Wheatland Crisis Shelter accepts provincial award

By Miriam Ostermann, Associate Editor

The prevention of domestic violence regardless of gender has been the cornerstone of the Wheatland Crisis Society (WCS) since its inception.
That rationale distinguished the non-profit organization in the province and led to the 2017 Government of Alberta Inspiration Award for Excellence and Innovation.
A total of 14 inspiration awards were handed out to groups and individuals in southern Alberta who have dedicated and demonstrated excellence of working in sectors to address violence, promoting public education about healthy relationships and partnering with Alberta’s diverse communities.
Wheatland Crisis Society, nominated by Calgary-based Sagesse Domestic Violence Prevention Society, was informed of the award in November 2017, but officially received the award on March 9.
“It’s a pretty bold and proud moment in our history and programming moving forward, because for 25 years we’ve looked at domestic violence as a crime against humanity and never looked at it through a gender-based lens,” said Wanda McGinnis, chief executive officer with Wheatland Crisis Society.
“Finally, somebody has recognized that the work we’re doing is important and that including all people is an important way to look at domestic violence. Our founders looked at it as if people are living in an unsafe abusive relationship; we want to make sure they have somewhere that they can go so we’ve always been pioneers.”
Having just surpassed a milestone birthday of 25 years, the shelter serves as a staple in the Strathmore community in providing ongoing support and services to men, women and children affected by family abuse. The society provides counselling, referrals, shelter, public education and outreach to individuals affected by abuse no matter their gender, age, race, religion, socioeconomic status, sexuality, marital status, or mental and physical ability.
For crisis manager Erin Harwood, the organization’s ongoing and progressive approach allow her to make a difference in the community.
“The majority of people who were there (awards ceremony) were all about domestic or family violence; and they were all great candidates and everyone deserved to win. But I think the difference between us (and them) was that we were the only ones that were there for inclusive practices,” Harwood said.
“I feel honoured because you go into this work hoping that you’ll get to make a change in the world, and it’s nice to work in an agency and community that allows you to do that kind of work.”
Nominees were measured against criteria of showing community leadership, enhancing access to services and supports, changing organizational practices, promoting public education of healthy relationships and gender equity, working in partnership across sectors to address violence, developing primary prevention strategies and partnering with the province’s diverse communities. An Inspiration Awards Selection Committee made up of cross-ministerial and community partners – including those from sectors of justice, business, Indigenous affairs and social services – awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award, a Business Leadership Award, an Emerging Excellence Award and 14 Alberta Inspiration Awards for Excellence and Innovation.
“Albertans have always stood up for their neighbours and worked together to support those in need,” said Minister of Community and Social Services Irfan Sabir in a press release.
“The Inspiration Awards acknowledge community leaders who set an extraordinary example to support those affected by violence and abuse. These awards are a way our government can say thank you for their efforts to make life better for all Albertans.”
For more information on the 2017 winners, visit humanservices.alberta.ca.