StettlerLocal.com January 26, 2024 at 12:30 pm
Leah Carpenter believes in providing the best resources for pregnant women and new parents.
Carpenter, the Director of the Stettler office of the Central Alberta Pregnancy Care Centre, says clients aren't always young women surprised by a pregnancy.
"We're seeing more clients between the ages of 25-30," says Carpenter. "Some of these pregnancies are expected and they just need resources. Other people are seeking ways to be good parents."
The Centre's mission is to extend grace, provide education and ongoing, compassionate support before, during, and after pregnancy to equip and empower individuals and their families seeking pregnancy-related resources.
Counselling is provided by volunteer Client Advocates, and a confidential intake form is completed during the first appointment.
"The volunteers that are trained as Client Advocates work at the Centre regularly and see clients in appointments," says Carpenter. "They also keep up on in-service training as an ongoing continued education at our Centre."
Other volunteers sort donations, such as baby clothing (up to 24 months) and maternity wear. Casual volunteers help with cleaning and covering reception.
Like many social services organizations, the Centre relies on volunteers and is always happy to accept applications.
"Depending on what role the volunteer is interested in, there may be extensive training," says Carpenter, "but that's okay because we train you so you can work with excellence! Our Centre runs on the work of our volunteers and without them, we wouldn’t be here. We are eternally grateful for their dedication."
The Centre is funded almost exclusively through private donations from churches, businesses, groups, and the community at large.
A banquet fundraiser is planned for April, with the theme "Beacons of Hope", something the Centre strives to be for their clients.
"We have a presentation of speakers, music and live and silent auctions," says Carpenter. "The tickets are free, thanks to the generosity of our event sponsors, and everyone is invited."
The fundraiser will be held at the Stettler Community Hall on Thursday, April 11, starting at 6:00 pm. To register, call the Centre at 587-627-1111.
In the meantime, Carpenter says people are welcome to come by for a tour and learn more about what they do.
"Our services are free, non-judgmental and confidential," she says.
The Centre is located at 5005-47 Street (across from the Heartland Youth Centre), and is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
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