Project Hope back in full swing

Project Hope

 

The students and therapists at Project Hope are back to the grind after a beautiful summer break. Last year we had 84 students participating in some or all of the therapies, which include music, art, and phys ed. therapy. 

Each student will gain different benefits from working with the therapists, but in general some of the skills they develop include: improved communication skills, social skills, and interpersonal relationships. 

This year our anticipated operating budget will be approximately $130,000. All of this money is raised through generous donations from community members as well as from service groups such as the local Lions clubs and in the past WFCSS. The volunteer board also works a casino every two years, which is as frequent as Project Hope is eligible, and every March we hold our annual Gala fundraiser. 

This last operating year we received a generous donation from W. Brett Wilson of Prairie Merchant Corp as well as from the Ten Day Tarmac Babies. A big thank you to both of those organizations as without help from people like you Project Hope would cease to operate as the valuable program it is. 

Also this year the ladies at Eventful Elements are putting on a Bridal Fair on Nov. 3 with a performance by local celebrity Drew Gregory. All of the proceeds from the dinner gala are being donated to Project Hope. For tickets to this event please contact Junella at 403-901-7196 or check out the website www.strathmorebridalexpo2012.com. Tickets include dinner and the concert and will also be available through the Strathmore Travelodge. 

Project Hope is a program that is unique to our community, and one we can be very proud of. The therapies are offered in six schools, including Wheatland, Brentwood, CMJHS, SHS, Central Bow Valley and Westmount. 

The therapies these students receive are invaluable and we are so proud to be able to offer them. We are always searching for community members to join our board, as well as donations either in the form of money or items for our annual auction. If you feel you can help please contact Corinne at 403-807-2965. 

For more information please join us at our Annual General Meeting on Monday Nov. 12 at 4:45 p.m. at Westmount School.