The Lloydminster and Area Brain Injury Society (LABIS) is preparing to celebrate a major milestone.
Next year, the non-profit will mark 40 years of helping people in the region live well after a brain injury.
Read more: City’s donation benefits LABIS
“There was just nothing in town that helped them or a place for them to go,” said director of operations Verna Haight. “So, they created LABIS and it’s been going strong for almost 40 years.”
“You want us to come do bartending for you? Give us a call … we love to get out in the community.”
Verna Haight – LABIS executive director
Now operating out of a bright, accessible space with programs to help participants build skills, confidence and friendships, LABIS has grown from that grassroots start to a recognized local service.
Its main program, Pathways to Empowerment, meets three times a week and members participate in activities in the office and around town.
“It enhances participants’ lives through interaction, support, friendship and self-esteem,” said Haight, noting a twice-weekly walking program at the Servus Sports Centre offers another chance to connect.
The group also runs outreach visits for people unable to attend in person, ensuring no one is left out.
LABIS serves as a hub for information as staff provide resource guides and help people connect with provincial services.
“We try to help as much as we can,” said Haight.
Transportation remains a challenge as many participants rely on the handy van, which costs $5 each way and can be a barrier for those on fixed incomes.
LABIS has tried to secure grants to offset the cost, but Haight says funders often prefer more direct program spending.
“All my hopes and goals are always with the participants to be happy, to be healthy and to continue coming here and feeling like they belong.”
Verna Haight – LABIS executive director
The society stays visible through community events and fundraisers such as last weekend’s Maria’s Days at Spiro’s, which hosted a pancake breakfast in support of the organization. The group also volunteers with the Lloydminster Bobcats and helps at community events such as mock casinos.
“You want us to come do bartending for you? Give us a call, we love to get out in the community,” said Haight, adding volunteers and donors are vital to the work.
“Without volunteers, there’s lots of times we aren’t able to take participants out into the community. Money is always the bottom line for a non-profit.”
Looking ahead, Haight says her goals are simple.
“All my hopes and goals are always with the participants to be happy, to be healthy and to continue coming here and feeling like they belong,” she said.
“We’ve been here for almost 40 years and I’m hoping we’re here for another 40.”
The organization is still looking for teams for its upcoming bones and ball tournament.
More information on both events can be found on the organization’s Facebook page.
Read more: Labis rebrands with brain logo
