Alberta's unionized skilled trades people make a $2.5 million investment into
leading edge technology and treatment hub at the Glenrose

EDMONTON, April 22 /CNW/ - The Building Trades of Alberta Charitable Foundation has announced a commitment of $1 million to the Courage Centre located within the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital (GRH), Edmonton. The Foundation is the beneficiary of the philanthropic efforts of the Building Trades of Alberta's 16 affiliated unions and 22 locals with a combined membership of over 60,000 unionized skilled trades people.

"We are very pleased to invest into this world-class rehabilitative center," said Ron Harry, Executive Director of the Building Trades of Alberta, and president of its charitable foundation. "Our members have long supported worthwhile programs and projects within Alberta and this is another important chapter in our history."

Mr. Harry also highlighted three additional donations of $500,000 each from the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Local 146, the Alberta Regional Council of Carpenters and Allied Workers, and the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union 488 to this state-of-the-art centre.

Scheduled to open in fall 2010, the new Building Trades of Alberta Courage Centre will feature new equipment and technologies such as:

    
    -   Robotics to assist pediatric and adult patients with gait training
        using robotic equipment that aids in the development of walking and
        other movements.
    -   Immersive Technology to assist all patients using simulation and
        gaming technologies to improve functioning and enhance integration.
    -   A Living and Learning Classroom to assist patients and families by
        providing training with monitoring, cueing, and sensory equipment to
        enhance function, independence and quality of life.
    -   Telerehabilitiation Technology to explore new advances in
        videoconferencing and computer technologies to continue therapy and
        learning for many of the GRH's patients who live beyond Edmonton's
        borders.
    

"This is truly a landmark moment in the history of the GRH and its Foundation," stated Dr. Ted Purcell, Chair of the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation. "We thank each and every union and their members, and the Building Trades of Alberta Charitable Foundation for this extraordinary commitment. By sharing their skilled trades advantage, gifts totaling $2.5 million ensures the Building Trades of Alberta Courage Centre will provide leading-edge technology to Albertans rehabilitating from major illnesses, injuries and chronic conditions."

The Building Trades of Alberta, founded in 1906, represents over 60,000 members in 16 affiliated unions and 22 locals across Alberta. The Building Trades of Alberta Charitable Foundation is supported through its members' charitable activities.

For further information: Ron Harry, Executive Director, Building Trades of Alberta, Phone [phone], Cell [phone], Email: [email protected]