WEAAD proclamation event concludes, but awareness critical throughout the year
"Wouldn't it be amazing if future generations only knew of abuse through history books?" This was the fundamental question ask by Jean Dalton as she offered her greetings from the United Way at the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) proclamation event on June 14.
CSS took part as one of the organizers and sponsors of the event. Melanie Perka, Program Supervisor for EARS/EAIT, was also available at a CSS booth to provide more information about the Agency's Elder Abuse Resource & Supports Program and the Elder Abuse Intervention Team, which is a collaboration between CSS and several partner organizations.
City and provincial officials were also on hand for the program. Mayor Mandel made the presentation of proclamation, which was accepted by Nancy McCalder, Executive Director of the Support Network. The Mayor emphasized the importance of raising awareness both for the general public and the victims.
"Elder abuse is an issue that is far too often swept under the table," says the Mayor. At the same time, the victims of abuse face fear and uncertainty about how best to deal with their situation. It's through occasions such as WEAAD that people become increasingly aware of the issue and victims learn more about opportunities to seek help.
The Associate Minister of Wellness, the Honourable Dave Rodney, also noted the importance of collaboration between community partners in helping people learn how to recognize elder abuse and how to respond to it.
Elaine, the keynote speaker, discussed the significant role of the Financial Literacy Program as she turned her life around after leaving an abusive relationship at age 50. Says Elaine, "It is never too late to start over."
CSS Prepares for Annual Meeting
June 13, 2013--CSS is getting set for its 51st annual meeting, now only one week away on June 20, 2013. Tickets are nearly sold out, with 280 people expected to attend. This year’s meeting is being held in the Empire Ballroom of the Hotel Macdonald in Edmonton from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To purchase a ticket, contact Tracy Cumming at (780) 391-3256.
The meeting offers an excellent opportunity to find out more about the Agency and, additionally, this year hear from the new CEO Stephen J. Carattini as he delivers the keynote presentation. The meeting will also feature the presentation of four awards to Outstanding Volunteers--Real and Blandine Demers, Liushien Goon, Paddi Sprecher, and Marie Payne--as well as the Monsignor William Irwin Award for Excellence, which this year goes to Robert “Bob” McKeon.
CEO Honours Volunteers
May 13, 2013--A Volunteer Appreciation Event was held on Saturday, May 11, 2013, at the One World One Centre community hub in Edmonton. Honouring volunteers throughout Catholic Social Services and Catholic Charities, CEO Stephen Carattini extended the following message -