Every year, MADD Canada hosts its National Conference for Victims of Impaired Driving. Victims and survivors from across Canada come together to share their experiences and honour those who have been killed or injured as a result of impaired driving.
Through sessions run by caring professionals and peers, and by being in the company of others with similar experiences, delegates gain comfort, strength and tools to help them cope with their loss or their injury. The central point of the weekend is the Candlelight Vigil of Hope and Remembrance. This moving ceremony offers guests a safe and supportive environment where they can pay tribute to the loved ones who have been killed or acknowledge injuries caused by impaired driving. MADD Canada and local Chapters sponsor delegates to attend the conference. Priority for the Conference is given to people who have never attended before and whose crash was recent. An important piece of the Conference is Reflection Sessions which allow victims and survivors to meet with others who have shared similar experiences. Delegates are invited to specific sessions which reflect their experience. Reflection Sessions include:
- Loss of a Child (less than 3 years)
- Loss of a Child (more than 3 years)
- Loss of an Only Child(ren)
- Living with Injuries
- Sharing our Losses
- Loss of a Sibling
- Loss of a Partner
- Loss of a Parent
- Care for the Caregiver
A variety of Workshops are offered throughout the weekend. Workshop topics can include:
- Victim and Survivor Rights in Canada
- Care for the Caregiver
- Coping with Anger
- Healing Through Faith
- Man to Man
- Understanding Civil Law
- Healing Through Storytelling and Memorializing Your Loved One
- Introduction to Meditation
- Surviving an Impaired Driving Crash
How to receive more information about the National Conference for Victims for Impaired Driving:
- Mackenzie Sorensen, Western Region (MB, SK, AB, BC, YT, NWT) at 1-800-665-6233 ext 235 or via email at msorensen@madd.ca
- Chloé Piché, Ontario and Quebec Regions at 1-800-665-6233 ext 237 or via email at cpiche@madd.ca
- Meghann Wetmore, Atlantic Region (NS, NB, PE, NL) at 1-800-665-6233 ext 225 or via email at mwetmore@madd.ca