Welcome to the Southern Alberta Branch of the National Association of Federal Retirees.
For those new to our organization, we currently have ten members on the board of directors who meet once a month (excluding July and August) to discuss administrative/advocacy issues and to plan initiatives that are focused on protecting and enhancing the wants and needs of our members. Our branch has an office in the Nord-Bridge Senior Centre, located at 1904 - 13 Ave N, which is staffed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the months of September to June between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. by board members who are happy to respond to any questions or queries you might have and provide assistance. 2023/24 Branch Board of Directors are listed in attached file. We can also be contacted by email at nafr18@shaw.ca.or by telephone at (403) 328-0801.
To receive a fuller understanding of the mandate, role and responsibilities of our Association, you are encouraged to visit our national web site either through google or at the Federal Retirees on Facebook. Be sure you like the Facebook page to get regular updates on issues that would be of concern and interest to our members and seniors writ large
Our 2024 AGM was held at the Country Kitchen on Mayor Magrath in Lethbridge on April 22, 2024. We shared a wonderful meal and friendship. Our next Branch Luncheon will be held in October 2024 (date/location TBD) at which we will have a special guest speaker who will discuss an issue that is of vital import to our members. AGM Minutes for 2021/22/23/24 can be accessed below.
In addition, and in support and in honour of Public Service Week, we will be hosting our second annual summer BBQ.. The event will start at 1130 on 8 June at the Elks Park which is located at the River Bottom (just south of Helen Schuler Museum). This will be a great opportunity to meet with fellow Association members and potential new members as we will extend invitations to folks currently working for the federal government to come and join us. If our BBQ last year is any indication, it promises to be a great time. We are hoping to see you there... and, if you know any NAFR members or non NAFR members who are currently working for the Federal Government (DND, RCMP, Government) or anyone who is retired and not yet a NAFR member, please extend an invite to them and ask them to mark it on their calendars. There will be No cost to members or potential new members.
Our advocacy team has been very busy ensuring that the Provincial Government is aware of the problems associated with leaving the CPP and advocating against this move. Over the past few months, the team have visited our local MLAs and MPs to ensure they are aware of our position and to try and garner their support. The fight to prevent Alberta from leaving the CPP could not be more important. We ask that, if you feel the way, that you take the time to post a letter to your MLA and let them know of your concerns. If you require more details or wish help in drafting a letter regarding the potential impact of this move, please contact our office and one of the Advocacy team members will be happy to help you out.
I would like to once again extend an invitation to anyone who might like to become a more active member of the branch to give us a call and let us know what you might like to do. Involvement can range from wanting to hold an executive position on the board of directors to volunteering to call other members to remind them of events. That is to say that volunteering with the branch does not compel you to commit to attending monthly meetings or getting involved in everyday decision making (unless, of course, that is your thing). Rather, you can indicate an interest in being only a "Friend of the Board" and helping from time to time and on issues that may be dear to your heart. If you wish to join us (either as a board member or a casual volunteer) please contact us at our office. We would be happy to discuss options and provide details.
Thanking you for visiting our site.
Sincerely,
Richard Chevrier OMM CD
President