Big Brothers and Sisters: Mentoring Youth

Manual Not Included: Small Victories, Big Feelings

From awkward T-ball moments to terrifying parenting scares, Lynnette shares the emotional journey of raising a child with ADHD. This episode dives into childhood challenges, water fears, social struggles, and the life-changing moment of finally getting answers. Honest, funny, and deeply relatable—this is a story about parenting, perseverance, and celebrating the small victories.  Key Topics -Childhood development and early signs of neurodiversity -Parenting challenges and small victories -The journey to ADHD diagnosis and understanding symptoms -Overcoming water fears and social challenges in children -The importance of support and inclusion in education Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Plea for Support 01:25 A Humorous Encounter with a Worry Worm 03:21 Imagining Cursed Objects and Horror Movie Scenarios 04:13 Early Childhood Sports Experiences and Challenges 07:23 Water Fears and Progress in Swimming 11:23 Starting Kindergarten During a Pandemic 13:41 Speech Development and Early Signs of ADHD 16:24 ADHD Diagnosis and Myths About Medication 17:48 A Terrifying Moment and the Next Episode Teaser Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Big Brothers and Sisters: Mentoring Youth

🎙️ What does it really take to change a child’s life? In this episode, Ashley Turner from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Medicine Hat shares how mentorship goes far beyond just “hanging out.” From breaking stereotypes to building lifelong relationships, we explore the real impact mentors have on youth in our communities. 💬 “Kids just want someone to show up.” Listen now to discover:  ✅ How mentoring changes lives  ✅ The surprising truth about youth in these programs  ✅ Why just ONE hour a week can make a huge difference Key Topics -Mentoring program structure and eligibility -Community and group programs for youth -Success stories and long-term impacts of mentoring Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:05 The Need for Mentors and Volunteer Roles 02:06 Eligibility and Navigating Barriers 03:01 Transitioning Youth at 16 and Teen Mentors 04:19 Common Misconceptions About Families in the Program 05:08 The Volunteer Application and Matching Process 06:03 Understanding the Little's Preferences and Interests 07:12 Time Commitment and the Importance of Showing Up 08:28 Success Stories and Community Impact 10:02 Expanding Programs in Schools and Skills Development 11:22 Breaking Stereotypes: Police and Youth Engagement 12:48 Micro Mentoring and Fun Engagement Activities 13:45 Additional Volunteer Opportunities and Group Programs 15:40 Partnerships with Local Businesses and Skill Building 16:29 Beyond Traditional Mentoring: The Organization's Full Scope 22:23 Memorable Success Moments and Youth Achievements 23:15 How to Get Involved and Contact Information Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Inside Local Politics: A Conversation with Kirby Schafer

In this eye-opening interview, council candidate Kirby Schafer pulls back the curtain on city council dynamics, budget concerns, infrastructure delays, and the growing demand for transparency in local government. 💬 “Trust is a hard thing to regain.”  💬 “We’re spending money on wants, not needs.” From traffic concerns to whistleblower policies and community engagement, this conversation dives into the issues residents are actually talking about. Key Topics -City council collaboration and surprises -Budget management and operational efficiencies -Infrastructure projects and funding delays -Community engagement and transparency Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Conversation 01:00 Observations on City Council Performance 07:15 Budget Challenges and Management Insights 14:20 Transparency and Public Engagement 19:01 Community Concerns and Traffic Management 23:10 Urban Hen Bylaw and Liquor in Parks Discussion 25:55 Whistleblower Policy and Accountability 27:57 Future Outlook for City Council Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Jackson: The Superhero Service Dog at Sanare Centre

Countless individuals in our city experience trauma that leaves them in need of support. One unique approach to providing that support comes in the form of service dogs. Host Brian Konrad speaks with Christina Johnson as they explore the inspiring story of Jackson, a service dog at the Sanare Centre, and the profound impact he has on the lives of children and adults facing difficult situations. Jackson isn’t just any service dog; he’s a jack of all trades! From supporting survivors in court to providing comfort during therapy sessions, his impact is profound. He recently helped a young boy find his courage to engage in therapy, just by being there. 00:00 - Introduction: 01:17 - Contributions from community donors to Jackson’s arrival 02:45 - Jackson’s multifaceted support roles in therapy, court, and education 03:44 - Heartwarming stories of Jackson’s support during trauma sessions 05:12 - How Jackson was selected and trained by Summit Service Dogs 06:35 - Training process for Jackson’s specialized role at Sanare Centre 07:22 - Everyday life of a service dog: working and resting routines 08:56 - Highlighting sexual violence awareness and the statistics in Alberta 09:50 - The under-reporting of sexual violence and resources for support 11:06 - The impact of service dogs on survivors’ healing process 12:26 - The effort to engage men and boys in preventing gender-based violence 13:27 - Improving societal responses to disclosures of sexual violence 14:45 - Ways the community can support survivors and raise awareness 15:46 - How to intervene as a bystander using the Four D's 17:13 - Practical advice on preventing drug-assisted assaults and everyone’s role 18:31 - Contact information for the Sanare Centre and how to request Jackson's support 19:00 - Jackson’s unique talents - brain games, therapy support, and community engagement 22:23 - Celebrating Jackson’s success in a fun game of Kerplunk Jackson isn’t just a dog - he’s a lifeline. From sitting through court sessions with child survivors to attending therapy sessions, visiting schools, and even playing Kerplunk to ease anxiety, Jackson demonstrates how animals can bring healing and hope to trauma survivors. Christina shares touching stories of how Jackson has transformed the centre’s approach to care, creating safe spaces for children and adults to feel comforted and supported. The episode also explores the broader mission of the Sanare Centre:  • Raising awareness about sexual violence, especially during Sexual Violence Awareness Month  • Providing specialized criminal justice navigation and support for survivors  • Engaging men and boys in ending gender-based violence through the Empowerment Leadership Program  • Offering practical guidance for bystanders to safely intervene in potentially harmful situations Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how trauma-informed care works, the power of service animals in healing, and the importance of community involvement in supporting survivors. Whether you’re an animal lover, advocate for sexual violence awareness, or simply want to hear inspiring stories of hope and resilience, this episode is for you. Resources & How to Help:  • Learn more about the Sanare Centre: www.sanarecentre.ca  • Call: 403-548-2717  • Follow Sanare Centre  Instagram www.instagram.com/sanarecentre    • Facebook www.facebook.com/sanarecentre for updates and donor recognition Support the Mission:  • Attend community awareness events  • Donate to support programs and service dogs like Jackson  • Volunteer or participate in local initiatives Key Takeaways:  • Service dogs like Jackson provide critical emotional support in trauma and court settings  • Sexual violence affects 1 in 3 Albertans, yet 95% of incidents go unreported  • Cultural change and community engagement are essential to ending gender-based violence Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

The Power of Community in Alzheimer’s Awareness

In this episode, we sit down with Chantal Paterson to discuss the importance of Alzheimer’s awareness and the upcoming IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s in Medicine Hat. The conversation highlights how community events like this help reduce stigma, raise critical funds, and connect families affected by dementia with valuable support resources. Listeners will learn about the growing impact of Alzheimer’s and dementia across Canada, the role local fundraising plays in supporting care programs, and how people of all ages can participate in the walk. Chantelle also shares insights into caregiver support services, volunteer opportunities, and the importance of building compassionate communities for those living with dementia. The episode emphasizes that no one facing dementia should feel alone, and that awareness, education, and community involvement can make a meaningful difference. Key Takeaways -The IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s has raised millions to support dementia care and awareness initiatives across Canada -Funds raised locally in Medicine Hat stay within the community to support programs and caregiver resources. -The event is designed to be inclusive and welcoming for participants of all ages and abilities. -Community support helps reduce stigma and encourages earlier access to dementia resources and care. -Volunteer opportunities and donations are essential to sustaining local Alzheimer’s support services. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Walk for Alzheimer's 02:46 Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia 05:55 Community Support and Resources 09:05 Volunteer Opportunities and Event Details Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]