The Downtown Business Association is pleased to announce the re-appointment of Natalie Turner as the Graffiti Program Coordinator.  Having been the Coordinator for the summer of 2006, Natalie is familiar with the program and she brings with her years of experience working with the public and youth throughout Central Alberta.

Natalie is presently a University of Calgary student working towards her degree in Sociology and has earned an Associate’s Diploma in Communication Studies.  In addition to her education and field experience, Natalie has developed an excellent philosophy on the importance of communication within the social institution.   “I am very excited to be returning to the Downtown Business Association, to be immersed in the growth of the program and to apply my knowledge and experience in a hands-on way,” say Ms. Turner.

In its fifth year, the Graffiti Program stresses the necessity for education and community engagement in eradicating graffiti in our community.  The program is made possible with the support of the Downtown Business Association, The City of Red Deer, the RCMP, the community and volunteers.  A key component of the program is being a resource to the community by gaining a better understanding of the long term effects of graffiti activity and exploring innovative approaches to prevention and removal.

“With an increase in our city’s population, there is a subsequent increase in graffiti.  It is important to treat all crime as a community issue, including graffiti crime,” says Laura Turner, Executive Director of the Downtown Business Association.  Though plans are to update the information throughout the summer, graffiti resources are available online at www.downtownreddeer.com.