The Ponoka Victim Services held their annual general meeting on March 14 to keep the group informed and to hear from different people involved in the association.
The meeting highlighted various successes over the past year, advocates and the RCMP were thanked for their hard work.
Some of the successes that were touched on which involved the community included the fundraiser that was done with Hamilton’s IGA over the Christmas holidays and the charity check stop at the Ponoka Youth Centre.
“The IGA fundraiser was a huge success,” said Brenda Vold, chair of Ponoka Victim Services. “We not only gained funding but it also brought awareness.”
Vold was pleased with all of the achievements and commended the advocate members for contributing to those successes.
“The successes came from what the advocates have done,” she said. “Some of the success stories are really inspiring.”
The meeting also looked to the future and Ponoka Victim Services is encouraging more advocate and board members to take part in the organization and plans to create more awareness in the community.
During the meeting advocates shared their responsibilities they faced being a volunteer and provided information on their typical month.
When RCMP members arrive at the scene of a crime, there are victims there waiting for reassurance and information. The officers, although concerned for the victims, must focus on the crime and this is where Victim Services fills the gap. Victims Services is referred to the victim, with the victim’s consent, to provide assistance.
“Advocates are on call 24 hours a day and seven days a week to assist the RCMP in various calls such as domestic abuse, sexual assault, death notification, fire, motor vehicle collisions and suicides. Any tragedy we are involved in as well,” said Karie Ackermann executive director of Ponoka RCMP Victim Services Unit.
Currently there are 14 advocates for Ponoka Victim Services and Vold suggests that 20 advocates would be ideal for the area.
“It’s a worthwhile organization,” she said. “There’s a great need for it and wonderful work is done within the community.”
Members were also elected at the meeting. Vold was re-elected as chair and Brooke Wiancko as vice-chair. Janet Vold was elected treasurer and Kyla Hoogers as secretary. Directors elected were Ross Fleischman and Carolyn Ramey.
Anyone interested in becoming an advocate or board member, or for more information contact Ackermann at 403-783-6539.