An Airdrie-based non-profit organization is celebrating its 40th birthday by hosting a public event on Aug. 26 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Nose Creek Regional Park.
“I think any time an organization can be connected to a community for that long, that’s a good sign not only of the work that we’re doing in the community and the need for the work but also the support that we receive from the local community to continue to do so,” said Laurie Jacob-Toews, the community connections manager for Community Links.
To pay homage to the organization's long-lasting roots, the theme of the party is the 1980s, to celebrate the opening of Community Links in 1982. The birthday bash is open to all Airdrie community members to drop in and enjoy live music supplied by local country musician Steve Jevne.
“We’re kind of doing a tribute to the last 40 years so there will be music from all the different decades,” Jacob-Toews said.
For the hungry guest, cupcakes and burgers supplied by Mr. Mikes Steakhouse will be available, but Jacob-Toews said guests must pre-register for the free burgers to ensure there will be enough to serve all party-goers. Those interested can register at bit.ly/3pd1UiN.
A photo booth will supply guests with '80s-themed props and costumes, so the party-goers can capture memories while reliving the past 40 years of Community Links.
At approximately 4:45 p.m., local dignitaries and individuals connected to the agency will deliver speeches about the history of Community Links and the impact the organization has had on Airdrie and the surrounding neighbourhood.
Jacob-Toews said the organization has invited Airdrie-East MLA Angela Pitt and Airdrie-Cochrane MLA Peter Guthrie, as well as council members from Airdrie and surrounding rural communities.
“It’s really just a celebration of the opportunity for [the city officials] to share how we work together and just celebrating Community Links and what we’ve been able to do over the last 40 years and our continued partnership with all those areas as we move forward,” Jacob-Toews said.
Originally dubbed Airdrie Family Day Homes, the now-named Community Links opened its doors in 1982, offering child care. Over the years, the organization has expanded to offer different services.
Some notably historical moments for Community Links were the hiring of the first family counsellor in 1988, expanding to serving north Rocky View County by providing a resource centre in 2001, the opening of a Community Links location in Beiseker in 2010, and offering caregiver support in 2011.
“There are so many things to celebrate over the last 40 years but definitely lots of growth,” Jacob-Toews added. “Always just trying to meet the needs of the community.”
Looking toward the future, Jacob-Toews said Community Links is currently focusing on recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I think we’re seeing a lot of increased needs from people who maybe haven’t been able to access the support that they need,” said Jacob-Toews about the increased need for support since the onset of the pandemic.
The organization will continue to focus on ensuring people are connected to resources in the community.
“We’re continuing to be flexible to meet those needs for people and identifying what’s more relevant for people at this time,” Jacob-Toews added. “Hopefully, [we’ll] continue to grow as well and continue to support both Airdrie and in the rural areas.”
Offering support in four main categories – family resources, counselling supports, support services, and community engagement – Community Links strives to connect individuals to the community and uncover resources for those in need of assistance.
“It’s just about working with people to meet them where they’re at and get them the support that they need,” Jacob’Toews said. “If we can help individuals learn skills and increase their capacity and meet their needs, then they are going to strengthen their family and the community.”
