2025 June Newsletter

CAPCC
Jun 23
5 min read

Did you know that an oyster will not produce a pearl unless it is wounded in some way? Oysters have two shells, each with a protective layer that covers the oyster's organs. When an irritant, such as a parasite or foreign object, enters between the two shells, the oyster protects itself by secreting layers of a smooth, shiny substance that coats the intruder over time. Layer by layer, this process continues until a beautiful pearl is formed. Some pearls develop in a period of six months, while larger pearls can take up to four years. A pearl is a healed wound and, in a way, a product of pain. Something that begins as an intruder with the capacity to harm the oyster is transformed into something beautiful. The more pearls an oyster produces, the more precious it becomes. The resiliency of the oyster reminds me of the perseverance of our clients. Those who come to us having experienced adversity and trauma find healing over time, creating their own pearl, so to speak. Pearls come in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes, where no two are the same. Each of our clients' journeys is unique as well, with their own joys and challenges. As we head into the summer months, we are mindful of donations that typically decline in July and August. We want to stress the ongoing need for your support so that we can be part of the protective shield our clients need to find hope. Consider making a one-time gift, increasing your current giving, or starting to give monthly. Sustained donations enable us to meet the needs in our communities, and your donation reminds the men and women we serve that their journey matters. Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Volunteer

Make a difference in your community and become a volunteer! Opportunities are available as client advocates, board members, male mentors, group service projects, and fundraising events (planning, set up & clean up, decorating). Contact info@pregnancycare.ca to learn more.

Do you love to sing or play an instrument? Our annual Easter Musical Production is looking for adult choir members and musicians to join our orchestra for the 2026 Easter fundraiser. We are also looking to fill some production leadership roles. For more information, reach out to Lisa at director@pregnancycare.ca.

"I was overwhelmed and feeling lost about what to do. Thankfully, I found the Central Alberta Pregnancy Care Centre. I honestly do not know what I would have done without this place. It felt so good to be treated with dignity, love, and respect. It has been life-changing at a very crucial time in my life." -CAPCC Client

Monthly Giving Program

When you choose to give, one of the best ways to help is to become a monthly donor. Being committed to supporting the work of the CAPCC on a monthly basis helps sustain a solid foundation for a greater impact on the clients we serve. Thank you for your generosity!

To donate monthly:

• Visit our donation page at www.pregnancycare.ca/donate

• Set up a recurring e-transfer to accounting@pregnancycare.ca

Red Deer

As an organization accredited by the Canadian Centre for Christian Charities (CCCC), we undergo a thorough accreditation review every four years. We recently provided documentation regarding the CCCC's standards, which include being a charity committed to the Christian faith, exercising diligent governance, maintaining financial oversight and transparency, ensuring organizational integrity, and conducting ethical fundraising. The audit concluded with an in person visit, and I am pleased to share that we received excellent results. It is important to us that our donors can be reassured that we operate with honesty, integrity, and accountability.

Rocky Mountain House

Next year will mark the 10th anniversary of our Rocky Mountain House Centre location! The community of Rocky has supported us wholeheartedly by providing well-wishes, volunteers, and financial assistance. We are grateful to each of you for your unwavering support.

The Rocky Centre offers the same programs as Red Deer, except for the Maternity Home Program. In recent years, the Healthy Relationships Program has emerged as the most popular option in Rocky. In 2024, nearly 50% of client visits focused on this program, which is designed to help individuals heal from past trauma, abuse, and misuse while fostering a deeper understanding of what constitutes a healthy relationship. This program caters to anyone who feels disconnected or "broken" in their sense of self or relationships, as well as those grappling with shame or regret stemming from past experiences. It is also beneficial for individuals who have encountered childhood trauma or have been emotionally or physically harmed in relationships. Moreover, anyone wishing to learn the foundations of a healthy, respectful relationship can find support through this program. It fosters a compassionate response for growth, enabling individuals to cultivate emotional well-being and form deeper connections with others. Clients requiring therapeutic interventions are referred to local mental health services for support.

Stettler

As an organization established in Red Deer in 1988, we recognized the need for pregnancy-related resources across Central Alberta. Over the years, various communities in Central Alberta have approached us to open a location in their area, under the oversight and direction of Red Deer. To achieve this, the CAPCC evaluated the community's population and potential client base, the level of volunteer support, and the financial commitment necessary to secure the annual revenue.

Some of you may have heard discussions about the future of our Stettler location, particularly following the recent cancellation of our annual fundraising banquet in April due to low registrations. The CAPCC board and I have spent time considering the number of clients served, the number of volunteers, and the donor support from individuals, businesses, and churches over the past year. To continue operations in any location, all these factors must align to ensure centres remain viable. Unfortunately, the Stettler centre has struggled in each of these areas. We carefully weighed these factors, and after much deliberation, the board and I made the difficult decision to close the Stettler location effective June 30, 2025.

Despite the closure of our physical location at the end of the month, we want to reassure you that our commitment to serving individuals in Stettler and the surrounding area remains unwavering. We will continue to provide virtual support, just as we did prior to establishing a physical presence in Stettler. Our dedication to the Stettler community is steadfast, and we will ensure that our services remain accessible and supportive. We understand that this news may be disappointing, and we appreciate your understanding and continued support during this transition. Your support is what makes our work possible, and we are committed to continuing to serve the Stettler community in the best way we can. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact us.