Physical and mental well-being plays a significant role in maintaining a happy life – and connecting with your neighbours is one way residents of a community can help fulfill these important components.
On Sept. 17, the Crossfield Wellness Network will be holding a family community event at Crockett Park from 12 to 3 p.m. in recognition of the Town declaring that date as Crossfield Community Wellness Day.
Wellness Network Lead Facilitator Christina Sackett said one of the big projects the group took on this year was adding game tables to the under-utilized park. With the new additions, they hope to bring neighbours together and build a stronger sense of community in Crossfield.
The new additions to the park include a concrete ping pong table and concrete picnic table with an embossed top for checkers and chess.
“We want our community to feel whole and to feel connected with each other,” Sackett said. “The importance of mental health and physical health is so that we can all be thriving in our community.”
Funding for the upgrades came through the Alberta Health Communities Initiative (AHCI) and the Rural Mental Health Project (RMHP).
Sackett said the Crossfield library has paddles, balls, and game pieces that can be signed out for residents to use.
She added she is a big advocate for mental health, mentioning that mental health is something not discussed enough within small rural communities. She said it brings her joy when people within small communities can come together and support each other.
“It makes me very happy when people come out to these things and show their support and take the opportunity to learn, take the opportunity to connect with their neighbours, and just promote overall wellness for their families,” Sackett said.
According to Sackett, feeling connected plays a significant role in someone’s overall well-being. She said getting to know your neighbours can play a vital role in supporting one another through difficult times.
She hopes the event will bring attention to areas that are not well used in Crossfield. She said this will provide residents an opportunity to explore areas they may not be aware of.
“I think a lot of people aren't aware of what all is available in our town for them to use,” she said. “It's been shown now that we need a sense of belonging. When you know your neighbors, you can ask for that help, or get that extra support that you might not get if you're isolated.”
The Sept. 17 event will have several activities for families and community members to enjoy. Sackett confirmed there will be a free barbecue, games, prizes, face painting, and music throughout the afternoon.
“We just want to make it so there's something for everybody and somewhere for them to come and get together,” she said.
