By Holly Thorne-Wiebe
The Altona & Area Family Resource Centre (AAFRC) reflected on a year of stability, growth, and deepened community connections at its annual general meeting on Oct. 14.
The organization celebrated achievements that built on lessons learned during the pandemic and set the stage for a solid future.
For 2024-25, the centre set three clear goals: to maintain stability, remain responsive to families’ needs, and grow in manageable ways. They’re proud to say all were achieved, said board chair Dana Bergman, who credited the centre’s success to structure and consistency after several years of change.
“Coming out of COVID, we worked hard to create repeatability and reliability in programming,” Bergman said. “Families know what to expect, and we’ve built the kind of structure that keeps people connected to the centre, even when they can’t be here in person.”
That focus on connection continues to shape the centre’s work. One standout example is the take-home kits program, which began during the pandemic. These kits bring the centre’s play-based learning activities into families’ homes, helping children build important skills while staying engaged with the centre. The program remains one of the AAFRC’s most popular initiatives.
This past year also brought major investments in staff development. The centre’s coordinator and facilitators took part in professional training through Volunteer Manitoba, focusing on communication, technology, and program delivery. The opportunity strengthened staff skills and the organization’s sustainability, and thanks to external funding, the majority of the cost was covered.
AAFRC coordinator Nina Edbom-Kehler said the training gave the staff new ways to connect with families and respond to their evolving needs. It also inspired new programs such as Mini Chefs in the Kitchen, where children and their caregivers cook simple recipes together, and an expanded Family Gym Nights series designed to get families active and moving during the winter months.
Financially, the AAFRC ended the year in a strong position, surpassing expectations for both individual and corporate donations.
Bergman said local partnerships and community generosity played a big role in maintaining the centre’s financial health. The board’s focus on steady growth and clear communication with donors helped balance the budget while leaving room for innovation.
Looking to 2025-26, the centre hopes to secure multi-year donations to create more predictable, long-term funding. Bergman said that kind of stability would give the organization the confidence to plan ahead without worrying about yearly fundraising goals.
As Altona and the surrounding area continue to grow, Edbom-Kehler shared that demand for family programming is also increasing.
“We want to keep building programs that families love and need,” she said. “That means keeping what works and staying open to new ideas that support families where they’re at.”
Now marking its 27th year, the Altona & Area Family Resource Centre remains a cornerstone of life in the community. With free programs focused on early childhood development, parenting support, and family well-being, the centre continues to help local families connect, learn, and thrive together.
