Historical Highlights

In 1996, activities and events such as "Hot Times", a resource fair held at Cavell apartments (a large apartment complex where many young summer staff live), outdoor recreation activities, camping trips and work site presentation all address the broader wellness theme. Also established this year was a resource room - the Wildlife Crossing Lounge - at Cavell apartments.

On December 1, 1996 we held our first AIDS Walk on World AIDS day. We raised nearly $2000 at this event.

In spring 1997, the Peer Education Project applied for, and received, project funding from RCMP crime prevention unit in Ottawa to host a youth forum on dating violence at the high school. The local RCMP detachment and a local member of CAVEAT (a national victim right organization) also worked on organizing this event. It was extremely well received and spawned ongoing initiatives for young people in Jasper.

Early in summer of 1997, the Peer Education Project changed its name to Staff Outreach Services (SOS). New programs, such as a woman's mountaineering program and rock climbing courses were added and the resource fair of the previous year, "Hot Times", was expanded to become a dynamic resource fair designed to welcome new and returning staff to Jasper. Featuring live music and interactive booths in a downtown location and a night event at a popular bar, the Atha-B, the fair was a huge success. It was extremely well supported by the community and businesses.