Mark Neaves was presented with the Healthy Families / Healthy Futures (HF/HF) Community Partnership Award June 20.
The award is presented annually to individuals, clubs, organizations, businesses or other service organizations who have made significant contributions to Healthy Families / Healthy Futures.
HF/HF is a program for first-time parents who need extra support.
ìTwo years ago, Mark responded to the need for office space in Athabasca for the Prevention of Relationship Abuse Program,î said Kelly Johnston, HF/HF board member. ìHF/HF delivers the outreach program on behalf of the Athabasca and Area Prevention of Relationship Abuse Action Committee (PRAAC), and since June of 2011, Mark has donated 50 per cent of the total rental costs for our office space needs back to HF/HF.
ìThe Home Visitation Program and the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Transitions Program share the other half and cost of office space in Athabasca,î Johnston explained. ìThat means that more direct client services and supports are made available to those who are most vulnerable, primarily women and children, and who are at greater risk of further harm when fleeing from or trying to cope with relationship abuse and family violence.î
Johnston recognized Neaves with the award in front of PRAAC members.
Johnston said, ìIn times of economic trouble or uncertainty, the ability to maintain adequate levels of supports and services necessary to achieve the mission and vision of many not-for-profit organizations is challenged.î
The lack of reliable funding for HF/HF means the initiative depends on sponsorships and donations.
ìMark has made a very positive difference in the lives of the people who have accessed services and supports of the Prevention of Relationship Abuse Program, as well as to the communities in which they are delivered,î Johnston said. ìMark is an excellent example of the PRAAC vision statement in action: ëAll people have the right to live within safe and respectful relationships wherever they live, learn, work, play or pray.íî
