Archive for October, 2009
Perception not Always Reality
Conducting various projects throughout the City of Red Deer I often find myself downtown. It’s an area of our city that I spend a lot of time in. It’s safe, vibrant and changing for the better! This is thanks to great people that make up our community.
Case in point, Mickey Warkentin, this month’s guest contributor for our blog. I first met Mickey earlier this summer while downtown having a bowl of soup at Potter’s Hands. No, I’m not homeless but I like to be inclusive and get to know other members of my community. This is something I highly recommend for anyone that doubts the potential we all have to change and become more accepting of ALL our neighbours … every single one of us.
Mickey is one of the Schizophrenia Society of Alberta, Red Deer Chapter’s most giving and reliable volunteers. She has impacted our community in many ways and continues to shine bright, volunteering for organizations such as United Way of Central Alberta, Potter’s Hands Ministries, Canadian Mental Health Association, Crisis Pregnancy Care Centre, Women’s Emergency Shelter and more. Recently, I asked Mickey to share some of her insight as it relates to safety and crime prevention. Mickey writes:
4 commentsDon’t Stop Believing
Arnel Pineda of Journey
This is an inspiring story indeed and one that should be shared, especially among those who could use a little good news now and then. All too often, in communities throughout the world we hear about our homeless and those living in poverty. Many stories are negative but as we give thanks today for all that we have, we should celebrate, for there are those that refuse to give up and serve as beacons of hope. Here is a success story that will inspire all of us and demonstrates the strength in those who “Don’t Stop Believing“.
Many communities, including Red Deer, Alberta have identified Homelessness as a priority. City council recently endorsed “Everyone’s Home” – a 5 year community initiative towards ending homelessness from 2010 – 2015 Many people and various organizations have taken the lead in getting people off the street and into necessary shelter. A social marketing campaign is also well underway in an effort to reduce discrimination and hopefully change the way we treat some of our most vulnerable community members.
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