Cold Lake, Lac La Biche – Portage College is proud to announce the successful completion of several projects that have raised a total of an estimated $6,000 for the local communities. The funds were raised by the Community Social Work (CSW) program through various initiatives, and will be utilized to support several communities such as food banks, health care centers, societies for the homeless, youth addiction and elementary schools.

The projects received overwhelming support from the communities, demonstrating the commitment to making a positive impact. The funds were raised through a combination of efforts, including bottle drives and specialty events such as a dodge ball event, ‘Dodge for a Cause’ and ‘Beading Night’.

"We are thrilled to announce that the Community Social Work students were successful in creating awareness of nonprofit human service agencies and have assisted with their specific efforts," said Lyla Allan, Coordinator, Community Social Work, at Portage College. "This achievement would not have been possible without the generous support of the community members and our dedicated team of students and staff. The funds raised will go a long way in supporting our community cause and making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. The students were able to gain great learning experiences through these projects."

Dylan Brunet, a CSW student at Portage College said, “The opportunity to help those in need through our community development was a gift, a gift that just kept giving! Not only were we able to help provide for our community but we were also able to foster a sense of accomplishment and pride within ourselves!”

Robin Tizzard, Dean of Health, Human Services and Business expresses, “I am very impressed with the incredible work that our CSW program does in our community. It is tremendous! So much organization, creativity, and grit are needed to complete such successful projects. There is no doubt that faculty, staff and students are instrumental in making "community" a truly fundamental feature of our Community Social Work program. Thank you to everyone who supports our CSW programs.”

Community Social Work students Kristen Ivany (left) and Sarah Mombourquette helping out at one of the projects.

Community Social Work Program Inquiries for Portage College:

Elizabeth Tan, Marketing Specialist
780-639-7144 or email

Media Inquiries:

Jaime Davies, Corporate Communications Manager
780-623-6671 or email