The Envision Counselling and Support Centre had a challenging, but still rewarding year, as reported during its annual general meeting, held in Estevan on June 20. “We always keep in mind the needs of the communities we service in the southeast part of Saskatchewan and were resourceful in balancing the growing demand (for our services), while operating a deficit,” said Christa Daku, executive director in her annual report during the meeting.
“With the continued decline in the energy sector and provincial funding constraints this past fiscal year, it was challenging to facilitate the ongoing growth of the caseloads in all areas of our programs with the existing funding,” said Daku. She noted that because the province of Saskatchewan had recognized the need for front-line community-based organizations, there were no program cuts required in the past year.
“We had a record number of referrals for services this past year again,” said Daku. “During the past fiscal year, for the first time in Envision’s history, we were forced to implement wait lists in some areas of programming, while tightening mandates throughout all of our counselling programs.”
The programming offered by Envision provides a wide range of services ranging from public education and prevention to intervention in many areas of personal wellness. “Our programming continues to be in demand, keeping us busy in all areas,” said Lynda Rideout, assistant executive director in her annual report.
“Our Outreach team continues to educate and spread awareness about issues that are near and dear to us. With the expansion of our Inter-Personal Violence and Abuse (IVA) program through the Into the Sunshine grant, we were able to offer some important education and awareness to our volunteers and the community around the prostitution activity in our region and how we can support those trying to exit the trade. This has been interesting work so far, and we are excited at what the future will bring in this area.”
“Our Family Support Program was extremely busy and we continue to experience ongoing hiring of new workers for all locations. Our day-to-day work is never the same, as no two clients are alike to work with. This versatility not only keeps us on our toes, but keeps the job interesting as well,” said Rideout.
The geographical area that Envision covers with their programs and services is 28,700 square kilometres, with a total population in excess of 54,000 individuals. Envision has office space in Weyburn, Estevan, Oxbow and Carlyle. Envision also operates a 24-Hour abuse/sexual assault support line at 1-800-214-7083.
