The Big Lakes County and Town of High Prairie Health Care Professional Attraction & Retention Committee is proud to announce it has received a $1,000 Rural Community Attraction and Retention Grant from the Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP). This funding supported a community “Thank You BBQ” for the dedicated staff at the High Prairie Health Complex.
“RhPAP is proud to support attraction, integration, and retention initiatives in rural communities,” said Bethany Rose, Rural Community Consultant. “Showing appreciation for healthcare professionals is vital to keeping healthcare close to home.”
The event, that was hosted on September 11, 2025, was an opportunity to show appreciation for the doctors, nurses, technicians, support staff, and all healthcare professionals who provide essential care to residents in our region.
“Our healthcare professionals are the backbone of our communities,” said Big Lakes County Reeve Tyler Airth. “This event was a small way to say thank you for their commitment, compassion, and service. We are deeply grateful to RhPAP for making this possible.”
The RhPAP grant program is designed to support local Attraction and Retention Committees in their efforts to welcome, integrate, and retain healthcare providers in rural communities. Whether through hosting events, launching local initiatives, or supporting community integration projects, the grant helps ensure rural Alberta remains a great place to work and live for healthcare professionals.
“Sometimes it’s the small gestures that mean the most,” said Samantha Nemec, High Prairie Health Complex Site Manager. “Knowing that the community recognizes and values our work keeps us motivated and connected to the people we serve every day.”
The Health Care Professional Attraction & Retention Committee remains committed to supporting healthcare professionals and ensuring they feel welcomed and appreciated in our community.
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Victoria Zahacy
Communications Coordinator
[email protected]
