The Hurricanes are a self-advocate group that learns about their rights and responsibilities, how to speak up for themselves, and how to advocate for their wants and needs. They meet weekly to discuss important topics, share experiences, and support each other in their journeys. Through various workshops and activities, they gain valuable skills in communication, leadership, and problem-solving. The group also collaborates with local organizations to spread awareness and promote inclusivity. Each member brings a unique perspective, uniting in their work for empowerment and positive change. Together, they strive to make a difference not only in their own lives but also in the broader community, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be heard and respected. They often volunteer in the community, organizing a fall food fill-up for the Salvation Army food bank and participating in Earth Day clean-up with Carapace. They also participate in random acts of kindness for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day and whenever given the opportunity, they also enjoy helping with kids’ games at local events.
The Hurricanes promote self-advocacy by naming an “Excellence Award” winner. Peers and staff are able to nominate individuals throughout the organization that display leadership skills, self-advocacy skills or go above and beyond. All nominations are reviewed by the Hurricanes members, who then vote to select the winner.
The Hurricanes are active in the Horizons organization and the community, planning and participating in many events throughout the year. Below are a few examples of what Hurricanes have been involved in previously:
The Hurricanes gave out candy bags at Horizons Centre on Halloween as a random act of kindness.
The Hurricanes also put on a Remembrance Day Ceremony for everyone that was at Horizons Centre on November 7th. They hung up wreaths, read the poem “In Flanders Fields,” played “The Last Post,” and followed with a moment of silence.
Currently, the Hurricanes are working on a way to give back to the community for Christmas, as well as building a connection with Wetaskiwin’s sister city, Ashoro, Japan, to learn about disability services and self-advocacy programming in Japan.
