September: A Month in Review

We started off a whole new year of weekly programming this September and the team and girls could not be more excited to be back. We had a blast together over the summer and took the month of September to focus on the coming years’ programming as well as finishing up the last of the fall tasks for the Stardale Garden and land-based learning site.

Speaking at the Breakfast with the Bishop - September 9

Stardale Executive Director Helen McPhaden spoke during the Breakfast with the Bishop in support our Stardale and spreading awareness on our mission and work.

Harvesting and Preparing for Next Year

The girls and staff marveled at the progress of the garden as they began to harvest some of their corn, squash and other plants. They also took time to ensure everything was prepared for the snowy season to come and will be ready for next year’s harvest.

First Class Back

The first class back is always a big one for Stardale where we welcome new and returning girls to the program as well as participate in some exciting activities. This year we were grateful to recieve donations of clothes from Inter Pipeline to help the girls get ready for back to school. They were also each gifted a back-to-school backpack from The Calgary Police Youth Foundation.

A New Year of Drumming

As with our regular programming, drumming classes started up again this fall and welcomed some incredible new instructors to the team! The girls are excited to learn new songs and hone their talents.

September 30th - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

For the second time, Stardale collaborated in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with a variety of community partners to host both an afternoon and evening event. This years event was met with a chilly breeze and some unexpected rain but the teams and community came together to ensure the show went on.

During the afternoon event, we heard from Rev. Wendy Adams of the Grace Presbyterian Church, Elder Wanda First Rider, Dr. Linda ManyGuns, Stardale Executive Director Helen McPhaden, and Gerald Auger (Chief Wandering Spirit ). We were also joined by Mayor Jyoti Gondek who spoke on the need for increased participation and action on reconciliation efforts by all Calgarians. The event also included a partial screening of Stardales‘ newest film, Warrior Women as well as a drumming performance by our drumming group. The event also showcased local Indigenous-owned businesses including Everson Publishing and Mama Bear Creative Designs.