On Tuesday, August 17, 2021, the team at Thorpe Recovery Centre welcomed the Government of Alberta’s Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addiction Mike Ellis to tour the facility and grounds. The Associate Minister was accompanied by the Ministry’s Chief of Staff, Marshall Smith, and also Sheldon Bailey.
“It was a pleasure to showcase the Centre to Associate Minister Ellis,” stated Thorpe Recovery Centre’s CEO, Teressa Krueckl, “our relationship with the Ministry has been growing stronger and through positive interactions such as today’s, we look forward to continuing to build resources to help those on their recovery journey.”
Mr. Ellis and his team sat down with program participants and Thorpe team members to discuss the future of mental health and addiction treatment services. Joanne Wright, Counselling Manager remarked, “I enjoyed the time they took to sit with our clients. Associate Minister Ellis gave the clients the opportunity to share a bit about themselves, what they are grateful for, and what they need more support on regarding their own mental health and addictions. The clients really felt heard, and it showed.”
Other aspects of the visit included discussions with the organization’s senior leadership team, tour of the newly-opened Serenity Garden, and lunch with program participants. Overall, Thorpe Recovery Centre’s team felt valued to be seen and heard as an important part of the Government of Alberta’s response to the increasing need for mental health and addiction supports in the province. The pandemic has put additional strain on individuals and the organization will continue to evolve and work with governments to provide quality therapeutic services.
Associate Minister Ellis was appointed his new role in July 2021, replacing the Honourable David Luan; he also serves as MLA of the United Conservatives Party for the Calgary-West constituency. Prior to entering the Legislative Assembly, he spent twelve years with the Calgary Police Service, working with vulnerable Calgary citizens.
To learn more about Thorpe Recovery Centre visit thorperecoverycentre.org. For media inquiries, contact Sara Fox, Development Coordinator at giving@thorperecoverycentre.org or 780-875-8890.