For over a century, St. John Ambulance Canada has been providing first responder services across Canada.

Recently, they have returned to Moose Jaw, and are eager to help the public whenever possible.

Dana Stoppler, medical first responder with St Johns, said they are back and ready to go.
"The division that we're a part of, we're a volunteer group. We started up again last summer after being gone for a little bit. Basically what we do, as medical first responders, we cover events in and around Moose Jaw, when we're required and needed. We're ready to go. We want to be out there helping everybody with first aid, anything anybody needs in the crowd."

Stoppler said that they have a few upcoming events planned, though they are always open to being out in the public.
"We have done the Powwow, and it was an absolute blast to be a part of that. We had a run out at Buffalo Pound. We have been a part of the decoration festivities here. And we're looking forward to a lot more coming this summer too. We'll be be at Canada Day. We'll be roaming around making sure everybody's having fun, and out at 15 wing, we'll be working out there for the the Air Show."

Gail Kuhn with St. Johns Ambulance, said along with helping out the community, they run a variety of programs and courses.
"We provide a lot of training, first aid training. Level A, B, and C. Occupational health and safety, emergency first aid. We offer babysitting courses, as well as Home Alone, and we offer the personal care worker course."

A Therapy Dog program is also available, in which they go out and visit anyone who would benefit from the therapeutic value of having an animal around.

A new option for people who may not have the time to commit to 2 days away, they now offer blended learning.
"So if people want to take the theoretical part at home on the computer they can do that", said Kuhn, "and then just come in for the skills portion. So instead of having to be away from work for 2 days, you only have to be away for one."
Stoppler said they have 10 members now, and they're always willing to add and train more.

"I'm always looking to find some people out there, doesn't matter what your background is. You don't have to be medical. We have a team with some medical, and people just from the public who wanted to join up and learn how to be a first responder. We do the training for first responder, and we go from there. You have to come in with your first aid, but once you have that certificate we'll walk you through the process."

For teenagers who may be interested in learning how to become a first responder, they are about to launch a new program called Youth Leadership Program. "Designed for ages 14 to 19, having your first aid isn't a requirement to join", said Kuhn. "You just need to have an eager and positive outlook."

For more information, call the Moose Jaw office at 306-692-1600, or head to their website.