Author: Erica Simon-Cumming

Erica Simon-Cumming Service Coordinator, Home Share Services (East and West Kootenay)/Quality Assurance Manager 250-491-2907 ext 6 or 1-888-491-2907 ext 6 Erica started with Community Connections in 2012 as a Home Share Coordinator. Through her education, Erica has obtained a Bachelors Degree in English, a Recreation Management Diploma and completed the Licensed Practical Nursing program. Her strong interpersonal skills and critical thinking ability have made her asset to the management team. Through her caring nature and nursing background, Erica strives to uphold the values, ethics and vision of Community Connections Support Services, while ensuring the quality of services provided by the agency are maintained.
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MANDT Training (Offered by CCSS)

Community Connections Support Services is proud to offer an upcoming Mandt System Relational training:

Event Date: October 15, 2025

Location: Castlegar and District Library – 1005 3rd Street Castlegar V1N 2A2

Time: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

The One Day Relational Workshop:

  • Will discuss Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, with the understanding that unmet needs will lead to changes in behaviour.
  • It will introduce the Crisis Cycle and how to recognize where someone is (including self) on the Crisis Cycle and what actions to take at the different points on the cycle to support de-escalation.
  • It will introduce a method for recognizing and assessing what is happening in the environment.
  • The Relational Training’s main emphasis is on building trusted relationships, where individuals feel safe, respected, and valued.
  • Through the introduced tools and the trusted relationship the support person (HSP) will learn to recognize when something has changed for the person supported so they may be able to prevent escalation and/or support the person to de-escalate before crisis is reached.

This workshop is strongly recommended to refresh existing skills, and develop new skills that will enhance all of your relationships both professional and personal.

Please contact

Sue Clark

sue@commconn.ca

1-250-608-0357

to register by October 10, 2025

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Wildfire Awareness Community Event at Lakeside Park

The Nelson & Area Wildfire Risk Reduction Committee is inviting residents and visitors in the Kootenays to take part in a family-friendly Wildfire Awareness Party at Lakeside Park on Thursday, July 10, from 2 to 6 p.m. Hosted at the Rotary BBQ Shelter, the event promises a vibrant afternoon of family-friendly fun and engaging conversation, including a free BBQ, music, games, and prizes.

This is the fourth year the committee has hosted the community event. Representatives from the City of Nelson, Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK), BC Wildfire Service, Ministry of Forests, and BC Parks will be on hand to answer questions and showcase the wide range of local risk-reduction efforts.

The City of Nelson and the RDCK have been active leaders in wildfire mitigation. In recent years, both have implemented numerous FireSmart initiatives, including free Home Ignition Zone assessments and rebate programs for homeowners. Through Nelson’s Wildfire Resilience Program, the City has completed annual fuel management projects on municipal land. The RDCK has supported collaborating agencies to conduct large-scale risk reduction projects in the forests and parks surrounding Nelson.

Throughout the RDCK, the FireSmart Neighbourhood Recognition Program also continues to expand, supporting local volunteers in organizing wildfire preparedness at the neighbourhood level. These types of efforts are recommended in technical planning documents, such as the Community Wildfire Resiliency Plans, that provide guidance and direction for the range of initiatives in the region.

“This event is a great way for people to meet those folks who are doing the work on a day to day basis, from planning to response,” said Rob Leland, one of the event’s organizers and Nelson’s Wildfire Resilience Program Coordinator. “It’s about building relationships, answering questions, and empowering residents to take simple steps that make a big difference.”

Everyone is welcome, from local homeowners to new residents and visitors. The casual event is designed to be accessible, informative, and enjoyable for all ages.

For more information, contact:


 Rob Leland

Wildfire Resilience Program Coordinator – City of Nelson

firesmart@nelson.ca

250-352-8116

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Home Sharing Support Society of BC

What’s Happening in March

https://mailchi.mp/5a34ef93ad99/whats-happening-in-march?e=deb78ebb6b

a living room with a couch and a green wallImportant Days March 1:  International Wheelchair DayMarch 3:  World Hearing DayMarch 8:  International Women’s DayMarch 21: World Down Syndrome DayMarch 26: Purple Day for Epilepsy
NewsThe 2025 budget for British Columbia was delivered on March 4, 2025.The legislative session will run from February 18 to May 29, 2025.Disability Tax Credit Starting in June 2025, residents between 18 and 64 years old can qualify for the benefit if they have been approved for the Disability Tax Credit and meet the benefit’s other eligibility requirements.Quotes From People With Disabilities
One big misconception is that I am not able to follow directions, learn or be employable. I want to work so I Can be independent and get my own apartment.Marcus Stewart
Professional DevelopmentA Guide to Aging with Down SyndromeHelps individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and caregivers understand the aging process, manage age-related health issues, and promote independence. It also emphasizes social inclusion, long-term planning, and the importance of maintaining relationships and community involvement. The guide provides valuable resources for improving quality of life through tailored support and care.Healthy Aging for Adults with Down Syndrome | CDSS
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:Respond to the reality of the person with dementia with a calming and reassuring approach.Understand the benefits of and know how to best support the development of the individual’s life story.Describe how to most effectively communicate with someone who has dementia.Apply a wide range of practical strategies that will support the environment of a person with dementia.Recognize and manage pain.

 
Open Future Learning (OFL) ModuleDid you know you can access high quality professional development training from your home for free?  
Want to learn more ?  Email us at: info@homesharingbc.ca  Link: https://www.openfuturelearning.org 
OFL: Dementia Strategies  Module Length: 95 Minutes
Dementia causes people to lose skills and abilities they once had. What people are not losing, however, are their feelings and emotions. So let’s think about how we can make this part of people’s life enjoyable and stress free. This module is packed full of easy to use and practical strategies that will help you be able to better support people with dementia. This module features presentations from Diana Kerr and scenario-based excerpts provided by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. 



Open Board Positions

Want to contribute to the future of inclusive housing options for people with disabilities?The Home Sharing Support Society BC (HSSSBC) is seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our volunteer Board of Directors. If you are interested in making an impact in the disability sector, and the desire to contribute your expertise, we invite you to apply.We are particularly looking for individuals outside the Lower Mainland with experience as Self-Advocates, Home Sharing Providers, Service Providers, or with a background in Finance/Accounting.Help shape the future of home sharing and improve inclusive housing options for adults with developmental disabilities across British Columbia. Meetings are held online, with opportunities for in-person connections.Apply now: Board@homesharingbc.ca
Learn more: www.homesharingbc.ca
Financial AbuseCanadians living with a disability are more likely to be victims of abuse, this includes financial abuse. It can be from a stranger, but many times abuse comes from someone the victim is familiar with. Sometimes it is a close friend, family member, or even someone whose role was to protect and care for the victim.
What is Financial Abuse? Financial abuse is the illegal or unauthorized use of someone else’s money or property. Some types of financial abuse are very  clear, for example; theft or  fraud. Other  times financial abuse can be harder to put a name to and can include pressuring, forcing or tricking the victim into doing things they do not want to do.ResourcesFind Support BC
Find Support BC connects families of persons with disabilities with resources available to them.


Respite Care for the Fraser Valley CommunityPersonalized respite care services in the Chilliwack area, catering specifically to home share providers. Services offer respite and rest for those supporting adults with disabilities, and we work directly with providers to ensure tailored care.  Designed with accessibility in mind, featuring main-level access with no stairs, ensuring easy navigation for those using walkers or wheelchairs. The private room includes a washroom equipped with a built-in shower seat, enhancing comfort and convenience. 

Respite Care Services Rates 24H $150 Contact (604) 791.3074, andreeabata@gmail.com Services We offer personalized respite care services directly to caregivers in our home. Whether you need short-term or long-term support, our services are privately arranged and customized based on the needs of the person you are looking after. Contact me for further information and details. Grab my contact info & give me a call! Respite Service (604) 791-3074 andreeabata @gmail.com Respite Service (604) 791-3074 andreeabata @gmail.com Respite Service (604) 791-3074 andreeabata @gmail.com Respite Service (604) 791-3074 andreeabata @gmail.com Respite Service (604) 791-3074 andreeabata @gmail.com Respite Service (604) 791-3074 andreeabata @gmail.com Respite Service (604) 791-3074 andreeabata @gmail.com Respite Service (604) 791-3074 andreeabata @gmail.com  Disability Equality In The Media: Representation, Accessibility, Management; Practical manualThe Practical Manual and Master Class provide hands-on advice to editorial teams on how to ensure fair and unbiased coverage of disability. For content producers, it details how to make media content and services accessible. To managers and decision makers, the material inspires change, demonstrating how disability equality can contribute to media industry growth and create new revenue streams. This work contributes to the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006) and promotes freedom of expression, media development, and access to information for the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in public debate.
LINK

Let’s Grow Together 
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Road Safety Advisor: February

https://secure.campaigner.com/csb/Public/show/cg5c-2wid07–1939d0-l2c3cd39

February 2025
Webinar helps you set rules for employee vehicles
If your employees use their own vehicles on the job, our revamped webinar is for you. In under an hour you’ll learn the key points about safety compliance, including what you and employees each need to do. You’ll get tips on vehicle inspection and maintenance, and driver orientation and supervision. You’ll also get ideas on what you can limit when the vehicle is used for work. Register now and bring your questions.Register and submit questions
Revised vehicle tool kit gives you tips and formsChances are, winter has been hard on vehicles. Spring is getting closer, which puts a different set of demands on them. To keep them in tip-top condition check out our revised Vehicle Inspection, Maintenance, and Selection Tool Kit. We’ve added tips and best practices, and gathered forms in one place. Review tool kitHow to… check licence and driving recordsWhen did you last check the driver’s licence and driving record of your employees? If it’s been more than a year, it’s past due. Use the easy steps laid out in this month’s Road Safety Planner topic to get it done. You can also get ideas for assessing driver skills.  Follow the steps
Ask an expert: Tips for winter drivingQ. Winter isn’t over yet. What tips can I give my drivers so they don’t become complacent about the hazards? A. Drivers may lose a bit of focus when they’ve been driving in the same conditions for a while. To help remind drivers that winter hazards still exist, share the following tips with them. They were submitted by participants in our Practical BC Winter Driving Tips Webinar.Be prepared, physically and mentally. Check road conditions and weather forecasts. Drive to the conditions and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.Before driving, clear all the snow and ice off your vehicle. This includes the windshield, the roof, trunk, etc.Take public transit or work from home when snow or icy conditions are in the forecast.Refresh safety equipment and give additional focus to tires, fluids, and wipers during inspections. Review winter driving policies and practices.Watch webinar
Take action on road safety
Watch this: A webinar excerpt on reducing driving fatigueEye strain from low light, the February blahs, vehicles with heaters blasting — all of these factors can wear on drivers. Have your employees take 4.5 minutes to watch What Drivers Can do to Reduce Fatigue. Watch excerpt Download this: A template for a road safety planIt’s a good time to review your road safety strategies. Use our Road Safety Plan Template to look for gaps in your plan and get ideas on how to strengthen it.Download template Register for this: A course on supervising driversTake a proactive approach to compliance by completing our online course, Supervising Employees Who Drive for Work. The information will come in handy when your organization hits busy season. Register now
Industry newsWe’d love to meet you at our BUILDEX boothGoing to the BUILDEX 2025 Conference? So are we! Stop by our Booth 1135 at the trade show on February 26 and 27 to talk about road safety. Learn moreLandscaping forum gets you ready for busy seasonWith lawn and gardening season drawing near, the timing is right for our final road safety forum for landscapers (CU 764060). It’s on March 19.Book your spotVideo shows how safe driving saves you fuelAnother benefit of safe driving habits: Reduced fuel consumption. Module 4 of Natural Resources Canada’s Auto$mart driver training program explains. View video
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Diverse Family Roots Sessions

Folks will have to register for these. 

Let’s Talk about sex. 

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/_Lo5i4YuTB2z58hRqQJh9w

Ya Gotta Have friends

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/rUq4fzeKRxOTVLcLj38QIw

Siblings

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/8yxRhCQGQICWnz6TuZCi2g

Healthy Mental Health- Kelty Mental Health. ( Poster Coming soon) 

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ogVRn4n_Qpu6tqraiSI_rw

Supported Employment with Annette Borrows. ( Poster coming Soon) 

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/i9eNmdDJS52lUld-ahyifw

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What’s On at the HSSSBC

January 2025 Edition

LogoWhat’s On at the HSSSBCJanuary 2025 EditionSetting New Year’s Intentions
Calling all Home Sharing Providers!

Minister Shelia Malcolmson & Rhianna (HSP) Recipient of the Inspiration Award
Happy New Years to everyone in the Home Sharing community!  We have been very busy at the HSSSBC planning events, speakers & opportunities for you to provide your input to make a difference in home sharing.

This year the HSSSBC launched the first Home Sharing Provider Awards.  Home sharing providers were recognized for their contributions to our communities across the province.  Home sharing providers make a difference in the lives of those they care for, and provide affordable housing options for adults with disabilities.  Thank you to Minister Sheila Malcolmson for making our first event extra special! 

Calling all Home Sharing Providers! Please email us at: info@homesharingbc.ca or message us on social to let us know what you would like to see more of (or less of) in 2025.  Is there training you would like access to? Resources to complete your administrative paperwork? Would you like to connect more with others?  
Let us know and we will do our best to make it happen!  Website: www.homesharingbc.ca   Email: info@homesharingbc.ca   Social:  Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram  

Setting New Year’s Intentions What is the difference between an intention and a resolution? The main difference between an intention and a resolution is that a resolution is a specific goal, while an intention is a way of being that helps you achieve that goal.  Set a New Year’s Intention that feels right for you.  How? Follow these easy steps. 

What are your Core Values? Setting intentions for the New Year begins with understanding what is most important to you.   Is physical health and well-being important to you, but you have been making unhealthy food choices, and not prioritizing physical activity ? Is this something you would like to change?  Do you value calm and mindfulness, but each week is a reminder that you have over-committed yourself? Is more time each week to focus on yourself something you would like to change? Do you value connections and engagement with others who think like you ?  Is finding like minded people something you would like to change? What is the most important in the way you live and work?  More or Less? What do I want more of in the coming year? What do I want less of in the coming year?  What can you do that will get you closer to what is important to you?  Write down 2-3 things to focus more on.  One Sentence Write one sentence that describes the change you most want for your future self.  Visual Reminder Create a visual reminder that you will see each day when you wake up that reminds you of your intention. Ask yourself “What is the one thing you can do today that will get you closer to your goal?”  Break down your goals in to monthly, weekly and daily goals  that reflect your intentions, and watch how much progress you make! 

Canadian Accessibility Network Announcement – Employment Standard  The CAN/ASC-1.1:2024 – Employment standard has been recognized as a National Standard of Canada by the Standards Council of Canada and is now available on our website for free. This equity-based standard represents a significant step forward in promoting accessibility and fostering inclusion in workplaces across Canada. 

About the standard This standard provides a set of guidelines that aim to remove employment-related barriers caused by systems or individual actions. The standard includes best practices that will help organizations create accessible and inclusive workplaces, from recruitment to professional development. This will ensure that people with disabilities can access more job opportunities, contribute fully to the economy, and thrive. News release CAN/ASC-1.1:2024 – Employment Standard summary   Read, use and share the standard today! We encourage you to read, implement and share the standard with your networks. Organizations with an inclusive and accessible culture are more likely to: anticipate and adapt to changes more easily, perform better than others, achieve better results.   By removing barriers and fostering equitable work experiences and opportunities for all, we’re building a stronger economy—and a more inclusive country.  The standard is available for free on CAN’s website. It’s offered in HTML and Word formats. You also have access to a summary in plain language and in sign languages. If you require any other format, please CAN directly at: contact us. 

15th Annual Federal Policy Forum on Inclusion hosted by Inclusion Canada & People First of Canada in collaboration with the Office for Disability Issues, Employment and Social Development Canada.    We are pleased to share the event recordings with you: Day 1 English Recording 
 Day 1 French Recording 
 Day 2 English Recording 
 Day 2 French Recording  You can also access a written summary of the event, including speaker PowerPoint presentations. 
Barrier Free Home For Sale in Summerland This property has been completely modified for barrier free living. There are many opportunities for this property – may it be home sharing, a loved one with a disability, staffed home or ageing in place, this property fits all. These homes are fully self-contained and turn key at 1,150,000. This is a private sale. I am hoping the property will be utilized for its original purpose. Video: https://12006sinclairmls.heizmannstories.ca/ 
You can visit our website at www.homesharingbc.ca  for more information. Any donations can be sent via the contact information below. Thank you for considering this request and for your continued support of Home Sharing Support Society BC.   
 –Ruth Bader Ginsburg. “If we want to include everyone, we have to help everyone develop their talents and use their gifts for the good of the community. That’s what inclusion means– everyone contributes.”
Accessibility