BriarPatch Family Centre
About
The BriarPatch Family Life Education Centre was created in October of 1996 to support children, teens and adults in Sherwood Park and the greater Edmonton Region. Named in memory of 2 of the children who died at birth in the Roberts Family (the founders), the BriarPatch provides education, support, resources and compassion to all those who seek to find connection or counselling for their personal journey. As the Centre has grown, the capacity to support has also expanded with increased intentional programming- including a community preschool, a unique childcare centre, peer and therapy support groups, counselling, education, lending libraries and opportunities for student and volunteer placements. The BriarPatch is both a Registered Non-Profit under the Societies Act of Alberta and a Registered Canadian Charity.
Our Mission
Empowering Lives
Community Engagement
Fostering Connections
Our mission is to empower individuals and families by providing them with the necessary support and resources for their overall well-being. Through community engagement and meaningful connections, we strive to create a platform for shared experiences and personal growth.
Educational Workshops
Supporting Growth
We offer educational workshops and support groups to facilitate personal growth and healing. These sessions provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, find support, and foster a sense of unity in healing and personal development.
Family Support Programs
Nurturing Relationships
Our family support programs are designed to strengthen relationships and provide guidance to families in need. We focus on nurturing healthy relationships and offering support to navigate life's challenges, fostering resilience and a sense of belonging.
Leadership
Under the guidance of Executive Director Chy Salter-Roberts, BriarPatch has grown from a grassroots support initiative into a respected charitable organization serving families across Sherwood Park and the greater Edmonton region. With a background in family life education and grief support, Chy brings both professional expertise and deeply personal insight to her leadership, helping to create programs that are empathetic, inclusive, and responsive to real community needs. Chy's daughter, Chynna, is our amazing Executive Assistant who is always working in the background to enhance, improve and organize our centre!
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors brings together a diverse group of community-minded leaders who share a deep commitment to families in the Edmonton area. With experience spanning education, healthcare, business, and social services, they offer a well-rounded perspective that guides our work with care and intention. United by a passion for strengthening community connections, our board is dedicated to supporting and growing the positive impact of the BriarPatch Family Centre—today and into the future.
