Left: Tracy's daughter, Marcella (2012). Right: Tracy's granddaughter, Stella (2024)

After 15 years of educational programs at the Child and Youth Community Centre (CYCC), Strathcona County’s Family Resource Network (FRN), formally known as Parent Link, has officially moved into a vibrant, new space, located at 160 Festival Way, Sherwood Park.

To celebrate this new space for kids and families, FRN will host a grand opening on Saturday, February 1, from 1 to 4 p.m. As the FRN embarks on this next chapter, it’s important to look back at its time at CYCC and remember the positive impact that space had on our community. 

Whether it’s building strong families, life skills, healthy childhood development and resilience in children, the FRN’s free educational programs and services for families and kids ages 0-18 were offered out of CYCC for many years. 
 
One heartwarming story about FRN's legacy at CYCC involves FRN's very own Tracy Lafreniere. Tracy's story encapsulates the essence of FRN's programming, its time at CYCC and its importance in our community.
 
Tracy's journey with FRN, and particularly CYCC, began in 2009, when she attended the first program held at CYCC with her daughter, Marcella. Over four years, Tracy participated in more than 85 programs, finding a welcoming space where she and her daughter could learn and grow. 

When Tracy first brought Marcella to CYCC, Marcella loved building stages out of blocks. This early passion and skills were nurtured through FRN's programs, providing her with materials and space to explore her creativity. Today, Marcella is attending Grant MacEwan, studying Fine Arts in Theatre Production and turning her childhood dreams into a career.
 
For Tracy, CYCC was more than just a community centre that held programs—it was a place of connection and support. As a newcomer to Canada, she found solace and friendship among other parents attending the programs. Many of these connections have endured over the years, providing a lasting sense of community.
 
In 2016, Tracy transitioned from being a participant to an employee, joining the County and contributing to the programs that had given her so much. She has been with the FRN for eight years, witnessing firsthand the positive impact these services have on families.
 
As the FRN wrapped its time at CYCC in the fall, Tracy attended its last program, creating a full-circle moment as she participated in the final session with her son and granddaughter, Stella. While there was a sense of nostalgia, Tracy felt excitement for Stella and the new beginnings that lie ahead in the new space. 
 
“This is the next chapter for FRN, and the next generation will get to benefit,” says Tracy. "We will all continue to grow together and create new memories in our new space."
 
The legacy of the FRN’s programs and services will continue to flourish in its new location at 160 Festival Way, ensuring that future generations experience the same support, community and opportunities that Tracy and her family did. 

Visit Strathcons.ca/FRNGrandOpening to learn more about the grand opening and FRN’s programs and services.