Kindersley hosts 2025 District KINvention
By Joan Janzen
KINDERSLEY – About 130 members from across Saskatchewan gathered in Kindersley on Oct. 24 and 25 for the 2025 District KINvention, held at the Catholic Church Hall.
“This is a time to bring education and information to people to build them from within,” said Chantelle McAlpine, education chair. “It’s also a time for developing strategies for fundraising, communication and problem-solving.”
Members of District 3 KIN came from Saskatoon, Swift Current, Tisdale, Melfort, Macklin, Dinsmore, Jansen, Maidstone, Unity, Moose Jaw and Lloydminster. They attended education sessions, built personal growth, and brought new skills home to help “serve the community’s greatest need.” PHOTOS BY JOAN JANZEN
Before the conference officially began, members attended a Leadership Training Workshop at the Best Western meeting room on Friday morning. Participants gained confidence to step into leadership roles and apply new skills. McAlpine said the workshop aimed to foster personal growth in all aspects of members’ lives.
The KINvention opened Friday evening with registration, musical entertainment, and a liquor-and-taco bar. On Saturday, the Fall Leadership Conference meeting featured reports and a speech by Kindersley Mayor Ken Francis. Education sessions included Fundraising Boldly and a presentation on artificial intelligence, followed by breakout sessions.
“A ton of education is being offered, but it’s interactive,” said Michelle Duckworth, district governor. “We learn from each other because we don’t know everything.”
“The wealth of knowledge is in the community, and we want to be sure we are sharing that information,” McAlpine added.
The host club in Kindersley also organized social events. On Friday, attendees enjoyed an evening gathering, and Saturday featured a mock wedding with a “We’re going to the chapel and we’re gonna get married” theme. Guests were encouraged to dress as fancy or as tacky as they liked. The bride and groom were revealed before the ceremony, which was followed by dinner and a dance.
Attendees brought gifts in the form of unwrapped donations for the local food bank or new pajamas and toys for the Crisis Centre, showcasing another creative way members serve their community.