The thoughts of those of us at CPA Alberta are with those Alberta CPAs, CPA candidates and their families who are being impacted by the Fort McMurray fire. These are very trying times for Fort McMurray residents.
CPAs in the affected area may not only be facing personal challenges but professional ones as well, such as fulfilling obligations to their employers or clients. CPA Alberta can be a valuable resource during these difficult times. If you or someone you know requires professional assistance, please feel free to contact Larry Brownoff, Director of Professional and Career Services, at 1-800-232-9406 or via email at lbrownoff@cpaalberta.ca. Larry may be able to provide some insights and expertise on issues you may be facing.
Of course, there is also a very personal, emotional toll on those impacted by this event. If you, your immediate family members, or any CPA colleagues you know are feeling overwhelmed, remember that the profession offers CPA Assist, a health and wellness program that offers confidential, professional counselling services free of charge. You can contact CPA Assist at 1-855-596-4222, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also find out more about the services available through this program at http://www.cpa-assist.ca.
If you have been impacted by the Fort McMurray fire or would like to donate to relief efforts, the Red Cross has a number of useful resources:
- Families evacuated from the fire can call with questions, to register with the agency, reconnect with family members and help response agencies mobilize resources. 1-888-350-6070.
- Canadians wishing to donate to relief efforts can do so at Alberta Fires Appeal online, by calling 1-800-418-1111, or by contacting their local Red Cross office. Donations go towards food, clothing, shelter and other necessities.
- You can also text REDCROSS to 30333 to make a $5 donation.
- The Alberta government is matching donations made to the Red Cross.
- Anyone concerned about possible fraudulent online donation pages can contact the Red Cross directly.
Additional Resources:
ymmfire.ca – Includes a number of resources for those who have been evacuated.
The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce – The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce is offering free temporary meeting and office productivity space to members of the Fort McMurray business community displaced by wildfires in the Wood Buffalo Region.
