For the New Year, many of us are inclined to make personal resolutions… to exercise more, to eat better, to spend more time with our loved ones. That is definitely my modus operandi! For 5 years now, the New Year rolls in and I, once again, vow to kick my pastry habit. The result? Another year of me pigging out shamelessly (and I really mean shamelessly) on pastries.
Sigh.
So, for 2012, I’m vowing to make a new kind of resolution – wipe the slate clean and start afresh. Only this time, my resolution will be one that affects my community. It’s my very own 2012 ‘Community Building Resolution’ challenge!
After all, in the bigger scheme of things, no one but me (and my thighs!) is really affected if I utterly fail on my bid to make 2012 pastry-free. However, if I fail on my resolution to make my community better, we all lose out. Imagine, though, if I hold true to my commitment to improve my community – no matter how small that change might be – do you think that my little piece of the world will be better for it? Absolutely!
And so – here I go… throwing it out into the universe…my community resolution for 2012 is: to have more meaningful, courageous conversations with the people who live around me. And I mean REAL conversations!
This resolution was inspired by a chat that I had recently with older gentleman named Herman as I was out walking my dogs. Herman happens to live exactly one block away from me on the same side of the street. I’ve often paused in front of Herman’s house (mainly to let my bassets have a good chance for a sniff) and wistfully speculated on who my doppelganger might be if I lived at number 1417 instead of number 1317.
During one of these recent pauses, Herman happened to be out in his yard and we got to chatting. Turns out that Herman is a widower, with just a small extended family left in Calgary, who was a pet owner too but lost both his dogs to what he phrased as a malady of old age… death! I liked Herman instantly. I figure I might pop by Herman’s with some Christmas cookies this year to pass on some holiday cheer and offer some company. I think that if I do, my little piece of the world will be better for it.
Imagine now if others in my little neighbourhood decided to also make a small but positive change in their community. If say… my neighbour does the same as does their neighbour, and their neighbour, and their neighbour, and their neighbour. Before we knew it, we would have a place where you’d want to set down roots, raise your children, and walk your dogs.
So I’m throwing this out to all of you…make a resolution this year that will help make your community better - consider this your 2012 ‘Community Building Resolution’ challenge!
You can even join me later as I host an online conversation on January 18th aimed at those interested in sharing ideas about how to positively affect the quality of life in their communities. I’d be interested to hear about what positive change you plan to make in the lives of those around you.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Monday, December 5, 2011
Aboriginal Arts, Culture, and Heritage Grants
Just recently, my colleague Brenda Herchmer, Director of ACE Communities, and myself facilitated a session on the “The Power and the Promise of Recreation in Aboriginal Communities" at the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association’s 2011 Conference in October. As I was typing up the notes recently for the session, I started making a list of arts, culture, and heritage-based resources that I could share with the group of participants.
As I sat plunking away on my keyboard, it occurred to me that it might be useful to also post these resources in my blog as a way of getting the word out there about these aboriginal-related grants. Many of these programs aren’t utilized to their fullest so I figured… let’s charge into the New Year and tap into these great resources! Or, at least, spread the word to those who might be interested in applying.
Take note: most of these aren’t due right now with the exception of the ASRPWF '2012-2013 Healthy Living Fund' which is due December 23rd.
So spread the word and let’s start funneling these resources into our Aboriginal communities!
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The Alberta Foundation for the Arts
The Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) has a commitment to supporting the growth and development of Aboriginal arts in Alberta. There are two grant streams and one program that specifically benefit Alberta First Nations, Métis and Inuit populations.
Aboriginal Traditional Arts Individual Project Grant Stream
Aboriginal Arts Organizations Project Grant Stream
Click here for more info on these grants or contact the AFA at 780-427-9968.
---
Alberta’s Future Leaders Program - Arts Camps
The Arts Camps program partners the Alberta Foundation for the Arts with the Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks, and Wildlife Foundation (ASRPWF) in providing an arts component to the Alberta’s Future Leaders (AFL) Program.
This program is based on the development of partnerships between communities, private enterprise, non-profit organizations and government agencies. These partnerships share the belief that sport and recreation can be used as prevention and intervention initiatives to address the needs of Alberta's indigenous youth.
Arts mentors are hired to form an arts team to plan and develop a range of arts activities. Each arts team member is then placed in a designated community for the summer, working alongside other AFL summer youth workers. The program runs from May 1 to August 31 each year. The number of participating communities varies, but there are usually a dozen communities involved in the AFL program each year.
The arts component provides opportunities for young people to experience and develop their creative abilities. The arts youth workers act as mentors, helping the participants to express themselves through a variety of performing and visual arts activities. Young people are encouraged to get in touch with their individual creative energies and abilities, and thereby learn new skills, develop strength, build self-esteem and self-confidence that can be used throughout their lives.
Arts activities include performing arts such as mime, acting, storytelling, dance and music as well as mask and puppet making. Visual arts workshops include painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, collage, clay, photography and crafts.
---
Elder/Youth Legacy Program: Support for Aboriginal Artistic Practices
Since the Canada Council created the Aboriginal Peoples Collaborative Exchange program, more people have been asking how to obtain funds for two underserved segments of the Aboriginal arts community: the Elders (senior artists) and the youth (ages 15-25).
The Canada Council has realized that Aboriginal Elders and youth—the two segments of the community involved in passing on art practices—have not been regularly applying for arts funding. Many of the Elders (senior artists) found the paperwork cumbersome, and the youth of the communities were ineligible because of their age.
The Elder/Youth Legacy program solves this by offering program funding to Aboriginal organizations that wish to work with these two groups on a project basis. This program is not limited to traditional art forms—it encompasses all forms of the arts.
First, the organization will choose the Elder who will work with their youth. That Elder will then help to decide the number of young people he or she will work with, and will help to select them.
Due: 15 May and 15 November
Further Information
Noël Habel,
As I sat plunking away on my keyboard, it occurred to me that it might be useful to also post these resources in my blog as a way of getting the word out there about these aboriginal-related grants. Many of these programs aren’t utilized to their fullest so I figured… let’s charge into the New Year and tap into these great resources! Or, at least, spread the word to those who might be interested in applying.
Take note: most of these aren’t due right now with the exception of the ASRPWF '2012-2013 Healthy Living Fund' which is due December 23rd.
So spread the word and let’s start funneling these resources into our Aboriginal communities!
---
The Alberta Foundation for the Arts
The Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) has a commitment to supporting the growth and development of Aboriginal arts in Alberta. There are two grant streams and one program that specifically benefit Alberta First Nations, Métis and Inuit populations.
Aboriginal Traditional Arts Individual Project Grant Stream
Aboriginal Arts Organizations Project Grant Stream
Click here for more info on these grants or contact the AFA at 780-427-9968.
---
Alberta’s Future Leaders Program - Arts Camps
The Arts Camps program partners the Alberta Foundation for the Arts with the Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks, and Wildlife Foundation (ASRPWF) in providing an arts component to the Alberta’s Future Leaders (AFL) Program.
This program is based on the development of partnerships between communities, private enterprise, non-profit organizations and government agencies. These partnerships share the belief that sport and recreation can be used as prevention and intervention initiatives to address the needs of Alberta's indigenous youth.
Arts mentors are hired to form an arts team to plan and develop a range of arts activities. Each arts team member is then placed in a designated community for the summer, working alongside other AFL summer youth workers. The program runs from May 1 to August 31 each year. The number of participating communities varies, but there are usually a dozen communities involved in the AFL program each year.
The arts component provides opportunities for young people to experience and develop their creative abilities. The arts youth workers act as mentors, helping the participants to express themselves through a variety of performing and visual arts activities. Young people are encouraged to get in touch with their individual creative energies and abilities, and thereby learn new skills, develop strength, build self-esteem and self-confidence that can be used throughout their lives.
Arts activities include performing arts such as mime, acting, storytelling, dance and music as well as mask and puppet making. Visual arts workshops include painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, collage, clay, photography and crafts.
---
Elder/Youth Legacy Program: Support for Aboriginal Artistic Practices
Since the Canada Council created the Aboriginal Peoples Collaborative Exchange program, more people have been asking how to obtain funds for two underserved segments of the Aboriginal arts community: the Elders (senior artists) and the youth (ages 15-25).
The Canada Council has realized that Aboriginal Elders and youth—the two segments of the community involved in passing on art practices—have not been regularly applying for arts funding. Many of the Elders (senior artists) found the paperwork cumbersome, and the youth of the communities were ineligible because of their age.
The Elder/Youth Legacy program solves this by offering program funding to Aboriginal organizations that wish to work with these two groups on a project basis. This program is not limited to traditional art forms—it encompasses all forms of the arts.
First, the organization will choose the Elder who will work with their youth. That Elder will then help to decide the number of young people he or she will work with, and will help to select them.
Due: 15 May and 15 November
Further Information
Noël Habel,
Program Officer
Aboriginal Arts Office
Canada Council for the Arts
t: 1-800-263-5588 (toll-free) or 613-566-4414, ext. 4178 or 4222
---
ASRPWF 2012-2013 Healthy Living Fund - Active Living
In 2012-13 the ASRPWF will support projects that address conditions/ factors that support physical activity, as well as contribute to achieving targets aimed at increasing the proportion of Albertans who are physically active. Currently there is an emphasis on projects that address physical activity targets for children and youth.
Priority areas for project funding consideration include:
-Integrated approaches and collaboration
-Awareness and education
-Innovative demonstration projects with a physical activity focus
-Research that informs practice
-Improved access and reduced barriers to physical activity opportunities
-Active transportation
-After school time period
-Children and Nature Activities
Eligible applicants (Provincial not-for-profit groups, First Nations, Metis Settlements, and Municipalities), are invited to submit ONE application for consideration, noting that funding is available for projects lasting approximately one year in duration, April 1, 2012 - March 31, 2013.
Complete applications must be postmarked on or before December 23, 2011 and sent to the address on the application. Respondents will be notified by March 5, 2012 with final approval pending approval of the Foundation budget.
For more information contact:
Chris Szabo
Recreation Consultant
t:780-415-0276 (toll-free in Alberta at 310-0000)
e:chris.szabo@gov.ab.ca
t: 1-800-263-5588 (toll-free) or 613-566-4414, ext. 4178 or 4222
---
ASRPWF 2012-2013 Healthy Living Fund - Active Living
In 2012-13 the ASRPWF will support projects that address conditions/ factors that support physical activity, as well as contribute to achieving targets aimed at increasing the proportion of Albertans who are physically active. Currently there is an emphasis on projects that address physical activity targets for children and youth.
Priority areas for project funding consideration include:
-Integrated approaches and collaboration
-Awareness and education
-Innovative demonstration projects with a physical activity focus
-Research that informs practice
-Improved access and reduced barriers to physical activity opportunities
-Active transportation
-After school time period
-Children and Nature Activities
Eligible applicants (Provincial not-for-profit groups, First Nations, Metis Settlements, and Municipalities), are invited to submit ONE application for consideration, noting that funding is available for projects lasting approximately one year in duration, April 1, 2012 - March 31, 2013.
Complete applications must be postmarked on or before December 23, 2011 and sent to the address on the application. Respondents will be notified by March 5, 2012 with final approval pending approval of the Foundation budget.
For more information contact:
Chris Szabo
Recreation Consultant
t:780-415-0276 (toll-free in Alberta at 310-0000)
e:chris.szabo@gov.ab.ca
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
I'm only one...
I’m not going to lie… it all looked a little dubious. A designated meeting point on the side of the highway, calls back and forth as the meeting point changed, the furtive exchange of mysterious blue box, and a quick getaway. If the RCMP were monitoring us, things could have went a wee bit pear-shaped, if you know what I mean.
This was how the latest ACE Communities Ignite tour kicked off in Alberta a few weeks ago. Representing the official launch of our newest group of ACE Communities, Carstairs, Grande Cache, Jasper, and Rocky Mountain House are now on their collective way to becoming more diversity friendly.
The dubious ‘goods exchange’ mentioned above was put into motion by the request of one of our ACE leaders in Jasper. He was looking to get some homemade perogies from a contact in Edmonton to Jasper for an event happening as part of their Ignite activities and we happened to be the area at the opportune time.
When I emailed Ian Hill, our ACE Ambassador and official Igniter (who was soon to be on the road with me for the launch of the new ACE Communities), about his thoughts on our potential perogy sting operation, he replied: “that which I can do, I ought to do”.
Ian’s reply was, for those not familiar with the quote, an excerpt from a famous Helen Keller poem:
I am only one, but I am one.
I cannot do everything but I can do something.
That which I can do, I ought to do.
That which I ought to do, I will.
~Helen Keller
I first learned of this poem while traveling with Ian on various ACE Ignite Tours. Ian often discusses it as part of the ‘ignite’ speeches that he delivers during the community rallies which accompany the presentations of each community’s ACE award. And you know, the more times I hear it and really think about its meaning, the more apropos I feel it is to building community in rural Alberta.
Let’s take this last Ignite tour as an example. In the course of four days, I saw amazing examples of how individuals took it upon themselves to make an impact in the quality of life in their community.
I am only one, but I am one.
I saw a courageous conversation where a citizen voiced her distress and upset to a local town councilor at the town’s lack of empathy when dealing with a group of volunteers. I admired her bravery at speaking up and was then moved by the councilor’s immediate promise to personally speak to those negatively affected by the town’s actions and start mending fences. Imagine how much good will that one councilor will garner for that community if he does as he promises and continues with those courageous conversations.
I cannot do everything but I can do something.
I saw one shy, introverted ACE leader throw down the gauntlet and personally contact numerous members of her community in a deep and personal way – inviting them out to help build their community together. Man… did she shine and you know what happened, they all came. The Mayor, town councilors, school trustees, moms with their kids, social services, non-profits, youth, and newcomers to the community… they all showed up to see how they could contribute to making their town better together.
That which I can do, I ought to do.
I saw how one small group of ACE leaders decide that their youth needed to hear about how important they were to the community so they brought Ian and the messages of ACE to their local junior high school. There almost 100 youth were called to action, reminded of their worth and of their potential. One adult in attendance told us after that is was “a life altering experience” and that she wished that someone told her how valuable she was to the community when she was a child.
That which I ought to do, I will.
I saw in one community that one person can bring together over 500 others, from all different backgrounds and places, to come together and break bread under one roof. This was where the perogies came in, of course (in case you were wondering). This gathering reminded me that people are just waiting for a reason to come out and celebrate their community, all is takes is even just one person to ask.
So what is it that you ought to do in your community to make it better? Sure, as Keller said, you can’t do everything but you can do something. I’d be interested to hear just what that something is.
Click here to see images of the latest ACE Communities Ignite tour.
This was how the latest ACE Communities Ignite tour kicked off in Alberta a few weeks ago. Representing the official launch of our newest group of ACE Communities, Carstairs, Grande Cache, Jasper, and Rocky Mountain House are now on their collective way to becoming more diversity friendly.
The dubious ‘goods exchange’ mentioned above was put into motion by the request of one of our ACE leaders in Jasper. He was looking to get some homemade perogies from a contact in Edmonton to Jasper for an event happening as part of their Ignite activities and we happened to be the area at the opportune time.
When I emailed Ian Hill, our ACE Ambassador and official Igniter (who was soon to be on the road with me for the launch of the new ACE Communities), about his thoughts on our potential perogy sting operation, he replied: “that which I can do, I ought to do”.
Ian’s reply was, for those not familiar with the quote, an excerpt from a famous Helen Keller poem:
I am only one, but I am one.
I cannot do everything but I can do something.
That which I can do, I ought to do.
That which I ought to do, I will.
~Helen Keller
I first learned of this poem while traveling with Ian on various ACE Ignite Tours. Ian often discusses it as part of the ‘ignite’ speeches that he delivers during the community rallies which accompany the presentations of each community’s ACE award. And you know, the more times I hear it and really think about its meaning, the more apropos I feel it is to building community in rural Alberta.
Let’s take this last Ignite tour as an example. In the course of four days, I saw amazing examples of how individuals took it upon themselves to make an impact in the quality of life in their community.
I am only one, but I am one.
I saw a courageous conversation where a citizen voiced her distress and upset to a local town councilor at the town’s lack of empathy when dealing with a group of volunteers. I admired her bravery at speaking up and was then moved by the councilor’s immediate promise to personally speak to those negatively affected by the town’s actions and start mending fences. Imagine how much good will that one councilor will garner for that community if he does as he promises and continues with those courageous conversations.
I cannot do everything but I can do something.
I saw one shy, introverted ACE leader throw down the gauntlet and personally contact numerous members of her community in a deep and personal way – inviting them out to help build their community together. Man… did she shine and you know what happened, they all came. The Mayor, town councilors, school trustees, moms with their kids, social services, non-profits, youth, and newcomers to the community… they all showed up to see how they could contribute to making their town better together.
That which I can do, I ought to do.
I saw how one small group of ACE leaders decide that their youth needed to hear about how important they were to the community so they brought Ian and the messages of ACE to their local junior high school. There almost 100 youth were called to action, reminded of their worth and of their potential. One adult in attendance told us after that is was “a life altering experience” and that she wished that someone told her how valuable she was to the community when she was a child.
That which I ought to do, I will.
I saw in one community that one person can bring together over 500 others, from all different backgrounds and places, to come together and break bread under one roof. This was where the perogies came in, of course (in case you were wondering). This gathering reminded me that people are just waiting for a reason to come out and celebrate their community, all is takes is even just one person to ask.
So what is it that you ought to do in your community to make it better? Sure, as Keller said, you can’t do everything but you can do something. I’d be interested to hear just what that something is.
Click here to see images of the latest ACE Communities Ignite tour.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Volunteer... the opportunity is out there!
I seem to be doing a lot of volunteering lately. And it’s not for the same organization or even for the same cause for that matter. Instead, my volunteer commitments seem to be all over the place. Heck, I even have my basset hound Cleo volunteering! And just as I was starting to think that I had some rare form of volunteer schizophrenia, I bumped into someone who told me that what I had, in fact, was a clear case of modern day 3-tiered volunteerism.
Apparently, volunteering is not just volunteering anymore. Many people now have a multi-layered approach, much like many work strategies, to determine just who and what is lucky enough to benefit from their gift of talent and time.
To use myself as a case in point… I actually am personally committed to three different types of volunteer activities.
Type one: professionally driven. This first type of volunteerism is quite common in many fields but seems to be especially prevalent in my professional field of expertise – the arts. While many of those who do volunteer in the arts do it to follow a passion, many of us also volunteer to gain experience, make contacts, and make some sort of lasting professional impact in their local art scene.
Currently, I am sitting on a volunteer advisory committee formed around the creation of a new collaborative arts building in Calgary. Why? Because I think that Calgary, its artists, and its arts scene will benefit from such a building and so I feel compelled to be involved. It’s kinda fun but more like… well, work but I know that the overall benefits for my community of practice will be HUGE so I stay committed.
Type two: do I have to? The second kind of volunteering that has been taking up my time lately (the most common and often most dreaded form of volunteerism) is in the infamous ‘volun-told’ category. This is when your volunteer activity is mandated as part-and-parcel of your involvement with an organization. Often this can be in lieu of paying fees or meant to help do something practical like raising funds for travel or sports equipment. Parents… think working bingos, selling Girl Guide cookies or endless bottle drives….
Right now I happen to be helping out my women’s tackle football team raise money for new equipment and fees by ushering at the occasional Stampeders games. Is it fun? Well, kinda. Again, it’s a bit more like work but I will really appreciate the new gear when my team hits the field next year and so I stay committed. Plus, these ‘volun-told’ events are great for team bonding and character building in the face adversity. If you have ever experienced the late night shift on a Friday as part of a casino volunteer gig or a drunken football fan of a team on a losing streak, you know what I mean!
Type three: follow your passion! And then there is the third kind of volunteerism, the best kind of them all, in fact. This is the kind where you are given the opportunity to follow your passion and make a real difference in some sphere of the world (no matter how large or small that sphere might be!).
I was reminded recently of this inspiring form of volunteerism by a co-worker named Rose. Rose recently told me a story of how she really connected with a fellow volunteer while out with the Communities in Bloom initiative. “We’re like twins,” she said. “It’s like we’ve known each other forever!”
I find that it is this kind of volunteerism that draws you naturally to your cluster – to a place where people share your passions, your values, and even your sense of humour. My volunteerism happy cluster is as part of a volunteer-run basset hound rescue. I can honestly say that I really like the people that I work with. They are people that I would happily meet for coffee or hang out with outside of our volunteer gig. We are out in the world together saving one basset hound at a time! We are connected.
Now don’t get me wrong, each type of the abovementioned volunteerism is as important and as valid. I think, like with work and life balance, it is important to have it in your volunteering life as well. The most important point, however, is to get out there and see what appeals to you. Follow your passion, improve your work skills, or make those extra bucks for your team. Every little bit makes a huge impact for those who need your time and your talent.
How do you approach volunteerism?
Apparently, volunteering is not just volunteering anymore. Many people now have a multi-layered approach, much like many work strategies, to determine just who and what is lucky enough to benefit from their gift of talent and time.
To use myself as a case in point… I actually am personally committed to three different types of volunteer activities.
Type one: professionally driven. This first type of volunteerism is quite common in many fields but seems to be especially prevalent in my professional field of expertise – the arts. While many of those who do volunteer in the arts do it to follow a passion, many of us also volunteer to gain experience, make contacts, and make some sort of lasting professional impact in their local art scene.
Currently, I am sitting on a volunteer advisory committee formed around the creation of a new collaborative arts building in Calgary. Why? Because I think that Calgary, its artists, and its arts scene will benefit from such a building and so I feel compelled to be involved. It’s kinda fun but more like… well, work but I know that the overall benefits for my community of practice will be HUGE so I stay committed.
Type two: do I have to? The second kind of volunteering that has been taking up my time lately (the most common and often most dreaded form of volunteerism) is in the infamous ‘volun-told’ category. This is when your volunteer activity is mandated as part-and-parcel of your involvement with an organization. Often this can be in lieu of paying fees or meant to help do something practical like raising funds for travel or sports equipment. Parents… think working bingos, selling Girl Guide cookies or endless bottle drives….
Right now I happen to be helping out my women’s tackle football team raise money for new equipment and fees by ushering at the occasional Stampeders games. Is it fun? Well, kinda. Again, it’s a bit more like work but I will really appreciate the new gear when my team hits the field next year and so I stay committed. Plus, these ‘volun-told’ events are great for team bonding and character building in the face adversity. If you have ever experienced the late night shift on a Friday as part of a casino volunteer gig or a drunken football fan of a team on a losing streak, you know what I mean!
Type three: follow your passion! And then there is the third kind of volunteerism, the best kind of them all, in fact. This is the kind where you are given the opportunity to follow your passion and make a real difference in some sphere of the world (no matter how large or small that sphere might be!).
I was reminded recently of this inspiring form of volunteerism by a co-worker named Rose. Rose recently told me a story of how she really connected with a fellow volunteer while out with the Communities in Bloom initiative. “We’re like twins,” she said. “It’s like we’ve known each other forever!”
I find that it is this kind of volunteerism that draws you naturally to your cluster – to a place where people share your passions, your values, and even your sense of humour. My volunteerism happy cluster is as part of a volunteer-run basset hound rescue. I can honestly say that I really like the people that I work with. They are people that I would happily meet for coffee or hang out with outside of our volunteer gig. We are out in the world together saving one basset hound at a time! We are connected.
Now don’t get me wrong, each type of the abovementioned volunteerism is as important and as valid. I think, like with work and life balance, it is important to have it in your volunteering life as well. The most important point, however, is to get out there and see what appeals to you. Follow your passion, improve your work skills, or make those extra bucks for your team. Every little bit makes a huge impact for those who need your time and your talent.
How do you approach volunteerism?
Monday, September 19, 2011
What are you doing for Alberta Arts Days?
On October 1, I am heading south to Longview to help out with their “Night of Foolishness”. This event, being held in conjunction with the Alberta Arts Days, will be a celebration of local talent including a cowboy poet, a revised rendition of an old Joplin tune as well as a showcase of the musicians from the surrounding area. Now… how cool does this sound? I mean, seriously!
Longview is just one of over 70 communities (if not more!) participating in this year’s Alberta Arts Days. The Alberta Arts Days, taking place from September 30 – October 2, is an annual celebration of our culture, heritage, artistic diversity and provincial pride.
And why not celebrate our culture, heritage, and artistic diversity? Studies show, in fact, that arts, culture, and heritage-related activities are:
•Essential to personal health – active living is a key determinant of health status
•Key to balanced human development and helping us reach our potential
•Essential to quality of life and place
•Reduces self-destructive and anti-social behaviour
•Builds strong families and healthy communities
•Reduces health care, social services, and police costs
•Significant economic generators in our communities
*Click on the National Benefits HUB for evidence of the above.
And the Government of Alberta seems to be taking this seriously. This year, in an effort to stimulate community involvement, the Government of Alberta increased the number of grants that designated Alberta Arts Days Celebration Sites.
These sites work with local community groups, artists and arts organizations to present family-friendly activities, workshops and performances during the Alberta Arts Days weekend. This year, five organizations have received Feature Celebration Site status and 64 organizations (a majority of them in rural communities) have received Host Celebration Site status. Click here to see a list of these sites.
Last year, thousands of Albertans discovered, experienced and celebrated our unique culture, heritage, artistic diversity and provincial pride through 682 events in 91 communities throughout the province. The Alberta Arts Days this year will continue to showcase the province's artists, arts organizations and cultural industries, while encouraging Albertans to discover the important role the arts plays in developing a prosperous, vibrant society.
So if you’d like to see what is happening in your community see this link!
And it just so happens that Longview is one of the Alberta Arts Days new Host Celebration sites and I can’t wait to see how it all works out. So, if you happen to be down Longview’s way, come join me for a celebration of the arts in rural Alberta!
Longview is just one of over 70 communities (if not more!) participating in this year’s Alberta Arts Days. The Alberta Arts Days, taking place from September 30 – October 2, is an annual celebration of our culture, heritage, artistic diversity and provincial pride.
And why not celebrate our culture, heritage, and artistic diversity? Studies show, in fact, that arts, culture, and heritage-related activities are:
•Essential to personal health – active living is a key determinant of health status
•Key to balanced human development and helping us reach our potential
•Essential to quality of life and place
•Reduces self-destructive and anti-social behaviour
•Builds strong families and healthy communities
•Reduces health care, social services, and police costs
•Significant economic generators in our communities
*Click on the National Benefits HUB for evidence of the above.
And the Government of Alberta seems to be taking this seriously. This year, in an effort to stimulate community involvement, the Government of Alberta increased the number of grants that designated Alberta Arts Days Celebration Sites.
These sites work with local community groups, artists and arts organizations to present family-friendly activities, workshops and performances during the Alberta Arts Days weekend. This year, five organizations have received Feature Celebration Site status and 64 organizations (a majority of them in rural communities) have received Host Celebration Site status. Click here to see a list of these sites.
Last year, thousands of Albertans discovered, experienced and celebrated our unique culture, heritage, artistic diversity and provincial pride through 682 events in 91 communities throughout the province. The Alberta Arts Days this year will continue to showcase the province's artists, arts organizations and cultural industries, while encouraging Albertans to discover the important role the arts plays in developing a prosperous, vibrant society.
So if you’d like to see what is happening in your community see this link!
And it just so happens that Longview is one of the Alberta Arts Days new Host Celebration sites and I can’t wait to see how it all works out. So, if you happen to be down Longview’s way, come join me for a celebration of the arts in rural Alberta!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Sports Day in Canada
"Sport has the power to reduce crime, foster character and citizenship, introduce newcomers to their communities, stimulate the local economy, provide adult mentorship for young people, teach kids important life lessons and strengthen community connectedness.”
This statement is from the ‘Sports Day in Canada’ website. Did you know that Saturday, September 17th is our nation’s national sports day?
As a child and as a youth, I was quite heavily involved in organized sports. I hated peewee baseball, played volleyball and basketball in high school, and eventually banned golf from my life (much to the horror – and constant disappointment - of my golf-addicted father). Heck - I even tried curling! It was only recently, however, as an adult that I returned to an organized sport.
This year, I took a huge leap and joined the Calgary Rage – Calgary’s all women, full contact, tackle football team. Who knew I would even have the gumption! For five months, I braved the injuries, the fear of learning something new and looking silly, and the sheer ferociousness of the sport because, in the end, I was looking for something.
And it was on the football field that I found it. There I found a new community. I found a group of people with infectious passion for a game that I slowly beginning to love myself. I found the courage to push myself to new limits and the ability to wrap my brain around a whole new physical vocabulary.
But what I found, ultimately, was the most important thing of all – I found a renewed love of playing sports.
Sports Day in Canada celebrates this true power of sport. From grassroots to high-performance levels, in communities across Canada, September 17th caps off a week of thousands of local sporting events and activities, open houses and try-it days showcasing sport at all levels, and includes a special television broadcast on CBC Sports.
This day is presented by CBC Sports, ParticipACTION and True Sport and is guided by a committee of national sporting organizations and their networks of coaches, athletes and enthusiasts across the country. It's an opportunity for all Canadians to celebrate the power of sport to build community, fortify our national spirit and facilitate healthy, active living.
In the week leading up to, and including, September 17, thousands of organizations across Canada will throw open their doors to celebrate sport at the local level, and help build momentum for Sports Day. On the ground in communities across the country, sport organizations and providers will hold a blitz of Sports Day in Canada events, with festivals, open houses, games, competitions, meet-and-greets, try-it days, tournaments, fun runs, spectator events and pep rallies that celebrate sport at all levels.
Organizations can create something new, or throw open their doors to something they're already doing--and invite Canadians to lace up and join them. Wherever possible, elite athletes, celebrities, politicians, Paralympians and Olympians will be making special appearances at Sports Day in Canada events in communities across the country.
So I ask you, how will you get out there and celebrate your potential? If I can learn how to tackle a running back, get into a 3-point defensive stance (albeit very badly!), and take down an opponent on a kick return, what can you do?
To find out what’s happening community, click here! And let me know how it all turns out….
This statement is from the ‘Sports Day in Canada’ website. Did you know that Saturday, September 17th is our nation’s national sports day?
As a child and as a youth, I was quite heavily involved in organized sports. I hated peewee baseball, played volleyball and basketball in high school, and eventually banned golf from my life (much to the horror – and constant disappointment - of my golf-addicted father). Heck - I even tried curling! It was only recently, however, as an adult that I returned to an organized sport.
This year, I took a huge leap and joined the Calgary Rage – Calgary’s all women, full contact, tackle football team. Who knew I would even have the gumption! For five months, I braved the injuries, the fear of learning something new and looking silly, and the sheer ferociousness of the sport because, in the end, I was looking for something.
And it was on the football field that I found it. There I found a new community. I found a group of people with infectious passion for a game that I slowly beginning to love myself. I found the courage to push myself to new limits and the ability to wrap my brain around a whole new physical vocabulary.
But what I found, ultimately, was the most important thing of all – I found a renewed love of playing sports.
Sports Day in Canada celebrates this true power of sport. From grassroots to high-performance levels, in communities across Canada, September 17th caps off a week of thousands of local sporting events and activities, open houses and try-it days showcasing sport at all levels, and includes a special television broadcast on CBC Sports.
This day is presented by CBC Sports, ParticipACTION and True Sport and is guided by a committee of national sporting organizations and their networks of coaches, athletes and enthusiasts across the country. It's an opportunity for all Canadians to celebrate the power of sport to build community, fortify our national spirit and facilitate healthy, active living.
In the week leading up to, and including, September 17, thousands of organizations across Canada will throw open their doors to celebrate sport at the local level, and help build momentum for Sports Day. On the ground in communities across the country, sport organizations and providers will hold a blitz of Sports Day in Canada events, with festivals, open houses, games, competitions, meet-and-greets, try-it days, tournaments, fun runs, spectator events and pep rallies that celebrate sport at all levels.
Organizations can create something new, or throw open their doors to something they're already doing--and invite Canadians to lace up and join them. Wherever possible, elite athletes, celebrities, politicians, Paralympians and Olympians will be making special appearances at Sports Day in Canada events in communities across the country.
So I ask you, how will you get out there and celebrate your potential? If I can learn how to tackle a running back, get into a 3-point defensive stance (albeit very badly!), and take down an opponent on a kick return, what can you do?
To find out what’s happening community, click here! And let me know how it all turns out….
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
To build a barn...
Just recently, I found myself on a Saskatchewan highway, heading back to the tiny, rural village where both my parents grew up. It was my baba Naclia’s 90th birthday and I was making the 9-hour trip just to be there to celebrate with her and my extended family.
This little prairie village called Norquay was where I spent most of my childhood summers. I would run amuck in the large community garden behind my grandparent’s home in the town, listening as they spoke Ukrainian to their neighbours and marveling at how easy this exotic language rolled off their tongues.
Both sides of my family immigrated to Canada from the Ukraine. My dad’s theory is that a little impoverished village in the ‘old country’ simply picked itself up, got on a boat, and relocated to the prairies in Canada. This was my parent’s hometown.
Friday, July 22, 2011
What football taught me about community
Earlier this year, I decided to take the plunge and join an organized sport. Up until this point, many of my recreational ‘sporting’ activities have had a wee bit of lone wolf edge – like running and boxing, for example.
Recently, however, I found myself yearning for more of a community. I don’t know if it’s an age thing. If, instead of being compelled to nest like most women my age, I had the urge instead to cluster. I found myself wanting to spend some of my free time with like-minded ladies looking to challenge themselves and – hey – kick some butt doing it!
So I joined a full tackle woman’s football team called the Calgary Rage. Bet you didn’t see that one coming? And to be honest, neither did I! A friend from my boxing class asked me one day if I wanted to try out and I said: “why not!” And the rest, as they say, is history in the making.
What I realized quite quickly was that there was nothing like playing tackle football to take you out of your comfort zone, scare the living pants off of you, and make you bond instantly with a complete group of strangers. It was hard, it was exhilarating, and it made me push my own personal limits every time I hit the field.
I won’t say that I was ever reduced to tears, because there’s NO CRYING in football, but I can say that I constantly moved and inspired by the sheer willpower of the women who played with me.
Hold on… sound a bit like community building? If you have ever experienced the highs and lows of coming together as a community, then you might know where I am coming from.
So I thought that it was quite apropos to touch on a few parallels and share the lessons I have learned about community by playing for the Calgary Rage.
GO TEAM!
If ever you want to experience a true sense of being a team, you have to try playing tackle football. As I stared down the facemask of a 200+ lb offensive lineman waiting to squish me, I always found courage and drive in the fact that I knew that the rest of my defensive unit was watching my back.
That was the key. If we all did our jobs to support each other while we played, the Rage was a well-oiled machine. Our corners covered the passes that the defensive line couldn’t. The linebackers contained the running plays and there was always the safety at the back as the final line of defense. But when we didn’t do our jobs, when we yelled words of blame instead of encouragement, the team fell apart.
Like with community building, the more supportive you are with those on the front lines with you, the more likely you will succeed as a team.
Become an excellent leader
You want to make an impact? Become an excellent leader… One of the captains on my football team was a National-team running back named Erin. She is one of those athletes who always plays with heart, give it her all during practice AND during games, and expected us to do the same – without a doubt.
Erin acted as the Sheppard of an eclectic team made up of stay-at-home moms, businesswomen, jocks, and babes of all sorts of ages and backgrounds, constantly leading by example and tirelessly encouraging us to explore our potential.
One of her favourite Calgary Rage cheers as we got ready for our games: “You mess with one of us, you mess with all.”
I think we often overlook the grassroots leaders in our communities as we are too quick to look to our elected officials for guidance. Instead, look to those you know who lead by example and who truly cares about the potential and wellbeing of his or her community. Or, more importantly, become one of those leaders yourself.
Always protect your quarterback
Once in awhile, this past season, I was able to squeak onto the offensive line. One of the biggest tragedies I discovered, for an offensive lineman, is to be in a play where your quarterback gets sacked (which mean being tackled for you football newbies….).
It made me wonder how many times, unintentionally or not, we let our own communities’ quarterbacks take a hit for us when they shouldn’t have. Are we as community members stepping up enough to protect our visionaries and our community playmakers? If the answer to that is “no’ or even “maybe’, then we all need to dig a little deeper and be willing to throw some blocks for those willing to put themselves out there.
When it comes to community (and to football), the ones protecting the quarterback are as important as the quarterback themselves.
Never leave anything on the field
One of the things that our Rage defensive coach always demanded was that we never left anything on the field. What he meant by that was that we always pushed ourselves to give it our all and more. You knew that you accomplished this when, tucked away into bed that night, you had no regrets.
Our coaches also said that if you were to fail, do it going 100%! This was always my favourite saying. Football is a sport that really shows a player’s heart on the field. But, like with everything, no matter what, mistakes happen. Those mistakes sting less, however, when they happen when you are really, really sincerely trying.
My biggest lessons have always happened in community development and in football when I have HUGELY fallen flat on my face. No true lessons, or results for that matter, happen when you kinda, sorta make an effort.
Its not always about winning and losing…
The biggest thing that I took away from my first season of football was that winning and losing wasn’t the be all and end all. The biggest thrill came from pushing myself beyond my comfort zone, testing my potential, and learning something new.
And what I found I loved most about playing football, in the end, was the true bond of a team, of a community that eventually became like a football family. Without a doubt, playing the game was tough but I always found strength in the fact that I knew that I was never alone on the field.
Mess with one, you mess with all. Now how is that as a slogan for community?
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
A changing culture
What defines a culture? I found myself contemplating this during a recent visit to Ireland. Stereotypically known for their pub life and fighting spirit, the Ireland of today is much different than what many of us might expect.
As a Canadian, I have spent considerable time in Ireland. In fact, I lived there for three years. So during my recent visit to the country, I was pleasantly surprised at the upswing in terms of the Irish embracing a more active and healthier lifestyle.
There was a time in Ireland, however, when socializing meant going to the pub. Unfortunately, this led to copious amounts of drinking and the fracturing of the family. There was even a movement founded in 1898 where individuals formed a group called the Pioneers. Members of this group took what they called the ‘pledge’ or were ‘pinned’ which meant they abstained from drinking alcohol. This practice continues even today.
There is no denying, though, that the Irish still love a pint and a good laugh in the pub.
So what did I notice about this new Ireland? The largest thing I noticed was the movement away from the pub as being central to everyone’s leisure time. Sure, families still went to the pub for Sunday dinner but it was no longer the ONLY gathering place.
Instead, I noticed that people stayed in more and socialized at home with family and friends. There is also a big movement to be physically active. When I lived in Ireland, I was the only person in my area who jogged… I was that crazy Canadian prodding away in the continual rain. As I watched the road in front of my in-law’s house a few weeks ago, I noticed numerous new groups of people walking and jogging together.
On a grander scale, walking groups have taken a hold in Ireland. These organized groups head to the local mountains for ‘cultural walks’ that wind through ruins and old monuments. This has actually become a considerable economic driver for many parts of the country as people of all fitness levels can partake in these scenic walking tours.
So why the change? Interestingly enough, one of the big drivers of this change was the downturn in the economy. This meant that people tended to not only stay in but they now also looked for cheaper ways to recreate. Welcome to the free and great outdoors! Smoking also became banned in the pubs which, while welcomed by many, did change the face of who frequented the local watering hole.
Improvements in the quality of houses also made the people more prone to stay home side as there was now more room to entertain. Contemporary practices geared towards more involved parenting are also keeping younger parents more involved in family-related activities.
Because, ultimately, you know what you know. But now, Ireland knows the benefits of an active lifestyle that is engaged with their families. While the old school pub culture may be fading away in Ireland, a whole new healthier culture is emerging.
And sure you still might have a pint in the pub but now it’s after a five-hour hike through the Cooley Mountains. And as the Irish will try and tell you, those are the times that the calories in those pints of Guinness really don’t count.
For more info on the walking culture of Ireland, check out these great links:
As a Canadian, I have spent considerable time in Ireland. In fact, I lived there for three years. So during my recent visit to the country, I was pleasantly surprised at the upswing in terms of the Irish embracing a more active and healthier lifestyle.
There was a time in Ireland, however, when socializing meant going to the pub. Unfortunately, this led to copious amounts of drinking and the fracturing of the family. There was even a movement founded in 1898 where individuals formed a group called the Pioneers. Members of this group took what they called the ‘pledge’ or were ‘pinned’ which meant they abstained from drinking alcohol. This practice continues even today.
There is no denying, though, that the Irish still love a pint and a good laugh in the pub.
So what did I notice about this new Ireland? The largest thing I noticed was the movement away from the pub as being central to everyone’s leisure time. Sure, families still went to the pub for Sunday dinner but it was no longer the ONLY gathering place.
Instead, I noticed that people stayed in more and socialized at home with family and friends. There is also a big movement to be physically active. When I lived in Ireland, I was the only person in my area who jogged… I was that crazy Canadian prodding away in the continual rain. As I watched the road in front of my in-law’s house a few weeks ago, I noticed numerous new groups of people walking and jogging together.
On a grander scale, walking groups have taken a hold in Ireland. These organized groups head to the local mountains for ‘cultural walks’ that wind through ruins and old monuments. This has actually become a considerable economic driver for many parts of the country as people of all fitness levels can partake in these scenic walking tours.
So why the change? Interestingly enough, one of the big drivers of this change was the downturn in the economy. This meant that people tended to not only stay in but they now also looked for cheaper ways to recreate. Welcome to the free and great outdoors! Smoking also became banned in the pubs which, while welcomed by many, did change the face of who frequented the local watering hole.
Improvements in the quality of houses also made the people more prone to stay home side as there was now more room to entertain. Contemporary practices geared towards more involved parenting are also keeping younger parents more involved in family-related activities.
Because, ultimately, you know what you know. But now, Ireland knows the benefits of an active lifestyle that is engaged with their families. While the old school pub culture may be fading away in Ireland, a whole new healthier culture is emerging.
And sure you still might have a pint in the pub but now it’s after a five-hour hike through the Cooley Mountains. And as the Irish will try and tell you, those are the times that the calories in those pints of Guinness really don’t count.
For more info on the walking culture of Ireland, check out these great links:
For more info on the walking culture of Ireland, check out these great links:
Friday, May 13, 2011
Irricana's Grasshopper Gallery & Co-op
The space was green. And I mean really green… But it was a green that was funky, artsy, and very cool. It was, in fact, the perfect stage setting for Irricana’s undiscovered gem – the Grasshopper Gallery.
Or perhaps I should clarify that it was a new discovery to me. I had been visiting Irricana recently as part of the launch of the new multi-purpose floor of their recreation center. Also participating in the event happened to be local artist Brenda Campbell. It was like destiny that we should meet – or more to the point – she came over to introduce herself and quite enthusiastically said that I needed to visit the Grasshopper Gallery.
She, of course, was right. Over the years, my career in the arts has taken me to various international art spaces. Of all of these spaces, my favourite ones have been those that were not simply exhibition spaces but bumping grounds where the arts and community met. Queue Irricana’s Grasshopper Gallery.
The first thing that I discovered about the Grasshopper was that it wasn’t only an exhibition space; it was also an artist co-op. The idea of forming an art co-op in Irricana had been a dream that Brenda Campbell has had for many years. As an artist herself, Brenda understood how cost prohibitive trying to “go it alone” could be for most struggling artists. And the so the idea for the Grasshopper Gallery AND Irricana Artist’s Co-op was born.
With some seed funding from the Federal Government’s Rural Development Fund awarded to the Canadian Badlands Ltd. for several initiatives, forming an art co-op in Irricana was put into motion. The gallery and co-op officially opened their doors on July 10, 2010, in the old newspaper office located on Irricana’s main street.
Brenda says that it took old style elbow grease and a ‘work bee’ (much like a knitting bee but participants come out to help get a job completed) to get the gallery space to the state it is at now. Members of the co-op also take turns manning the gallery as part of their commitment to the project.
This commitment to community spirit is what defines the Grasshopper Gallery. Not only has become a funky ‘third space’ where artists can meet and discuss ideas with colleagues or interested community members, it also aims to promote the arts and artists in Irricana and the surrounding areas by offering a wide variety of classes, lectures and a retail gift store.
Hoping to work with other local businesses and even stretch their reach into the tourism trade, the vision for the artist’s co-op in Irricana includes being diversified and interesting enough to help foster some economic developmental spin offs for both themselves and the town itself.
I know that I will be keeping a watchful on them and encourage you to do the same. You never know what artistic gems are yet to be discovered in rural Alberta.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the Irricana Artist’s Co-op is invited to contact Brenda at bcampbell@efirehose.net.
Or perhaps I should clarify that it was a new discovery to me. I had been visiting Irricana recently as part of the launch of the new multi-purpose floor of their recreation center. Also participating in the event happened to be local artist Brenda Campbell. It was like destiny that we should meet – or more to the point – she came over to introduce herself and quite enthusiastically said that I needed to visit the Grasshopper Gallery.
She, of course, was right. Over the years, my career in the arts has taken me to various international art spaces. Of all of these spaces, my favourite ones have been those that were not simply exhibition spaces but bumping grounds where the arts and community met. Queue Irricana’s Grasshopper Gallery.
The first thing that I discovered about the Grasshopper was that it wasn’t only an exhibition space; it was also an artist co-op. The idea of forming an art co-op in Irricana had been a dream that Brenda Campbell has had for many years. As an artist herself, Brenda understood how cost prohibitive trying to “go it alone” could be for most struggling artists. And the so the idea for the Grasshopper Gallery AND Irricana Artist’s Co-op was born.
With some seed funding from the Federal Government’s Rural Development Fund awarded to the Canadian Badlands Ltd. for several initiatives, forming an art co-op in Irricana was put into motion. The gallery and co-op officially opened their doors on July 10, 2010, in the old newspaper office located on Irricana’s main street.
Brenda says that it took old style elbow grease and a ‘work bee’ (much like a knitting bee but participants come out to help get a job completed) to get the gallery space to the state it is at now. Members of the co-op also take turns manning the gallery as part of their commitment to the project.
This commitment to community spirit is what defines the Grasshopper Gallery. Not only has become a funky ‘third space’ where artists can meet and discuss ideas with colleagues or interested community members, it also aims to promote the arts and artists in Irricana and the surrounding areas by offering a wide variety of classes, lectures and a retail gift store.
Hoping to work with other local businesses and even stretch their reach into the tourism trade, the vision for the artist’s co-op in Irricana includes being diversified and interesting enough to help foster some economic developmental spin offs for both themselves and the town itself.
I know that I will be keeping a watchful on them and encourage you to do the same. You never know what artistic gems are yet to be discovered in rural Alberta.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the Irricana Artist’s Co-op is invited to contact Brenda at bcampbell@efirehose.net.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Election 2011: What about arts and culture?
Election 2011: What about arts and culture? I stole this title from an email from the Canadian Conference from the Arts (CCA). As an arts advocacy group, the CCA has been keeping an ever-watchful eye on the latest election campaign hullabaloo around the arts and culture sector.
And to be honest, I’m glad that someone is. I’m a bit of a lazy monkey when it comes to politics. If I had a choice between watching a political debate or watching paint dry, I might lean more towards the paint. Or at least catch the debate highlight reel.
I do, however, understand the importance of being aware and informed. So for those like me, who might be more inclined to read the ‘cheat notes’ version when it comes to politics, here are some reputable places to begin your election 2011 research.
1) The Canadian Conference of the Arts (CCA) website
Who are they? The Canadian Conference of the Arts (CCA) is the national forum for the arts and cultural community in Canada. It provides research, analysis and consultations on public policies affecting the arts and the Canadian cultural institutions and industries. The CCA fosters informed public debate on policy issues and seeks to advance the cultural rights of Canadians.
During the election period, the CCA has been posting analyses and information relevant to the arts, culture and heritage sector. They have also been watching as each party articulates their political platform with relation to arts and culture. So keep checking their 2011 election page for new updates.
This website also has handy things like a fantastic ‘CCA Federal Election Doorstep Kit’ so that you can ask informed questions when the campaigners come a knocking.
2) The Canadian Arts Coalition ‘Arts Vote Toolkit’
Who are they? The Canadian Arts Coalition (CAC) is a collaborative non-partisan movement spearheaded by a group of national arts service and membership organizations. They are united in the belief that the future of our citizens, their towns and cities and the nation itself depends on a rich, vibrant and diverse arts and heritage community. Since its inception, the CAC has successfully lobbied for increased support for the arts through the Canada Council for the Arts and the Department of Canadian Heritage.
Their contribution to informing Canadians about the importance of arts and culture during this election period is a virtual ‘Arts Vote Toolkit’. Here you can find items like:
- The Arts: a story we all share – A document to share with candidates
- Talking with Candidates – Key questions and tips to use when candidates knock on your door
- Key Statistics on Arts and Culture – The arts have a big impact on our economy and our society. Here are some relevant statistics to illustrate that impact.
- Elections Canada – Information on where to vote, what you need to bring and who your local candidates are.
Has being informed ever been so easy?
3) Imagine Canada Election Kit
Who are they? Imagine Canada is a national charitable organization whose cause is Canada’s charities and nonprofits. They support and strengthen charities and nonprofits so they can, in turn, support Canadians and communities they serve.
To help us mere mortals wrap our brains around this election, Imagine Canada has also created a 2011 Election Kit. This particular kit includes, among other tools, a number of briefing notes on key issues facing the sector that have been identified through their National Engagement Strategy.
They also have a very valuable DOs and DON'Ts for Charities info sheet targeted for those interested in taking political action during an election campaign.
So there you go! Not only are there are plenty of ways out there to get informed, you now have the tools to become an advocate in your area for the importance of arts, culture, and heritage.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Funding for the Alberta Arts Days
A few weeks ago, I hosted a teleconference info session on the new upcoming grants for this year’s Alberta Arts Days. Don’t know about the Alberta Arts Days? Then check out this link to learn more about the event itself.
If you haven’t heard the big news, Alberta Culture and Community Spirit will be granting funds this year, through an open call, to various Designated Celebration Sites. Up to five applicants will have the chance to become Alberta Arts Days Feature Celebration Sites; which means they will be eligible to receive a maximum grant of $20,000. An additional 55 applicants will be selected as Host Celebration Sites, making those hosts eligible to receive a maximum of $5,000.
I hosted my teleconference this month with the hopes that an increased number of smaller communities and rural areas would become involved in the Arts Days activities this year. This is due in main part, of course, to my love of the arts but also hinged on a sneaking suspicion that there might be a push by the Alberta Culture and Community Spirit to increase participation in rural Alberta.
I think this line in their info document kind of tipped me off: “When selecting successful applicants, Alberta Culture and Community Spirit will ensure that a variety of locations are chosen across the province.” Hey? See what I’m saying?
So if you happen to be an enterprising, rural community with a passion for the arts… take note and, more importantly, take action!
Now, I would like to pause here and officially declare that I AM NOT an employee of the Alberta Arts Days. I am simply passing this info on in good faith. If you would like to contact those who are ACTUALLY working for the Alberta Arts Days, see the info posted below.
Of course, another way to receive official info is to take a look at this info sheet provided on the Arts Days website. Here you’ll also find the official application form and very handy items like a sample budget. How fantastic is that!
I would also recommend that you pay close attention to the project objectives as I’m guessing that the more you reflect these objectives, the better your chances will be to receive funding.
And here they are for your perusal:
- provide free, family-friendly events;
- highlight local art and artists;
- involve local talent;
- involve youth;
- partner with other organizations in the community; and
- include a multicultural component.
During this same conference call, some participants brought up a series of really good questions not outlined in the info sheet mentioned above. On a side note, do make this Arts Days Info sheet your new best friend as it is packed full of extremely useful and important information.
Seeing that I didn’t have the answers, I have now consulted with someone who did. Below are the questions that arose from our conference call and the answers (as interpreted by me) from an Arts Day representative.
1) If two organizations from one community apply for an Alberta Arts Day Grant, would they cancel each other out?
No. But you will be in direct competition with each other. It is useful to note that one of the priorities of the Alberta Arts Days this year is to encourage partnerships between organizations in each community. Any application demonstrating partnerships will be looked upon favorably.
So get out there and chat with others in your community as you might have the perfect collaboration opportunity just waiting for you!
2) Is this a one-time funding opportunity?
The long-term goal for Alberta Arts Days is for community events to be self-sustainable. So it will really be up to you to make sure that your event or project is sustainable for the long haul. Be creative... look for new partnerships and embrace an entrepreneurial spirit!
3) Can I apply for liability insurance for my project?
Yes… having stated that, however, an applicant’s budget will be graded on overall merit, and if a large portion of their proposed budget is simply going towards insurance (ex. 50% of their budget), they may not score very high.
4) If I have received funding from other government agencies for my event, will this decrease my chances to receive an Alberta Arts Days grant?
No – quite the opposite! The Alberta Arts Days encourages applicants to seek out other funding for their events. They can’t foresee any conflicts to date.
Now… if you are looking to possibly use Alberta Arts Days funding as match funding for OTHER grants, it might be a different story (like for Travel Alberta, for example). That is where you will need to do a little bit of research and contact those alternate funders.
5) Can I apply to be a host for a Feature Celebration site if my organization was already one last year?
Yes!
6) If I’m unsuccessful in my application to be a Feature Celebration site, can I apply to be a Host site?
Yes, but PLEASE indicate this interest in your proposal letter.
7) If I have an event like an artist fair/sale where artists are selling their artwork, will this make us ineligible?
No, you can sell artwork at events or other merchandise like band t-shirts, for example.
However, if you are charging admission for your event (like tickets to a concert), you CAN’T use Alberta Arts Days Funding towards that particular event as well.
8) Can municipalities apply?
No! See the info sheet for a list of eligible types of organizations.
9) Can my event be outside of the dates outlined by the Alberta Arts Days (September 30 – October 2, 2011)?
This would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis so I would suggest contacting the Alberta Arts Day Staff.
10) Who can I contact then with my questions about the Alberta Arts Days?
Jason Flammia is one staff person working on this project: 780-644-2422
Or email: artsdays@gov.ab.ca
11) When is my application due?
Submissions are accepted until 4:30 pm on Wednesday, April 20, 2011.
Oh – and please don’t forget that you will need to provide one original and four copies of completed submission packages. I would hate to see anyone miss out because of a technicality!
So good luck and I look forward to seeing all of the fabulous events happening around the province this fall!
Janet Naclia, Creative Cultural Liaison
ACE Communities
jnaclia@aceleaders.ca
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Transforming the King Edward
A few months ago, I was asked to join a community advisory committee for a project spearheaded by the Calgary Arts Development Authority (CADA) and The Calgary Foundation (TCF). The goal of this project – the transformation of a 100 year-old sandstone school called the King Edward in South Calgary into an arts incubator.
As you might imagine, I was a tad intrigued. The vision for the King Edward School site, as spelled out by the CADA project’s leader Reid Henry, was for an integrated, mixed-use hub. It’s aim? To provide a dynamic and collaborative environment focused on the incubation and advancement of professional arts practice, social innovation and community development. And it just so happened that the arts, social innovation, and community development are three of my favourite things.
As you might imagine, I was a tad intrigued. The vision for the King Edward School site, as spelled out by the CADA project’s leader Reid Henry, was for an integrated, mixed-use hub. It’s aim? To provide a dynamic and collaborative environment focused on the incubation and advancement of professional arts practice, social innovation and community development. And it just so happened that the arts, social innovation, and community development are three of my favourite things.
It was a committee position made in heaven. And really, what are the chances of that?
If you aren’t familiar with the project, the repurposing of the King Edward School is to turn the building into an arts-focused, multi-tenant facility that co-locates a range of office, programming and collaboration space for not-for-profit arts and community organizations. It is also envisioned as a dedicated studio space for inpidual artists and creative entrepreneurs working in and across multiple sectors.
In theory, bumping or third spaces such as cafe and event areas are also planned for the building with the goal that they would provide arts-infused gathering places for the facility and broader community, providing opportunities for small-scale performances and community events.
And it doesn’t stop there! The idea for the remainder of the site around the school is a possible cluster of live/work residential uses, amenities and public spaces that reinforce the purpose, and enhance the sustainability, of the art incubator itself. This might mean the first-ever (in Calgary) affordable housing opportunity for artists and their families. Hurrah!
The benefits of restoring and adapting the King Edward School as a mixed use, arts-focused facility focuses on three key scales - each delivering a range of social, economic, environmental and cultural outcomes.
These three areas are, in a nut shell: 1) The Building – focused on the community of artists and non-profit organizations that are tenants or that access the building’s services and spaces 2) The Neighbourhood - the immediate local communities in proximity to the site and 3) The City - the broader community of artists and citizens across the city/region.
By establishing a critical mass of secure, affordable, stable and functional spaces for artists and arts-focused not-for-profit organizations, the rejuvenation of the King Edward School could:
- Provide a thriving and sustainable environment that meets the critical space needs of many artistic disciplines and arts organizations in Calgary’s challenging real estate market
- Promote synergies and connections between tenants to maximize their productivity, creativity and impact (e.g. project collaborations, networking, sharing equipment, resources, knowledge, and skills)
- Help small organizations financially grow or stabilize, supporting their capacity to advance their charitable or non-profit mission
- Cultivate a culture of professionalism and entrepreneurship
- Enhance artists’ financial wellbeing and quality of life
- Enhance the quality of life of the community physically surrounding the King Edward site
- Put Calgary’s art scene on the international map
Now you might have noticed my use of the word ‘could’, ‘might’, and ‘aims’. This is because this is still a process in the works. CADA is currently in its due diligence phase, working to see if this project can/will be embraced by both the geographical community it affects (as in south Calgary) as well as the larger arts community at large.
I am dying to hear your thoughts on the matter. What would an arts incubator mean to your community?
To find out more about the potential arts incubator project in Calgary see: http://www.transformkingedward.com/
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Diversity Friendly Communities
Some say that the universe has a plan. Well, its been finally realized by us at ACE that ACE Communities has a process. No wait, let me amend that…ACE Communities IS a process – a process for change.
When the ACE Communities initiative first came into being it was slated as a project designed to enhance quality of life in rural Alberta by strengthening community leadership, collaboration, and innovation through recreation, parks, arts, culture. After over three years of ACE in action, the project has evolved into a community development process that can now be applied to other issues and challenges.
This is where things get even more interesting. Are you ready?
Rather recently, ACE received the good news that we are the recipient of a grant from the Province of Alberta’s Human Rights Education and Multiculturalism Fund (HREM Fund). I should officially thank ACE Director Brenda Herchmer here for that bit of grant writing chutzpah.
ACE Communities will be using these monies for or a Diversity Friendly Communities project in rural Alberta.
If you weren’t aware, the goal of the Human Rights Education and Multiculturalism (HREM) Fund is "full participation of all Albertans." In the context of the fund, "full civic participation" means that all Albertans have the opportunity to be involved in and benefit from all aspects of society without encountering discrimination because of their race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, disability, age, ancestry, sexual orientation, or the other characteristics protected in the Alberta Human Rights Act.
Specifically, this means that Albertans have the opportunity to participate in the social, cultural, political, and economic life of the province without discrimination. The goal of the upcoming ACE Communities Diversity Friendly Communities project is to help initiate community change using recreation, parks, arts, culture, and heritage as a vehicle that will increase community capacity to: 1) Foster equality and reduce discrimination and racism and 2) Remove organizational barriers that exclude some Albertans.
On a recent teleconference on the subject, a diverse group of community leaders in rural Alberta came together to discuss their sense of readiness. Leaders in Trochu outlined the many ways they have welcomed Filipino newcomers into their town and expressed their concern that they might lose these new additions to their community to the pull of large cities like Calgary.
Leaders from Chestermere and Killam expressed their commitment to long-term plans to make their communities more ready for diverse populations. One leader in Drayton Valley explained how the town’s MSP already does have a diversity lens but they are still struggling to engage with the shadow population (as in transient workers drawn to their community by the oil patch).
And yet another leader is hoping to apply for the project to help mend relations with a neighbouring First Nations community.
So the process and the opportunity is out there. Do you think you are ready to become an ACE Diversity Friendly community? Keep your eyes on the ACE Communities site for more on this great project!
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