The Central Alberta Children’s Advocacy Centre is expanding by a very large margin, their current 1400 sq. ft location will be expanding to 10,000 sq. ft. 

They have been awarded a 50-year lease to use the property just behind the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre and are hoping to start construction in the spring of next year.

Terry Loewen, Board Chair of the organization says not only did they give them 1.07 acres, but in his opinion, they gave them the best piece of land on the property, complete with a good view.

“The reason it’s crucial is the people in our centre are working around very dark issues, and you have to look after the people that are working for you, their mental wellness as well because they are hearing the worst things that you could ever imagine,” says Loewen.

Loewen says they've only handled about 300 cases so far, but with this new facility they will be able to reach numbers that are unthinkable and President of RDC, Joel Ward agrees that the location is prime for the organization. 

“This area is one that is, unfortunately, a very growing need and to give them the greatest location, absolutely overlooking the pond and natural area, these people have enough challenges in their life why not give them a space that gives them a sense of peace and an opportunity to reflect in a very different environment.”

Ward also says it makes a good partnership because students will have access to improved training and tools to assist victims and families of child abuse.

“We took a look at a number of programs that completely align with this, our justice studies program, our sociology program, our early childhood education program, our education degree, enabling our teachers to understand to look for children with symptoms of distress right in the classroom.”

The two organizations will now continue to work together for the benefit of everyone involved, as well as continue research opportunities related to child advocacy services and education.

They are funding for this project in a few different ways, their biggest and most recent fundraiser being the Central Alberta Advocacy Centre’s Dream Home Lottery, where you can win around $1.8 million in prizes including the 4,607 sq. ft. home.

Tickets for the dream home are $35.