You Belong Here

In this episode, Brad sits down with Lorena and William to explore how WESeniors is creating meaningful connections and helping seniors stay engaged, informed and supported in our community. Listen in and learn more about the impact they’re making and the programs and services they offer. Visit us at strathcona.ca/YouBelongHere to find more information, including links to the resources mentioned in this episode, and sign up for our monthly e‑newsletter.  

There’s power in knowledge, but even more power in hope. In this episode, German sits down with Lerena from PEP Society for a heartfelt conversation about addiction, family recovery and community support. Whether you’re personally impacted by addiction, supporting someone you care about or simply wanting to better understand your community, this conversation is a reminder that you are not alone and support is available. Visit us at strathcona.ca/YouBelongHere to find more information, including links to the resources mentioned in this episode, and sign up for our monthly e‑newsletter.

In this episode, Doneka sits down with Cortney from A Safe Place to discuss family violence and the support available in Strathcona County. Learn how to recognize warning signs, respond with compassion and connect yourself or someone you care about to resources that can help.  Visit us at strathcona.ca/YouBelongHere to find more information, including links to the resources mentioned in this episode, and sign up for our monthly e‑newsletter.

Houselessness in Strathcona County may not always be visible, but it’s happening right here in our community. In this episode, Doneka sits down with Tom, Director of RCMP and Enforcement Services and Kesa, Director of Family and Community Services. Together they discuss the complexity of houselessness, how their departments collaborate on response efforts (including a newly approved pilot project), and what residents can do to support themselves and others. Visit us at strathcona.ca/YouBelongHere to find more information, including links to the resources mentioned in this episode, and sign up for our monthly e‑newsletter.

Strathcona County is located on Treaty Six Territory and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Regions Two and Four. Strathcona County honours the First Peoples of this land. We recognize that we stand upon land that carries the footsteps of Cree, Métis and Blackfoot among many other Nations who have been here for thousands of years. Therefore, Strathcona County has an inherent responsibility to foster healthier relationships with First Peoples and further the Calls to Action as outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

In this mini episode, podcast hosts German, Doneka and Brad discuss the season to come and the episodes they are most excited about. 

Join our host German and special guest Lisa from Strathcona County’s Family Resource Network for the final episode of season two. In this episode, German and Lisa talk about the importance of having support at every stage of parenting and highlight how the Family Resource Network can help you and your family. 

Join our host Brad and guest Teri from Family and Community Services as they explore accessing support through Strathcona County’s Solutions Navigation team. This episode highlights the importance of reaching out for support when you need it and what you can expect when working with the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Family and Community Services.  

Join our host Doneka and guests Chelsea from Family and Community Services and Tracey from the Strathcona Food Bank as they discuss the realities of food insecurity and meeting basic needs in our community. In this episode you will learn more about different experiences of food insecurity and where you can find support and resources.

Join our host Brad from Family and Community Services and special guest Dani from BGC Strathcona County, as they dive into the topic of youth well-being and the importance of belonging and connection. This episode is jam-packed with information on local resources and tangible tips for parents, caregivers and youth.Visit strathcona.ca/YouBelongHere to learn more and sign up for our new e-newsletter.

Join our host, Doneka and guests Stephanie from Family and Community Services, and Alison from Recreation, Parks and Culture as they explore healthy aging in Strathcona County. Through this engaging discussion you will learn more about the County’s Healthy Aging Framework, how healthy aging looks different for everyone, and what municipal resources and programs are available in our community. Visit strathcona.ca/YouBelongHere to learn more and sign up for our new e-newsletter.

In this episode, Brad, Doneka and Ashley delve into the impact of social and self-perceived stigma related to accessing mental health supports. The team offers practical insights on fostering compassion and understanding while shedding light on the importance of challenging societal views and promoting inclusivity. Through personal anecdotes, they emphasize the significance of creating a supportive environment for all, encouraging listeners to seek help and foster a culture of connection.

In Episode 4 of the You Belong Here Podcast, the crew discusses the concepts of polarities, compassion, and how to begin to cross the occasional divides we can see in our social groups, families, and communities. 

In this episode, we explore the importance of active listening, uncovering its positive impact on building connections and trust. Through practical tips and real-life experiences, we discuss the art of active listening and its role in strengthening relationships. Join us as we navigate the challenges and rewards of this essential skill, empowering you to prepare for difficult conversations in your personal and professional life. 

In this episode, we explore collective belonging, celebrating differences, and flourishing together. We discuss the shift from certainty to curiosity, embracing tolerance and inclusivity for differences, and the power of simple acts of kindness. We delve into finding hope, common values, and a sense of meaning, while normalizing the fear and uncertainty of reaching out to others. Through suspending judgment, engaging with new people, and sharing our skills and passions, we discover the transformative impact of community involvement and the importance of belonging for all.

Welcome to You Belong Here, a podcast dedicated to exploring the power of connection and its profound impact on our lives. Join hosts Ashley, Brad and Doneka, from Strathcona County Family and Community Services, as they share practical strategies for embracing vulnerability, cultivating self-compassion, and building deep connections that foster a sense of belonging.