A night of encouragement and support
Pembina Counselling Centre is inviting the community to come out for an evening of coffee, dessert, and encouragement.
The organization’s annual spring fundraiser is happening Thursday, April 10th at Winkler Mennonite Brethren Church. Executive Director Chris Derksen says this is their biggest fundraiser of the year, and it's a chance to support the vital work happening behind the scenes at PCC.
“This event helps us cover the gap between what clients can pay and what it costs to provide care,” said Derksen. “In general, about 50% of our budget comes from client fees. The other 50%? That comes from the generosity of our community through events like this one.”
Why fundraising matters
Derksen says PCC is committed to removing barriers to mental health support—and financial assistance is a big part of that. On average, 40% of clients require some level of subsidy to afford care, and no one is turned away for financial reasons.
The fundraiser helps ensure the organization can continue to serve people from across the Pembina Valley, regardless of their ability to pay. It also supports the cost of counselling supplies, staff training, and growing infrastructure as the centre continues to expand.
“Whether it’s individuals walking through anxiety or depression, couples struggling in their marriage, or teens facing challenges at home or school—our counsellors are here to walk with them through that.”
Counselling needs growing in the Pembina Valley
The demand for counselling has grown sharply over the last five years. In 2020, PCC offered just over 2,000 counselling sessions. By 2024, that number more than doubled to nearly 5,000 sessions.
To meet the need, PCC has grown from a team of three counsellors to 10. Derksen says the organization has had to think strategically about how to scale up services without sacrificing quality of care.
“We’re seeing the need, and we’re doing everything we can to respond to it in a thoughtful and sustainable way.”
What to expect at the event
The evening will feature a 75-minute program followed by a dessert bar from De Luca’s and locally roasted coffee from Other Brother Roasters. Guests will hear from keynote speaker Brent Cantelon—a seasoned communicator known for his mix of humour and heart.
“Brent was actually my first youth pastor when I was 13 years old,” said Derksen. “He’s a powerful and hilarious speaker—people are going to love him.”
There will also be a chance to meet members of the PCC team, including new Clinical Director Christine Elias, who recently stepped into the role previously held by Paul Penner. While Penner is still seeing clients, Elias now leads the clinical side of operations.
How to attend
Admission is free, but attendees are asked to RSVP in advance through the Pembina Counselling Centre website or by calling the office. Guests will have an opportunity to give during the event, or can donate online or by e-transfer.
Derksen says beyond raising money, the night is about reminding people that hope and healing are possible—and that nobody needs to face their struggles alone.
“We just want people to come, be inspired, and support something that’s changing lives right here in our community.”