December 5th is International Volunteer Day, a global moment to celebrate the people who give their time, energy, and skills to make communities stronger. Established by the United Nations in 1985, this day has grown into a worldwide recognition of the countless ways volunteers step in to support change, care for others, and keep community programs running.

The 2025 theme, “Every Contribution Matters,” reminds us that no act is too small. Whether someone lends a hand at an event or simply shares a message of support, every effort counts.

Here at Waypoints, volunteers are woven into the heart of our work. From helping us at our community events and fundraisers to launching independent donation drives, their efforts touch every corner of our community programs. 100% of donations that Waypoints receives go directly to the people we serve and support.

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, this is the perfect day to explore opportunities. Find out how you can offer your time and talents through www.woodbuffalovolunteers.ca. Even small gestures, like amplifying posts on social media or thanking a volunteer, carry real weight and help sustain the network of care that our community relies on.

We want to extend our utmost gratitude to every volunteer, past, present, and future. Your willingness to step forward and share your skills changes lives. International Volunteer Day is a chance to celebrate you, the people who make safety, healing, and hope possible every day.

Join the global conversation and share your appreciation online using #IVD2025, #IVY2026, and #VolunteerYear.

To discover more ways to celebrate International Volunteer Day, please visit the United Nations’ website.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities invites our community to recognize the leadership, rights, and lived experiences of people with disabilities. The theme “Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress” spotlights the importance of inclusion and encourages environments where every person can participate and feel respected.

We use this day to reaffirm our commitment to accessibility across all Waypoints programs. Our buildings and partner locations throughout the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo are designed with accessibility in mind, allowing individuals with disabilities to navigate our spaces with confidence. This includes attention to physical access, sensory-aware environments, and teams that prioritize clear, trauma-informed communication and engagement.

We also design our educational materials and resources that accommodate diverse abilities. The work continues as we improve the way information is presented so more people can learn, understand, connect, and seek help in ways that align with their needs.

People experience disability in many ways, and these experiences often influence how they engage with services, healing, safety planning, and daily life. Our teams across our Unity House Emergency Women’s Shelter, Second Stage Women’s Shelter, our Child & Youth Advocacy Center, Sexual Trauma Support Services, Outreach Services, and Opportunities for Change program approach each person with care and respect for what they need in the moment. These efforts support individuals with all types of disabilities and reflect our focus on reducing barriers wherever possible.

We encourage our community to use this day as a reminder to create spaces, conversations, and systems that welcome every person and value every voice, because inclusion is more than just a goal; it’s how we choose to show up for each other every day. And at Waypoints, we’re here for you.

To discover more about International Day of Persons with Disabilities, please visit the United Nations’ website.

Giving Tuesday is a day to celebrate radical generosity and take action for the causes that matter most. Originating in 2012 in the United States and now observed around the world, the movement encourages people to support charities, community groups, schools, and local initiatives every December 2nd.

Waypoints is one of the organizations you can choose to support. 100% of donations received go directly to helping sustain our programs across our Unity House Emergency Shelter, Second Stage Transitional Shelter, Outreach Services, Sexual Trauma Support Services, our Child and Youth Advocacy Center, and Opportunities for Change program, providing safety, care, and support to women, children, and families suffering from violence and abuse in our community.

Looking to get involved?

Donated gifts of new household items, clothing, self-care items, etc, provide practical support to those starting fresh. For a comprehensive list of our most needed items, please contact our Donations Department at case@waypointswb.ca.

For those seeking deeper involvement, volunteer opportunities when available are listed at www.woodbuffalovolunteers.ca, where people can offer their time and talents to our events, programs, and community initiatives. For more information, please visit our volunteer page.

Can’t volunteer or donate, but still want to support?

You can still make a difference by spreading the word. Sharing our posts and messaging on social media helps connect more people in the community with the resources they need. You can highlight local programs, celebrate the work of volunteers, and encourage friends and family to get involved. Every post, share, or comment amplifies the impact and strengthens the network of care available to women, children, and families throughout the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and beyond.

We are grateful to all who consider supporting Waypoints, whether through a donation, volunteering, or helping spread the word. Your engagement, care, and commitment help strengthen our community and remind us why this work matters every day.

To learn more about Giving Tuesday in Canada, please visit CanadaHelps’ website.

November 25th is recognized worldwide as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a day to acknowledge the ongoing impact of gender-based violence and the importance of action against it.

The date was first observed in 1981 to honour the Mirabal sisters, Patria, Minerva, and María Teresa, who were killed in 1960 for opposing the dictatorship in the Dominican Republic. Their courage and sacrifice became a lasting symbol of resistance against oppression and violence toward women. In 1999, the United Nations officially designated November 25th as this international observance, marking the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which continues through Human Rights Day on December 10th.

As part of our mission, Waypoints provides support to individuals, including women and girls, affected by domestic, family, and sexual violence. Through our emergency and second-stage women’s shelters, sexual trauma support services, child and youth advocacy centre, and our outreach services and counselling, we offer safety, guidance, and trauma-informed care to those navigating the aftermath of abuse.

Local organizations that contribute to the safety, empowerment, and well-being of women and girls include, but are not limited to, Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta, YWCA Northern Alberta, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters, and Victim Services Wood Buffalo. Indigenous partners, including the Wood Buffalo Wellness Society, Athabasca Tribal Council, and Nistawoyou Association Friendship Centre, among other local First Nations and Métis associations, provide culturally informed support and advocacy for women and girls in the community.

Observing this day aligns with our mission to respond to immediate needs while promoting long-term healing and resilience. By recognizing these issues and working to address them, we strengthen the safety, resilience, and well-being of women and girls in our region.

If you're interested in learning more about how to get involved with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, please visit UNESCO’s website.

November 20th marks Transgender Day of Remembrance, a day to reflect on the lives of trans and nonbinary individuals lost to violence and discrimination. Established in 1999 by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith and others as a vigil to honor the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998. The 2025 theme, “Lives Remembered, Futures Reclaimed,” emphasizes both remembering those lost and working toward communities where everyone can live safely and authentically.

Waypoints recognizes that trans and nonbinary individuals often face higher rates of domestic, family, and sexualized violence, reflecting broader patterns of systemic discrimination and marginalization. Observing this day aligns with our commitment to trauma-informed care, ensuring all individuals impacted by violence and abuse are met with safety, respect, and understanding.

Local Pride organizations, such as Wood Buffalo Pride, and community advocates play a crucial role in creating spaces of support and dialogue. By acknowledging the realities of intersectional violence, the community can work toward inclusion, equity, and protection for those most at risk.

Wood Buffalo Pride invites the community to attend their annual TDOR memorial this evening, where they will honour and remember the lives of those in our community we have lost to violence. They will be hosting a Potluck and Memorial from 6-8pm at the Redpoll Centre (2nd floor of SMS Equipment Place). Please RSVP at wbpride.ca/events

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or violence, support is available. Contact our 24/7 Family Violence Crisis Line at +1 (780) 743-1190.

To find out more about the history and purpose of this day, please visit the Government of Canada’s website.

November 18th is recognized globally as the World Day for the Prevention and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence. Established by the United Nations in 2022, this day underscores the importance of preventing harm, protecting children, and supporting their recovery through trauma-informed and child-centred approaches. It calls on communities to raise awareness, promote education, and advocate for safe and supportive environments for children and youth.

In the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, our Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) collaborates with local partners like the RCMP, Child & Family Services, Victim Services, etc., to provide safe spaces, advocacy, and trauma-informed support for children and youth affected by abuse. Every child deserves to be listened to, believed, and supported in their journey toward healing.

If you are concerned about a child’s safety, contact our 24/7 Family Violence Crisis Line at +1 (780) 743-1190. More information about local supports is available on our Child & Youth Advocacy webpage.

For more information about World Day for the Prevention and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence, please visit the United Nations website.

Remembrance Day, observed annually on November 11th, commemorates the service and sacrifices of members of the Canadian Armed Forces and allied forces who have participated in conflicts, peacekeeping missions, and military operations. It originated after the First World War to mark the armistice on November 11, 1918, and has since evolved into a day of reflection on the broader impacts of war, including the effects on families and communities.

Remembrance Day is a time to reflect on the courage, resilience, and dedication of those who served, as well as the lasting effects of conflict. Observing this day helps communities acknowledge the human cost of war, understand historical and intergenerational impacts, and foster empathy and connection. It also strengthens collective memory and reminds us of the value of peace, safety, and community.

There are many meaningful ways to observe Remembrance Day:

• Attend a local ceremony, parade, or gathering, such as events hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion or community organizations.

• Observe a moment of silence at 11 a.m. to reflect on the sacrifices made by service members and their families.

• Learn from veterans and Elders by listening to their stories and experiences.

• Explore educational resources about Canadian military history and the impacts of war on communities.

• Wear a poppy as a symbol of remembrance and reflection.

Even quiet, personal reflection or discussion with family and friends can be a meaningful way to connect with the significance of the day.

At Waypoints, we understand the lifelong impact that traumatic events can have on an individual and how navigating recovery needs support and trauma-informed environments. We acknowledge the impact this has had on many Canadian veterans, their families, and friends’ lives, and pay tribute to their sacrifice to create a brighter future for generations to come. 

For more information about Remembrance Day, please visit the Government of Canada’s website.

Indigenous Veterans Day honours the courage, service, and sacrifices of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis individuals who served in the Canadian Forces. Many Indigenous veterans faced systemic discrimination and the lasting impacts of colonial policies, making their contributions both remarkable and historically significant.

This day offers an opportunity to reflect, listen, and learn from the experiences of Indigenous veterans and their communities. Residents are encouraged to attend local ceremonies at the Royal Canadian Legion, engage with Indigenous Elders, participate in events hosted by organizations such as the Athabasca Tribal Council, or explore community programs and storytelling initiatives that share military histories and personal narratives. Acknowledging these contributions fosters understanding, respect, and connection, while also recognising the intergenerational effects of historical trauma.

Observing Indigenous Veterans Day is a chance to honour service, acknowledge history, and cultivate spaces of reflection and learning that strengthen ties across cultures. It reminds us that recognition, awareness, and respectful dialogue are essential steps in supporting reconciliation and resilience.

To learn more about the day: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/people-and-stories/indigenous-veterans

October 29th is International Day of Care and Support, which highlights the vital role caregivers, both paid and unpaid, play in our communities. Care and support have a profound impact on individuals and families, especially those affected by domestic, family, and sexual violence.

Caregivers provide more than physical assistance; they offer emotional presence, stability, and guidance that help people navigate difficult experiences. This work can be demanding, and the emotional weight of caregiving may lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, or stress. Waypoints maintains an accessible resource hub online our website that provides guidance on these challenges and connects caregivers with support if needed.

Waypoints also provides safe shelter, crisis support, and trauma-informed guidance for people affected by domestic, family, and sexual violence. These services complement the work of caregivers by offering spaces where individuals can access resources, be heard, and regain stability while caregivers maintain their capacity to provide care.

Observing this day emphasizes the importance of supporting both those receiving care and those providing it, fostering resilience, well-being, and balance for everyone involved.

To learn more about International Day of Care & Support, please visit https://www.un.org/en/observances/care-and-support-day

Get ready for a Halloween double feature! Join the RE/MAX Connect YMM Food Festival Pub Crawlloween on Saturday, October 25th, presented by KM Interiors in partnership with The Graveyard Gala. Start at Q Social at 5 PM, hop on our Halloween-themed buses at 6 PM, and sample food and drinks from some of YMM’s top spots before finishing the night at The Graveyard Gala.

Your ticket includes seven drinks, seven appetizer samples, transportation, and VIP entry to the Gala—all for $150. Dress to impress or scare and enjoy a safe, fun night while supporting Waypoints.

18+ event. Tickets are non-refundable.

For more information, please visit www.fortmcmurrayfoodfestival.ca

Purple Thursday, observed annually on the third Thursday of October, is a national initiative in Canada dedicated to raising awareness about the intersection of brain injury and intimate partner violence (IPV). This day encourages individuals and organizations to highlight the often-overlooked consequences of IPV and to show support for survivors.

Research indicates that many people experiencing IPV sustain brain injuries, often from blows to the head, face, or neck, including strangulation. These injuries can have lasting cognitive, emotional, and physical effects, yet they frequently go unrecognized.

We are committed to supporting survivors of IPV by providing safe, trauma-informed spaces where individuals can access resources, receive counseling, and rebuild their lives. Waypoints’ services are designed to address the complex needs of survivors, including those affected by brain injuries resulting from IPV.

On Purple Thursday, we join communities across Canada in wearing purple to show solidarity with survivors and to raise awareness about the critical need for integrated support services. By acknowledging the connection between brain injury and IPV, we can better support survivors in their journey toward healing and empowerment.

For more information and resources, visit the Abused & Brain Injured Toolkit and BrainLove.ca.

October 11 celebrates girls and the extraordinary contributions they make, even in the face of adversity. This year’s theme, The girl I am, the change I lead: Girls on the frontlines of crisis, shines a light on the courage, creativity, and determination girls show as they navigate difficult situations and take active roles in shaping their communities.

Waypoints supports young people by providing spaces where they can ask questions, learn practical life skills, and build confidence in making choices that feel safe and right for them. Our programs encourage girls to explore their voices, understand their rights, and recognize their own power to influence positive change.

Honouring this day means acknowledging the barriers girls face and celebrating the unique ways they overcome challenges. Every conversation, every learning opportunity, and every supportive interaction contributes to helping girls grow into leaders of their own lives.

For more information on International Day of the Girl Child, please visit the United Nations’ website at https://www.un.org/en/observances/girl-child-day

World Mental Health Day on October 10th highlights the importance of emotional and psychological well-being for everyone in our community. Mental health challenges can emerge from trauma, abuse, or life circumstances, and each experience deserves understanding and support.

Open conversations about mental health help remove stigma and encourage people to access the support they need. At Waypoints, we provide counselling and safe, trauma-informed spaces where individuals and families can explore their experiences, access guidance, and connect with supports that fit their needs.

Taking small steps like checking in on someone, listening without judgment, or learning more about mental health can create real change. Each act of care helps people feel seen, heard, and supported, giving them space to build resilience in their own way, on their own terms.

For more information about Mental Health supports in Wood Buffalo, please visit the Canadian Mental Health Association of Wood Buffalo’s website at https://woodbuffalo.cmha.ca/

Across generations, the legacy of residential schools has left deep marks on Indigenous children, families, and communities. The stories of those who were taken from their homes, the experiences they endured, and the impacts that continue today are difficult truths that Canada cannot overlook. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation brings these realities into focus, asking us to confront history honestly and reflect on the systemic barriers that remain.

Orange Shirt Day, observed alongside this national day, carries a quiet but powerful message. Every child’s life and experience matter. The orange shirt is more than a symbol. It is a call to listen, to learn, and to consider how we each can contribute to supporting children, families, and communities in ways that are respectful, informed, and meaningful.

This day invites engagement with Indigenous voices and perspectives and encourages the creation of spaces where children and youth feel safe, valued, and seen. It is a moment to recognize resilience, acknowledge ongoing challenges, and reflect on how our actions, words, and systems can either perpetuate harm or support healing.

Connect with our community by:

Attending local events and workshops:

• Youth Craft Night – Orange Shirt Felt Patch Workshop hosted by Nistawoyou Association Friendship Centre

• Community Gathering and Solidarity Walk - organized by the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo

• Athabasca Tribal Council Cultural Festival – a celebration of Indigenous culture, traditions, and community

Learning from Indigenous-led organizations, Elders, and initiatives, including, but not limited to:

• Athabasca Tribal Council – programs supporting cultural and community development

• Nistawoyou Association Friendship Centre – programs supporting Indigenous youth, culture, and community wellness

Exploring books, videos, and online resources:

• Wood Buffalo Regional Library – Indigenous resource collections and storytelling materials

• RM Wood Buffalo Series – video series highlighting Indigenous and local stories

To learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, please visit the NCTR’s website by clicking here.

For additional information, please visit the Government of Canada’s website by clicking here.

The Autumn Equinox marks when day and night stand in perfect balance. It is a turning point in the seasons and an invitation to pause and realign.

Just as the earth shifts into harmony, we are reminded that balance is possible in our lives, our relationships, and our communities. This season encourages reflection on how we create safety, equity, and support for one another.

Work grounded in respect and care, supporting individuals and families affected by domestic, family, and sexual violence, engaging men and boys as allies, and acting to reduce violence in homes and neighbourhoods all contribute to communities where everyone can thrive.

Some resources and supports in the Wood Buffalo region include, but are not limited to:

• The Hub Family Resource Network

• Taproot Contact

• Men and Families Resources

• Counselling Alberta

• Some Other Solutions – Child and Youth Programs

The equinox reminds us that change is natural and balance is possible. May this season inspire reflection, connection, and renewed commitment to building safer, more caring communities.

International Day of Peace serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to create a future where individuals and communities can live free from violence, fear, and harm. The theme for 2025 is “Act Now For A Peaceful World”. Peace is often pictured as quiet, calm, or stillness. But peace can also be active. It is the courage to speak, the strength to heal, and the resilience to rebuild after harm.

When violence touches a life, peace can feel out of reach. Yet every step toward safety, every choice reclaimed, and every voice that is heard plants the seeds of peace.

At Waypoints, we see peace in the moments when a person realizes they are not alone, when healing begins to take shape, and when possibilities for the future start to return.

International Day of Peace reminds us that peace is not abstract; it is lived. It grows in homes, in communities, and in the care we extend to one another.

To learn more about International Day of Peace, please visit the United Nations website.

World Suicide Prevention Day is a reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a story, and a community that cares. Many who access Waypoints services have experienced trauma, abuse, or violence that can carry heavy impacts on mental health.​

We know that healing is rarely a straight path, and our community is strengthened by organizations that provide mental health and suicide prevention supports. The Canadian Mental Health Association Wood Buffalo, Some Other Solutions, Wood Buffalo Addictions and Mental Health, YMM Collaborative Practice, and more all play an important role in ensuring that care is accessible when it is needed most.​

Today is an invitation to speak openly about suicide, reduce stigma, listen without judgment, and remind one another that help is always within reach.​

If you or someone you know is struggling, here are local supports available in Fort McMurray:​

• Canadian Mental Health Association Wood Buffalo​
  Phone: 780-743-1053 | Website: woodbuffalo.cmha.ca
  ​

• Some Other Solutions (24 Hour Crisis Line)​
  Phone: 780-743-4357 | Website: someothersolutions.ca
  ​

• Wood Buffalo Addictions and Mental Health​
  Phone: 780-793-8360 (24 Hour Help Line 1-877-303-2642)​
  

• YMM Collaborative Practice​
  Phone: 587-452-1379 | Website: www.ymmcollaborativepractice.com
  ​

​Remember, no one has to face this alone.

The International Day of Charity encourages us to reflect on the power of generosity and collective action in addressing some of society’s most urgent challenges. Established by the United Nations and observed worldwide, this day celebrates the spirit of giving that uplifts vulnerable populations and strengthens the bonds within communities.

We recognize that charity goes beyond donations; it’s about creating safe, respectful, and supportive environments where healing and prevention can thrive. Our work supporting individuals and families affected by domestic, family, and sexual violence is rooted in the understanding that compassionate care and community collaboration are essential to lasting change.

On this day, we acknowledge the individuals, volunteers, partners, and donors who contribute to these efforts. Their commitment helps build resilience, foster dignity, and expand opportunities for those we serve.

International Day of Charity reminds us that each act of kindness (big or small) advances a future where everyone has the chance to live free from violence and harm.

For more information on the International Day of Charity, please visit www.un.org/en/observances/charity-day

Labour Day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the essential work that sustains our communities: every job, every effort, every act of care and service. From those who educate, create, and care, to those who build, protect, and volunteer, the labour of many strengthens the fabric of everyday life. ​

Work takes many forms, and its impact is often unseen. It is the dedication of people in all roles, whether visible or behind the scenes, that creates spaces where individuals can thrive, connect, and take part in their communities—every act of labour, from the smallest to the most visible, matters.​

Today, we hold space to acknowledge all who contribute, in big ways and small, and help create communities where everyone can feel valued, included, and empowered.

International Overdose Awareness Day was founded in 2001 to remember those who have died or suffered due to drug overdoses. It serves as a powerful platform to raise awareness about overdose prevention, reduce stigma, and promote evidence-based harm reduction strategies. This day encourages communities and policymakers to prioritise compassionate and effective responses to the overdose crisis.

Within a trauma-informed framework, addressing substance use involves recognizing the complex interplay of trauma, mental health, and social determinants. Supporting individuals through non-judgmental care and accessible resources is key to building safer communities. Waypoints aligns with these principles, advocating for holistic wellness and accessible supports for those affected by trauma and related challenges.

Learn more through the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): CAMH Overdose Awareness.

World Humanitarian Day honours the courage and dedication of humanitarian workers worldwide who deliver aid in the most challenging circumstances. Established by the United Nations in 2008, it commemorates those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of providing critical support during conflicts, disasters, and crises.

This day calls attention to the need for compassionate, coordinated action to support vulnerable populations globally. It reminds us of the importance of community resilience, protection, and empowerment, values that are deeply reflected in trauma-informed and inclusive approaches.

In alignment with these principles, Waypoints continues to support and collaborate with individuals and communities impacted by violence and trauma, working towards safer, stronger environments for all.

For more information, please visit the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) at: https://www.unocha.org/world-humanitarian-day