Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre is calling for the public’s support to raise $3.9 million for its Centre of Excellence under construction on the main campus of Red Deer Polytechnic.
The 66,566 sq. ft. structure will be the new home of the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre (CACAC), Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre, and Alberta Health Services: Red Deer Child and Youth Addiction and Mental Health Outpatient Clinic; Move your Mood Studio; and the Step Up Step Down youth live-in addiction and mental health program.
Originally the vision of Sheldon Kennedy, the Centre of Excellence brings partners together for a fully integrated approach to address abuse.
CACAC CEO Mark Jones said $12 million is needed to cover the cost of the building, and $8.1 million has already privately been raised.
“So now we’re asking for your help. We’ve been meeting with donors and supporters, and we’ve been doing the work behind the scenes to bring this much-needed centre to central Alberta,” said Jones in a statement.
“We know the need is there, and that the need is growing. We’re building a path forward for these children and their families. We’ve brought together key partners, and we’re poised to meet the challenges head on. Now we’re asking for your financial support, not just for us, but for a brighter future for these children.”
Related:
Red Deer facility to be ‘one of the biggest stands against child abuse that we can make’
The building, being constructed by Eagle Builders, aims to be open by the end of August.
The three-story structure will have common and shared spaces to better integrate crucial partnerships, and create an environment in which children, youth, and families feel comfortable and safe.
The contemporary design of the exterior is meant to be inviting for the children and youth who will use the space, while also symbolizing the integrated partnerships at work within the building and on campus.
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Land for Centre of Excellence was gifted to the CACAC by Red Deer Polytechnic.
“Housing this newly constructed Centre of Excellence on our main campus will ensure that Red Deer Polytechnic is actively collaborating with the CACAC and helping to advance best practices related to childhood trauma and maltreatment,” said RDP president Stuart Cullum.
To learn more about the project, or to donate, visit: www.centralalbertacac.ca/centre-of-excellence/
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