During this week’s Pancake Brunch fundraiser for Home Assistance Neepawa and District (HAND), NACTV caught up with HAND Coordinator Michelle Kasprick to learn more about the organization’s recent activities and how community members can get involved.

The seniors’ social afternoons, held in partnership with the Town of Neepawa, ArtsForward, and the Neepawa Handivan, will continue through the end of the year—and possibly beyond if additional funding is secured. Kasprick is also working to revive the Neepawa Connects program, which pairs volunteers with isolated seniors to strengthen social connections and foster intergenerational relationships.

One area she would especially like to see grow is the return of casual socializing at the Seniors Drop-In Centre. While the space is still used for its many games and activities, the simple act of gathering to visit hasn’t fully returned since the pandemic lockdowns. Kasprick emphasized that this social aspect is a vital part of the centre’s purpose, and she hopes it will gradually become a regular habit again.

NACTV also spoke with Kamillah Al-Giadaa from Volunteer Manitoba ahead of Neepawa’s upcoming volunteer fair. As Manitoba’s only volunteer centre, the organization plays a key role in connecting volunteers with local non-profits, charities, and community groups. They also provide training in board governance, volunteer management, and capacity building for organizations across the province.

Finally, we touched on a couple of local news highlights, including the new post-secondary Medical Administration program starting at the Neepawa Training Centre and the upcoming Logan’s Walk for Down Syndrome Awareness.

0:00 Introduction
2:15 Interview with Michelle Kasprick on HAND
8:12 Coffee Chat with Volunteer Manitoba
24:04 Medical Administration Program / Logan’s Walk