Wetaskiwin Literacy & Wellness centre opens its doors

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Three years after the Wetaskiwin Filipino Community Foundation asked the people of Wetaskiwin how they could support the City of Wetaskiwin’s 50-year vision, the doors opened on Wetaskiwin Literacy & Wellness Services Ltd.  

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On Tuesday, Philippine Consul General Emma Sarne cut the ribbon alongside executive director of Wetaskiwin Literacy & Wellness Services Ltd. Marlon Pinaso and Wetaskiwin Mayor Tyler Gandam. 

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“We would like to extend a warm welcome to all,” said Wetaskiwin Literacy & Wellness Services Ltd. CEO Gerald Achazo. “This opening is just one of the milestones we’ll see here.” 

Located at 5205B 49 Ave., the site of the former Touchstone Place Clubhouse, Wetaskiwin Literacy & Wellness Services Ltd. is a registered non-profit company primarily dedicated to addressing the foundation needs that enhance an individual’s quality of life and contribute to the overall health and progress of the community and is the second step in the Foundation’s plan to support the five pillars of the City of Wetaskiwin’s 50-Year Vision and Council’s Strategic Plan, which is to make safety a priority, ensure financial stability, support business growth, unite the community and commit to the Vision. 

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“This is more than just the opening of a building,” said Sarne. “This is a dram that’s founded in the Philippine value ‘by every hand’. I’m very proud of the Filipino community here in Wetaskiwin for leading the charge in caring for each other, no matter who you are.” 

The first step leading towards last week’s opening was to launch the Wetaskiwin Multicultural Heritage Festival, an event that brings the community together celebrates the many cultures that make up Wetaskiwin and fund raise for Wetaskiwin Literacy & Wellness Services Ltd. 

Just a month after the second festival wrapped up, they were able to open the doors on the new centre, a central location that will be a hub for everyone regardless of culture and background which aims to provide an inclusive literacy and wellness program for any individual 15 and older, said Pinaso. 

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“By combining literacy and wellness initiatives, communities can create a holistic approach to improving quality of life and fostering sustainable development,” he said. “In essence, literacy and wellness programs work hand-in-hand to build stronger, healthier, and more educated communities.” 

Wetaskiwin Literacy & Wellness Services Ltd. helps people achieve personal and economic goals, fostering self-reliance, resilience, creating a society that values knowledge, well-being, and inclusivity, promoting a culture of empowerment resulting in a better quality of life for all.   

Their mission is to equip individuals with the skills needed to navigate digital tools, access online information, and communicate effectively through technology, thereby fostering a sense of self-worth, inclusion and empowerment, enabling individuals to make informed decisions, achieve independence, and secure employment.   

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“One of the things I love about our city is just the community itself,” said Gandam. “I love to see this vision of the community coming together and I want to thank-you for helping me see a differing side of our community.” 

Vision Credit Union Wetaskiwin branch manager Deanna Beck was delighted to team up with the Foundation to bring this centre to its opening. 

“It is with immense joy and profound happiness that we celebrate with Wetaskiwin Literacy and Wellness Services. It is because of your hard work that we are here.” 

“I wanted the Filipino community to get out of the corners of the community, to become a driving force in the community,” said Pinaso. “I am so proud to have the people who stood behind and beside me here today but this is not just for Filipino’s, it’s for everybody. This is a hub for everyone, 15 and up to provide them with the services they need to frow and succeed and this would not have been possible without the City’s support. 

“It’s not hard to support when you see the energy of the people who want to make the community better for everyone,” said Wetaskiwin Coun. Karen Aberle. “You are all an inspiration to the rest of us.” 

Visit the website at wlwsl.com for more information on their programs, which include digital literacy, pre-employment literacy, leadership workshops, youth, adult and seniors wellness programs, community supports and tutorial services. 

“Come and see how we can help you,” said Pinaso. 

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