The Winkler Family Resource Centre is looking for people with a heart for families to join its board, and new executive director Monica Dueck says it’s one of the most rewarding ways to give back to the community.
Dueck’s connection to the Centre runs deep. “I had my kids in preschool programming through the Winkler Family Resource Centre, so I thought it was a pretty great place already,” she said. “So, when I saw this opportunity come up, I thought this would be a great way to support something that I think is a great facility in our community, and to hang out with little kids, who I love.”
For those unfamiliar, the Centre provides free preschool programming for children up to age 5. “Our goal is to promote numeracy, literacy, physical, [and] mental wellness; anything like that to help kids meet their developmental milestones and to help them with their school readiness by the time they hit kindergarten,” explained Dueck. Programs like Kit and Caboodle and Toddler Shenanigans mix play, crafts, and circle time to create safe, fun spaces for little ones and their caregivers.
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Beyond ABCs and 123s
Beyond teaching ABCs and 123s, the Centre’s programs help kids learn to interact with peers. “Even if you have siblings at home, it’s a little different learning to interact with other kids that you might not know; learning how to share, learning how to take turns,” she said. “That honestly is as big a part as the literacy or the numeracy… learning to sit in a circle and listen to an authority figure other than your parents.”
The search for new board members
Dueck is inviting community members to play a role in shaping the future by joining the board. “We’ve had a couple board members finish their terms with us. So, we are looking to fill those spots and potentially more if there’s interest, because we always love to have more rather than less on our board,” she said.
“I had my kids in preschool programming through the Winkler Family Resource Centre, so I thought it was a pretty great place already...” - The Winkler Family Resource Centre Executive Director, Monica Dueck
Dueck describes serving on the board as simple but meaningful, with one evening meeting per month from September to June, plus helping out at a few events like the beloved Teddy Bear Picnic in June or the Family New Year’s Eve Dance Party. “I think it’s a lot of fun. I think it’s a fun, easy board to be on,” Dueck smiled. “Everyone always enjoys helping out at the Teddy Bear Picnic, because that’s a lot of fun to watch the kids hang out and have fun.”
Board terms are for two years, renewable up to six. There’s a short application process and a criminal record check. “If anyone’s interested, they can reach out to me directly,” said Dueck. “My phone number is 332-9418, or they can email at director@wfrc.ca. You can also check us out on social media. We’re on Instagram and Facebook.”
Welcome newcomers to the AGM
She adds that anyone curious about the Centre can attend their Annual General Meeting on September 22 at Emmanuel Church Fellowship Hall at 6:30 p.m. “If you have any questions or if you’re interested in what we do or interested in becoming a board member, definitely send me a text, give me a call or e-mail. You are more than welcome to come. Everyone is welcome.”
Learn more here.