Celebrating the work of non-profits in Maskwacis-Wetaskiwin

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Non-profit organizations play a big role in the culture of Alberta.  Often, they are the groups who work quietly in the background to bring so many community events and programs to life, to keep community facilities in operation, and to enhance community engagement. The Alberta government, through the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Status of Women, supports the work of such non-profits by making grants available to organizations that meet specific criteria as set out by the ministry. There are capital grants through the Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP), non-capital grants through the Community Initiatives Program (CIP), and other grants.   

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Five very deserving community volunteer groups in Maskwacis-Wetaskiwin were approved for provincial grants recently.  Lakedell Agricultural Society has big plans to design and construct a new curling club. Their application was approved, and they will receive provincial funding to help with this project. 

You may have heard that the Friends of the Millet Youth Society is working hard to build the Millet Community Skate Park.  They received provincial funding to help give youth of all ages and abilities the opportunity to improve their physical and social skills in a recreational setting.   

Angus Ridge Community Hall’s project was given the green light; watch for interior and exterior renovations coming soon.

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Falun Skating Rink has experienced theft and vandalism. Pigeon Lake Athletic, Cultural, and Educational Society plans to use their grant money to help acquire a storage building to provide security and protection of the equipment used to operate and maintain their outdoor rink. 

Get ready for a new lighting system at Manluk Theatre for the Performing Arts!  The Wetaskiwin Theatre Society’s application for funding to assist with the upgrade of their current theatre lighting to modern LED lighting was successful. Reduced energy consumption and enhanced theatre productions are right around the corner. 

I have such respect for folks who contribute to their communities, and I’m especially glad when I can help with their efforts to secure funding for projects that will benefit their fellow community members.  If your non-profit could use some help with community projects, be sure to check out the information online about grants that are available through the provincial government. https://www.alberta.ca/non-profit-and-charitable-organizations-topic 

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The Fall Session of the 31st Legislature wrapped up after an evening sitting on Dec. 4.  A total of 13 bills were passed this time around, with a focus on the protection and promotion of Alberta’s rights and freedoms. You can keep track of all the happenings at the Legislature by checking out www.assembly.ab.ca   

The next Session will likely start up in February when the focus will be government’s upcoming budget deliberations.  If you have something you’d like to share about what you think the government’s financial priorities should be, or how we should prioritize spending on health care, education, and other core public services and programs to support Albertans now and in the future, please consider participating in an online survey, available here:  https://your.alberta.ca/budget-2025/surveys/public.  The survey closes Jan. 12, 2025. 

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If you are interested in receiving news straight from the provincial government, you can sign up to receive emails at:    https://www.alberta.ca/news-subscriptions 

I’m proud to report that the government of Alberta has, in partnership with the Office of the Alberta Health Advocates, hired Tony Cardinal as the province’s first Indigenous Patient Safety Investigator and Advocate.  In this role, Mr. Cardinal will have the authority to lead investigations, make recommendations to improve experiences, and help First Nations, Metis, and Inuit patients address concerns by providing culturally safe support, navigation, education, and information throughout the patient complaint process. The objective is to improve health care delivery and outcomes for First nations, Metis, and Inuit patients by ensuring an understanding of Indigenous culture and concerns within the health system. 

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I was delighted to host a Christmas Open House at my constituency office again this year!  I appreciate all those folks who took time out of their busy schedules to stop by and share some of the joy of the season — it was really wonderful to connect and catch up!  I was grateful, too, that so many of you brought food bank items – thank you for your generosity and kindness.  My heartfelt thanks as well to the team of volunteers whose willingness to help brought this event together so nicely – your work and your support are very much appreciated! 

Did you know that Alberta’s Lt. Gov. Salma Lakhani hosts an annual New Year’s Day Levee (open house) at Government House?  On Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, from 1 p.m.  to 3 p.m., guests will be able to view the beautiful art and displays throughout Government House (12845 – 102 Ave., Edmonton), meet and take a photo with the Lt. Gov., and enjoy live music and festive treats.  The Levee is free, open to the public, and suitable for all ages. 

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It looks rather festive these days at the Legislature!  It’s an annual tradition that the grounds are lit up in celebration of the season for everyone to enjoy. If you happen to be in Edmonton over the holidays, bundle up and take a walk through the beautiful lights at the Legislative Grounds. 

Whatever you have planned for this upcoming holiday season, and whatever celebrations engage you, I wish you and yours joy and peace, health and happiness! 

Hon. Rick Wilson is the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Maskwacis-Wetaskiwin.  His constituency office can be reached by email at Maskwacis.wetaskiwin@assembly.ab.ca, or by phone at 780-360-8003.   

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