Community and business resources and events to get involved in this October

Posted on October 10, 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

Forty Mile, Foremost, and Bow Island have resources and events covering a variety of interests this October. From workforce building to housing to education, there are plenty of things to put on your calendar.

Standard First Aid & CPR Training

Is your first aid certification up to date? Are you without this important certification? If so, keep October 26 open for the blended, OH&S approved Standard First Aid & CPR course held at Bow Island Town Office. Taking place from 9 am to 3 pm and for $95 per person, this course requires participants to first do an online component, then join the in-person training for the day to complete the certification. Register by calling the Forty Mile Community Resource Centres & Business Assistance Services (www.40milecrc.ca).

There are many great reasons to sign up for Standard First Aid & CPR, even if it is not a job requirement. First aid and CPR training equip you with the skills needed to respond effectively in emergency situations, potentially saving lives. Understanding first aid principles enhances your ability to recognize and mitigate hazards in everyday environments, reducing the risk of accidents. Many employers value first aid and CPR certification, making you a more attractive candidate for various job opportunities.

Be Part of the Housing Crisis Solution

In advance of the Business Growth Trade Show, the Housing Innovation Alliance (HIA) is offering a pre-conference event. Email info@verge-ed.ca to register, then join the HIA at the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede Grounds from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. 

The Housing Innovation Alliance is dedicated to connecting key players in the housing industry to help drive innovation and collaboration. Their mission focuses on improving housing attainability and business success through various areas such as finance models, supply chain optimization, digital transformation, and design. The Alliance comprises housing providers, industry experts, and partners like product manufacturers and service providers. They emphasize values of collaboration, mutual respect, inclusion, and professionalism, aiming to drive industry-wide change and innovation through their working groups and diverse member networks.

Grow Your Business 

The Business Growth Tradeshow Takes place on October 23 from 5 pm to 7 pm at Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede Grounds. Admission is free and gives guests access to advice, workforce support, grant funding, and business acceleration assistance.

Champion Small Businesses

What would any community be without that one local family-run coffee shop? That charming boutique with giftware? The speciality shop where you find the nicest clothes? Small businesses are the backbone of every community and during Small Business Week, take the time to celebrate the ones near you. Running from October 20-26, dive into discovering shops you have yet to enter. 

Small businesses play a pivotal role in job creation, economic diversification, and community development. As of June 2024, there were 120,471 active small businesses in Alberta, reflecting a 0.6% growth from June 2023. By employing a significant portion of the workforce, small businesses not only fuel economic growth but also contribute to the resilience of communities across the province. 

The Bow Island and Foremost & District Chamber of Commerce support Small Business Week. Entrepreneurs and business owners can connect with the Chamber for help with business promotion, events, and growth.

These are just a few ways to get involved, learn new skills, network, and connect with your community in October. Stay tuned to the Forty Mile CRC and your local Chambers to learn more about these and other events and opportunities.