RB Oilfield & Hauling

Truck drivers often face a multitude of stress factors leading to poor overall mental health. This profession requires drivers to eat and sleep alone and the isolation from loved ones is not easy. Unpredictable work schedules, especially in the oilfield, can make it hard to plan and maintain healthy relationships. They face stress on bad roads, disruptive sleeping patterns, unhealthy lifestyles and often, there is a negative stigma attached to this industry.

During Covid, we relied heavily on our truck drivers as an essential resource to keep us all alive, all the while they took the biggest toll of all. They could not eat in a restaurant or use a shower, and the isolation only got worse.

If you look around, everything we own, use and consume was in some way, hauled on a truck. It is our hope that our truck drivers begin to have open conversations about how their work affects their lives, because as with most people, after a short conversation you quickly realize you are not so alone.

The Grande Prairie Friendship Centre

The Grande Prairie Friendship Centre is proud to participate in the Chair Extraordinaire Fundraiser in support of the Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention. This year, our contribution will feature a unique Ice Fishing Set-Up with the theme I Am A Kind Man. This setup is designed to foster reflection, connection, and healing, promoting the values of kindness and support within our community.

The I Am A Kind Man program is dedicated to promoting positive masculinity, kindness, and community connection among men, especially within Indigenous communities. This ice-fishing set-up symbolizes the peaceful connection between nature and well-being, encouraging participants to reflect on the importance of kindness and mental health. It’s about creating safe spaces for men to come together, support one another, and discuss the challenges they face, including mental health and suicide prevention.

By contributing to this fundraiser, you’re helping us continue this important work, fostering resilience and providing essential resources for those struggling with mental health challenges. Let’s come together in support, connection, and kindness.

To learn more about I Am A Kind Man at the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre, please visit: www.gpfriendshipcentre.org

Medallion Energy Services

Meticulously crafted in-house at Medallion Energy Services, our table and chairs are made from repurposed cable reels, symbolizing the industries that form the backbone of the Peace Country. Whether it’s Oil & Gas, Agriculture, or Forestry, these sectors begin with dedication, long hours, the emotional toll, and the stresses of the work. We’ve transformed materials from our projects into a space designed for relaxation and conversation, helping to alleviate that stress.

Each piece of furniture tells a story of resilience and ingenuity, transforming remnants of our daily grind into symbols of craftsmanship and community. With its rich texture, the sturdy table invites you to gather around with friends and family, while the chairs offer a comforting embrace after a long day. Here, in this unique space, you can unwind and recharge, knowing that every element reflects the dedication and perseverance of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. It’s more than just furniture; it’s a testament to all industries that form the Peace Country, where innovation meets tradition and every challenge is met with creativity and strength.

In memory of anyone who has lost someone to suicide and dedicated to all who are trying to make a difference in promoting connection and well-being in the prevention of suicide.

The Men’s Shed

Truck drivers often face a multitude of stress factors leading to poor overall mental health. This profession requires drivers to eat and sleep alone and the isolation from loved ones is not easy. Unpredictable work schedules, especially in the oilfield, can make it hard to plan and maintain healthy relationships. They face stress on bad roads, disruptive sleeping patterns, unhealthy lifestyles and often, there is a negative stigma attached to this industry.

During Covid, we relied heavily on our truck drivers as an essential resource to keep us all alive, all the while they took the biggest toll of all. They could not eat in a restaurant or use a shower, and the isolation only got worse.

If you look around, everything we own, use and consume was in some way, hauled on a truck. It is our hope that our truck drivers begin to have open conversations about how their work affects their lives, because as with most people, after a short conversation you quickly realize you are not so alone.

The Sydoruk Family

In Loving Memory of Jacob Sydoruk (1999-2019)

Inspiration for this collection comes from Jacob’s love for the outdoors, nature, and the countless memories made through time spent in chairs just like these. Much like these chairs before you, many sit overlooking the beautiful Athabasca River in Jasper National Park – many hours spent in them by our family – forever a cherished memory.

His spirit shines through in every detail – including his love of the Los Angeles Dodgers, he was almost always seen wearing his treasured Dodgers Hat – another part of him woven throughout the collection.

Our family hopes to inspire those who gather in these chairs to reflect on and cherish moments spent with their loved ones. We encourage you to seek connection and spark meaningful and vulnerable conversations – whether over a game of crib, a cup of coffee, or a cozy evening under the stars with someone special. Let these moments be a reminder that you are not alone and that you are loved endlessly.

The Tiedemann Family

In memory of Tyler Tiedemann, whose love for stories, adventure, and the simple joy of reading touched all who knew him. Tyler’s life was filled with books—from his earliest days enjoying story time to adulthood when reading opened up worlds of imagination and wisdom. He embodied kindness, loyalty, and an insatiable curiosity about the world around him, whether he was diving into a new book, exploring the outdoors, or savouring a quiet cup of coffee with loved ones.

Complementary to the annual gift of books donated to the Parkside Montessori School in Tyler’s memory, this collection carries forward his love for reading and adventure, ensuring that his spirit will continue to inspire young imaginations for years to come.

Elder Theresa Gladue & Friends

Step into a celebration of Indigenous craftsmanship and culture with the “Just Bead It” live auction package, a tribute to Truth and Reconciliation. This exclusive package features an array of handmade treasures.

At the heart of this collection is a beautifully hand-sewn skirt by Cathy Demerais (Dem-er-eh), two t-shirts donated by community members, with an orange shirt to honour Indigenous Orange Shirt Day—a symbol of the ongoing journey toward reconciliation and remembering the children affected by residential schools. The set serves as a meaningful reminder of the importance of Indigenous voices and stories.

Included in this package are a variety of items including a stunning make-up bag, a medicine pouch, three pairs of earrings, a small purse, a drum, Moccasins, and a beautiful birch basket, each handcrafted by Indigenous artisans.

This remarkable package also includes a handmade drum.

By bidding on this package, you’re not only acquiring beautiful, one-of-a-kind items—you’re also supporting Indigenous artisans and contributing to the ongoing work of Truth and Reconciliation.

Dynamud Logistics Services Inc. and Lesley Burake, Century 21

The Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention is an organization that was founded because of a need within our communities. Simply put, when skies are grey they seek to make them blue again. The Toronto Maple Leafs, a fan favourite for many, take on the Conference Champion Edmonton Oilers in Toronto on November 16, 2024! Most certainly an event that will make the skies blue again! We’d like to offer this priceless package in support of the important work that the Resource Centre provides.

Mr. Mikes Steakhouse 

Mr. Mikes Steakhouse Casual has donated a Toronto Blue Jays Travel package to our 14th Annual Chair Extraordinaire! Their support means a great deal to us, and we know that everyone who has either won this package as a raffle or bought it in the live auction has had the time of their lives!

The chair includes return airfare for two as well as three nights’ accommodation, plus 2 sets of tickets (4 tickets all together) to see the Toronto Blue Jays home game. Guests are responsible for their own food and drinks. Wear your team caps and T-shirts, and when you get home, share your memories with friends and family. To keep those memories alive, we have included framed Blue Jays memorabilia.