Speaking Notes for Lindsay Blackett, MLA for Calgary-North West

Member’s Statement

Drug Awareness Foundation Calgary

Nov. 23, 2011

• Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

• I am pleased to rise today to recognize the Drug Awareness Foundation Calgary, and the important work that they are doing in our communities.

• This Foundation, which was established in 2006 by Mr. Balwinder Singh Kahlon, has done some truly outstanding work in raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco, alcohol and drug abuse, not only within Calgary’s Punjabi community, but throughout Alberta and Canada.

• Through campaigns, radio talk shows, community events and youth presentations, they have encouraged countless Albertans, including our children and youth, to make good decisions when it comes to drugs and alcohol.

• They have also provided critical support to many individuals living with addiction, to help them turn their lives around.

• Mr. Speaker, in addition to all of the work they have done to prevent and reduce addiction in our province, this year, the Drug Awareness Foundation Calgary hosted its first ever Walk Across Canada.

• Beginning in St. John’s, Newfoundland this April, Mr. Kahlon and his team of committed team members from our Punjabi community walked an incredible 8,000 kilometers to Victoria B.C. to spread a message across Canada of the importance of leading a drug-free lifestyle.

• Mr. Speaker, it takes a great deal of courage to undertake an event of this magnitude, and it takes a lot of heart to do it to help others.

• So I would like to sincerely thank all those who are involved with this inspiring organization for the valuable contribution that they are making, and to encourage them to continue their important efforts.

• Thank you, Mr. Speaker.