For immediate release
Calgarians' generosity will help many Albertans
“It is an amazing contribution, and one that will certainly have a positive impact on the lives of many Albertans,” exclaimed Dr. Sally Barros, President of the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, as she accepted a cheque for $150,000 from Ms. Amina Beecroft of Calgary and George Sirois of Scotia Trust, co-executors of the estate of Mrs. Dorothy Beecroft.
There are many people living in Alberta who are suffering from psychological/mental health challenges but have difficulty accessing professional psychology resources. “I know from family experience that using psychological services can have a dramatic, positive and lasting impact on the quality of a person’s life,” says Ms. Beecroft. “I want this money to be the start of a special Alberta Fund that will provide psychological services to those who do not have adequate resources to get the assistance they require.”
“That will be the case,” added Dr. Barros. “We looked at creating an Alberta foundation and realized that we could be more efficient by partnering with the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) Foundation. They have agreed to work with us and have established a separate Alberta Fund, to be directed by the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta.”
“Thanks to the generosity of Mrs. Beecroft and, we hope others like her, we can have a significant impact in our communities,” says Dr. Barros.
“This is an example for all of Canada,” adds Dr. John Arnett, President of the CPA Foundation. “Hopefully others will come forward and make contributions so the Alberta Fund can be a lasting legacy to the generosity of Mrs. Beecroft.”
“The mind and body are inextricably linked, and people are becoming increasingly comfortable in addressing their psychological well-being. Those that are helped by the generosity of Mrs. Dorothy Beecroft will be truly thankful,” concluded Dr. Barros.
Psychology is a regulated profession under provincial legislation. Alberta Psychologists work in many different settings including mental heath clinics, hospitals, correctional settings, industries, private practices, schools, and universities. The Psychologists’ Association of Alberta operates a referral service for individuals who require the services of a psychologist. The number to call in Edmonton is 428-Talk (8255), in Calgary the number is 246-Talk (8255), or anywhere in Alberta 1-888-424-0297.
Further information about psychological services is available on the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta website at www.psychologistsassociation.ab.ca
For more information contact:
Dr. Sally Barros, President
Psychologists’ Association of Alberta
780-482-1847
Dr. John Arnett
President, CPA Foundation
204-787-7424
Ms. Amina Beecroft
403-255-2148
