OUR COMMITMENT
A Framework. A Process. A Culture.
The Alberta Whitewater Association (AWA) is committed to safe, respectful, and inclusive paddlesport environments across Alberta.
AWA aligns with Alberta’s provincial Safe Sport framework.
All AWA programs and events operate under:
Everyone involved in AWA activities - athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, leaders, and participants - shares responsibility for upholding clear standards of conduct and contributing to environments where people feel safe, valued, and respected.
REPORT A CONCERN
Serious misconduct is reported through Alberta’s independent Safe Sport complaint mechanism.
USE THIS BUTTON TO REPORT (LIVE LINK).
1-855-603-0483
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
The Independent Third Party Mechanism provides a confidential, neutral, and independent process for individuals to report concerns related to maltreatment, harassment, discrimination, abuse, or other violations of the Alberta Universal Code of Conduct (AB UCC).
Reports are received and assessed outside of the AWA to ensure fairness, neutrality, and procedural integrity. This independent process strengthens accountability and protects all parties involved.
FOR REFERENCE
Alberta Universal Code of Conduct (AB UCC)
ALBERTA SAFE SPORT COMPLAINT MECHANISM
For general Safe Sport questions, you can contact:
admin@albertawhitewater.ca coordinator@albertawhitewater.ca safesport@albertawhitewater.ca
SAFE SPORT - LEADER & VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS
When everyone understands their responsibilities, we strengthen safe and respectful paddling environments across Alberta.
✔ STEP 1 - Training
Complete Safe Sport Training (renewed every 3 years)
✔ STEP 2 - Screening
EPIC or Vulnerable Sector Check (role dependent - see Screening Matrix below)
Police Checks (EPICs) are done every 3 years. You can get these done at your local City Police OR through your local RCMP if you are not in a major city OR online through the STERLING BACKCHECK service
A Vulnerable Sector Checks (VSC) is required ONCE with an annual Self Disclosure.
★ The process and fees for EPICs and VSCs vary by municipality (police services). We recommend acquiring VSCs since we, as a very inclusive and diverse organization, will see vulnerable populations involved in many of our programs and events.
Please contact AWA if you require assistance or clarity around obtaining one these checks:
coordinator@albertawhitewater.ca
PLEASE NOTE: The AWA, it's Member Clubs or Disciplines DO NOT store police checks of any kind.
✔ STEP 3 - Annual Self Disclosure
★ Completed ANNUALLY (January - March is preferred)
Please SeE Page 49, #8 of the CKC Screening Policy Manual
"If an individual subsequently receives a charge, conviction for, or is found guilty of, an offence they will report this circumstance immediately to Canoe Kayak Canada or the Member (the AWA), as applicable. Additionally, the individual will inform the relevant organization of any changes in their circumstance that would alter their original responses in their Screening Disclosure Form."
