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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260903
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UID:44137-1788393600-1790726399@acws.ca
SUMMARY:Taking Up Space: The Esthetics of Flourishing Through Curiosity – A Kelsey Baker Art Show
DESCRIPTION:Artist statement and show synopsis\nAt the heart of this collection is a question: What becomes possible when we stop asking ourselves to be less? \nCome wander\, wonder\, and experience the work as an invitation to soften the inner critic\, lean into curiosity\, and make space for all of who you are. Spanning 21 years\, this collection is a visual record of becoming. \nThe work began early in my career as a teacher and young mother\, carrying unresolved trauma\, expectations\, and questions I did not yet have the language to express. Over the years\, art became a place to process what could not always be spoken—a visual language for experiences\, emotions\, discoveries\, and the events that quietly shape a life. \nThrough experimentation with colour\, texture\, movement\, mark-making\, and form\, the creative process has allowed what lives beneath words to emerge. Making became a way of listening inward\, exploring what I felt before I fully understood it\, and giving shape to experiences that were difficult to articulate. Informed by current research into the impact of art and creative expression\, this body of work explores the possibility of creation as a bridge between internal experience\, verbal expression\, and connection. \nCreated across important stages and turning points\, these works trace a journey through uncertainty\, healing\, experimentation\, and ultimately\, ownership of my own path. They reflect the reality that healing is rarely linear. It can be messy\, circular\, surprising\, and at times feel endless—especially when the inner critic insists that we are not enough\, are too much\, or should remain small. \nThis collection is an exploration of what happens when we begin to challenge that voice. \nAt its heart\, this work is about taking up space. It is about moving beyond the labels that once made me question who I was—too much\, too sensitive\, too loud\, too emotional—and learning instead to lean into curiosity\, authenticity\, and a more fearless version of myself. The making has been cathartic: a way of processing some of life’s most painful experiences and transforming them into something I can share as beauty\, connection\, and possibility. \nMany of the materials and artifacts incorporated into these works come from generations of women in my family—a nod to epigenetics and to the histories we carry\, sometimes without knowing it. They speak to the ways our stories can travel through generations\, shaping us even as we work to understand and redefine them. \nThese works are not simply objects to observe. They are invitations into a shared space between artist and viewer—a chance to pause\, wonder\, feel\, interpret\, and perhaps find words for something within yourself. \nGiving Back: I will be donating 25% of all sold originals from this showcase to the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters (ACWS). Through this body of work\, I have gained a deeper awareness of the lasting impact of trauma and the ways it can reach into our sense of identity\, safety\, and possibility. I grew up thinking of trauma as an “if”—something that might happen. I have come to understand it more as a “when.” At some point\, in some form\, adversity touches all of our lives.\nWomen are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of trauma\, shaped by social patterns\, intergenerational experiences\, and the realities of physical and economic vulnerability. Rebuilding a sense of safety can feel impossible without support\, and many women simply do not have access to the resources they need. \nWomen’s shelters provide far more than a safe place. They offer compassion\, stability\, advocacy\, and practical resources that can help someone begin to heal and rebuild a life. \nI have been blessed with a strong support network throughout my own journey. I often found myself wondering what it would be like to navigate those experiences alone—to have to rebuild a sense of self and safety without the people and supports that helped me become who I am. Supporting ACWS is one small way I can help create that possibility for someone else. \nPlease enjoy the products of twenty-one years of making\, questioning\, breaking open\, rebuilding\, and becoming. Each purchase supports NOA—a support pillar in my development—the ACWS\, the HeArt of It showcase\, and\, last but not least\, me and my crazy ideas. \nCome curious. Come as you are. Let the art speak\, and listen for what you want to say.
URL:https://acws.ca/event/taking-up-space-the-esthetics-of-flourishing-through-curiosity-a-kelsey-baker-art-show/
LOCATION:Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre\, 8330 Whyte Ave NW\, Edmonton\, Alberta\, T6C 0Y6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://acws.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2026-08-18_Taking-up-space-poster-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260903T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260903T210000
DTSTAMP:20260818T163753Z
CREATED:20260818T163753Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T163753Z
UID:44130-1788458400-1788469200@acws.ca
SUMMARY:Opening Night: Taking Up Space: The Esthetics of Flourishing Through Curiosity - A Kelsey Baker Art Show
DESCRIPTION:Artist statement and show synopsis\nAt the heart of this collection is a question: What becomes possible when we stop asking ourselves to be less? \nCome wander\, wonder\, and experience the work as an invitation to soften the inner critic\, lean into curiosity\, and make space for all of who you are. Spanning 21 years\, this collection is a visual record of becoming. \nThe work began early in my career as a teacher and young mother\, carrying unresolved trauma\, expectations\, and questions I did not yet have the language to express. Over the years\, art became a place to process what could not always be spoken—a visual language for experiences\, emotions\, discoveries\, and the events that quietly shape a life. \nThrough experimentation with colour\, texture\, movement\, mark-making\, and form\, the creative process has allowed what lives beneath words to emerge. Making became a way of listening inward\, exploring what I felt before I fully understood it\, and giving shape to experiences that were difficult to articulate. Informed by current research into the impact of art and creative expression\, this body of work explores the possibility of creation as a bridge between internal experience\, verbal expression\, and connection. \nCreated across important stages and turning points\, these works trace a journey through uncertainty\, healing\, experimentation\, and ultimately\, ownership of my own path. They reflect the reality that healing is rarely linear. It can be messy\, circular\, surprising\, and at times feel endless—especially when the inner critic insists that we are not enough\, are too much\, or should remain small. \nThis collection is an exploration of what happens when we begin to challenge that voice. \nAt its heart\, this work is about taking up space. It is about moving beyond the labels that once made me question who I was—too much\, too sensitive\, too loud\, too emotional—and learning instead to lean into curiosity\, authenticity\, and a more fearless version of myself. The making has been cathartic: a way of processing some of life’s most painful experiences and transforming them into something I can share as beauty\, connection\, and possibility. \nMany of the materials and artifacts incorporated into these works come from generations of women in my family—a nod to epigenetics and to the histories we carry\, sometimes without knowing it. They speak to the ways our stories can travel through generations\, shaping us even as we work to understand and redefine them. \nThese works are not simply objects to observe. They are invitations into a shared space between artist and viewer—a chance to pause\, wonder\, feel\, interpret\, and perhaps find words for something within yourself. \nGiving Back: I will be donating 25% of all sold originals from this showcase to the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters (ACWS). Through this body of work\, I have gained a deeper awareness of the lasting impact of trauma and the ways it can reach into our sense of identity\, safety\, and possibility. I grew up thinking of trauma as an “if”—something that might happen. I have come to understand it more as a “when.” At some point\, in some form\, adversity touches all of our lives.\nWomen are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of trauma\, shaped by social patterns\, intergenerational experiences\, and the realities of physical and economic vulnerability. Rebuilding a sense of safety can feel impossible without support\, and many women simply do not have access to the resources they need. \nWomen’s shelters provide far more than a safe place. They offer compassion\, stability\, advocacy\, and practical resources that can help someone begin to heal and rebuild a life. \nI have been blessed with a strong support network throughout my own journey. I often found myself wondering what it would be like to navigate those experiences alone—to have to rebuild a sense of self and safety without the people and supports that helped me become who I am. Supporting ACWS is one small way I can help create that possibility for someone else. \nPlease enjoy the products of twenty-one years of making\, questioning\, breaking open\, rebuilding\, and becoming. Each purchase supports NOA—a support pillar in my development—the ACWS\, the HeArt of It showcase\, and\, last but not least\, me and my crazy ideas. \nCome curious. Come as you are. Let the art speak\, and listen for what you want to say.
URL:https://acws.ca/event/opening-night-taking-up-space-the-esthetics-of-flourishing-through-curiosity-a-kelsey-baker-art-show/
LOCATION:Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre\, 8330 Whyte Ave NW\, Edmonton\, Alberta\, T6C 0Y6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://acws.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2026-08-18_Taking-up-space-poster-scaled.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260910T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20260910T170000
DTSTAMP:20260707T190536Z
CREATED:20260707T190536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T190536Z
UID:43909-1789034400-1789059600@acws.ca
SUMMARY:Kirsten's Place Open Charity Golf Tournament
DESCRIPTION:Join Mountain View Emergency Shelter Society for their 2nd annual Golf tournament in support of Kirsten’s Place\, a safe haven for women in abusive relationships. Enjoy a round of golf\, dinner and prizes in support of this great cause!
URL:https://acws.ca/event/kirstens-place-open-charity-golf-tournament/
LOCATION:Olds Golf Club\, 33042 Range Road #12\, Olds\, Alberta\, T4H 4N8\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://acws.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Kristens-Place-Golf-Tournament-e1783450937858.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Mountain View Emergency Shelter Society":MAILTO:outreach@mvess.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261003T130000
DTSTAMP:20260717T145558Z
CREATED:20260717T145558Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T145558Z
UID:43947-1791021600-1791032400@acws.ca
SUMMARY:Taber Safe Haven - Ride for Refuge
DESCRIPTION:Ride for Refuge is a family-friendly fundraising walk and bike ride that brings communities together to support local charities serving people seeking hope\, safety\, and freedom. Every participant who rides\, walks\, volunteers\, donates\, or sponsors a team helps Taber Safe Haven continue providing life-changing services to women and children facing abuse\, homelessness\, exploitation\, trauma and other hardships. When you participate in Ride for Refuge\, you’re doing more than completing a walk or bike ride. You’re standing beside survivors. You’re telling families they are not alone. You’re helping create a community where everyone can live free from fear and violence.
URL:https://acws.ca/event/taber-safe-haven-ride-for-refuge/
LOCATION:Parkside Manor\, 483050 Ave\, Taber\, Alberta\, T1G 1H1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://acws.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/ride-for-refuge.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Taber Safe Haven Women's Shelter Society":MAILTO:outreachsupervisor@tabersafehaven.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261017T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261017T230000
DTSTAMP:20260707T200536Z
CREATED:20260707T200536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T200536Z
UID:43917-1792260000-1792278000@acws.ca
SUMMARY:80's Fundraiser Odyssey House x No Girl Left Behind Fundraiser
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a meaningful night dedicated to supporting women\, mothers\, and children in crisis through Odyssey House — providing safety\, stability\, and a path forward. \nAt the same time\, No Girl Left Behind is empowering girls from the start — helping them build confidence\, self-worth\, and the strength to create their own future. \n✨ Your ticket helps create safe nights\, fresh starts\, and empowered lives.
URL:https://acws.ca/event/80s-fundraiser-odyssey-house-x-no-girl-left-behind-fundraiser/
LOCATION:Five Mile Hall\, 714003 Range Rd 53\, Clairmont\, Alberta\, T8X 4G4\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://acws.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Back_to_the_80s_fundraiser_event_1.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Odyssey House":MAILTO:reception@odysseyhouse.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261022T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261022T210000
DTSTAMP:20260812T153758Z
CREATED:20260812T153758Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T153758Z
UID:44096-1792695600-1792702800@acws.ca
SUMMARY:Night Light Walk in Support of La Salle Shelter\, A Safe Place & WIN House
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a 3K walk on October 22nd for a magical night of light under the stars in support of urgently needed resources for women and children experiencing intimate partner violence. \nAll proceeds are directed to La Salle Shelter\, A Safe Place and WIN House\, so sign up today knowing you will be making a real difference. With your support\, we can help light the way forward for so many women and children who are ready to take their first brave steps away from violence. \nTogether\, with friends\, family and neighbours\, we will walk 3K through the streets of our community. It all starts at 6:15 p.m. at Dr. Wilbert McIntyre Park where we will gather to hear inspiring stories before we head out to walk a lantern-lit route lighting the way for women and children experiencing intimate partner violence in our community. \nAll participants receive an exclusive Royal LePage® Shelter Foundation® Night Light Walk® red toque with built-in light and an LED glow bracelet so you can shine bright and show your support every step of the way.
URL:https://acws.ca/event/night-light-walk-in-support-of-la-salle-shelter-a-safe-place-win-house/
LOCATION:Dr. Wilbet McIntyre Park\, 8331-104 Street NW\, Edmonton\, Alberta\, T6E 4E9\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://acws.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Member-Event-Website-Images.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261121T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261121T180000
DTSTAMP:20260819T171050Z
CREATED:20260819T171050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260819T171050Z
UID:44146-1795284000-1795284000@acws.ca
SUMMARY:WINGS Make Believe Ball
DESCRIPTION:Step into a night of elegance\, purpose\, and celebration at the Make Believe Ball\, one of Edmonton’s most anticipated fundraising events. Following a sold out inaugural event that exceeded all expectations\, we are thrilled to welcome guests back for an unforgettable evening at the iconic Fairmont Hotel Macdonald. \nEnjoy a gourmet dinner\, spectacular live entertainment from The Grand Dueling Pianos\, an exclusive silent auction\, and inspiring moments that highlight the life changing impact of Wings. Every ticket purchased helps provide safe housing and comprehensive support for women and children rebuilding their lives after experiencing family violence. \nBehind the glamour of the masquerade lies a powerful message. For many survivors\, wearing a mask has been a means of protection and survival. Wings walks alongside families as they begin to remove those masks\, reclaim their voices\, and rediscover safety\, healing\, and hope. \nYour presence at the Make Believe Ball is more than a night out. It is an investment in brighter futures\, stronger families\, and a community where every woman and child has the opportunity to thrive. \nTogether\, we can continue breaking cycles and building futures. A lifeline for a lifetime.
URL:https://acws.ca/event/wings-make-believe-ball/
LOCATION:Fairmont Hotel Macdonald\, 10065 100 Street Northwest\, Edmonton\, Alberta\, T5J 0N6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://acws.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2026-MBB-Sponsorship-Package.pdf-1600-x-1200-px.png
ORGANIZER;CN="WINGS":MAILTO:info@wingsab.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261128T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Edmonton:20261128T173000
DTSTAMP:20260707T203315Z
CREATED:20260601T193814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T203315Z
UID:43757-1795887000-1795887000@acws.ca
SUMMARY:The Festival of Peace Gala: Winter Glow
DESCRIPTION:Join Stepping Stones Crisis Society for an unforgettable evening of celebration\, community\, and hope at their annual Festival of Peace. \nFestival of Peace: Winter Glow is our signature fundraising gala\, bringing together community leaders\, partners\, and supporters to raise critical funds for programs and services that help individuals and families impacted by family violence. Through an evening of exceptional dining\, inspiring moments\, entertainment\, and connection\, we celebrate resilience\, honour those creating change\, and shine a light on the ongoing need for safety and healing in our communities. \nInspired by the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights\, this year’s Winter Glow theme transforms the Cold Lake Ag Society Hall into a vibrant wonderland filled with colour and light. The evening reflects the hope\, strength\, and brighter futures made possible through the work of Stepping Stones. \nEnjoy a gourmet dinner by Joly Fine Cuisine\, interactive entertainment\, exciting auctions\, live music from We’re One World\, a late-night lunch\, and end the evening on the dance floor at our spectacular Glow Party with G&C DJ. \nEarly Bird tickets go on sale July 3\, 2026.\nRegular pricing begins September 1\, 2026. \nTables are limited\, so reserve yours early. \nEvery ticket purchased helps provide emergency shelter\, outreach\, prevention\, and support services for individuals and families rebuilding their lives after experiencing family violence.
URL:https://acws.ca/event/the-festival-of-peace-gala/
LOCATION:4608 38 Ave\, 4608 38 Ave\, Cold Lake\, Alberta\, T9M 1K6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://acws.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/f8d255ed-f878-4b4b-ab29-9f52f4045212.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Stepping Stones":MAILTO:info@steppingstonessociety.ca
END:VEVENT
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