Lac La Biche, AB — Portage College and Lac La Biche County Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) are excited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Gym Jam program, a partnership that has provided free, engaging activities for families and individuals in the community. Gym Jam is a free monthly drop-in program where families can connect with others and engage in fun physical activities with their children in a safe and welcoming environment. Designed for children ages 0-12, Gym Jam encourages families to explore the community while enjoying time together, and it continues to attract new attendees each month.

Since its inception in 2014, Gym Jam has become a beloved community event, growing stronger each year thanks to the ongoing partnership between Portage College and Lac La Biche County FCSS. Over the past year, six Gym Jam events have been hosted with a total of 617 participants, reinforcing the program’s positive impact. In 2022-2023, six events attracted 630 participants, showcasing the strong involvement from local families and residents. Gym Jam also welcomes guest organizations like Successful Families-Successful Kids and the Lac La Biche County Library, which add extra activities and resources for families to enjoy. Other partners have included Alberta Health Services, the Portage College Student Association, Community Learning, and WJS Canada, each enhancing the value of the program by offering resources and support for families.

Families who attend Gym Jam have shared their appreciation for the program. One participant expressed, “The kids absolutely love the events, the crafts, games, and food provided!” Another noted, “Supper was amazing and helpful being a low-income family. One meal I didn’t have to stress about.” Others emphasized the benefits of having a safe space for their children and the opportunity to meet other families, with one parent adding, “Quality time together to play, chat, and meet new friends is something we greatly appreciate.”

Photo courtesy of Lac La Biche County

“Our students voiced a need for family activities, and that need was met through community partnership. Gym Jam is a great example of when a community pulls together, the benefit to the whole community is immeasurable. It’s been a true pleasure working with such exceptional partners over the past 10 years. Looking forward to the next 10 years!” said Bev Moghrabi, Vice President, Student and College Services, Portage College.

“Gym Jam is a key opportunity for Lac La Biche County Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) to offer family programming within the community,” said Anita Polturak, Manager of FCSS, Lac La Biche County. “Holding Gym Jam at Portage College allows us to connect with participants who may not normally go to our other in-community programs. The college’s spacious gym and on-site kitchen make it a perfect environment to bring families together and offer them a trusted resource during challenging times.”

Both Portage College and Lac La Biche County are committed to the continued success of Gym Jam, recognizing its value in building resilience and fostering community connections. FCSS programs like “It Starts With Hope,” a parent support group, benefit from the amenities available at Portage College, furthering the impact of shared space and resources. These partnerships have expanded the resources available to families, creating opportunities to connect with additional organizations that support the healthy development of children in our community.

Looking ahead, Portage College and Lac La Biche County FCSS are excited to co-host a Christmas event featuring a community turkey dinner. This event is another example of these organizations’ shared commitment to creating inclusive spaces that bring families together. For more information on the Gym Jam program or to learn about upcoming events, please visit their Facebook page.

For further information, please contact:

Portage College

Corporate Communications Department

780-623-6671 or email