FCSS has new course offerings in September

Posted on September 12, 2024 by admin

By Heather Cameron
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Every once in a while, everyone should try and learn a new skill. Whether it’s as simple as picking up a new hobby or perfecting an existing talent, the General Interest Courses being offered through Family and Community Support Services have you covered!

Starting in September, FCSS will be offering a wide variety of courses in locations such as Milk River, Stirling and Warner, which will focus on a variety of topics.

“The main purpose of the General Interest Courses is that social connection, and helping people learn about FCSS in a different way,” said Kaitlynn Weaver, Outreach Services Supervisor for FCSS. “It’s a way to get people involved in their community and it helps everyone see the resources available in their own communities. There’s such a wide variety of courses this fall coming to the County of Warner.”

Stacey Maynes, Family Support Worker for FCSS, explained that courses are made by and for County of Warner residents. Courses are selected based on community interest, while instructors are identified from within the community.

“We thought about what the interest level might be in the communities and then tried to find an instructor to match that,” said Maynes, on how the course list was prepared.

She added FCSS is always looking for new ideas for courses, and instructors to teach them.

“A lot of times it simply comes down to me talking to community members, and they will give me names for people who could teach courses, and we go from there,” said Maynes.

She went on to say there are plenty of people in the area with important knowledge to pass along, as she mentioned the courses also offer opportunities for locals to learn new skills without having to travel into the city.

“It’s also about utilizing the skills available right in the community,” said Maynes, who added while FCSS has a full slate of courses this fall, even more will be available this winter. “The courses taking place this fall are exciting and diverse,” said Maynes.

Want to learn how to cook a delicious Thai-inspiring meal? Need to sharpen your pickleball skills? Looking to learn about independence and responsibility by completing a babysitting course? According to Weaver, signing up for these and other courses is a breeze!

“There is an online tool to register. On our website, click on the General Interest Courses button and from there, it’s really easy to use, and it gives you the complete list of courses and all of the locations,” Weaver said. “FCSS is also seeking volunteers to ensure courses run smoothly and provide services such as set up and take down, along with some basic administrative tasks.”

To register for upcoming courses and more, visit http://www.fcss.ca and click on the pink General Interest Courses button at the top of the site’s home page. For assistance registering, to suggest an idea for a new course or to volunteer, contact Stacey Maynes at 403-756-3572 or stacey.maynes@fcss.ca.