{"posts":[{"id":"28740","created":1784084494,"creator":{"name":"Kelsie McKissock","slug":"OFRxlEOV43jJwiOwHRoU","type":"user","profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/a6/4f/15/a64f15ea749d9438289bd7b189d829d870d2b0f7_profile.jpg"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"Thanks to incredibly generous donors from across Canada - 14 families from 13 of our agency partners were fans in the stands for FIFA 2026 matches hosted at BC Place Stadium. \n\"I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the generous donors and Kids Up Front for providing our family with the incredible opportunity to attend a World Cup match, an experience that has impacted my son’s life in the most profound way. Our expectations of what attending a World Cup match would be like were greatly exceeded, and the actual experience was truly beyond our wildest dreams. In that moment, all our worries and hard times melted away, and we were truly living in the moment. These memories will last a lifetime and carry us through any hard times we may face in the future. I am struggling to find the words to express my gratitude to the donor, the community, and kids up front for facilitating this experience. It has brought healing and joy that is hard to describe because it has to be felt. We are truly touched by your generosity, and we will never forget this night for the rest of our lives. We felt supported in a way we can’t describe. You have shared such a generous gift with our family, which has brought tears of joy more times in the last week than I can count, you have healed a part of our hearts and provided a truly life-changing experience for the most deserving child.\" - BC Children’s Heart Network\nSupport from community‑minded individuals and organizations is essential to helping us stay true to our mission. With your generosity, we can continue expanding our programs so that more kids and youth facing economic, social, and personal wellness barriers gain equitable access to uplifting experiences. These moments offer far more than a seat in the stands: they provide joy, a genuine sense of inclusion, and a meaningful escape from the challenges they face every day.  \n[b]https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/kids-up-front-foundation-vancouver/campaign/more-than-a-ticket/?version=2[/b]\n\n@[ BGC South Coast BC (Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC)](organization:bgc-south-coast-bc-boys-and-girls-clubs-of-south-coast-bc-351537), @[ Lower Mainland Down Syndrome Society ](organization:lower-mainland-down-syndrome-society-351274) @[ Starlight Children's Foundation Canada](organization:starlight-childrens-foundation-canada-347627) @[ Younglife](organization:younglife-350209) @[ YWCA British Columbia](organization:ywca-british-columbia-351537)","subject":"FIFA - Can you imagine what it was like to be there? Kids Up Front Families can!","city":"Vancouver","cities":["Vancouver","Surrey","Dorval","Princeton"],"cityIds":[351537,351274,347627,350209],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"eb7d2eb5342951437029fd356cc964607cc267af","path":"images/eb/7d/2e/eb7d2eb5342951437029fd356cc964607cc267af_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/eb/7d/2e/eb7d2eb5342951437029fd356cc964607cc267af","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":579,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":1082,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]},{"hash":"a5564c553deb09369c09140740a988679ef81fad","path":"images/a5/56/4c/a5564c553deb09369c09140740a988679ef81fad_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/a5/56/4c/a5564c553deb09369c09140740a988679ef81fad","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":1026,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":1918,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":true,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"rid":"","name":"Kelsie McKissock","slug":"OFRxlEOV43jJwiOwHRoU","type":"user","status":3,"subType":"user","profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/a6/4f/15/a64f15ea749d9438289bd7b189d829d870d2b0f7_profile.jpg"},"targets":[{"name":"BGC South Coast BC (Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC)","slug":"bgc-south-coast-bc-boys-and-girls-clubs-of-south-coast-bc-351537","type":"organization","status":2,"postStatus":2,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/e3/ef/04/e3ef047a7f6674c1085d0b11038e7e021747f1e5_logo.png"},{"name":"YWCA British Columbia","slug":"ywca-british-columbia-351537","type":"organization","status":2,"postStatus":2,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/00/e5/d1/00e5d1048b3e562fcfc03bd994a399ad483f829f_logo.png"},{"name":"Younglife","slug":"younglife-350209","type":"organization","status":2,"postStatus":2,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/a3/c3/74/a3c374bd58f187d7fb3492fb616399d2f3ee7b68_logo.png"},{"name":"Starlight Children's Foundation Canada","slug":"starlight-childrens-foundation-canada-347627","type":"organization","status":2,"postStatus":2,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/67/d9/71/67d9719cdd72c392389f248ddf20199de65ec597_logo.png"},{"name":"Lower Mainland Down Syndrome Society ","slug":"lower-mainland-down-syndrome-society-351274","type":"organization","status":2,"postStatus":2,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/d1/d3/01/d1d301fb8ba4a02cc2b517d895d8aca50df20da8_logo.png"}],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":true,"numPromotedMedia":63,"published":"2026-07-15T03:01:34.748Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"},{"id":"28709","created":1783603909,"creator":{"name":"Kathy McNinch","slug":"l45b4eEfE7ynX86hNtGd","type":"user"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"Join us for an inspiring evening where creativity meets community! Support local artists while helping make a difference through the Battlefords and District Community Foundation’s Art For Good Community Art Auction. \nFriday, October 2, 2026 Alex Dillabough Centre, Battleford \nTickets: $50\nEnjoy dinner, a cash bar, and both live and silent auctions featuring incredible artwork created by talented area artists.\nAll proceeds will benefit BGC Battlefords and the Hazel Asmussen Fund, supporting fine arts scholarships for local youth.Come celebrate the arts, connect with the community, and help create opportunities for the next generation of artists. \nFor more information contact Kathy at 306-446-3863 or email 2026auctiontickets@gmail.com","subject":"Art For Good – Community Art Auction","city":"North Battleford","cities":["North Battleford"],"cityIds":[349723],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"99d286cec369c862f09561f0d7216713b7ca80ce","path":"images/99/d2/86/99d286cec369c862f09561f0d7216713b7ca80ce_o.jpeg","baseFile":"images/99/d2/86/99d286cec369c862f09561f0d7216713b7ca80ce","fileExt":"jpeg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":996,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":1862,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":false,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"name":"Battlefords and District Community Foundation","slug":"battlefords-and-district-community-foundation-349723","type":"organization","status":2,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/71/53/de/7153deca0986da3f25a79513bf27097f54a9c06f_logo.png"},"targets":[{"name":"Battlefords and District Community Foundation","slug":"battlefords-and-district-community-foundation-349723","type":"organization","status":2,"postStatus":3,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/71/53/de/7153deca0986da3f25a79513bf27097f54a9c06f_logo.png"}],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":true,"numPromotedMedia":5,"published":"2026-07-09T13:31:49.261Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"},{"id":"28684","created":1783099455,"creator":{"name":"Ryan Lambert","slug":"fHVlvBxGcYCWxAijcJg0","type":"user"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"For Brooke Cameron, horses have always been more than animals in a pasture. They have been teachers, companions, and a source of healing. \nNow, through her family’s therapy program on Poundmaker Cree Nation, the 21-year-old hopes others can experience that same connection. \nHer family has spent the past decade offering free opportunities for community members to connect with horses through trail rides, riding lessons, barrel racing, bonding sessions, and wagon rides. \nAs interest grew, Poundmaker Cree Nation partnered with the family, expanding what began as a small grassroots effort into a year-round program.  \n“My overall goal is to get more people involved with horses and teach them the real meaning behind them,” she said. “They help you so much more than just making you happy when you ride. I believe horses teach you so much about yourself that you don’t know.” \nThat connection also became a source of stability in Cameron’s own life. Whenever she needed to clear her mind, she said she would saddle up and ride. \n“I feel like because I had horses in my life and been around them this whole time, that it led me away from addictions that ran really deep into family roots and into the reserves,” Cameron said. “One of my main goals with the youth, is to show them that there’s not just partying and drinking out there. We see it a lot, and we don’t see enough horse people out there.” \nFor Cameron and her family, the greatest reward is watching participants gain confidence around the horses. \nShe recalled one student with autism who was initially too nervous to ride and instead spent time feeding the horses. With help, he climbed into the saddle and began riding. Now, Cameron said, he attends through the school program, gets on after the horse is saddled and rides independently – something she said surprised school staff because he typically requires one-on-one support. \n“For us, it’s very rewarding that what we do really means something. To see it bloom like that and to watch him come happy … that’s a lot.” \nFor Cameron, those moments reflect the purpose of the program: giving people a place to connect, heal and discover new possibilities through horsemanship. She hopes it continues to show young people there is more waiting for them beyond the challenges they may face.","subject":"Poundmaker Cree Nation therapy program helping people heal through horses","city":"North Battleford","cities":["North Battleford"],"cityIds":[349723],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"f10f5081f2fd038062e91d82fbb806383b0423bc","path":"images/f1/0f/50/f10f5081f2fd038062e91d82fbb806383b0423bc_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/f1/0f/50/f10f5081f2fd038062e91d82fbb806383b0423bc","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":433,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":810,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":false,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"rid":"","name":"battlefordsNOW - a division of Pattison Media","slug":"battlefordsnow-349723","type":"business","status":1,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/e2/de/bf/e2debf55a6f82da7b479fa4f2fe5d9a16ef9639c_logo.png"},"targets":[],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":true,"numPromotedMedia":5,"published":"2026-07-03T17:24:15.026Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"},{"id":"28635","created":1782492415,"creator":{"name":"Ryan Lambert","slug":"fHVlvBxGcYCWxAijcJg0","type":"user"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"Community members in need can now access [Blessing Box](https://battlefordsnow.com/2026/03/10/community-led-blessing-box-expansion-aims-to-help-those-in-need/) supplies in North Battleford.  \nThe first come and go donation box was set up in September 2024, in front of the Alex Dillabough Centre in the Town of Battleford. It allows residents to drop off items such as food, clothing, hygiene products, and other goods. In turn, anyone in the community can take items they may need.   \nNow, that same service is available in the city, in front of the North Battleford Fire Department. \nPaige Hundt is the community member who brought the local initiative back, after the original box by [Natalya Shevchuk](https://battlefordsnow.com/2017/03/02/the-battlefords-blessing-box-is-coming-soon/) was removed. She said this project has helped to supply resources for those in need. \n“If someone can just have a come and go service where they don’t have to meet business hours, they don’t have to meet requirements, they can come and just access items that they need. I think that’s a game changer for a lot of people,” she said. \nHundt has also started a [Facebook page for the box](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1654841452310813); she encourages residents to post what they have donated. \n“People who are accessing the box can see, ‘there is something I need in there’. Then they can go,” she explained. \nMayor Kelli Hawtin added that the box will allow community members to give back when they can. \n“Its not always easy for someone to go into the food bank or into a public building and say I need help, I think every single one of us, we are always one life circumstance away from needing a handout.” \nAnything someone may need can be left inside the box as a donation, excluding weapons, drugs, alcohol, freezable liquids, and glass items that can easily break. ","subject":"Blessing Box brings come-and-go support to North Battleford","city":"North Battleford","cities":["North Battleford"],"cityIds":[349723],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"88674cc07c9c0fc13c4aa046b18ffe678242f4aa","path":"images/88/67/4c/88674cc07c9c0fc13c4aa046b18ffe678242f4aa_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/88/67/4c/88674cc07c9c0fc13c4aa046b18ffe678242f4aa","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":433,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":810,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":false,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"rid":"","name":"battlefordsNOW - a division of Pattison Media","slug":"battlefordsnow-349723","type":"business","status":1,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/e2/de/bf/e2debf55a6f82da7b479fa4f2fe5d9a16ef9639c_logo.png"},"targets":[],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":true,"numPromotedMedia":5,"published":"2026-06-26T16:46:55.325Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"},{"id":"28506","created":1781198827,"creator":{"name":"Celeste Geisbauer","slug":"rBV16hMKgim1BVfjgh3b","type":"user","profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/b4/5a/bd/b45abda2c42e7e608f7d4dd60889360396da9e86_profile.jpg"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"We all need more good news in our lives. Do Some Good and Pattison Media have partnered to make it happen! This means YOU can have your very own good news stories appear in the local media.\n\nHow does this work? Simply select what type of Do Gooder you are to create a Do Some Good account (takes 2 minutes) and start sharing the good news. If you already have a Do Some Good account, simply log in and post.\n\nIndividual - https://dosomegood.ca/en-CA/individuals\nCharity / Nonprofit - https://dosomegood.ca/en-CA/community-organizations\nBusinesses - Find more info here: https://dosomegood.ca/en-CA/good-companies\n\nFor quick and easy posting on the go, you can also download the Do Some Good app:\nApple - https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/do-some-good/id1210199163\nAndroid - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.volinspire.VolinspireApp&hl=en\n\nThis awesome media reach and exposure is FREE for charities, nonprofits, and individuals. We invite all Do-Gooders in these communities to read GOOD NEWS every week on Pattison sites - and post your own stories - to create a ripple effect of good vibes!","subject":"Local Good shares a story worth noting","city":"Whitecourt","cities":["Whitecourt","Drayton Valley","North Battleford","Meadow Lake","La Ronge","Medicine Hat","Grande Prairie","Cranbrook","Brandon"],"cityIds":[351752,347643,349723,349320,348912,349327,348213,347439,346895],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"adcd9f4ed72a5882948a96d6585bbf98d72f36e6","path":"images/ad/cd/9f/adcd9f4ed72a5882948a96d6585bbf98d72f36e6_o.png","baseFile":"images/ad/cd/9f/adcd9f4ed72a5882948a96d6585bbf98d72f36e6","fileExt":"png","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":756,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":1414,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":false,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"name":"Local Good","slug":"local-good-348681","type":"organization","status":2,"subType":"School","profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/d8/11/fc/d811fc0597d55866dda557cdf8262020814f22a2_logo.png"},"targets":[],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":false,"numPromotedMedia":19,"published":"2026-06-11T17:27:07.909Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"},{"id":"28420","created":1780610526,"creator":{"name":"Ryan Lambert","slug":"fHVlvBxGcYCWxAijcJg0","type":"user"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"A Tim Hortons fundraising campaign in the Battlefords and Meadow Lake has raised $28,610 for the Living Sky Innovation Fund’s Everyone Can Play initiative.\nThe funds will help Living Sky School Division students participate in extracurricular activities by covering costs such as registration fees, travel and equipment.\nThe money was raised during this year’s Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign, held April 27 to May 3, through the efforts of local restaurant owners Glenn Isaac and Marion Michnik, along with support from customers in the Battlefords and Meadow Lake.\nLaunched last fall, the Everyone Can Play initiative has already helped more than 60 students across the division access activities including sports, robotics, drama and other school clubs.\n“Feedback from schools has been incredibly positive, with more students able to get involved and try new activities,” said Christeena Fisher, coordinator of the Living Sky Innovation Fund. “These funds are helping create opportunities for students to participate in everything from athletics to robotics, drama and a variety of clubs.”\n“Students are at the center of everything we do,” said Brenda Vickers, director of education with Living Sky School Division. “It’s special to see our community come together through a campaign like this to support kids. Knowing these funds will help remove barriers and give more students the chance to participate and belong makes this partnership with our local Tim Hortons locations truly meaningful.”\nThe annual Smile Cookie campaign raised a record $23.3 million this year for nearly 700 charities and community groups across Canada and the United States.","subject":"Smile Cookie campaign raises more than $28,000 for student activity fund","city":"North Battleford","cities":["North Battleford"],"cityIds":[349723],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"d9d3565bb3eb73b1f200dcaef3dc98d1ffb5b14b","path":"images/d9/d3/56/d9d3565bb3eb73b1f200dcaef3dc98d1ffb5b14b_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/d9/d3/56/d9d3565bb3eb73b1f200dcaef3dc98d1ffb5b14b","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":580,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":1084,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":false,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"rid":"","name":"battlefordsNOW - a division of Pattison Media","slug":"battlefordsnow-349723","type":"business","status":1,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/e2/de/bf/e2debf55a6f82da7b479fa4f2fe5d9a16ef9639c_logo.png"},"targets":[],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":true,"numPromotedMedia":5,"published":"2026-06-04T22:02:06.645Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"},{"id":"28364","created":1780064248,"creator":{"name":"Kathy McNinch","slug":"l45b4eEfE7ynX86hNtGd","type":"user"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"The 2026 winners of the Peter Lewochko Fund scholarships have been announced. Nate Fransoo of John Paul II Collegiate and  Hafsa Echihabi of North Battleford Comprehensive High School will share this year's award. Congratulations to both!","subject":"Winners of Peter Lewochko Fund Scholarships Announced","city":"North Battleford","cities":["North Battleford"],"cityIds":[349723],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"b549aa79d16a8510bc910d0cacd0b20f876c1c45","path":"images/b5/49/aa/b549aa79d16a8510bc910d0cacd0b20f876c1c45_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/b5/49/aa/b549aa79d16a8510bc910d0cacd0b20f876c1c45","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":911,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":1704,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]},{"hash":"fc7e8ccca7a14cdcd6f0693f74a44c59d461675a","path":"images/fc/7e/8c/fc7e8ccca7a14cdcd6f0693f74a44c59d461675a_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/fc/7e/8c/fc7e8ccca7a14cdcd6f0693f74a44c59d461675a","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":817,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":1529,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":false,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"name":"Battlefords and District Community Foundation","slug":"battlefords-and-district-community-foundation-349723","type":"organization","status":2,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/71/53/de/7153deca0986da3f25a79513bf27097f54a9c06f_logo.png"},"targets":[{"name":"Battlefords and District Community Foundation","slug":"battlefords-and-district-community-foundation-349723","type":"organization","status":2,"postStatus":3,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/71/53/de/7153deca0986da3f25a79513bf27097f54a9c06f_logo.png"}],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":true,"numPromotedMedia":5,"published":"2026-05-29T14:17:28.298Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"},{"id":"28296","created":1779213960,"creator":{"name":"Ryan Lambert","slug":"fHVlvBxGcYCWxAijcJg0","type":"user"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"For Rhonda MacDonald, bringing the MS Walk back to the Battlefords is about more than fundraising; it’s about ensuring people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) know they are not alone. After several years of virtual events following the COVID-19 pandemic, the Battlefords MS Walk returned in person last year, and organizers hope for even more support at this year’s event on June 7 at Discovery Co-op Mall in North Battleford.\nMacDonald, the volunteer lead, said the cause is deeply personal. Her mother, Myrna Head, was diagnosed with MS when MacDonald was a teenager, shaping her understanding of the disease. “I remember my mom, for example, had to go for a ton of spinal taps,” she said. “And that alone, was brutal.” She described MS as a “very hidden disease,” noting that symptoms like exhaustion are often misunderstood. Her mother eventually had to stop working as a nurse as the disease progressed.\nMore than 90,000 Canadians live with MS, one of the highest rates in the world. Women are three times more likely to be diagnosed, often between ages 20 and 49. Symptoms vary widely, from fatigue and muscle weakness to vision and mobility challenges. But MacDonald said the emotional toll can be just as severe. “One of the toughest things about MS is social isolation and depression,” she said, recalling a woman who felt too exhausted to be around others.\nThat’s why the walk matters beyond fundraising. “People with MS seeing people come out and support them is so valuable because it’s such an isolated thing,” she said. “To have people show that they care about you is so good for their mental health.”\nFunds raised support research, advocacy and community programs. MacDonald said many don’t realize MS Canada offers practical help, including grants for home support. “There’s grants and different things like that you can apply for to have a person come and help you clean your house,” she said. The organization also connects newly diagnosed individuals with peer support.\nLast year’s walk drew 75 participants and raised over $12,000. This year’s goal is $14,000. Registration opens at 10 a.m., with the walk beginning at 11 a.m. Participants will follow a route along 95th Street and 19th Avenue before looping back on the walking path near Territorial Drive. Donations will be accepted on-site.\n","subject":"battlefordsNOW - a division of Pattison Media shares a story worth noting","city":"North Battleford","cities":["North Battleford"],"cityIds":[349723],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"4c34aa57c55381a206f9b8dda45108cf221602c6","path":"images/4c/34/aa/4c34aa57c55381a206f9b8dda45108cf221602c6_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/4c/34/aa/4c34aa57c55381a206f9b8dda45108cf221602c6","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":466,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":872,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":false,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"rid":"","name":"battlefordsNOW - a division of Pattison Media","slug":"battlefordsnow-349723","type":"business","status":1,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/e2/de/bf/e2debf55a6f82da7b479fa4f2fe5d9a16ef9639c_logo.png"},"targets":[],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":false,"numPromotedMedia":5,"published":"2026-05-19T18:06:00.163Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"},{"id":"28213","created":1778174066,"creator":{"name":"Ryan Lambert","slug":"fHVlvBxGcYCWxAijcJg0","type":"user"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"As McHappy Day returns, families across Canada are being reminded of the impact a simple donation can make, helping support Ronald McDonald House Charities and the families who rely on it during some of the most difficult moments.\nFor one Saskatchewan family, that impact is deeply personal.\n“Our experience with RMH is truly hard to put into words,” said Raeanne McIntyre of North Battleford. “During some of the hardest moments of our lives, RMH has been so much more than just a place to stay – it has been our home away from home.”\nHer son Braxton has been at the centre of a long and challenging medical journey that has taken the family through hospitals in Saskatoon, Calgary and Toronto. Along the way, they have spent more than 750 nights at RMH.\nBorn at just 29 weeks and weighing one pound, Braxton has faced a complex medical journey, including a form of bone marrow failure and neutropenia, requiring ongoing care. Through it all, the family says RMH has allowed them to stay together when it mattered most.\n“What makes RMH so special is not only the incredible staff and volunteers, but also the sense of community it creates. The bonds you form with other families who truly understand what you are going through are something indescribable,” McIntyre said.\nAs McHappy Day shines a spotlight on giving back, families like the McIntyres say that support makes all the difference. For local business owners, it’s also a chance to see that impact firsthand.\nHardeep Samra, an owner-operator in North Battleford, is experiencing her first McHappy Day.\n“It’s been delightful,” she said. “It’s just awesome to see the culture and the vibe within and see the local community come and help support RMH. It’s just been a joyful experience for myself and everybody that’s come to help us out.”\nSamra said some people came out specifically to donate and spoke about how the day brings the community together.\n“Everybody’s here to support. McDonald’s, the community, and the local supporters like the radio station, RBC, everybody that’s coming out to just help raise what we need to raise for a good cause.”\nSupport for the day was also felt across the province, especially in Prince Albert, where construction is underway on one of RMH’s newest facilities. Karen Linsley, director of development and communications for RMH, said the new 12-room house is expected to open in early January. A third Saskatchewan RMH location in Regina was also announced earlier this year.","subject":"McHappy Day brings communities together in Saskatchewan","city":"North Battleford","cities":["North Battleford"],"cityIds":[349723],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"4daac18f8c6fb27ac11cce0a89c8e41e0183b6f8","path":"images/4d/aa/c1/4daac18f8c6fb27ac11cce0a89c8e41e0183b6f8_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/4d/aa/c1/4daac18f8c6fb27ac11cce0a89c8e41e0183b6f8","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":433,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":811,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":false,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"rid":"","name":"battlefordsNOW - a division of Pattison Media","slug":"battlefordsnow-349723","type":"business","status":1,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/e2/de/bf/e2debf55a6f82da7b479fa4f2fe5d9a16ef9639c_logo.png"},"targets":[],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":true,"numPromotedMedia":5,"published":"2026-05-07T17:14:26.938Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"},{"id":"28173","created":1777667670,"creator":{"name":"Adam Janes","slug":"pMXMAVyCwd2dmVRkpe9L","type":"user"},"type":"Story","status":"Approved","body":"We are VMPC and we are shining a light on all those who lead volunteering in Canada - be it full time/part time/ partial role or volunteered - you do important work and it needs to be recognized advocated for and supported. Together, let's invest in the systems that support communities to help people do even more good.\n\nIt starts with organizations shining their light on the leaders of volunteers and volunteering communities - we are starting with an easy 10 question survey to help build the shape of volunteering communities in Canada. On May 11th we are launching the largest survey on Volunteer Engagement in Canadian History and we want every organization to show up and take part.\n\nStay tuned for more!","subject":"Hi We are Canada's National Network for Leaders of Volunteers in Canada!","city":"Ottawa","cities":["Ottawa"],"cityIds":[349855],"featureType":"None","images":[{"hash":"80ee4ed88fcbfe3a0973d18a096f7c2c8731d948","path":"images/80/ee/4e/80ee4ed88fcbfe3a0973d18a096f7c2c8731d948_o.png","baseFile":"images/80/ee/4e/80ee4ed88fcbfe3a0973d18a096f7c2c8731d948","fileExt":"png","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":770,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":1440,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]},{"hash":"00129b25a786029e469c691ec12642c3e87ad8f6","path":"images/00/12/9b/00129b25a786029e469c691ec12642c3e87ad8f6_o.jpg","baseFile":"images/00/12/9b/00129b25a786029e469c691ec12642c3e87ad8f6","fileExt":"jpg","type":"image","bucket":"media.volinspire.com","meta":[{"suffix":"small","width":128,"height":128,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"small@2x","width":256,"height":256,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"medium","width":770,"height":308,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"large","width":1440,"height":576,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb","width":320,"height":180,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-thumb@2x","width":640,"height":360,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-fill","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"},{"suffix":"og-wide-matted","width":1200,"height":630,"format":"jpg"}]}],"imagesPending":[],"promoted":true,"communityFeed":true,"endorsedLocal":false,"source":{"name":"Volunteer Management Professionals of Canada","slug":"volunteer-management-professionals-of-canada-349855","type":"organization","status":2,"profilePhoto":"//media.volinspire.com/images/87/6b/97/876b97f4437d61a8261dcf4feabb7443328d57bf_logo.png"},"targets":[],"reactions":[],"visibility":0,"showReactions":false,"showPostDate":true,"showSubject":true,"numPromotedMedia":63,"published":"2026-05-01T20:34:30.182Z","creationMethod":"oauthClient"}],"config":{"focusCity":"North Battleford","showPostDate":false,"collapseCities":true}}