Big Brothers and Big Sisters gets $600,000 grant

Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Red Deer and District has received a $608,307 Alberta Community Facility Enhancement Program grant for facility upgrades to the Centre for Social Impact. 

The provincial government’s grant program provides financial assistance to upgrade, expand, purchase or build arts, cultural, heritage, recreational, sport or other related public-use community facilities.

The Centre for Social Impact, located in downtown Red Deer at 4808 50th St, is where charities and non-profits collaborate to better serve their clients and the community, and where organizations can share resources and minimize operating costs.

“We are grateful for the support from CFEP, which enables us to address facility enhancements and upgrades in support of the charities and non-profits that share this place where community connects,” said Rob Lewis, Executive Director of YouthHQ, in a statement.

Youth HQ offers a variety of programs to support young Central Albertans, including the 49th Street Youth Shelter, Boys and Girls Clubs, the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program, and Camp Alexo.

“The CFEP grant awarded to Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Red Deer and District is very exciting news for Red Deer and surrounding communities. This substantial investment will directly benefit our community by supporting essential youth programs, providing lasting benefits for our youth in the years to come,” said Adriana LaGrange, Red Deer-North MLA and Minister of Health.

“I was happy to write a letter of support, as I am continually inspired by the work Youth HQ does in our community. This grant will undoubtedly enhance their ability to make a positive impact.”

Arts, Culture and Status of Women Minister Tanya Fir said the province is proud to support organizations that improve the quality of life in Alberta communities.

“I am extremely honoured to support the work of non-profit organizations that aim to foster healthy, vibrant communities across Alberta,” Fir said.

For more information on the Centre for Social Impact, visit www.youthhq.ca.