On Wednesday, March 19, Safe Communities Humboldt held its annual general meeting at the Humboldt Uniplex. Board Chair Dave Mortensen convened the meeting and took those assembled through another busy year of activities, highlighting key programs that have become valued in Humboldt and the area.
Mortensen explained that Safe Communities Humboldt serves the city and communities with a 50 km radius.
“Our mission to provide educational injury prevention programming to Humboldt and the surrounding area is ongoing, even within times of significant challenge and change,” Mortenson relayed in the message from Director Amanda Hauber and himself as board chair. “With the help of community stakeholders, we work to establish priority area and offer programming with each as resources allow.”
Those stakeholders and supporters are critical braces for the organization and its wide range of educational focuses for all age groups. Sitting on the board are members of the RCMP, Humboldt Fire Department and Protective Services, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Horizon School Division, and now Partners Family Services and Homebase with the addition of Ben Donaldson on the Board.
Local volunteers and donors contribute to the financial needs, as do major corporate sponsors. One of those on hand at the meeting was Dale Ramler, Nutrien Lanigan safety manager with a check for $5,000 as a donation to the cause. Mortensen also acknowledged the Humboldt Co-op as the recipient of the 2024 Ambassador for Safety Award in recognition of its continued dedication to assisting in the programming.
Mortensen highlighted the key activities for the year, starting off with the PARTY (Prevent Alcohol and Risk Related Trauma in Youth) Program. The one-day event targets high school aged students on the role that impairment and smart choices have in connection with trauma. Mock crashes, attended by local emergency responders; presentation by various organizations; and a unique lunch as an infirmed crash victim are all parts of the package.
The Bike Rodeo and Safety Day saw approximately 60 grades 1 – 4 students participate in Muenster. Helmet fittings, hands on activities, and presentations from CN rail and the RCMP impressed upon youngsters the importance of proper equipment and awareness. The positive ticketing campaign was also popular once again, said Mortensen. Local RCMP and Community Safety personnel handed out tickets to young people for showing safety awareness. Whether it’s wearing bike helmets or proper equipment at the skateboard park, the tickets gave youngsters a chance at some great prizes.
One of the most fun activities of the year, said Mortensen, was the Newcomer Winter Preparedness Clinics, where new arrivals to Saskatchewan learn the realities of our winter climate with fun and engaging sessions. There’s also a chance for new residents to stock up on much needed winter clothing thanks to donations provided throught the Humboldt Regional Newcomer Centre.
The year ended with a positive balance for Safe Communities Humboldt which gathered $68,080 in operating revenue and incurred $57,254 in operating expenses with the surplus going into the coming year’s programming.
That programming continues throughout the year, so keep your eyes peeled from the next offerings from Safe Communities Humboldt.