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CMHA looking forward to successful 2018

Jan 25, 2018 | 1:00 PM

Looking back at 2017 brings a smile to Jane Zielke de Montbrun’s face.

“It’s almost surreal,” the executive director of the Battlefords branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association said.” With the help of a lot of people and organizations, we accomplished so many amazing things in such a short time frame.”

First and foremost the organization was able to move into its new facility in the former Lion’ Den Building on 103 St. which gave CMHA more space for the increasing number of clientele they have seen in recent years.

“It’s hard to believe but it was in 2014 that the members of the board started doing some groundwork on looking at a new building,” de Montbrun said. “The next thing you know we purchased the Lion’s Den in 2016; began fundraising and renovations after that and then started moving in by April of 2017. It’s really hard to fathom.”

Among the many popular fundraising ventures CMHA hosted included The Great Birdhouse Auction and the Garden Party which itself garnered over $50,000.

“When I think of all the people that stepped up and got involved whether it was helping with a fundraiser or those who made a donation no matter how significant, I’m in awe,” de Montbrun added. “I’ve always said we live in a very caring community and this really showed it.”

As far as 2018 goes, de Montbrun again has some ambitious projects in mind for CMHA including the second annual Garden Party.

“That was a really fun event last year because it was unique,” de Montbrun said. “This year’s will be a bit different however the emphasis of supporting mental health will still be there.”

As far as major purchases she added one investment should take priority in 2018.

“I really feel we need a mini bus,” she said. “Right now we use a 15 passenger van to transport those who participate in our employment experience programs. “

“The last one we purchased was in 2014 and it was a used one,” de Montbrun added. “We’ve had to do a number of significant repairs to it already and I feel it’s time we bite the bullet and make the purchase.”

If you want to become involved with the CMHA Battlefords, drop by the headquarters at 1602 103 St. North Battleford.

 

roger.white@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @RJWtheReporter