The Hub on Ross

Annual Report

2013

The Hub On Ross

Weekly EventsAdapted YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Community Drum CircleDrummingHand bellsHula Hooping JamJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketModel Kit ClubMusic Gallery JammingP.A.S.T.A Players TheatrePop Dance MovesSunrise ToastmastersTheatre FunVisual Art with Wilson & Mary

Music and EntertainmentOriginal CasteDon SwiftJustine VandergriftRandi BoultonRogers Moon

Randi Boulton Singers

Special DeliveryEarthdance MeetingsGather and Learn Movie NightMS Society Benefit ConcertRebecca’s Tribute to Elvis

SELF EXPRESSION SOOTHES THE SOUL

Starting 2013 off with a bang! The Hub partnered with the MS Society and the legendary band, “ORIGINAL CASTE”, to create a fundraising event like no other. The music was amazing and our volunteer team led by Wes created a beautiful partnership in sharing!

Our volunteers shone this month, as they contributed their individual expressions and knowledge in the areas of Music, Art, Yoga, Recovery Nia, Hula Hooping, and Elvis Impersonations. With all the self-expression and talents of each and every person involved, the mutual benefits of the Hub’s Win Win environment were shinning bright!

“We feel like home here at the Hub. It is a place where we feel we belong.”

~Alicia

“Everyone at the Hub-Thank you for everything you are doing for our society. Your kindness

Annual Report 2

JANUARY 2013

Art Exhibit Alberta Roots Prairie Heritage/Cowboy Christina Drader

The Hub On Ross

and generosity is greatly appreciated!! I Loved being with you and everyone that walked through those doors. I learned how to appreciate everyone and how I can learn from everyone with different abilities and how to treat everyone with equality. I can see how much workers love their job and that inspires me to find something that I love as much as they do. The experiences that I take away from being at the Hub are ALL positive. You guys are great!” ~Love, Claire

Weekly EventsAdapted YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Community Drum CircleCreating Creations(With Carlee)DrummingHand bellsHula Hooping JamJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketModel Kit ClubMusic Gallery JammingP.A.S.T.A Players TheatrePop Dance MovesSunrise ToastmastersTheatre FunThe Model Club

Toonie Yoga Visual Art with Wilson & Mary

Music and EntertainmentDean RayGary SpornitzHub House Concert(Claude Godin & Darren Johnson)Savoir Faire Jazz DuoSteve PalmerRandi Boulton Singers

Special DeliveryDance for the Elimination of Violence against WomenThe Passions of Nicaragua(with CARE and Canada World Youth)

SUSTAINABILITY & MENTORSHIP ARE OUR BEST PRACTICES

This month marked the Hub’s third year of involvement with Canada’s World Youth Program. As leaders and workers of inclusion, our staff and volunteers set a superb example for visiting youth. Through motivation and encouragement, youth from all over Canada and Nicaragua participated in a variety of opportunities for active participation in the community, such as movie nights, drumming, arts & cultural education, and eating at our round tables. Through this collaboration a beneficial variety of networking opportunities was born.

As the ‘go to place’ for information, accessibility and barrier free community, the Hub has established itself as a home base along Ross Street and the historic downtown city centre. In times of change and financial instability, the Hub has been able to remain true to its roots by providing sustainable practices leading to friendship and connection, Canada wide. Affordable and accessible gathering places are needed and appreciated in our region. People come to us from other rural and urban areas and are interested in this ‘Hub model’ for their communities.

“Thank you so much for everything...English is not perfect but I want try because I want to you

Annual Report 3

FEBRUARY2013

Art ExhibitArt From The HeartSolo OriginalsJudy Weismiller Berger

The Hub On Ross

understand all that I say! I really, really enjoy the time that I spend with you, working with Lucinda and spoke with the other guys, like Mathew or Calvin, they are so fine ! Your community spirit is so fresh, you help the other people without disabilities! I want to make the same! I never involvement with people with disabilities before this program, maybe is because I don’t have friends or family with disabilities, but I understood that this people is like me! With head, arms, eyes, mouth etc...and they are so smart and with big heart... I will miss, you so much, you are in my heart all the time I promises you! God Bless the Hub and your lives...”

~Canada World Youth Member Miquel from Nicaragua

Weekly EventsAdapted YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Community Drum CircleDrummingHand bellsHula Hooping JamJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketModel Kit ClubMusic Gallery JammingP.A.S.T.A Players Theatre

Pop

Dance MovesSunrise ToastmastersTheatre FunThe Model ClubToonie Yoga Visual Art with Wilson & Mary

Music and EntertainmentHub House Concert(Amos Garrett with Elvin Berthiaume)Mitchell ChasePaul and SeanTed and YayaTimothy LlewellynRandi Boulton Singers

Special DeliveryCARE Meet and GreetCanada World Youth FarewellEarthdance Committee MeetingsFilm Night (Brooks- The City of 100 Hellos)International Women’s DayPurple Day(Epilepsy Awareness)

LEADERSHIP AND EMPOWERMENT

This month found us collaborating yet again with our long-time community partners at C.A.R.E (Central Alberta Refugee Effort). By planning and celebrating International Women’s Day on location, we provided numerous grass roots community leaders, city politicians and central Alberta newcomers with the opportunity to showcase diversity and create inclusion!

Later on, a film called, “Brooks, the City of 100 Hellos”, was showcased and allowed our community members to explore questions, thoughts, and ideas around the understanding of being a newcomer in Alberta by creating conversations and passionate peer involvement. Workshops were attended where we learned from other industries and social planners. Mentorship

Annual Report 4

MARCH 2013

Art ExhibitCollaboration and MentorshipTeam show of originalsKelli Condon & Keoni Barker

The Hub On Ross

on all levels occurs here not only on scheduled sessions but on a daily, casual basis.

“Even with his limitations, (visual impairment, limited vocabulary, and no use of limbs) he is learning wonderful social skills by being around others. He participates fully and tries hard to engage in the arts community.~Jean

I always feel included!~Isabelle

“The Hub gives a lot of perspective and joy for me and my family.”~LD

“I do emceeing at The Hub which gives me confidence with public speaking. I get to connect with friends and have a good time.”~Grant

Weekly EventsAdapted YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Community Drum Circle

DrummingHand bellsHula Hooping JamJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketModel Kit ClubMusic Gallery JammingP.A.S.T.A Players TheatrePop Dance MovesSunrise ToastmastersTheatre FunThe Model ClubToonie Yoga Visual Art with Wilson & Mary

Music and EntertainmentHub House Concert(Saskia & Darrel)Bradley AbelBrett ShanksGary & LarryJessica HallRandi Bolton Singers

Special DeliveryCentral Music FestivalCity Advisory Committee(for persons with disabilities)Getting out in Nature MS Society Lunch& LearnPoetry Prowl

COLLECTING, SHARING, ENHANCING

With pennies being removed from the mainstream cash flow, monies and friendships were rolling in! Thousands of pennies were collected by B.R.I.T.E (Bringing Relief Inspiring Through Education) a group of young caring people for G.E.F. (Global Enrichment Foundation). By simply recognizing the ability to enhance support, a huge contribution was made by our community.

This month also included a unique event called the Poetry Prowl. By sharing stories through poetry, our accessibility in a venue was showcased beautifully as people of all walks of life and ability attended.

For the third year running we hosted the Central Alberta Music Talent Contest, with one of our own volunteers on the judging

Annual Report 5

APRIL 2013

Art ExhibitExpressionsNotre Dame Art ProgramStudent Show

The Hub On Ross

panel. Stamina, courage and a good ear combined to create an incredible job well done. Leading by example, our community again demonstrated that great communication and decision making skills can be accomplished flawlessly through non-conventional and creative means.

“The Hub is a valuable resource in our community. The Epilepsy Association is dependent on The Hub in getting vital information to the public, creating a friendly approach and services to all. We cannot express enough gratitude for significant service The Hub provides.”

~Norma

“Winter is long and we have a place where self-expression and self-direction is encouraged. Our clients could never learn, mature and grow if they were not able to participate at The Hub. We hope that you (The Hub) will live forever and we thank you! ”

~Jean

Weekly EventsAdapted YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )

Community Drum CircleCreating Creations(With Carlee)DrummingHand bellsHula Hooping JamJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketModel Kit ClubMusic Gallery JammingP.A.S.T.A Players TheatrePop Dance MovesSunrise ToastmastersTheatre FunThe Model ClubToonie Yoga Visual Art with Wilson & Mary

Music & EntertainmentDean RayDon Swift & Joe NolanHub House Concert(Steve Palmer & Mitchell Chase)Justine VandergriftNeil McNairnayRandi Boulton Singers

Special DeliveryCity Advisory Committee Meeting for Persons with DisabilitiesCheerleader for a DayNetwork and Share (with CARE) A Tribute to Mothers(with BRITE)

BETTER TOGETHER

Every week, the Hub continues to host its very own Local First Market. By bringing useful goods to people at affordable costs, the Market provides opportunities for people to work on skills that lead to meaningful outcomes while contributing to society. Social skills, customer service, sales transactions, money management, sorting & organizing, decision making, set-up, take down, time management, communication and teamwork are all the skills used and needed in this working example of community involvement. In collaboration with local charities the market has benefited so many lives --$5500 has been raised and sent to the G.E.F. from our local jewelry sales alone.

Annual Report 6

MAY 2013

Art ExhibitDown The Rabbit HoleSolo Show of Original worksMary Mackie

The Hub On Ross

This year, the artist cooperative joined our ranks and our market. Hub artists and art facilitators took part of the 25th Art Walk Festival at Heritage Square. They succeeded in attending this event by raising funds and promoting community involvement. By sharing their talents and resources as artists and facilitators, they made new connections and broadened their scope of influence.

“It can be difficult to find a place for a person with complex needs. Finding an indoor place where you can be included with everyone and be free to be who you are, is treasured. The Hub caters to everyone and favors no one. The Hub is unique and wonderful and I hope its doors remain open for many generations to come.” ~Kim

“Hub Fridays are my favorite day of the week! I look forward to seeing everyone, buying things and listening to music. It always starts my weekend happy.” ~ Sean

“The Hub is beautiful.”~Blair

Weekly EventsAdapted YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Community Drum CircleCreating Creations

(With Carlee)DrummingHand bellsHula Hooping JamJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketModel Kit ClubMusic Gallery JammingP.A.S.T.A Players TheatrePop Dance MovesSunrise ToastmastersTheatre FunThe Model ClubToonie Yoga Visual Art with Wilson & Mary

Music and EntertainmentBruce JacobsonGary and Larry (TOF)Hub House Concert (The Hamiltones Trio with Elvin Berthiaume)Jamie WoodfinRandi Boulton SingersSoulful Noize Band

Special DeliveryCelebration of the Arts (with Audrey Graham)GrammaLink Africa(Hosted by CARE) Meet, Gather & Learn(Hosted by CARE)Watershed Alliance(Council of Canadians AGM)

CREATING HISTORY DURING RED DEER’S CENTENNIAL

This month the Hub was home to the prestigious Lt. Governor’s Award Gala planning. Hub networker Twyla and community volunteer Grant held multiple advisory meetings and implemented a kickoff event which confirmed our unique ability to provide all-inclusive, free cultural experiences. Participation and entertainment were presented through jazz music, hand bell choir, folk music presentations, improv theatre, cultural dancing, literary arts, and a presentation on heritage agriculture preservation from Sunnybrook Farm. Complimentary culinary delights were provided by Westpark Groceries (home of the best puffed wheat square).

Annual Report 7

JUNE 2013

Art ExhibitCelebration of the GhostsCommunity of Artists Collaborate on Ghost Sculpture Interpretations

The Hub On Ross

The month and the centennial celebrations also found two of the Hub’s theatre groups networking and demonstrating their amazing skills yet again. After gathering information, memorizing lines and rehearsals, they brought history to life in two locally written productions that entertained friends, family and community members alike.A history book with original music was written by individuals in a previous year that continues to inform and educate persons. Anthony was invited along with Hub staff into a school (Joseph Welsh) to present and play ‘Mickey the Beaver’ for them. The Elementary children loved the experience and the feedback Anthony received was so positive. Anthony is now on the guest list for the public schools in the area. (A visual art rendition by a Hub artist accompanies the presentation as a coloring sheet for all the children.)“The PASTA Theatre Troupe gave a wonderful performance. I learned more about Red Deer’s history through that show. They did a great job and it was obvious they worked hard.”~Marty

"The Hub is very welcoming. I have met people. I have learned new skills. I have met and learned from artists in music, art and theatre. I like the free music that I can come to and enjoy. The art gallery is divine. It gives a place for local artists to display their work and we can learn from them. We explore different cultures here through events like Chinese New Year and International Peace Day." ~Tanya

Weekly Events

A

Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Community Drum CircleDrumming with DACSGet Creative with COSMOSJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketMake Your Own MovieMusic Gallery JammingSew SavySpecial Arts CampsSunrise Toastmasters

Music and EntertainmentBruce JacobsonJoal KampJose ErickSing a Long with Randi BoultonTim Llewellyn

Special DeliveryArt Co-Op MeetingCrayola TechniquolaFoothills Adaptive ChallengeImages of Westerner DaysPatio Party with OldburyStories, Legends and Folktales From Around the WorldThe Film Studio on RossThe Ghosts

NATURE AND CULTURE, COMPLIMENT AND COLLABORATE

At the Hub, everyone is encouraged to reach their full potential. This includes allowing facilitators to become involved with provincial networks such as the Push to Open Nature Society. Once again, our capacity to advocate for belonging and inclusion was allowed to occur outside the Hub on Ross. This year, two successful ‘Adaptive Challenges’ occurred in Central Alberta. In connection with the Drayton Valley canoe club we

Annual Report 8

JULY2013

Art ExhibitCelebration of the GhostsRe-imaging of Red Deer’s Ghost Sculptures by local artists continued…

The Hub On Ross

traveled the Red Deer River as well as attending a camping trip to the Twin Lakes campsite. These experiences reconnected our community to nature, wildlife and deeper sense of health and happiness.

When Red Deer newcomer Michael Huyzer approached us to offer his ‘Crayola Techniquola’ art sessions, he quickly became excited and happily overwhelmed by our community support and involvement. Over 90 people attended his events, creating beautiful trees and landscaped art pieces based on the Group of Seven. We are grateful to our Hub participants for their constant and ongoing support for our free workshops, which enable everyone to get in there and try something new.

This month we also hosted a summer camp for film making. Our friends from Wetaskiwin joined us for a weekly drum circle that created possibilities for new learning and greater friendship and connection. Given their keen facilitation and the Hub’s philosophy of shared resources, the outcome was beautiful.

“The Hub is delightful and charming. Being here is like floating on a cloud! I feel free as a bird.”~Tanya- Melanie

"The creativity here is great. It helps me be more creative. I learned how to paint with instant coffee from Mary- for example" ~Natalie

“The Hub is a place to work together, show your successes and brighten someone’s day at the same time.” ~Kylie

Weekly EventsA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Art ExtravaganzaAcrylics with MichaelChalk Painting with BrendaCommunity Drum CircleDrumming with DACSFilm Studio on RossGet Creative with COSMOSImprov TheatreJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketMake Your Own MovieMusic Gallery JammingSew Savy with Hub NeighboursSpecial Arts CampsSunrise Toastmasters

Music and EntertainmentA really good time(with Mel Webb)Bradley AbelElvin BerthiaumeCassandra Little SpoonDean RayMitchell ChaseRandi Boulton LiveRandi Boulton Singers

Special DeliveryCentral Music FestivalGolf TournamentIvan Daines and Friends Country Music

Annual Report 9

Art ExhibitMixed MediaSolo show of Original WorksBrenda Smith

The Hub On Ross

SHARING OUR TIME AND VALUING OUR VOLUNTEERS

Our time is truly our gift for creating memories together. As a fundamental action, the Hub provides their time every day for this purpose. By joining our efforts with friends and visiting other cultural venues this month, we successfully created numerous road trip adventures that took our Hub volunteers on a wide range of fun. We traveled to the Nina Haggerty Art Gallery in Edmonton, attended the Country Picnic and Rodeo at Daines family ranch in Innisfail, visited the sunny beaches of Sylvan Lake in order to make a wish come true and spent an afternoon out at the Ellis Bird Farm east of Blackfalds. Our goal was to create memories; and through these experiences of discovery, these trips achieved just that.

This month also showcased a new partnership with the Vat to bring two talented Australian musicians to Red Deer.

We learned about permaculture, we reconnected with our old friend and entertainer Flying Bob and we were performance central for this year’s Centerfest.

On top of it all our Earthdance-Peace Maker (the great button maker) was used yet again by a variety of participants and causes to share their own messages with the world. Multiple organizations made their button messages public and the Hub celebrated this tiny community connector.

“Thank you for all the help and support!The Hub is such a great community atmosphere. We need more places like this one where people from all different walks of life can get together and share wonderful life experiences! Thank you for being so welcoming and accepting. You have inspired me with the desire to continue being active with organizations such as this one in my community. I am so grateful for all of the help your organization has given us. I will cherish these memories forever!”~Andy

Weekly EventsAdaptive YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Art Extravaganza-Denim painting (with Genevieve from the Yukon)-Polymer Clay Figurines (with Deborah)-Record Painting(with Michael)Community Drum CircleCOSMOS Freebirds MeetingsFilm Studio on RossFun with TheatreGet Creative with COSMOSJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketMusic Gallery JammingSunrise ToastmastersTable Topics with Blair

Music and EntertainmentCorinna RoseDon SwiftSoulful Noize BandPaeton CameronRandi Boulton Singers

Special DeliveryAboriginal Showcase

Annual Report 10

AUGUST2013

Art Exhibit

Peace in Art

Collaborative Group Show

Fundraiser for Family Services

The Hub On Ross

Earthdance Festival Flying BobInternational FASD (Awareness Day)

ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH LOCAL AND GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES

This year’s Earthdance event brought approximately 250 people to our doors to honour and celebrate world peace. Just one week later, we celebrated Alberta Culture Days on location. Both festivities brought people together from all walks of life.

As Hub central for the Aboriginal Showcase, the Hub was able to be host to a community drum circle, on-going cultural workshops, a first Nations art exhibit and sale and the joyously provided homemade bannock and mint tea for all to enjoy. Top notch aboriginal musicians performed on our beautiful stage for the crowds on hand.Many first timers to the Hub recognized immediately the community involvement of the place and how everyone is able to lend a hand...even in the tightening of toilet bowl handles! Everyone pitches in at The Hub.

With adaptive yoga really taking root in our patrons’ daily practices later in the month, we began to recognize the power of habit. We are pleased to provide the space, staff, and volunteer training experiences that allow us to offer programs that enhance health and wellness for all; at the same time training individuals in facilitation and social involvement.

The Hub continues to work with other organizations and partners to share resources and build strong communities. We plan together, implement together and evaluate together. We are stronger together!

“I would like to thank everyone who has a part in keeping The Hub up and running for the individuals we serve. I have been in this field for 15 years through different provinces and have never seen a place like The Hub. This is a place where all agencies in the city can unite as a team and allow our individuals’ personalities to shine.”~Faith

“I am so thankful for a place where all can feel supported and safe while

enjoying activities. We really LOVE the Hub.”~Edna

Weekly EventsAdaptive YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Art Extravaganza-Ghoulish Polymer (with Deborah)-Meet the Art Co-op Sale-Speed Art with WilsonCommunity Drum CircleCOSMOS Freebirds MeetingsDance InstructionFilm StudioFun with TheatreGet Creative with COSMOSJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketMusic Gallery JammingPlayers Theatre TroupeSunrise ToastmastersTable Topics with BlairMusic and EntertainmentHub House Concert (Carolyn Harley and the Davidsons & Paul Rumbolt)Brett ShanksCharlie JacobsonJustina VandergriftNeil McNairnayRandi Boulton Singers

Annual Report 11

SEPTEMBER2013OCTOBER2013

Art Exhibit

Art of the Ambient

Solo Show of Original Work

Gord Cannon

The Hub On Ross

Special DeliveryDisability Tax Credit SessionGames People Play EveningGrammaLink Africa ChiliThe 9th Annual United Way Soup LuncheonMock ElectionPlain Language Civic Election Panel Forum

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT WITH REWARDS

In October, the Hub was given the honour to chair and implement the planning for the community election information forums through the use of a plain language presentation and multi-organization collaboration with Council of Canadians, and the Red Deer and District Community Foundation. Civic politicians and electoral candidates complimented our organizing committee’s work for hosting the ‘best election information session in Red Deer!’

Later, the Hub held a mock election in collaboration with the City Advisory to Persons with Disabilities Committee (with which the Hub is actively involved). This event took 30 plus newcomers to the city through the process of voting. Education and civic pride filled the room and hearts of everyone present.

Through the innate interconnectedness of our community partnerships, we raised awareness and understanding of the plight being faced by foreign workers who are temporarily in Canada. Red Deer civilians and the Filipino community worked together to create solutions and awareness.

In the area of community events, the 9th annual United Way Soup Benefit Luncheon raised $850 by selling homemade donated soups. Gramma Link Africa raised $4000 for the Stephen Lewis Foundation with their chili in a pottery bowl luncheon. Gratitude for ongoing community support was apparent everywhere.

With excitement and pride, the Hub on Ross also received the prestigious Alberta Recreation and Parks Legacy Award! This award was presented at the world Recreation Administratorsand annual ARPA convention held in the Chateau, Lake Louise. It was an honour to be recognized for the opportunities we are able to provide daily that enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities and persons without disabilities.

“I am a better person because of The Hub.”~T.J.

“For me, the Hub is simply magic, for my heart, my mind, and my family. A place I can always come to feel loved just as I am.”~Rea Community Volunteer

Weekly EventsAdaptive YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Connecting through ArtCOSMOS Freebirds MeetingsCommunity Drum CircleDance InstructionFilm StudioFun with TheatreGet Creative with COSMOSJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketMusic Gallery JammingPlayers Theatre TroupeSunrise ToastmastersTable Topics with Blair

Music and EntertainmentHub House Concert (Donna Durand & Elvin Berthiam)Dean RayGary and LarryGord’s TrioJamie and BradSoulful Noize Band

Special DeliveryAboriginal Voices Sharing(Employment Success Stories)Kylie’s Cookies Fundraiser for EpilepsyMeet, Gather and Learn with CARESpirit Seekers Fundraiser

Annual Report 12

NOVEMBER2013

Art ExhibitOchre Inc.Barbara Vander Leek, Mary Joan Pyper and Linda Siebenga.

The Hub On Ross

LEARNING HOW TO PREPARE FOR A CALL TO ACTION

In our world, self-advocacy is not only a skill but a civic capacity for creating change. A new group called the Freebirds continue to hold weekly meetings at the Hub. Their organization is raising social capital and is making a significant contribution to the organizations they support in the Red Deer area. They hosted their first Hub House Concert in “Movember” in their campaign against prostate cancer.The Free Birds have helped the Hub with the abundance of requests coming from partners and individuals. When presenters come to their meetings looking for partners, they work in conjunction with the HUB to make things happen.

Later in the month the Filipino community was able to raise $6000 for disaster relief through a potluck lunch held on site.The Hub was more than happy to help with space and volunteers. We assist our friends at a local and international level. Everyone involved can take away a feeling of contributing. Other events of interest included: The Epileptic Association of Central Alberta hosted an education seminar in recognition of International Epilepsy Education Month;, the C.A.R.E youth group hosted a hula hoop making night; and the Red Deer Native Friendship Society hosted a series of discussions on Urban Aboriginal Inclusion and Employment Conversations.

“I am more comfortable in my job (supporting persons with disabilities) because I have support from the people at the Hub.”~ Jessica

“We were so thankful for our daughter to have a safe, enjoyable place to come where she can socialize independently. She is now transitioning from child services into adult services and we are thankful that The Hub exists for her. The

programs are great and she appreciates all that there is offered. ~ Tracy

Weekly EventsAdaptive YogaA Morning of Music (with DJ Jim & Anthony )Connecting through Art (with Michael)-Cookie Decoration (with Julianne)COSMOS Freebirds MeetingsCommunity Drum CircleDance InstructionFilm StudioFun with TheatreGet Creative with COSMOSJewelry for SomaliaLocal First MarketLunch n’ Learn with CMHAMusic Gallery JammingP.A.S.T.A Players RehearsalSunrise ToastmastersTable Topics with Blair

Music and EntertainmentBenefit Concert for the Food Bank (Tom Coxworth, Back Porch Swing, Paul Rumbolt, The June Bugs, Prairie Wind, Steve Fisher Band, and T. Buckley)Bradley Abel, Timothy Werner, Randi Boulton

Special DeliveryCinderella Rehearsal

Annual Report 13

Art Exhibit

Life, Up Close

Solo Show of Original Works

Lydia Christensen

The Hub On Ross

International Day Of Persons With DisabilitiesRemoving Barriers to Inclusion Proclamation Signing with Mayor VeerChristmas Concert

OPENING DOORS & SUPPORTING OTHERS

December is always a special month, every year, because of our supporting role in bringing together agencies for the organization of the International Day for Disabled Persons. As a result, Hub patrons were in attendance at regular CPA office meetings. Public awareness was reached through radio and newspaper ads; an open house hosted by the public library for participating agencies, and an updated map highlighting the numerous resources, services and agencies. Awards were also provided to businesses and individuals who remove barriers to inclusion in everyday life and work environments. The day went off without a hitch and was enjoyed by many.

In our theatrical arena this month, members of the Hub Theatre troupe opened their hearts and rehearsal space to the CAT community theatre group who required their help. This open rehearsal brought thespians together in a mutual love of theatre and allowed for a sneak preview of the play, ‘Cinderella’, by allowing everyone to see behind the scenes at its making.

This year, our Annual Christmas Benefit Concert was supported by the Red Deer Food Bank, bringing in a large crowd yet again to enjoy local musicians. A Hub volunteer also hosted ‘Kids on Keys’, an open recital which ended with Christmas Carolling and merriment for all.

“I never thought I could do yoga. I tried it at the Hub and now I can do it.I have met new people and made new friends”~Vanessa

“The individual I support thanked me numerous times for the opportunity to attend the Blues Jam Sessions. His comments are "I love it here." and "I am glad I came." Each Monday evening he meets musicians who are very friendly and fun! "

~

Nicole

A Day Downtown ~Posted by krystalkromm

As some of you know I have been recently elected as one of the new board members for the Downtown Business Association in Red Deer.  Through my own business, City First Aid , I know what it is like having a business downtown. But I thought I would hit the streets and get a better feel of downtown as a mom, as a customer, as an everyday person walking around!

Of course I had my sidekick Vanessa with me and even though the city had done a great job at clearing roads and sidewalks she preferred to walk in the snow. We enjoyed going through City Hall Park and through historic downtown.

We spent a whole afternoon downtown and didn’t even put a dent in all the shops we could visit or the activities we could do. I was amazed to see how vibrate downtown Red Deer still was in minus 10 weather; business professions, elderly couples, babies and everyone in between was out this afternoon, enjoying their own pace in our city’s core.

One place I had always wanted to visit was the Hub on Ross Street. We popped in, during a drumming circle.  We were going to turn around, in fear of interrupting them, but they welcomed us

Annual Report 14

DECEMBER 2013

The Hub On Ross

into their all-inclusive environment, gave us drums and even let Vanessa pick one the songs (she picked ABC’s). What an amazing community building resource the Hub is! Everyone is welcome as they use the arts to invite anyone wanting more community and friendship to come together.

“As a musician, I can say it was one of the most kind, attentive and enthusiastic rooms I've played for. It's a rare crowd (especially of that size -110persons) that pays rapt attention for an entire performance, and a listening room is considered the holy grail of gigs. The Hub was just that. In my days as a performer, I can count on one hand the places that have such a good energy.

As a person, I was incredibly fortunate to temporarily be a part of

a wonderful community of people united under arts and friendship. In short, I'll be back and thanks so much for the opportunity, love and popcorn."

~Ben Everyman

Annual Report 15