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Trusted Tips & Resources

Sanctum Care Group Joins Trusted Saskatoon's Non-Profit Category

The Trusted Saskatoon team ran a social media contest in 2018 to decide upon a new category; the majority asked for it to be  Trusted Saskatoon NON-PROFITS. This was a good fit, as we have always had a strong community focus. Trusted was proud to be recognized as the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce ABEX Award for Community recipient in 2017.

We are thrilled to announce that Sanctum Care Group is our newest Saskatoon non-profit partner. In this article, we will share WHO they are, what they do and why Trusted wanted to get more involved in helping Sanctum achieve their lofty goals! After reading this, we hope you will join us in helping them! 



Trusted Saskatoon welcomes Sanctum Care Group, the latest addition to our Trusted Saskatoon Non-Profit Category. This revolutionary non-profit organization is making waves with its innovative HIV care model, drawing attention from across Saskatchewan and beyond. In this blog post, we'll delve into the inspiring story of Sanctum Care Group, its founders, and their impactful work to provide holistic care to individuals with or at risk of HIV.

Katelyn & Morris

The story begins with Katelyn Roberts and Dr. Morris Markentin, two relentless individuals who defied skeptics to establish Saskatchewan's first HIV hospice. Katelyn, a former HIV case manager, pitched the idea to Dr. Markentin years ago over a meal at their favourite Vietnamese restaurant in Saskatoon. Their vision was to shift the focus from reactive to proactive care, providing preventative, holistic, and trauma-informed support before problems escalated.

Dr. Markentin, with years of experience in addiction medicine, recognized the interconnected issues of poverty, inadequate housing, and trauma as the root causes of his patients' challenges. Sanctum Care Group found its home in an empty building on Avenue O, a space provided by the St. Paul's Hospital Foundation. The initial days were challenging, with only two residents –a patient affectionately known as the "Lone Ranger" and Katelyn Roberts herself.  When the second patient moved in, the Lone Ranger stretched out a hand and said, “Welcome to heaven.” Soon, the 10-bed facility was battling a six-month waiting list. For many, it was the first time in their lives that many of the residents had a safe, stable place to call home.

The Impact of Sanctum Care Group 

Today, Sanctum Care Group provides solace for individuals with HIV, supports mothers in keeping custody of and reuniting with their children, and offers a peaceful environment for palliative patients. Dr. Markentin emphasizes that, at Sanctum, no one has to face death alone. The organization has extended its reach through various initiatives, connecting former residents to housing and Sanctum 1.5, a neonatal care home for pregnant women, those with HIV or those at risk of contracting it.



Acknowledging that the journey was far from perfect, Dr. Markentin believes that Sanctum Care Group has made a significant impact already, and they have so much more to give! The organization's signature fundraiser, the annual Sanctum Survivor, involves community leaders spending 36 hours on the streets, simulating the challenges faced by those with chronic diseases and no housing. This event raises funds and fosters a deeper understanding of the struggles in Saskatoon's core neighbourhoods.

 In 2023, the founder of Trusted Sara Wheelwright stepped up to participate as one of the ten survivors in the Sanctum Survivor event. Together, they raised a staggering $426,000, with Sara individually contributing an impressive $26,700. The huge final total was greatly impacted by the efforts of 2023 survivor participant David Dube, who surpassed his personal  $100,000 fundraising goal and announced at the Sanctum Gala that his total would be matched by the Les & Irene Dubé Foundation. 

Reflecting on her experience, Sara said: 

"The Sanctum Survivor experience was extremely humbling; I had no idea how many barriers our cities' most vulnerable citizens face in their daily lives. When I understood how impactful Sanctum is , I was determined to help them going forward - the work they do is so needed and I hope I can help them as they grow and share their model for the benefit of all involved! "

 This is a glimpse of their experience.

 

Sanctum Care Group's journey is a testament to the power of determination, compassion, and a vision for proactive care. As they continue to expand and share their proven programs, Sanctum Care Group is making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with HIV and their families. Trusted Saskatoon is excited to have them in our Non-Profit Category, and we look forward to amplifying and supporting their transformative work for the community.


Sanctum Care Group is a Trusted Saskatoon Non-Profit - learn more about them and their programs on the listing.


The Trusted Community Welcomes The Kinsmen Foundation -TeleMiracle As Your Newest Trusted Saskatoon Non Profit

Trusted Saskatoon team ran a contest on the Trusted Saskatoon Facebook page at the end of 2018 to find a new category for the Trusted Saskatoon directory. We received 100's of nominations, from children's activities to fencing. However, there was a clear winner; with over 200 nominations, we were thrilled that the new category was Trusted Saskatoon NON-PROFITS!  

This was such a good fit, as we have always had a strong community focus; in fact, Trusted was proud to be recognized as the recipient of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce ABEX Award for Community in 2017.

In the fall of 2023, we felt it was time to extend the love, and we said farewell and good luck to two of the Saskatoon Non-profits we had supported and promoted for 5 years as Trusted Partners, Saskatoon Kinette's and SCAT- Street Cat Rescue. We are thrilled to announce that The Kinsmen Foundation - TeleMiracle is our newest non-profit partner. 




The Trusted Saskatoon team is thrilled to welcome the Kinsmen Foundation - TeleMiracle to the Trusted Saskatoon community. 


We are grateful to have a wonderful relationship with the folks at The Kinsmen Foundation here in Saskatoon. Our sister company, Trusted Marketing Services has been working with The Foundation for the last 10 months, helping them with social media and other marketing pieces, and a past Trusted Saskatoon team member, Carman Praski, is the Fund Development Manager. Carman  introduced us to the organization in 2022, and we are in awe at all they do for this province! We look forward to helping them reach even more people through our networks and assisting them in raising as much money as possible through the 2024 TeleMiracle Telethon, which takes place in Regina February 24th and 25th

"Ring Those Phones"


TeleMiracle, the beloved annual telethon, has been a cornerstone of Saskatchewan culture for decades, raising millions of dollars to support people in need. As we open our hearts and arms to the incredible team at TeleMiracle, let's explore the history of this iconic event and the remarkable impact it has had on the people of Saskatchewan.

The TeleMiracle Legacy

The history of TeleMiracle stretches back to 1977, when it was first introduced as an annual telethon organized by the Kinsmen and Kinettes of Saskatchewan. Over the years, it has become a cherished Saskatchewan tradition, as much a part of the province's cultural fabric as wheat fields and prairie sunsets.

Every year, TeleMiracle unites people across Saskatchewan with a shared purpose: to raise funds to support individuals with medical expenses, special needs, and mobility challenges. The telethon is more than just a fundraiser; it is a symbol of hope, unity, and the indomitable spirit of the people of Saskatchewan.

The Impact of TeleMiracle


TeleMiracle's impact on Saskatchewan cannot be overstated. The funds raised through this annual event go to support a wide range of programs and services, including medical equipment, travel assistance, and other vital resources for individuals facing life-altering challenges. See an example of their impact in the video below. 



The Kinsmen Foundation, through TeleMiracle, has played a crucial role in transforming lives and providing much-needed assistance. Many families and individuals have found hope and relief through their initiatives. The positive impact of TeleMiracle extends not only to those directly assisted but also to the entire province. It reflects the compassion and generosity that define the Saskatchewan community.

A Team with Huge Hearts


At the heart of TeleMiracle's success is the remarkable team of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to make it all happen. The Kinsmen Foundation's dedicated employees, who work tirelessly behind the scenes all year, the Kinsmen and Kinettes of Saskatchewan, along with countless volunteers, have shown unwavering commitment and enormous hearts in their efforts to organize the annual TeleMiracle telethon. They embody the spirit of Saskatchewan, where people come together to help one another, where communities rally in times of need, and where kindness knows no bounds.

This exceptional team exemplifies the very essence of Trusted Saskatoon, where businesses and organizations that are committed to their community and have a genuine desire to make a positive impact are celebrated.




“The Kinsmen Foundation is an amazing organization with a genuine mission to help Saskatchewan residents with miracles of mobility equipment and much needed financial support when they have nowhere else to turn. I’m so humbled and grateful to be able to give my time and talents to making our province a better place, one individual and one family at a time. TeleMiracle is truly rooted in Saskatchewan with such a long-standing tradition of success, and without our generous TeleMIracle donors, who are our true Miracle Makers, we couldn’t do what we do in Helping People Every Day. Thank you, Saskatchewan!” – Carman Praski, Fund Development Manager, Kinsmen Foundation

As we welcome the Kinsmen Foundation's TeleMiracle to Trusted Saskatoon as a Non-Profit , we embrace not only a tradition but a symbol of hope, unity, and the incredible spirit of Saskatchewan. TeleMiracle has touched countless lives, providing assistance, support, and a beacon of hope to those who need it most. We look forward to supporting their continued efforts and to standing alongside this incredible team. In an ever-changing world, it's comforting to know that the values of compassion, community, and a willingness to lend a helping hand remain unwavering in Saskatchewan, and TeleMiracle is a shining example of these qualities. We salute the Kinsmen and Kinettes of Saskatchewan and all who contribute to this incredible endeavor. Together, we'll continue to make a positive impact on our province, as their motto says...

'Helping People Every Day' 


Kinsmen Foundation - TeleMiracle is a Trusted Saskatoon Non-Profit


Read more about what it means to be a Trusted Saskatoon non-profit in the article we wrote in January 2019.  Two of the original Trusted non-profits were started by long-time Trusted Saskatoon Partners. TLC @ Home, Founded by Shelley James of Hairstyle Inn Salons, and Mending Little Hearts, Founded by Anna Wiebe, co-owner of Wiebe Windows and More. We are committed to supporting those two grassroots non-profits as our foundational Trusted Saskatoon Non-Profit Partners as long as we are here!  

Trusted Founder Sara Wheelwright Steps Up To Participate In 2023 The Sanctum Survivor 36-Hour Challenge

The Trusted team believes giving back is always in style. We are proud members of the Saskatoon business community. We love our city and do what we can in an effort to support local events,  non-profits and to help individuals in need. 


 Help Sara reach her fundraising target and Support Sanctum Care Group by donating:  

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/sanctum-care-group-inc/p2p/sanctumsurvivor2023/page/sara-wheelwright/
 


"If you wait until you can do everything for everybody, instead of something for somebody, you’ll end up doing nothing for nobody." ~ Malcolm Bane 


On May 25 & 26, 2023, our founder Sara Wheelwright, and eight other community leaders will live as if homeless for 36 hours on the streets of Saskatoon as part of the Sanctum Survivor 36-Hour Challenge. In teams of two, Survivor participants will be given tasks to complete. Each lesson will aim to demonstrate specific challenges that society is often unaware of but are an everyday reality for those homeless with HIV. Participants will wear donated clothes and shoes. They will not be allowed personal belongings other than a phone (to update the public on their journey). The event itself is both powerful and unprecedented. It attempts to shed light on the intense hardship faced by people who experience poverty, homelessness and chronic illness here in Saskatoon.


Sara Wheelwright - Participant - 2023 Sanctum Survivor Challenge. 

Owner of Trusted Saskatoon and Trusted Marketing Services, Sara is an award-winning marketer, entrepreneur, and community supporter. Sara is committed to supporting our community and volunteers her time and professional resources. You will find her organizing & facilitating conferences to provide tools and a safe space to discuss critical social issues, such as youth suicide, domestic violence and trauma.

She donates ongoing marketing services to support many non-profit fundraising events and ongoing campaigns., Including, but not limited to, Wiegers Care For Kids, TLC@Home, Saskatoon Progress Club, Mending Little Hearts and TeleMiracle.

Nothing satisfies Sara more than promoting and supporting local non-profits and organizations to succeed. When she was approached to be a participant in the 2023 challenge,

 she didn't hesitate to step up; she had heard about the fantastic work Sanctum has been doing in Saskatoon and wanted to do all she could to help. 


WHAT IS THE SANCTUM GROUP? 


Sanctum is Saskatchewan's first hospice with respite and supportive care for people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Sanctum Group is a registered Non-profit, and it runs several vital programs.


Sanctum 

The hospice and transitional care home provides around-the-clock transitional care for HIV-positive persons with social and high-risk behaviours and conditions, including homelessness, that prevents them from adequately caring for themselves. In addition, this home provides compassionate end-of-life care to HIV-positive individuals with a palliative diagnosis. 

Sanctum 1.5


10-bed prenatal care home which supports high-risk and HIV-positive pregnant women at risk of having their infants apprehended at birth.

Sanctum provides a community for individuals requiring supportive care to attain their optimum level of health while maximizing their control and dignity. Incorporating existing community services in Sanctum's safe and supportive environment, the prenatal home works preventively to meet these women's health and social needs more effectively and efficiently, improving the health and well-being of mom and baby while mitigating the risks associated with apprehensions of infants at birth.


As of May 2022, 92 mothers completed/graduated the program – 93 babies were prevented from entering foster care. In addition, mothers who have successfully graduated from the program have had an additional 56 children returned to their care. A total of 149 children are now successfully within the care of their mothers, either through prevention or return from foster care.

" I humbly ask for your support as a participant in the 2023 Sanctum Survivor Challenge, I have a target to raise $20,000 and I can only do that with the help of my friends, family and colleagues. Sanctum does much-needed work in our city, and I acknowledge that the 36-hour homelessness experience by no means accurately depicts the numerous barriers and complex issues faced by persons who survive daily in poverty and homelessness; however, I hope that drawing awareness of some of the many challenges our cities most vulnerable citizen face may be a catalyst for real and lasting change. Anything you can do to support me will be appreciated and valued. Thank you in advance "  Sara Wheelwright 

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

There are several ways you can support Sara in the 2023 Challenge.

1. Follow along on Sara's social media to take part in her journey in The 2023 Sanctum Survivor Challenge on May 25th & 26th 2023

Please SHARE Sara's posts to help spread awareness of this year's challenge. 

1.. Help Sara reach her fundraising target and Support Sanctum Care Group by donating here:  

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/sanctum-care-group-inc/p2p/sanctumsurvivor2023/page/sara-wheelwright/


4. Another way you can help is to donate much-needed Items to Sanctum. Please email sara@trustedcanada.com and she will arrange for pick up. See the list of items Sanctum 1.5 needs below. 

Resident Needs:

  • Winter gear – coats, boots, toques, mitts, etc.

  • Toothpaste and toothbrushes

  • Sports bras/nursing bras

  • Adult colouring books/coloured markers

  • Laundry baskets

  • Underarm deodorant 

  • Shampoo/conditioner/body wash/soap

  • Feminine hygiene products

  • Lotions (scent-free)

  • Disposable razors

  • Nail clippers

  • Socks/underwear

  • Bath Towels

  • Face cloths

  • Pillows/ pillowcases

  • Slippers

  • Maternity wear/sweat pants(leggings)/Nightshirts(P.J.’s)

  • House coats

  • Pyjamas

  • Men's and women's sweats, shoes, comfortable indoor clothing

  • Crafting supplies

  • Nursing pads

  • Nipple cream

 

Baby Items:

  • Outdoor wear or winter wear

  • Diapers

  • Baby wipes

  • Diaper cream

  • Formula

  • Pacifiers

  • Nasal aspirator

  • Sleepers

  • Car seat covers

  • Baby soaps/lotions

  • Sent free baby laundry detergent

  • Face cloths

  • Baby towels

  • Receiving blankets

  • Baby nail care kit

  • Breastfeeding pillow

  • Baby under shirts

  • Bottle washers

  • Bottle warmers

  • Bottle liners

  • Bibs

  • Diapers

  • Teething rings

  • Baby socks

  • Night lights

  • Crib/bassinet sheets

Household Items 

Please note: Health Regulations require that these items be unopened and in their original packaging.

  • Instant pot

  • Ninja blender

  • Bread maker

  • Large slow cooker

  • Canned goods

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Cereal

  • Nonperishable food items

Trusted Saskatoon Caterers at PickNic's Catering's Mystery Shop Results

Being a Trusted Partner on the Trusted Saskatoon Directory of Excellence comes with a lot of responsibility - no other directory, advertising company, or 'watchdog organization' puts businesses through the ongoing process we do before we promote and endorse them.


Why Choose a Business On the Trusted Saskatoon Directory?

All of the Trusted Saskatoon partners have to pass a unique verification process, they are then annually contracted to uphold our 5 Trusted Guarantees. The partners then become part of a local community of Saskatoon and area businesses that we promote with a strong local marketing campaign. We also have a Trusted MYSTERY SHOPPER PROGRAM. This is where we find and engage with normal everyday people, just like you, who are looking for products and services in Saskatoon and area. We approach individuals we can see are looking for a local business and we ask them to mystery shop Trusted Saskatoon Partners. Those that agree to be Trusted mystery shoppers go about their usual business, except at the end they fill out a report to tell us about the experience. We then share it with you! We are thrilled to share our latest mystery shop. 

 PickNic's Catering Mystery Shop Report!


 PickNic's Catering and Fine Foods are Trusted Saskatoon caterers! 

Date of Mystery Shop: August 2022

Shopper : Ezna

MYSTERY SHOP CHECKLIST:

1. How was the greeting/ welcome/ call answered? Friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful.


2. Appearance of the store/staff and showroom? When I picked up my birthday cake, I was impressed with the elegance of the storefront. 


3. If a quote was required, was it well laid out/ clear? I asked for an estimate and it was clear. 


4. Overall experience 1-10. 9 out of 10


5. Would you return as a customer/ recommend them to close friends? Yes, already did


6. Did anyone stand out as exceptional? If so who? Why? Owner offered extra finishing touches when I picked up the cake, and carried it to the car. 



TRUSTED GUARANTEES


1. Provide the service and quality promised - 10

2. Complete the job on time - 10

3. Charge the price quoted with NO surprises - 10

4. Communicate honestly and be responsive to customer needs - 10

5. Resolve any issues with customer satisfaction in mind - 10

Ezna shared picture of the 2 cakes, and as always, they look amazing! 

ANY OTHER COMMENTS?




Everybody absolutely loved the cupcakes and icing !
Unfortunately I never got to taste  the large  carrot cake birthday cake because my daughter and I gave it away to a gal whose mom couldn’t afford a cake and also celebrated her bday at the party. 
Apparently her face lit up when she saw cake So was worth it
It’s my compassionate daughter Alicia who heard about this and came and pitched the idea to me and how could I say no? Made me happy to see my daughter flow like that and to brighten someone else’s day - Ezna ( Mystery Shopper & birthday girl)





WHAT A GREAT GESTURE EZNA & A WONDERFUL  MYSTERY SHOP NICOLA & TEAM!!! 


Yet again showing you deserve the Thumbs Up from www.TrustedSaskatoon.com


Let Nicola and the team at PickNic's Catering & fine Foods create something special for your next event or special occasion!



"Taste...That Delivers!"

Trusted Saskatoon New Category Announced - Trusted Saskatoon Non-Profits

The Trusted Saskatoon team ran a contest on the Trusted Saskatoon Facebook page at the end of 2018 to find a new category for the Trusted Saskatoon directory. We received 100's of nominations, from children's activities to fencing, however, there was a clear winner, with over 200 nominations, we are pleased to announce the new category will be Trusted Saskatoon NON-PROFITS! 

  



Trusted Saskatoon Non-Profits.

As a small business in Saskatchewan, Trusted has prioritized community support as part of what we do from day 1. In 2017 we were recognized for our efforts as the recipient of the Saskatchewan Chamber Of Commerce ABEX Award for community support, so we were thrilled that this was the category that people in Saskatoon most wanted to see on our directory.   


There is no ME in Community…Just WE.


So What's The Plan for Trusted Saskatoon Non-Profits Category? 

We are pleased to announce that we will be GIFTING listings and annual Trusted partnerships in the new category to 4 Saskatoon Non- Profits. Each Year in January we will renew the category and we will rely on the public and the existing Trusted Saskatoon partners to help us find new Saskatoon and area non-profits to promote. Over the course of the year, we will volunteer our time and resources to help spread awareness of the 4 Trusted Saskatoon Non- profits organization activities, events and goals! 

This is an in-kind donation worth $4000 per non-profit, and being a Trusted Saskatoon partner means they will receive promotion in so many areas including:  

 1. 2 weeks of free radio ads. 
 2. Video interview and promotion of video.
 3. Regular Trusted partner promotion on our social media channels - including our Feature Partner Of the Week posts. 
 4. Free Marketing Training sessions.
 5. Networking  Opportunities. 


The 4 Trusted Saskatoon Non -Profits for 2019-2020:


1. Mending Little Hearts Fund of Saskatchewan 

This is a non- profit close to our heart, literally! 
Anna Maton, a Trusted Saskatoon Consultant is heavily involved in supporting this wonderful Saskatoon-based organization. Anna's youngest son William was born with a heart defect and went through open heart surgery a few years ago. We will share more about this Saskatoon Non-Profit once their listing has been added to the category.

2. TLC@Home  

This is a non-profit founded and run by a Trusted Saskatoon Partner - Hairstyles Inn.
First started in 2006 by Shelley James of The Hairstyle Inn, TLC@Home started off small distributing shoeboxes of gifts to one Saskatoon community school ( Princess Alexandra). Now 12 years later shoeboxes filled with holiday cheer are distributed to more than 800 students at Saskatoon schools which have included; Princess Alexandra Community School, St. Michael Community School, King George Community School and Pleasant Hill Community School.  We will share more about this Saskatoon Non-Profit once their listing has been added to the category.

3 & 4 ?????? - TO BE DECIDED...BY YOU! 

We are relying on our FANTASTIC Facebook fans to help us fill these 2 spots. A nomination process will begin Monday 7th Jan and run until Jan 31st. At that time votes will be counted and the top 2 most nominated non- profits will be recipients of the 2 remaining annual 2019-2020 Trusted Saskatoon Non- Profits gifted listings. 

**Please note Non- Profits MUST be registered to qualify**   


CLICK ON OUR FACEBOOK POST BELOW AND TAG TO NOMINATE YOUR FAVOURITE NON-PROFIT. 

 

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S & E Trusted Online Directories Inc
TrustedSaskatoon.com
310 Wall St #209
Saskatoon, SK   S7K 1N7
Ph: 306.244.4150

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