Redcliff Community Services celebrates local wins and gears up for a busy summer season

Posted on June 11, 2026 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

The Redcliff Community and Protective Services (CPS) has had a full plate over the past several months, wrapping up a busy winter season while steadily building toward what promises to be an active summer in town. The committee presented a wide-ranging update at its June 3 meeting, covering everything from family programming and community gardens to a surprise parade for a group of young hockey champions.

FCSS Programs Continue to Connect the Community 

The Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) team, alongside CPS, delivered several well-received programs during February and March. Family Fun Night, centered on Valentine’s activities, drew community members together for a lighthearted evening. The Adult Night Out Self Care Series gave adults a chance to step away from their routines and focus on their own well-being. Random Acts of Kindness Day rounded out a strong stretch of programming that continues to serve as a meaningful touchpoint for residents across the area.

Gardens, Swimming Lessons, and Spring Programming 

Staff have coordinated the community garden, reaching out to participants and filling remaining plots ahead of the growing season. Swimming lesson registration had also launched, and the department had been actively promoting programming through its Community Program Guide.

Supporting a Century of Service: The Redcliff Legion’s 100th Anniversary 

The Redcliff Legion is marking a significant milestone this year — its 100th anniversary — and CPS has been closely involved in helping the Legion bring its centenary vision to life. The department has held several planning meetings and is working with Legion representatives to coordinate special requests for the occasion. Further details are expected to be finalized in the coming months.

A Surprise Parade for the Redcliff Grizzlies 

One of the highlights of the past season came when the U11 Redcliff Grizzlies brought home a provincial hockey championship. As the story goes, the team’s coach had made a promise to his players at the start of the season — one he wasn’t sure he’d be able to keep.

When word reached Mayor Czember and the FCSS Coordinator, they got to work. A “Key to the Town” was created and a short community parade was organized to celebrate the team’s achievement. Mayor Czember personally presented the Key to the Town to the players, while CPS Director Cody Girling coordinated a team escort that included Redcliff Fire, Redcliff RCMP, and a member from the Medicine Hat Police Service.

The pop-up event drew warm praise from staff and community members alike, and for the players and their families, it was a moment they won’t soon forget.

Fire Service Active in Schools and the Community 

Redcliff’s fire service has also been out in force, visiting local schools to deliver fire education and prevention programming. The department recently took part in a funeral service held at Redcliff’s cemetery, providing an honour guard with an engine to pay tribute to a retired former Suffield Fire Chief and retired Canadian Forces member.

Staying visible and responsive to community needs remains a core priority for CPS as it continues to show up for residents in both planned and unexpected ways.

Looking Ahead 

The coming months show no signs of slowing down. The department has a full schedule ahead, including: summer camp programming, community garden activities, ongoing Family Fun Nights and Adult Night Out sessions, and more.

By all accounts, it’s shaping up to be a vibrant and well-programmed summer for the community.