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September 2025 | Donations for PMH

September 2025 | Donations for PMH

Dauphin Regional Health Centre Cancer Care Unit receives new screens

Kali Ewanyshyn, Toni Schwarz, and Greg Thompson Pictured with a colourful screen

The Dauphin Hospital Foundation continues to put generous contributions towards needs at Dauphin Regional Health Centre. Recently, the Foundation assisted with the purchase of privacy screens for patients receiving treatment within the Dauphin Cancer Care Unit. The total contribution was just over $10,000.

Pictured with one of the colourful screens are unit staff Kali Ewanyshyn, Toni Schwarz and Terri Strong. At back, is Dauphin Hospital Foundation Chairperson Greg Thompson.

The Foundation has assisted the relatively new unit over the last 18 months with the purchase of treatment chairs as well as iPads for patients to use during treatment.

From Fall Leaves to Winter Heat Managing Indoor Allergies Year-Round

From Fall Leaves to Winter Heat Managing Indoor Allergies Year-Round

As the leaves fall and the cold weather sets in, many people breathe a sigh of relief thinking allergy season is finally over. No more pollen in the air, right? Unfortunately, for many Canadians, fall and winter can actually make indoor allergies worse. Once the windows are closed and the furnace is on, dust, pet dander, mould, and even leftover pollen get trapped inside. Dry indoor air and less ventilation can irritate sensitive lungs, leaving some people coughing, sneezing, and feeling congested well into the colder months.

If you have asthma, COPD, or other lung conditions, these triggers can make breathing harder. Even if you don’t, indoor allergies can leave you feeling tired, stuffed up, and uncomfortable.

Person sitting on couch, blowing their nose.

Common Indoor Triggers

According to the Manitoba Lung Association, perennial (year-round) allergies like dust mites and animal dander are common culprits. Dust mites thrive in bedding, carpets, and furniture, while pet fur and dander become airborne and easily inhaled. Mould spores and lingering pollen can also contribute. Symptoms may include:

  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Sneezing and itchy eyes
  • Post-nasal drip or sore throat
  • Persistent cough
  • Fatigue

These might feel like a lingering cold, but allergies don’t disappear after a week or two.

Tips for Reducing Indoor Allergens

The Manitoba Lung Association suggests a few simple steps to make your home easier to breathe in:

  • Wash bedding regularly in hot water to kill dust mites (weekly)
  • Vacuum often with a HEPA filter vacuum.
  • Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity around 35–50% (dust mites and mould love damp air).
  • Seal up your home – close doors, windows, and fix gaps where allergens sneak in.
  • Clean or replace furnace filters on schedule (every 1-2 months or as needed, especially if there are pets, allergy sufferers, or smoke exposure in the home)

DIY Affordable Air Filter

If buying an expensive air purifier isn’t in the budget, you can build your own using a box fan and a furnace filter. The BC Centre for Disease Control has shared a simple design that’s both effective and affordable:

  1. Buy a newer box fan (2012 or later) with a safety fuse.
  2. Get a good quality furnace filter (MERV-13 or higher).
  3. Attach the filter to the back of the fan with tape or bungee cords, making sure air is pulled through the filter.
  4. Run the fan on low or medium for steady air cleaning.
  5. Replace the filter as it gets dirty, especially during high-allergen months (minimum every 6 months)

This homemade cleaner helps remove dust, dander, mould spores, and fine particles, improving indoor air without breaking the bank. For more detailed instructions, visit: BCCDC_WildFire_FactSheet_BoxFanAirFilters.pdf

Allergies don’t take a holiday when the weather gets cold; they just move indoors. By keeping your space clean, managing humidity, and trying affordable tools like a DIY air filter, you can reduce triggers and protect your lungs. Small changes can make a big difference in helping you breathe easier all fall and winter long. To learn more about keeping your lungs healthy, visit the Manitoba Lung Association Manitoba Lung Association

Seeking Indigenous Artist Artwork

Seeking Indigenous Artist/Artwork

Indigenous Art Honourarium and Cultural Representation (Neepawa Health Centre)

Receive Honorarium of $1200!

We are excited to announce a call for an Indigenous artist to design and create an art piece to be digitized for a large-scale installation at the new Neepawa Health Centre. This art installation will serve as a powerful representation of health and healing.

This initiative is part of Prairie Mountain Health’s commitment to cultural safety, reconciliation, and honouring Indigenous ways of knowing and healing. We are looking for an artist whose work thoughtfully incorporates culture and community.

The following themes may serve as inspiration:

  • Indigenous Peoples, Symbolism, and Rituals – Representing First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples
  • Two-Eyed Seeing – Viewing the world through both Indigenous knowledge systems and Western science
  • Seven Sacred Teachings – Love (Eagle), Respect (Buffalo), Courage (Bear), Honesty (Sabe), Wisdom (Beaver), Humility (Wolf), Truth (Turtle)
  • The Medicine Wheel – Representing balance, health, and the Four Directions, Sacred Medicines, and Aspects of Being

Project Details

Location of Artwork: The graphic art will be featured in a prominent area of the Cultural Ceremonies room within Neepawa Health Centre. Final dimensions and installation location will be confirmed. Estimated installation size is 12ft. x 6ft.

Honorarium: $1200 will be provided to the selected artist at project completion. Prairie Mountain Health will cover the cost of digitizing and installing the selected piece.

Rendering of new ceremony room in Neepawa Health Centre with chairs in middle placed in a circle.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to all artists who self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, or Métis). Priority will be given to artists with a local connection to the Prairie Mountain Health region.

Selection Process

All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of Indigenous community partners and PMH staff. Artist identities will be withheld during review to ensure a fair and equitable process.

Terms and Conditions:

  • Artwork must be original and created by the submitting artist.
  • Maximum of two submissions per artist (one form per artwork).
  • Artwork must be culturally safe and appropriate for a healthcare setting.
  • No copyrighted or offensive material will be accepted.
  • Media Release Clause: Artist agrees final art installation maybe featured in photographs and promotional materials. Including but not limited to print, digital, and social media posts without additional compensation.

How to apply

Please submit your completed submission form and artwork samples by email no later than Tuesday, October 15th, 2025. Acceptable formats for art samples include: JPEG, PNG, or PDF. You may also include a link to your digital portfolio.

Submit To

Email: [email protected]

Email subject line: Neepawa Indigenous Artwork Application

If you need assistance with your application or wish to submit in person, please contact us.

Thank you for your interest!

We look forward to celebrating and showcasing your creative expressions in a space dedicated to healing and cultural connection.

Eight New International Medical Graduates Recruited to PMH

Eight New International Medical Graduates Recruited to PMH

Physician recruitment efforts continue within Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) region. Collaborating with the Province, Shared Health and community partners, PMH continues to strategically enhance access to physician and primary care services within the Region. One of the initiatives the region utilizes as part of overall physician recruitment strategies includes the provincial Medical Licensure Program for International Medical Graduates (MLPIMG).        The MLPIMG Program assists foreign-trained doctors in obtaining their medical license to be able to practice as a family physician in Manitoba.

Dr. Yousefiadib and Dr. Khattak.
Recruits to Roblin (l-r) Dr. Yousefiadib and Dr. Khattak.
Photo Credit Roblin Review

“During the past year, the region sponsored eight physicians to participate in the MLPIMG program” said Treena Slate, PMH CEO. “After much consideration, physicians that successfully graduated from the program were placed at various sites within PMH communities that require additional sufficient physician resources.”

The newly recruited physicians for communities are:

Swan River

  • Dr. Uche Adediji
  • Dr. Toyin Oluwatuyi
  • Dr. Oghenekevwe Ekrebe (early September start)

Neepawa

  • Dr. Louis Eleche
Dr Uche Adediji, Dr Oghenekevwe Ekrebe and Dr. Dr Oluwatoyin Oluwatuyi standing infront of Swan Valley Primary Care Centre
Dr Uche Adediji, Dr Oghenekevwe Ekrebe and Dr. Dr Oluwatoyin Oluwatuyi.

Souris

  • Dr. Rilwan Azeez for Souris (mid-September start)

Roblin

  • Dr. Anahita Yousefiadib
  • Dr. Zoia Khattak

Virden

  • Dr. Sylvia Oranika

In return for regional sponsorship, MLPIMG doctors agree to practice in their respective communities for four years. The Program is supported by the University of Manitoba —Max Rady College of Medicine, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, Shared Health-Health Care Recruitment and Retention Office, and Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care.

“Retention and recruitment of staff, including doctors, is our top priority,” stated Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara. “I want to welcome and thank these new doctors for joining our incredible Manitoba workforce. I wish them well as they begin providing this essential care throughout Prairie Mountain Health”.

In 2024, five MLPIMG physicians were placed in the communities of Deloraine, Grandview, Russell, Ste. Rose and Virden. In 2023, MLPIMG physicians were placed in Glenboro, Hamiota, Russell, Swan River and Virden (2).

During the next rotation, which is already underway, PMH is sponsoring seven more MLPIMG physicians who commenced their training program this past June. If successful, they will be able to commence practice within the health region next fall (2026).

Summer 2025 | Donations for PMH

Summer 2025 | Donations for PMH

Neepawa & District Health Centre receives ERBE electro surgical unit

Neepawa staff with ERBE electro surgical unit
Dr. Rob Poettcker, Kristy McInnes, Erin Almey, Dr. Nichelle Desilets, Larisa Koshel, Jeniffer Sorongon, (in front) Ashley product rep.

The Beautiful Plains Community Foundation offers funding to the Neepawa & District Health Centre to purchase items that the facility needs. The Foundation has multiple different funds to help with the growing needs of the community and the facility.

This piece of equipment was purchased for $61,498 through generous community donations flowed through the Beautiful Plains Community Foundation.  This advanced piece of endoscopy equipment is being utilized in the current Neepawa hospital and will move with us to the new Neepawa Hospital.

Curling for a Cure

Group of people presenting a large cheque
Riley Abel, Emma Yanchycki, Cheryl Yanchycki, Darren Yanchycki, Case Yanchycki, Westin Abel, Cazmer Yanchycki, Kinley Yanchycki, Jenna Yanchycki, Chad Yanchycki, Kristi Friesen (oncology nurse Neepawa CCP) Christina Woodcock (manager of Health Services Neepawa Health Centre)

Curling for a Cure is an annual fundraising bonspiel event held in Minnedosa. This event is organized in honor of the late Nicholas Melnyk by his family and the group has committed to support the Neepawa Community Cancer Program (CCP) for the next 10 years.
This generous donation of $20,030 will be put towards the purchase of new treatment chairs which will enhance the comfort of patients receiving treatment in Neepawa CCP.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | September 30

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | September 30

“Achieving reconciliation is like climbing a mountain – we must proceed a step at a time. It will not always be easy. There will be storms, there will be obstacles, but we cannot allow ourselves to be daunted by the task because our goal is just and it is also necessary.” – Justice Murray Sinclair 

We are approaching the 10th year anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action, that were released in December 2015. There are 7 Calls to Action that are specifically written with a focus on Health and Health Care. Prairie Mountain Health has been incorporating Health Recommendations into their annual action plans and day to day actions. Read the following recommendations and reflect upon how you see these Calls to Action being acknowledged and followed. 

Calls to Action 18 – 24:  Recommendations for Health are as follows:

18. We call upon the federal, provincial, territorial, and Aboriginal governments to acknowledge that the current state of Aboriginal health in Canada is a direct result of previous Canadian government policies, including residential schools, and to recognize and implement the health-care rights of Aboriginal people as identified in international law, constitutional law, and under the Treaties. 

19. We call upon the federal government, in consultation with Aboriginal peoples, to establish measurable goals to identify and close the gaps in health outcomes between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, and to publish annual progress reports and assess long-term trends. Such efforts would focus on indicators such as: infant mortality, maternal health, suicide, mental health, addictions, life expectancy, birth rates, infant and child health issues, chronic diseases, illness and injury incidence, and the availability of appropriate health services. 

20. In order to address the jurisdictional disputes concerning Aboriginal people who do not reside on reserves, we call upon the federal government to recognize, respect, and address the distinct health needs of the Métis, Inuit, and off-reserve Aboriginal peoples. 

21. We call upon the federal government to provide sustainable funding for existing and new Aboriginal healing centres to address the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual harms caused by residential schools, and to ensure that the funding of healing centres in Nunavut and the Northwest Territories is a priority. 

22. We call upon those who can effect change within the Canadian health-care system to recognize the value of Aboriginal healing practices and use them in the treatment of Aboriginal patients in collaboration with Aboriginal healers and Elders where requested by Aboriginal patients. 

23. We call upon all levels of government to:
i. Increase the number of Aboriginal professionals working in the health-care field.
ii. Ensure the retention of Aboriginal health-care providers in Aboriginal communities.
iii. Provide cultural competency training for all healthcare professionals. 

24. We call upon medical and nursing schools in Canada to require all students to take a course dealing with Aboriginal health issues, including the history and legacy of residential schools, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Treaties and Aboriginal rights, and Indigenous teachings and practices. This will require skills-based training in intercultural competency, conflict resolution, human rights, and anti-racism. 

Learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada

The National Residential Schools Crisis Line: 1-800-925-4419

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Canada.ca

For Community, by Community: Introducing HOPE: Healing, Outreach, Promotion, Education

For Community, by Community: Introducing HOPE: Healing, Outreach, Promotion, Education

When it comes to suicide prevention and life promotion, our community has a powerful resource: HOPE. More than a word, Hope is a collaborative initiative led by a steering committee of local leaders and supported by a Community Coordinator. Guided by the proven Roots of Hope framework, this initiative is working to foster resilience, connection, and life-affirming change in our region.

HOPE stands for:

  • Healing – supporting those with lived experience.
  • Outreach – guiding our services and resources supporting individuals currently navigating thoughts of suicide.
  • Promotion – honouring the life-affirming perspectives held by Indigenous communities.
  • Education – offering continued learning and awareness across the Prairie Mountain Health region.

Together, these pillars create a strong, community-led movement. Guided by the Roots of Hope framework, the Hope initiative works to reduce stigma, build resilience, and support life at every stage.

Roots of Hope is a community-led suicide prevention and life promotion model being used across Canada. Developed by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), it provides a flexible, evidence-informed framework for communities to build local suicide prevention strategies.

The goal of Roots of Hope is to reduce the impact of suicide by addressing stigma, increasing awareness about mental illness, and promoting connected, supportive communities.

This made-in-Canada model was informed by global research and expert consultation and is adaptable to any community setting. It is structured around five pillars of action and thirteen guiding principles:

Five Pillars of Action

Happy people against a teal background
  • Specialized Supports
  • Training and Networks
  • Means Safety
  • Public Awareness
  • Research and Evaluation

Thirteen Guiding Principles

  • Comprehensive
  • Collaboration and Coordination
  • Culturally Appropriate
  • Recovery-Oriented
  • Evidence-Informed
  • Measurement and Evaluation
  • Lived Experience
  • Flexible
  • Strengths-Based
  • Spanning the Continuum
  • Community-Centred
  • Sustainable
  • Innovative

In 2024, the Province of Manitoba adopted the Roots of Hope framework, providing funding to each health authority to support implementation. Prairie Mountain Health created a steering committee, community assessments were initiated, and Kelly Lewis joined as Community Coordinator to lead this work in January 2025.

We are now working to embed the Roots of Hope model within existing networks and committees, as well as guide future goals in suicide prevention and life promotion throughout the region.

Current Groups Involved

  • SPIN (Suicide Prevention Implementation Network) – Regional
  • Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee – Regional
  • Westman Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Association – Local

If you’re interested in being involved in the HOPE initiative and adopting the Roots of Hope model in your community, want to learn more, or would like to connect with others involved in suicide prevention and life promotion, please reach out to:

Kelly Lewis
Hope Community Coordinator
[email protected]

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue the rollout of HOPE across the Prairie Mountain Health region.

September is World Suicide Prevention Month. In recognition of this important month, the regional groups SPIN and MWSPC will be hosting events and activities on Wednesday, September 10th across the region. If you are interested in participating or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Dauphin Suicide Prevention Walk on September 10.
Swan River Suicide Prevention Walk on September 10.

World Suicide Prevention Day | September 10

World Suicide Prevention Day | September 10

Blue background with yellow and orange ribbon for suicide prevention.

SPIN (Suicide Prevention Implementation Network) Honours World Suicide Prevention Day

Each year on September 10th, people in more than 80 countries around the world unite to recognize World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), an initiative led by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP). This global day of awareness is dedicated to reducing stigma, raising understanding, and inspiring action to prevent suicide.

The theme for WSPD 2024–2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.” This theme highlights the urgent need to shift from silence and stigma, toward openness, understanding, and support. Changing the narrative requires systemic change—and together, communities can foster hope, connection, and safety for all.

“Suicide is a complex global health issue, but it is preventable,” says Sean Krausert, Executive Director of the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP). “Every year, more than 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide, and countless others are deeply affected. By changing the narrative, we can create a culture where conversations about suicide and mental health are safe, supported, and lifesaving.”

Local Events in Brandon, Manitoba

In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, SPIN invites the community to join several events:

  • Free safeTALK Training – Tuesday, September 9th, 2025 | 6:00–9:00 PM
    Location: Brandon University- Health Studies Building- North Entrance@ 18th & Princess Ave. Pre-registration required by email: [email protected].
    safeTALK is a suicide alertness training program that teaches participants to recognize signs of suicide and how to connect individuals to life-saving resources.
  • Community Recognition – Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 | 11:30 AM–1:00 PM Location: A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex, Cultural Room – 638 Princess Ave.
    Join us as we recognize individuals who are making our community suicide-safer. A light lunch and community resources will be available.
  • Ribbon Tying Ceremony & Vigil – Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 | 7:00 PM
    Starting at Errol Black Park & 1st Street Bridge.
    This ceremony honours those lost to suicide and offers a space for healing. The evening will include hot chocolate, therapy dogs, support, and resources for attendees.
  • To close the day, both national and local participants are invited to join a global tradition: placing a lit candle in a window at 8:00 PM in their time zone to “Light a Flame of Hope” in remembrance of lives lost and in solidarity with those struggling.

Local Events in Dauphin, Manitoba

  • Community Awareness Walk – September 10 at noon (12-1pm). Vermillion Park (214 2nd Ave. NW) Dauphin. Free Hot Dogs for attendees. Join the Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee for a community walk to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Information and materials to engage in personal awareness activities will be provided.
  • Chalk The Walk – Use chalk to help us beautify our community with images & messages of hope, resilience, suicide awareness & prevention. Decorate your walkway to inspire others. Look at the images with someone. Chat about Mental Wellness. FREE chalk available at Dauphin Community Health Office, Dauphin Library and Primary Care Outreach Clinic (PCOC).

Local Events in Swan River, Manitoba

  • Community Awareness Walk – September 10 at noon (12-1pm). Co-op Grocery Store Parking Lot (811 Main Street) Swan River. Join the Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee for a community walk to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Information and materials to engage in personal awareness activities will be provided.

The World Health Organization emphasizes that suicide is preventable with timely, evidence-based, and often low-cost interventions. Strengthening support networks, reducing stigma, and fostering open conversations about mental health are key to saving lives.

If you are struggling or concerned about someone else’s suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Contact the Manitoba Suicide Prevention and Support Line at 1-877-435-7170, Or Simply dial or text 988- a crisis line available 24 hours per day. A trained crisis worker will listen to you and direct you to needed resources.

PMH Resources- Contact Westman Crisis Services at 204-725-4411 or 1-888-379-7699 in the Brandon Area or 1-866-332-3030 for PMH-North- Call 911 or contact a local hospital or health office.

SPIN Logo - person standing inside a sunshine with phone numbers, email address and social media icons.

Prairie Mountain Health- North Mental Wellness and Crisis Resources

PROVINCIAL CRISIS RESOURCES

Manitoba Suicide Line1-877-435-7170
Sexual Assault Crisis Line1-888-292-7565
Klinic Crisis Line1-866-367-3276
Manitoba Farm & Rural Stress Line1-888-322-3019
Manitoba Addictions Help Line1-855-662-6605
Kids Help Phone1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
First Nations & Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line1-855-242-3310
Reason to Livereasontolive.ca

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Day |September 9

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Day |September 9

Easy Mocktails: Berry Indulgence
Mocktails are a fun and refreshing way to enjoy a special drink—without alcohol. You might already have the ingredients at home!
– Strawberries or raspberries
– ¼ cup ginger ale or sprite
– ¼ cup orange or pineapple juice
– ½ cup apple juice
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients for several seconds.
Pour into two large fancy glasses and garnish with a berry.
Enjoy your alcohol-free treat!

Each year on the 9th day of the 9th month, people across the world recognize International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day. This date highlights the importance of everyone supporting a health pregnancy over the 9 months, including it being alcohol free. #EveryonePlaysAPart

FASD is a diagnostic term for a range of lifelong physical, emotional, and developmental effects caused by alcohol exposure before birth. This can occur before the pregnancy is known. Approximately 4% of Canadians are affected by FASD.

FASD Support in Manitoba

Manitoba FASD Network

FASD logo with Red Running shoes

All diagnostic assessments for children and youth (under age 18) in Manitoba are coordinated through the Manitoba FASD Centre and the Manitoba FASD Network.

If a child or youth was exposed to alcohol during pregnancy and has developmental or behavioral concerns, anyone can make a referral.

Contact Prairie Mountain Health FASD Diagnostic Coordinators:

  • Dauphin: 204-622-6223
  • Brandon: 204-578-2487

Life’s Journey Inc.

Life’s Journey is a not-for-profit agency supporting individuals with neurodevelopment and co-occurring disorders. Life’s Journey helps people with diverse abilities living in Manitoba. Life’s Journey includes traditional Indigenous healing as a significant component of their clinical services.

This agency strives to provide clinically informed, culturally relevant, wellness oriented, relationship and strengths-based services.

Westman Services is located in Brandon and provides services to individuals eligible for funding through Community Living Disability Services. Individualized services include:

  • outreach support and mentorship
  • family support
  • supported independent living
  • cluster housing
  • homeshare (foster)
  • shift-staffed residences
  • day program

Westman Services offers various clinical services, including psychology, occupational therapy, addiction support, and access to a Nurse Practitioner. All services are voluntary.

The Rural Connections program provides individualized services for transitional youth and adults impacted by FASD and ineligible for other government support programs. Individuals must be ineligible for funding through Community Living Disability Services, Provincial Alternative Support Services and Community Mental Health. The program is available within the Brandon and Steinbach regions. Rural Connections offers outreach support and mentorship.

For more information on Life’s Journey, Westman Services or the Rural Connections Program call 204-772-1591.

FASD Coalitions

Brandon and Area FASD Coalitions – If you are interested in joining the  Brandon and Area FASD Coalition, please call 204-578-2487.

Manitoba FASD Coalitions – For more information visit the Manitoba FASD Coalition

Swan River HERO Club 30th Anniversary

Swan River HERO Club 30th Anniversary

Left to right: Jennifer Burtnack, Activity Instructor for the Roblin HERO Club, Joe Harambura – Roblin HERO Club member, Ron Galbraith – Dauphin HERO Club member.
Left to right: Jennifer Burtnack, Activity Instructor for the Roblin HERO Club, Joe Harambura – Roblin HERO Club member, Ron Galbraith – Dauphin HERO Club member.

The Swan River HERO Club celebrated its 30th Anniversary on July 17, 2025 at the HERO Club’s present location at 317 Main Street in Swan River. The HERO Club, which stands for Helping Everyone Reach Out, opened its doors in Swan River in 1995. Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) provides coordination and other program assistance to the HERO Club through its Community Mental Health program.

The closure of the Brandon Mental Health Center in the 1990s played a role in the development of the HERO Clubs. When the Brandon Mental Health Center closed, some of the people who lived there were asked where they would like to go and where they would like to live. These people needed help with adjusting to their home towns and communities and needed a safe and supportive place to hang out. Ed Miller, a Community Mental Health Worker in Swan River at the time, was instrumental in getting the HERO Clubs up and running.

Dorleen Sagert, Community Mental Health Worker within the PsychoSocial Rehabilitation Program, at the Swan River HERO Club 30th Anniversary celebrations.
Dorleen Sagert, Community Mental Health Worker within the PsychoSocial Rehabilitation Program, at the Swan River HERO Club 30th Anniversary celebrations.
 

The HERO Club in Dauphin opened in 1994, the Swan River Club opened in 1995 (in partnership with CMHA), the Roblin Club opened in 1999 and the Russell-Binscarth Club opened in 2001. These HERO Clubs were created to help people in meeting their needs with vocational, educational, recreational and social programming and activities. This has created connection among members and a sense of community within the H.E.R.O Club. The members support each other and help one another with their goals in life. This helps the members to feel empowered, productive, and supported. The HERO Club logo was created and drawn by a Club member and remains a visual cue to the success of the initiative.

PMH congratulates the Swan River HERO Club on its ongoing work and for achieving and highlighting such a notable milestone!