An afternoon of music, treats, and family fun is coming to Bill Thomson Arena and Jessie Turgeon Park on Thursday, June 11, 2026, as Hinton’s Family and Community Support Services marks the 60th anniversary of the provincial program — which was founded in 1966 as Preventive Social Services — while also celebrating nearly four decades of local community wellbeing work in the town.
The free celebration runs from 4:00 to 7:00 PM and features live music, a petting zoo, inflatables, face painting, children’s activities, treats, and food trucks, according to the Town of Hinton. The event honours the Alberta program’s 1966 origins, while recognizing the nearly 40 years of local programming that has supported Hinton residents.
Since the mid-1980s, Hinton’s FCSS department has provided prevention-based social programs aimed at reducing homelessness, poverty, domestic violence, and mental-health challenges. Caryn Bouchard, FCSS Manager, oversees all FCSS programs and Hinton Transit from The Guild at 821 Switzer Drive and says the department’s core mission has always been building community and creating a sense of support and belonging.
The FCSS model is a unique Canadian partnership between the Government of Alberta and municipalities. As outlined by Alberta’s FCSS program, the province covers 80 per cent of funding, while municipalities like Hinton contribute at least 20 per cent. This structure allows local teams to design services that respond directly to community needs, from youth drop-in programs and caregiver support to volunteer coordination and summer camps.
Residents are invited to enjoy the celebration and learn more about the programs that quietly strengthen community ties. More information about local services is available on the Hinton FCSS page.
