On Thursday September 19, 2013 organizers from the Emergency Services Charity Golf Tournament (ESCGT) in Strathmore gathered to present two cheque’s from the proceeds of the golf tournament which was held June 21, 2013 at the Strathmore Golf Club.
The ESCGT is a partnership between the RCMP; Strathmore Regional Victim Services Society (SRVSS); Strathmore Fire Department; Wheatland and Districts Emergency Medical Services Association (WADEMSA); and Strathmore Municipal Enforcement.
Thanks to the 2013 tournament sponsor; Global Training Centre, the successful tournament raised close to $24,000, of which $21,900 was donated to SRVSS and $2,000 to the Strathmore and District Health Foundation.
SRVSS serves the Chestermere, Strathmore and Gleichen RCMP detachment area. SRVSS is a non-profit, charitable volunteer organization that provides 24-hour crisis response to victims of crime and tragedy. Working with the RCMP, their role is to reduce the impact experienced from crime or tragedy including family violence; sudden death; motor vehicle accidents and fire.
With the help of recent medical research, we know a lot more about the effects of trauma on the brain than we did even five years ago. One significant point is that post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, affects not just the immediate victims of violence or tragedy, but also bystanders and witnesses.
SRVSS can offer anyone in this difficult situation with a wide range of support right from the beginnings of a traumatic event; at the scene or in your home and if needed, they will help with possible court preparations or court accompaniment.
If a victim is in need of information to help with immediate concerns like court information or financial benefits, SRVSS can provide that as well and they can give referrals for any type of counseling or specialized support needed.
None of this could be done without the help of victim services advocates and SRVSS is seeking volunteer to fill this role. Victim Advocates assist victims to move past their immediate trauma. This is a rewarding and challenging volunteer experience. Interested individuals can contact Lesley Hering, Program Coordinator for SRVSS at HYPERLINK “tel:403-934-6552” \t “_blank” 403-934-6552 for further information.
Next year’s golf tournament will be held on Friday, June 20, 2014 at the Strathmore Golf Club. Funds raised over the years from this event equal $83,900.
