Local women were able to hear an inspiring message Saturday during the Lovely Ladies Luncheon organized by the Broken Arrow Youth Ranch ministry.
Celeste Crosschild, who is a marathon runner and motivational speaker, addressed more than 150 people who gathered at the Estevan Leisure Centre’s multipurpose room.
She discussed her family’s experiences, and how places like Broken Arrow are there for families.
“My sister and brother-in-law are administrators at Broken Arrow now, but they used to be the host parents on the ranch,” said Crosschild. “Actually, I knew about Broken Arrow back when people were dreaming it, and when it was first starting, when I was younger.”
Crosschild has witnessed the benefits the ministry can have for the kids who have gone through its programs. It provides a safe space for families going through tough times.
She pointed out it can be hard for families to stay together, and sometimes it’s not the best situation for children to be with their parents. That’s where a place like Broken Arrow steps in, with its education programs and its emphasis on youth.
“It’s important to have safe places for kids to go, and that help for the family,” said Crosschild.
She also discussed some of her experiences training for and running in marathons.
Crosschild’s husband is a public speaker, and she usually accompanies him to events. But the appearance in Estevan marked one of the first times she has made a speech herself.
Broken Arrow’s director of ministry and outreach is former Estevan resident Todd Moroz, and the ministry has had numerous fundraisers in Estevan.
The ministry had a team in the Estevan Strippers Molson Spring Bust hockey tournament, and so this past weekend was a perfect time to have a local fundraiser.
The Lovely Ladies Luncheon also featured an update on the ministry, raffles, and live and silent auctions to go along with Crosschild’s speech and the lunch.
