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Coast to Coast Connections among MFRCs

This fall, a simple conversation between the Halifax & Region Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) and the Esquimalt MFRC about sharing some staff training programs generated a meeting of over 40 staff from five different resource centres.

“We expected good sharing from a small group of MFRC staff,” said organizer Lauren Copeland of the Halifax & Region MFRC. She was thrilled to see turnout quickly grow from an expected 10-15 people to a large group surpassing 40.

From 3-5 November 2009, staff and board members from the Esquimalt, Gagetown, Greenwood and Moncton MFRCs met in Halifax and Shearwater to train and share best practices. The visit also included road trips to Gagetown and Greenwood for additional training and networking.

“I enjoyed the opportunity to learn and share experiences,” said Claudia Beswick, Moncton MFRC’s Executive Director. “By working together we strengthen our programs and services, and improve the resources we provide military families across Canada.”

Working together allowed for MFRCs from both coasts to align their programs, and work towards standardized programming that is more relevant for families. Esquimalt presented two training opportunities on programs they have developed: one on customer service and crisis intervention for frontline MFRC staff, and another on return and reunion which Esquimalt MFRC staff performed at sea for personnel returning from deployment in August. There were opportunities for formal and informal networking, and all participants enjoyed the chance to learn, connect and see what was going on with their colleagues.

"The more we enhance and align our programs and services the better it is for our members and families," says Gaynor Jackson, Executive Director of the Esquimalt MFRC.