Edmonton Drug Treatment & Community Restoration Court

The Edmonton DTC Program recognized during the 2005 Pilot that program graduates, our Alumni, have an interest in the on-going program, and more importantly have knowledge, skills, and a commitment to help current participants. Alumni also benefit from a continuing connection and involvement with the Program.

 

Alumni members met for the first time as a group on July 10, 2007 with three graduates present.  It was exciting seeing the graduates getting together, enjoying each other's presence, and sharing stories about their recovery through the EDTCRC.  The group has met monthly since with more graduates coming and participating in the meetings. 

 

The Alumni's first event was a barbeque held at Borden Park in September.  The weather cooperated and approximately 15 - 20 people, including the honourable Judge Wong and all of the treatment team, enjoyed hotdogs, pop, and an assortment of goodies throughout the afternoon. 

 

Courtesy of the efforts of the honourable Judge Philp in securing a hall, the alumni were able to plan and hold a Christmas celebration. It was an event with over 50 people in attendance including participants, graduates and their families, and many members of the treatment and court team. There was even a special visit from a jolly old fat man in a red suit who came bearing gifts for everyone. 

Throughout this celebration, the spirit of giving was evident in all of the graduates’ hearts. They supplied the turkey, potatoes, salad and assortment of deserts for a meal that was aptly described as a “feast”.  The proceeds from a donated gift were given to a local school to supply food hampers to needy families. They arranged tables and chairs, ensured everyone was taken care of, and last, but not least, cleaned the hall afterwards. 

The Alumni group continues to meet and is currently looking at other ways to give back to the community. In our upcoming meetings we are looking at setting goals and objectives as well as exploring ideas to support the drug treatment court and its participants. We are looking forward with great anticipation to what this group can accomplish.