SPARK Foundation At Lakeland College Vermilion

Patty Milnthrop Community Engagement Liason for Spark Foundation of Lloydminster. Photo Sonya Lee

The SPARK Foundation of Lloydminster has long been committed to creating safer, stronger communities through support, education, and advocacy. Founded to help women, children, and youth facing crisis, SPARK has grown from a small grassroots effort into a pillar of safety and compassion in the region.

This November, the Foundation is once again leading Lloydminster’s participation in Family Violence Prevention Month, a province-wide initiative dedicated to raising awareness and supporting survivors. This year’s theme, “Paint the Town Purple – Shine a Light on Family Violence,” invites the community to come together, stand with survivors, and acknowledge the courage and resilience symbolized by the color purple.

On November 13, SPARK hosted an awareness booth at Lakeland College’s Vermilion Campus, offering students and staff information pamphlets and resources on recognizing and responding to family violence. Patty Milnthorp was also on site to speak with anyone who stopped by, answer questions, and share insights into local supports.

More events continue through the month. On November 19, the Lloydminster Community Youth Centre will hold a youth pizza night at 6 p.m. with presenter Devona Gibson, focusing on what healthy relationships look like. That same day, a free community luncheon will take place at the Servus Sports Centre from 12 to 1:30 p.m., featuring Gibson’s presentation “Shine a Light on Family Violence: Turning Awareness into Action.” On November 25, SPARK will host “It’s Not Right” training at the SPARK Administration Office Training Room at 1 p.m., offering a lunch-and-learn on how to safely support those experiencing abuse.

Family and intimate partner violence impact every community, but meaningful change begins with awareness and action. By learning, speaking up, and showing support—whether by wearing purple, attending events, or simply starting conversations—residents can help create a safer future for all.

As the month continues, SPARK encourages everyone in Lloydminster to join in Painting the Town Purple. Every effort, big or small, shines a light on family violence and strengthens the message that hope, help, and healing are always within reach.