Safe Communities Humboldt works with various community and regional organizations to educate and promote around issues of safe behaviours. This year, the organization saw record attendance at their safety events and the launch of new initiatives aimed at educating the community about critical safety issues. Amanda Hauber, Director of Safe Communities Humboldt, shared her excitement about the positive impact the programs have had in 2024.
"This year, our safety events were very well attended, which was so wonderful to see," Hauber said. "In addition to our regular safety programs, we were pleased to launch a new initiative this year, which was our Brown Bag Safety Message campaign."
The Brown Bag Safety Message campaign, a collaboration between Safe Communities Humboldt, the Humboldt Co-op, local RCMP, the Humboldt Community Safety Officer, and local elementary schools, was designed to raise awareness about safe driving. Students participated in presentations focused on the importance of seat belts and the dangers of distracted or impaired driving. They then illustrated safe driving messages on brown paper bags, which were distributed with purchases at the Humboldt Co-op Liquor Store.
"We facilitated this program over the summer and will be doing another round of distribution over the Christmas season," Hauber explained. "If any organizations or schools would like to get involved, please contact us."
In addition to the Brown Bag Safety Message, Safe Communities Humboldt hosted several other important safety events. On December 2, the organization welcomed the Saskatchewan Safety Council to lead a mature driver refresher course, with nearly 50 registrants attending the session. The following day, on December 3, they partnered with Youth Matter Canada to present a session on cyber safety and online harms to Humboldt area residents.
"We're thrilled with the turnout and the engagement we've seen at our events," Hauber said. "These programs really make a difference in our community by raising awareness on important topics like safe driving, cyber safety, and mental health."
Throughout the year, Safe Communities Humboldt also hosted a wide range of other safety initiatives, including two Safe Talk sessions, the annual Positive Ticketing campaign, the Bike Safety Day, Senior Safety Symposium, Car Seat Clinic, and presentations on distracted driving. Their Winter Preparedness clinic and clothing drive also supported newcomers to the community.
Looking ahead, Hauber shared that Safe Communities Humboldt is currently running its 2025 membership campaign. "We are very thankful for everyone who has already committed to supporting us in 2025 and welcome anyone with a passion for safety to join us as a member," she said. The organization offers four different membership levels, each with varying benefits, and all donations receive a charitable tax receipt.
Despite the success of the year, Hauber acknowledged the ongoing challenge of recruiting volunteers to help with the growing number of programs.
"One of our main challenges continues to be finding volunteers. With the size of our organization and the number of events we offer, we are always in need of volunteers to assist us in delivering these programs," she said.
Looking to the future, Safe Communities Humboldt has plans for more impactful events, including a Safe Talk workshop on January 27. This workshop, which trains participants to be alert to individuals at risk of suicide, is open to anyone interested in registering.
"If an organization is interested in hosting a private workshop for their staff, this can certainly be arranged as well," Hauber said.
The organization is also encouraging people to stay connected via their Facebook page for upcoming events and safety programming.
“We just want to sincerely thank all of our volunteers, presenters, program partners, financial supporters, and participants from 2024 for making our events and programs a success,” Hauber concluded. “We wish everyone a very healthy, safe, and Merry Christmas season."
For more information about upcoming events or to get involved, individuals can contact Safe Communities Humboldt at 682-0705 or email safecommunity@saskelnet.com. More details are available on their website at www.safecommunitieshumboldt.ca.