lines have amalgamated services to become the Interior Crisis Line Network with a new toll free contact number 1-888-353-2272. Locally Williams Lake Crisis Line was only able to provide service after hours and 24 hour service on weekends and holidays, but now are able to provide 24/7 service as part of this new network. They now need to grow their volunteer base and they will start a round of training on Oct 11th. They are looking for people aged 19 years or older who are good listeners and are teachable. If you are interested, please contact Janice at 250-398-8220 ext 2040 or Penny at 250-398-8220 ext 2031. Applications can be found at the CMHA office at 51 Fourth Ave or online at http://cariboo.cmha.ca.ca

6) Reminder - 2nd Annual “Shifting Gears” Mountain Bike Fundraiser:

The Boys and Girls Club will be hosting their 2nd Annual "Shifting Gears" Mountain Biking Fundraiser, Sunday September 30th. "Shifting Gears" is a non-competitive, fun “family friendly” event along the Snakes and Ladders/Spokey Hollow trails, followed by a barbeque in the park and prize draws. Registration is $10 per person or $25 for a family. All proceeds go to our after school programs.
Registrations forms are available from our website at http://bgcwilliamslake.com/. Call 250-392-5730 and ask Stefanie or Monica for more details.
7) Alzheimer Society of BC – support available.

One in four Canadians have someone in their family with Alzheimer’s disease. The Alzheimer Society of BC runs a free support and information group that serves as a forum for sharing practical tips and strategies for coping with the disease. The group helps create support and friendship with others whose lives are affected by dementia. It meets at 9:30 am on the first & third Thursday of every month. For more information, contact Hildebrand at 250-377-8200 (or toll free 1-800-886-6946) or email thildebrand@alzheimerbc.org. You can also visit www.alzheimerbc.org. Note - If you have concerns about your memory, or are concerned about someone else, it is important to consult your family Doctor.

8) Tour Barkerville & celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Gold Rush Trail in Wells, BC from Sept 30 – Oct 2/12

The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast annual conference is the tourism industry event of the year in our region! Delegates from across the region and from all areas of the tourism industry convene to network, educate themselves and show support for the Tourism Industry. The Conference is designed to educate, provide networking opportunities, influence new ideas and recognize our amazing industry leaders here in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast!

To register, donate, nominate someone or just check it out visit the website - http://www.landwithoutlimits.com/agm.html

Community Updates – September 21, 2012

Community Updates – September 21, 2012
1) The next Social Planning Council Meeting is this Monday, Sept 24th at 11:30 am at the City of Williams Lake. Light lunch will be provided (donations appreciated). Please see attached the last meeting’s minutes draft, and draft agenda for Monday (available by email or at the meeting).
2) Take Back the Night Event – Sept 21

The annual “Take Back the Night” Walk takes place in Williams Lake this evening starting at 5pm. The walk raises the issue of violence against women starts in Boitanio Park and ends at Marie Sharpe Elementary School for a chili and bannock dinner and presentations.
3) Suicide Awareness Event – Sept 25th

A suicide awareness concert and gathering will be held Sept 25th from 3:30 – 7:30 pm at the Gwen Ringwood Amphitheatre in Boitanio Park followed by a walk to Williams Lake Secondary School for the concert in the school commons. The event will include dedication of a memorial tree and wall, moment of silence, information and resources, personal stories, plus musical performances by local musicians. This event is organized by the local Suicide and Sudden Death Committee. For more information contact Bettina Schoen at 250-305-4420.
4) Free events at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex:
Kiwanis Club sponsored FREE SKATE
September 29, 2012
1:00pm-2:30pm
Cariboo Dental Clinic sponsored FREE SWIM & ICEBERG
September 30, 2012
1:30pm-3:00pm
5) Interior Crisis Line & updated services

Regional Crisis Lines have amalgamated services to become the Interior Crisis Line Network with a new toll free contact number 1-888-353-2272. Locally Williams Lake Crisis Line was only able to provide service after hours and 24 hour service on weekends and holidays, but now are able to provide 24/7 service as part of this new network. They now need to grow their volunteer base and they will start a round of training on Oct 11th. They are looking for people aged 19 years or older who are good listeners and are teachable. If you are interested, please contact Janice at 250-398-8220 ext 2040 or Penny at 250-398-8220 ext 2031. Applications can be found at the CMHA office at 51 Fourth Ave or online at http://cariboo.cmha.ca.ca

6) Reminder - 2nd Annual “Shifting Gears” Mountain Bike Fundraiser:

The Boys and Girls Club will be hosting their 2nd Annual "Shifting Gears" Mountain Biking Fundraiser, Sunday September 30th. "Shifting Gears" is a non-competitive, fun “family friendly” event along the Snakes and Ladders/Spokey Hollow trails, followed by a barbeque in the park and prize draws. Registration is $10 per person or $25 for a family. All proceeds go to our after school programs.
Registrations forms are available from our website at http://bgcwilliamslake.com/. Call 250-392-5730 and ask Stefanie or Monica for more details.
7) Alzheimer Society of BC – support available.

One in four Canadians have someone in their family with Alzheimer’s disease. The Alzheimer Society of BC runs a free support and information group that serves as a forum for sharing practical tips and strategies for coping with the disease. The group helps create support and friendship with others whose lives are affected by dementia. It meets at 9:30 am on the first & third Thursday of every month. For more information, contact Hildebrand at 250-377-8200 (or toll free 1-800-886-6946) or email thildebrand@alzheimerbc.org. You can also visit www.alzheimerbc.org. Note - If you have concerns about your memory, or are concerned about someone else, it is important to consult your family Doctor.

8) Tour Barkerville & celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Gold Rush Trail in Wells, BC from Sept 30 – Oct 2/12

The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast annual conference is the tourism industry event of the year in our region! Delegates from across the region and from all areas of the tourism industry convene to network, educate themselves and show support for the Tourism Industry. The Conference is designed to educate, provide networking opportunities, influence new ideas and recognize our amazing industry leaders here in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast!

To register, donate, nominate someone or just check it out visit the website - http://www.landwithoutlimits.com/agm.html

Friday, September 14, 2012

Community Updates – September 14, 2012

Community Updates – September 14, 2012
1) Elder College - registration & new courses:

Course registration and membership for Elder College started on Wed Sept 12 at Saint Andrew’s United Church. Elder College Courses caters to those 50 years of age or older and courses are held during the day and are low in cost. New courses this year include Travel Tips for Seniors, i-Movies & i-photos, creative writing and photography. Returning courses include the Cariboo History tour, Philosophers Café, computer classes, origami, drawing and a self-discovery class on the i-Pad. There are also free community courses including genealogy, wealth management, and healthy living. Registration for these courses are required. Final registration will be on Sept 19th at the Senior’s Activity Centre.
2) Cariboo Regional District Library - Free Film Screenings:

All screenings are in the CRDL Williams Lake Branch program room Suite A, 180 N. Third Ave, Call 250-392-3630 for details or email cderksen@cariboord.bc.ca.
September 19th at 7:00 pm – Mystery of Mazo de la Roche: One of the most successful and prolific women writers of the 20th century. Mazo de la Roche was also a mystery throughout most of her life.
3) Boys & Girls Club Events & Activities:

a) In cooperation with the Blue Jays Foundation, the Boys & Girls Club will continue Summer Baseball into the Fall. This all-ages activity takes place at Kiwanis Ball Diamond every Wednesday from 3:30 – 5:30 pm. Contact David for more info at 250-392-5730

b)The club also hosts mountain bike rides for children and youth. Intermediate rides are Mondays at 3:30 pm, and beginner rides are Tuesdays at 3:30 pm. Call David at 250-392-5730 for more info,
c) The Boys & Girls Club is having their annual fundraiser on Sept 30th. This is a non-competitive, all-skill-levels mountain bike ride starting at 10 am – BBQ to follow at Boitanio Park. Call Stephanie at 250-392-5730 for more info or visit www.bgcwilliamslake.com

4) Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy:

Volunteers are needed to become a tutor, meet new people, learn new skills and have some fun. Volunteer tutors make a great difference in the lives of individuals who need extra help with their reading and writing skills. Contact Janette Moller, Partner Assisted Learning Coordinator at 250-392-8161 or email janette@caribooliteracy.com.

Adult Literacy Tutor Training – being held on Saturday Sept 15th from 10 am – 12pm at TRU, this introductory session for new tutors.
5) Central Cariboo Hospice Society - Workshop helps Caregivers:

Central Cariboo Hospice Society is presenting a workshop on Sept 18th with Jan Spilman, a BC registered clinical counselor and specialist on campassion fatigue and chronic sorrow. The workshop will be held at the St. Andrew’s United Church basement hall from 9 am – 4 pm (lunch will be provided). Those interested can call the hospice Society, Kate McDonough or Theresa Myers at 250-392-5430 for more information or to register.
6) Funding Updates From the United Way:

Good morning,
I wanted to make you aware a recent call for proposals for the federal Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) funding stream. This funding is for communities with a population of 25,000 or less. There is similar funding for larger communities. United Way is part of the advisory board for Kamloops and has also been a recipient of funds in Kamloops. Danalee Baker, Community Development Coordinator, United Way in Kamloops is happy to informally support anyone who is looking to apply for funds based on their experience. Service Canada also holds information sessions on how to apply. Please see information below.

Also, United Way has opened the call for proposals for their Williams Lake and 100 Mile Community Funds. Please follow this link if you have not previously received this information: http://www.unitedwaytnc.ca/about-us/investing-in-the-community/cariboo-investments/cariboo-community-fund-application/

I will be away from the September 16 to October 5, should you require any assistance please contact Danalee Baker (at our regional office in Kamloops 250-372-9933). I would be happy to assist you in any way I can on my return in October.
Thanks,
Melissa, melissa@unitedwaytnc.ca
7) Community Investment Grant Funds available (WLDCU)

The Williams Lake & District Credit Union is now accepting applications from local organizations and community groups for projects and initiatives geared to helping local communities achieve greater economic success and improve quality of life. Grants are available for projects focusing on youth, entrepreneurs, immigrants, low-income working families and aboriginal peoples.

Information on the application process and requirements is available on their website at www.wldcu.com/Personal/InOurCommunity/CommunityInvestmentFund or at the branch. Preference will be given to organizations that are members of Williams Lake & District Credit Union. Application deadline is September 30, 2012.
8) Reminder - Salvation Army’s “Rally Day”

The Salvation Army’s “Rally Day” is this Saturday, September 15, 2012 from 10:00 am to 3:00 p.m. (corner of Third Avenue and Borland Street). The day will feature games, music and a concessions stand. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Friday, September 7, 2012

Community Updates – September 7, 2012

Community Updates – September 7, 2012


1) Clubs Day at Boitanio Mall

This Saturday, Sept 8 from 10 am – 3 pm at Boitanio Mall. Get information from Guides Canada, Yamamichi Martial Arts, Cariboo Chilcotin Generology, and more. For more information or to get involved contact Jeanette at 250-392-4169.

2) NICA & CRD hosting grant-writing workshop – Sept 14 – 15th (register before Monday Sept 10, 2012)

The Northern Interior Communities Association (NICA) and the Cariboo Regional District Grant Writer Program will co-host a grant-writing workshop for community groups, organizations and charities from the Cariboo Chilcotin. This event takes place Sept 14 & 15th in the City of Williams Lake Council Chambers.

This workshop will focus on how to write successful applications for the BC Community Gaming Grants program and it’s current intake for the human and social services sector (this year’s deadline is Nov 30/12).

On Friday the 14th from 7 – 9pm NICA will provide a 2 hour presentation on grant writing.

On Saturday the 15th – schedule a 30 minute one-on-one session with NICA staff members which are taking place between 9:30 am – 6 pm. You are encouraged to bring applications in progress, or previously completed submissions to receive feedback on how to improve their grant writing techniques.

Reservations are required by Sept 10, 2012 by emailing grantwriter@cariboord.bc.ca or call the CRD at 250-392-3351 (or toll free 1-800-665-1636. Please specify if your community group would like a one-on-one session and preferred times (first come first serve). For more information please contact NICA’s Rhonda Dickson at 250-562-2553 or coordinator@northernica.org, or contact the grant writer at the CRD.

3) From the Council of Canadians – next meeting September 13

Hi Everybody,

Well, fall is upon us, so seems like a good time to get together & see what we've got cooking for the next few months. I have booked the library for Thursday, Sept. 13th at 5:15 pm. One of the things we should talk about is the calendar on the Council of Canadian website. Is it working? Is there a better way to communicate? Other than that, the idea is to let us all know what your group is planning for the next few months so that we all don't conflict, but, in fact, may be able to help one another/expand on what you're planning.

Hope you can come!!

Cheers, Bette
bettemcl@gmail.com

4) Salvation Army’s “Rally Day”

The Salvation Army’s “Rally Day” is next Saturday, September 15, 2012 from 10:00 am to 3:00 p.m. (corner of Third Avenue and Borland Street). The day will feature games, music and a concessions stand. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

5) Boys and Girls Club’s 2nd Annual “Shifting Gears” Mountain Bike Fundraiser:

The Boys and Girls Club will be hosting their 2nd Annual "Shifting Gears" Mountain Biking Fundraiser, Sunday September 30th. "Shifting Gears" is a non-competitive, fun “family friendly” event along the Snakes and Ladders/Spokey Hollow trails, followed by a barbeque in the park and prize draws. Registration is $10 per person or $25 for a family. All proceeds go to our after school programs.

Registrations forms are available from our website at http://bgcwilliamslake.com/. Call 250-392-5730 and ask Stefanie or Monica for more details.

6) City of Williams Lake Council highlights:

a) HandyDART Expansion: Approval Council approved an additional 110 hours of handyDART service, including service on Saturdays, between October 1 and December 31, 2012 at an estimated cost to the municipality of $3,500. BC Transit was able to provide a cost-sharing contribution of $3,900 to the expanded service hours. The cost of the additional hours in 2013 will be incorporated in the 2013 annual budget and the 2013/14 Annual Operating Plan.

b) Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Awards - Mayor Kerry Cook and Cariboo Chilcotin MP Dick Harris presented three Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Awards to Williams lake residents, including Councillor Surinderpal Rathor. Audrey MacLise and Bill Reid were the other recipients. All were recognized for their commitment to community service.

7) Reminder – Tour de Cariboo is this Saturday Sept 8, 2012

The tour is a bicycle ride, race or relay from Williams Lake to Gavin Lake to raise funds for Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Williams Lake. The ride is supported by recovery vehicles in case people have to cut their ride short. Free overnight accommodation is also provided at Gavin Lake for participants. Contact Big Brothers and Big Sisters for more information at 250-398-8391.

8) Reminder - Women’s Contact Society AGM is September 10th at 6pm.

Contact Ashlee Turatus at 392-4118 or email officeassistane.wcs@telus.net for more information. The Women’s Contact Society is located at 301 – 19 North First Avenue (above Caribou Ski). There will be refreshments, and a short presentation on Human Trafficking. All are welcome, but please RSVP if possible.

9) Newsletter from the United Way

For the latest update from the United Way, including the upcoming Kick-Off Breakfast on September 21, 2012 in Kamloops. Please see the complete newsletter at http://us4.campaign-archive1.com/?u=c25f2de7f71c384a47db42ceb&id=37600104c1&e=225964f117

Contact Us

The Social Planning Council is made up of volunteers from the community. Many of us work in social services agencies or also volunteer for other organizations.

Our Mailing Address is Box 20045, Williams Lake BC V2G 4R1

To reach the Society Coordinator Jessica Dunn please email spc-coordinator@xplornet.com or call 250-243-2126

To reach the Communities that Care Project Facilitator Barb Jones please email communitiesthatcare.wl@gmail.com or call 250-305-4838

To reach the THRIVE Williams Lake Project Manager Anne Burrill please email annelburrill@gmail.com or call 250-267-7211

To reach the current SPC Chair Larry Stranberg please email happytrails@cfdccariboo.com or call 250-392-3626