Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This afternoon I would like to talk about the Yellowknife Association of Concerned Citizens for Seniors, YACCS, who are celebrating their 25th anniversary this year, and their dedication and many contributions to Yellowknife and the NWT.
YACCS has been active for 25 years as a highly effective lobby organization on behalf of seniors in Yellowknife and the Northwest Territories. YACCS strives to be the recognized leader in the NWT for work with seniors, to provide them with high quality community living choices and advocacy for their needs. They also work to develop a wide range of services that allow seniors to age in their communities, close to their families and support systems.
YACCS is committed to the safety and well-being of the clientele and employees as well as the continuous improvement of their organization. YACCS has achieved great success in providing much needed facilities, programs and services to seniors in the Northwest Territories.
The year 2007 marked the 20th anniversary of Aven Manor, a long-term care facility where caring and capable staff provide nursing and personal care to seniors 24 hours a day. They also offer a full schedule of activities for all residents to enjoy. Consistently at full capacity, Aven Manor is an asset to our community. YACCS provides independent housing for seniors at Aven Court and, since December 2007, at Aven Ridge. These conveniently located units offer safe and attractive housing options for people 60 years of age and older.
The Baker Community Centre also celebrated its tenth anniversary this past year. The Baker Centre is a multipurpose facility that accommodates many social and recreational activities for seniors in the community at large. The Baker Centre project was initiated by donations made by the late Ed Baker and completed through fundraising and community support. The Baker Centre is operated by the Yellowknife Seniors’ Society, which continues to enjoy an excellent partnership with YACCS.
Most recently YACCS has been an advocate and a champion for the development of a territorial dementia facility. Without their drive and commitment I believe that the territorial dementia facility currently under construction on YACCS property would never see the light of day. Given the importance of this dementia facility, I applaud them for their hard work.
Mr. Speaker, YACCS is a valuable association made up of people who are deeply committed to the health and well-being of our senior citizens and, ultimately, the community as a whole.
Thank you, Mr. Abernethy. Members’ statements. The honourable Member for Inuvik Twin Lakes, Mr. Robert McLeod.
