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Barons-Eureka-Warner Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) is a dynamic, multi-municipal organization dedicated to enhancing the social well-being of individuals, families, and communities across its region. Guided by its mission to help residents live their full potential, BEW FCSS delivers vital programs and services, often at minimal or no cost, thanks to the support of provincial and municipal governments.
In 2025, BEW FCSS undertook several impactful initiatives and has exciting plans in store for 2026 to continue building resilience and connection within its communities.
Zakk Morrison, Executive Director of BEW FCSS since 2016, shares that 2025 marked the 55th anniversary of the BEW FCSS organization.
“Our organization was started in 1970. This was an exciting year for our Board and staff to recognize the contributions of former Board members and staff, as well as look forward to continuing our work to enhance the social well-being of families and communities within our region,” he says. “As part of the celebration, we hosted an All-Councils event in Coaldale on April 2, 2025.”
Morrison goes on to discuss other notable events that took place in 2025.
“Seniors’ Week is an opportunity to celebrate the seniors in our lives and recognize the invaluable contributions they’ve made to communities across Alberta. The FCSS team participated and coordinated in 21 events during Senior’s Week across our region. This is up from only 1 event in 2023 and 3 events in 2024.”
Those events included:
- Within the MD of Taber: Taber, Vauxhall, Hays, Barnwell, Enchant, and Grassy Lake
- Within Lethbridge County: Coaldale, Picture Butte, Coalhurst, Barons, and Nobleford
- Within the County of Warner: Raymond, Milk River, Warner, Stirling, and Coutts
“This year,” Morrison adds, “FCSS worked to build on the success of the last Smile Cookie campaign by encouraging some friendly competition between two rivaling towns – Taber and Coaldale. With the help of DO Crew and community volunteers, municipal and FCSS staff, we surpassed expectations!”
More than $24,700 was raised, including $11,602 from Taber and $13,124 from Coaldale.
“This is a huge increase over 2024, where we raised $ 7,400 (in Taber only)” Morrison is happy to share.
Many of the 2025’s programs will continue into 2026, including the very successful Youth DO Crew.
“The Youth DO Crew is a free volunteer and leadership program for youth in grades 10-12,” says Morrison. “By participating in DO Crew, they lead volunteer projects that address their community’s needs.”
DO Crew participants learn valuable life skills, including the importance of giving back to the community. Those in high school can gain school credit from participating in civic projects through DO Crew. Morrison cites the example of Coalhurst DO Crew members making up over 100 exam stress kits for their fellow classmates graduating from high school. The team raised money within their community to help cover costs.
“We also continue to see an uptake in our counselling services,” Morrison adds.
FCSS counsellors offer short-term, goal-oriented support to help residents navigate life transitions, build on strengths, and improve relationships. With a focus on prevention and empowerment, the team views counselling as a transformative tool for achieving meaningful, lasting change.
Another program that continues to be successful is the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), which is offered through a partnership between FCSS and the Canada Revenue Agency.
“The CVITP is a service that connects eligible individuals with volunteers to complete modest income and/or simple tax returns, empowering access to essential benefits like the Guaranteed Income Supplement, Canada Child Benefit, and more,” says Morrison. “In 2025, FCSS hosted 17 drop-in tax clinics (FCSS staff and volunteers) and six super tax clinics (includes representatives from Service Canada and Canada Revenue Agency), helping residents secure a total of $9,690,774 in benefits, while also providing opportunities to update personal information and apply for federal programs.”
The CVITP is a very successful FCSS program, as evidenced by the 305 returns processed in 2021 versus the 663 processed in 2025.
As 2025 fades into history and 2026 dawns as a new year, Morrison confirms BEW FCSS’ focus on its vision and goals.
“As we begin 2026, Barons‑Eureka‑Warner FCSS reaffirms its commitment to strengthening individuals, families, and communities across our service region. Our work continues to be guided by the belief that social well‑being is built through connection, support, and accessible community‑based services,” he says.
“Throughout the coming year, we will remain dedicated to providing in‑person programs and supports that respond to local needs, foster resilience, and enhance quality of life. Our focus on prevention, early intervention, and community development will continue to shape the way we serve residents and collaborate with our partners. Together, we will continue building communities where people feel supported, valued, and connected.”
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