As we approach the spring of 2021, there is an air of hopefulness that we will soon be able to spend more time outside and socializing from a distance with our community. As we trudge along in hopeful optimism, we wanted to remind people of a great resource that is still available and currently serving our community from afar: The BowWest Community Resource Centre!
BowWest Community Resource Centre is operated by the BowWest Community Support Services Society. This Society is a non-for-profit organization that serves the residents of northwest Calgary by connecting individuals and families to economic, social and educational opportunities that help them lead more resilient lives. BowWest’s programs are delivered in two centres - Ranchlands and Bowness - and are staffed by community advocates and volunteers who provide program support (BowWest, 2021).
We at HSCA are grateful to be connected with BowWest as a Community Resource Hub. BowWest serves several communities in northeast and northwest Calgary through these hubs to allow residents to access their basic needs services and supports closer to where they live.
We virtually connected with Sarah and Douw to fill us in on how BowWest has been managing the pandemic and continuing to serve so many community members this past year. Sarah has an educational background in property management, health and safety, and business which all led to her passion in community advocacy. Douw’s educational background in social work (addictions) led him to his passion in social services.
Sarah and Douw stated that because of the pandemic, BowWest is currently offering remote services. The results of the current restrictions have inevitably put hub locations and financial programming on hold, and there is currently no food program link, but emergency food hampers are still readily available on an appointment basis. The best way to reach BowWest is either by phone or email (below) and in unique circumstances in-person service delivery could be an option.
The focal point of Sarah’s and Douw’s outreach work is rooted in the stages of change and that entails ‘meeting people where they are currently at’. This resonates with us at HSCA and we share their passion for making valuable information accessible, and connecting people regardless of their affiliation within the community to experts and organizations that can support complex needs.
Douw is the first person of contact for the Hillhurst Sunnyside community members and he enthusiastically stated that people can reach out to him anytime and he can provide information, referrals, and other support for all community members and friends of HSCA.
We thank BowWest, Douw, and Sarah for their continued support this past year and cannot wait until we are able to connect again as an in-person Community Resource Hub!
Douw Vorster (He/Him/His)
Community Advocate
Douw@bowwest.org
Phone 403-374-0448 Cell 403-804-2908
Sarah Padget (she/her)
Community Advocate
Sarah@bowwest.org
Phone 403-216-5348 Cell 403-874-8291