Peer Support Certification Workshop – Update and Details
Important Update:
Due to changes in the facilitator’s schedule, the Peer Support Certification workshop, originally scheduled for April 12th and 13th, 2019, in Leduc, AB, has been canceled. However, we plan to reschedule it in July. To stay informed, please visit www.legacyplacesociety.com for updates.
The Importance of Peer Support Certification:
Connecting with others who understand your challenges provides unmatched support. Peer support fosters empathy and understanding, which are crucial for first responders and military personnel. To address this need, the Mood Disorders Society of Canada’s Peer and Trauma Support Systems (P.A.T.S.S.) Team offers expert-led workshops. Facilitators bring years of lived experience to guide participants in establishing effective peer support groups.
What Makes This Certification Exceptional?
Below are six reasons to participate:
- Collaborative Learning: Sessions feature mental health professionals and facilitators with lived experience working together.
- Comprehensive Materials: Participants receive a detailed manual for continued learning and application.
- Evidence-Based Curriculum: Objectives align directly with the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) Guidelines, ensuring reliability and accuracy.
- Hands-On Practice: Participants actively create and lead a peer support meeting during the workshop.
- Personal Insights: Facilitators share real-life experiences, enriching the learning process.
- Certification: Each participant earns a certificate for completing 16 hours of training provided by the Mood Disorders Society of Canada.
Rescheduled Event Details (TBD):
- Location: Leduc Legion, Leduc, AB.
- Cost: Thanks to generous third-party fundraisers supporting Legacy Place Society, the workshop cost is reduced to $50 (normally $400). Participants must attend both days to qualify for certification.
- Parking: Free parking is available on-site.
- Refreshments: Please bring your own nut-free snacks and lunch (or purchase lunch on-site).
- Dress Code: Business casual attire
The Value of 2019 Peer Support Certification:
Peer support enhances clinical care by creating a community of mutual understanding. It offers a safe space where participants can connect, build resilience, and develop the skills needed to lead effective support groups.
Register for the Upcoming Peer Support Certification Workshop:
The new dates for this workshop will be announced soon and you can learn more by visiting www.legacyplacesociety.com for updates. Additionally, you can contact us at info@legacyplacesociety.com for more information.
Peer Support Certification Workshop – Update and Event Details
Important Update:
Due to a conflict with the facilitator’s schedule, the Peer Support Certification workshop scheduled for April 6th and 7th, 2019, in Darwell, AB has been put on hold. A new date will be announced soon. Stay tuned for updates on our website, www.legacyplacesociety.com.
About The Certification:
Provides an essential resource for individuals facing similar challenges. It offers a unique sense of empathy and understanding that enhances, rather than replaces, clinical care. To meet the growing demand for peer support, the Mood Disorders Society of Canada’s Peer and Trauma Support Systems (P.A.T.S.S.) Team brings together facilitators with extensive lived experience. These experts share their knowledge and skills to help participants establish effective peer support groups.
Why Choose This Peer Support Certification?
This certification program excels due to its well-rounded and hands-on approach. Here are six key reasons why it stands out:
- Expert-Led Training: Facilitators with personal experience and mental health professionals work together to lead all workshops.
- Evidence-Based Curriculum: Objectives are grounded in the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) Guidelines, ensuring participants receive research-supported information.
- Practical Learning Opportunities: Participants design and conduct a mock peer support meeting, allowing them to apply their learning immediately.
- Comprehensive Materials: A detailed training manual is provided to each participant for continued reference.
- Personalized Experience: Facilitators share their own experiences to emphasize the importance of peer support and validate the program’s objectives.
- Certification: Participants earn a certificate for 16 hours of peer support training upon successful completion.
Details of the Rescheduled Event (Date TBD):
- Location: Darwell AB Fire Hall, Lac Ste Anne County
- Cost: Thanks to fundraising efforts supporting Legacy Place Society’s mental wellness initiatives, the cost is reduced to $50 (regularly $400).
- Requirements: Attendance on both days is mandatory to receive certification.
- Parking: Free parking is available.
- Refreshments: Please bring your own nut-free snacks and lunch.
- Dress Code: Business casual.
It is well-documented that peer support groups create a unique sense of belonging and understanding. Unlike traditional patient-therapist relationships, these groups provide participants with a shared space where empathy and connection thrive. Moreover, this workshop equips individuals with the skills needed to foster resilience and build meaningful support systems for others.
Register for the Next Certification Workshop:
Visit www.legacyplacesociety.com for updates on the rescheduled date. For inquiries, contact us at info@legacyplacesociety.com.
A Message from Russ Lee – Supporting Legacy Place Society
For those who don’t know me, let me introduce myself. My name is Russ Lee, and I had the honor of serving this great country in the Canadian Army. In 2002, I was deployed to Kandahar, where I spent six months, from February to August. Upon returning home, I began to struggle with depression, later diagnosed as Operational Stress Injury (OSI) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). After fighting hard, I emerged victorious.
In 2008, I joined the Alberta Sheriff’s and transitioned into the Sheriff Highway Patrol in 2009. Over my 15 years of service, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the best individuals in this country – from military personnel to police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and emergency medical responders.
Every day, military personnel, first responders, and their families face traumatic and horrific situations that leave lasting emotional scars. That’s why I support Legacy Place Society, an organization dedicated to helping these heroes and their families during their times of need.
Russ Lee’s Fundraising Effort for Legacy Place Society
I’m reaching out to raise awareness and funds for Legacy Place Society. From noon on February 22nd to noon on March 1st, I’ll be camping out at the Leduc #1 Fire Hall to raise awareness and show support for the brave men and women of the military and first responder communities.
How You Can Help: Donate to Legacy Place Society
I’m asking for your support for Legacy Place Society, and if you’re able, please consider making a donation. Your contributions will directly benefit those who need it most. To donate, simply use e-transfer to send funds to info@legacyplacesociety.com, and include your full name and mailing address in the donation memo to receive a charitable tax receipt.
If prompted for a banking security question, use the question: “What is the name of Russ’s Operation?” and answer with: operationlegacy (all lowercase, one word).
Why This Matters: Raising Awareness for PTSD and OSI
As I mentioned, the main reason I’m doing this is to raise awareness for Legacy Place Society and to shed light on the challenges faced by those suffering from PTSD and Operational Stress Injury (OSI). I want to highlight the importance of supporting our first responders and military personnel.
Thank You for Your Support Russ Lee
Your support means the world to me and to those who benefit from Legacy Place Society. Thank you for your generosity, and God bless you all.
Links to Learn More:
Your contributions help make a lasting difference!

Calgary Police Service is the host to “Bell Let’s Talk Day” Wednesday Jan. 30 2019
Bell Let’s Talk Day is an annual awareness campaign to help reduce the stigma and promote understanding of mental illness. One of the biggest hurdles for anyone suffering from mental illness is overcoming the stigma attached to it. Stigma can often prevent those struggling with a mental illness from seeking the help they need. Let’s fight to end the stigma.
Calgary Police Service Bell Let’s Talk Day speaker sessions will be held on Wednesday Jan 30, 8 am – 12 noon. Our event will feature a number of engaging speakers focusing on the key action pillars – anti-stigma, care and access to treatment.
A veterans Guide to PTSD The Truth The Whole Truth Presenter: Captain Wayne Federation ( ret)
From Powerless to Fearless Presenter: Marianne French
Sleep and Sleep Disorders, the impact on mood and mental health. Presenter: Dr Jerome Alonso
I’m Fine – even when we’re not. Presenter: Callie Lomenda
ALL First Responders and adult partners are invited to register for this free event to attend to get your ticket go to:. www.eventbrite.ca you can attend all or just one of the sessions – Calgary Police Service
Date: Wednesday Jan 30 2019
Time: 8 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Atrium Westwinds West Building – Calgary Police Service
If you have any questions about CPS Bell Let’s Talk Day , contact Theresa Shaw at 403-428-8959.