Check out CLBC’s November update here:
https://mailchi.mp/4fa594632a2f/clbc-update-for-individuals-families-november-2025?e=0c6e272074
Pivot Point Training
CLBC Annual Picnic
This event has been cancelled due to provincial elections. Stay tuned in 2025 for the next one!
CLBC Resources
Mental Health and Behaviour Interface – Dr. Palanisamy
Please save the date! Feel free to share with anyone who may be interested.
Have you been confused by hearing ‘they don’t have severe mental illness, they don’t have an Axis 1 diagnosis, they are not psychotic, and they are not certifiable?’
Have you ever wondered why psychiatrists ask so many questions?
Do you find it hard to tell the differences between Functional Behavioural Assessment and Functional Analysis and would like to understand what the terms ‘positive behavioural support plan’, ‘safety plan’, ‘behavioural support plan’ mean?
Would you be interested in learning how behavioural consultants can work together with psychiatrists in managing people with IDD and mental illness?
Join Us for the 2nd Session on ‘Mental Health and Behaviour Interface’ as we would be covering these issues in the presentation.
You will be receiving a registration link in the next few days
Date & Time: 7th March 2024 | 12:00 noon to 1:15 pm
Platform: Zoom
Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DqIz8DKTRMChPy20dQZ1Lw
Presenters
Aubrey Mosher (BCBA), Michelle Upshaw (BCBA), Vikram Palanisamy (Psychiatrist)
Facilitator: Anne Halas – Facilitator
Topics Covered:
- Terminology
· Psychiatric Terms: Severe mental illness, Psychosis, not certifiable, Axis 1 Diagnosis
· Clarification on terms like FBA, PBS, BSP, Safety Plan, Crisis / De-escalation Plans, Skill building plans
- Psychiatric and Behavioral Assessment insights
- Collaboration between BCBA and Psychiatrists with case example
Who Will Benefit: Behavioral therapists, social workers, occupational therapists, nurses, CLBC facilitators, family doctors and other staff working with individuals with Intellectual Disabilities.
Preparation: Watch our first presentation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TeDI2wOi8M
Dr Vikram Palanisamy
Psychiatrist
Dear Home Sharing Providers,
We are pleased to inform you about the launch of a property support program that will provide home sharing providers with comprehensive insurance coverage against significant property damage and protection from occasional minor property damage (outside of normal wear and tear) caused by individuals supported in home sharing.
We appreciate your dedication and patience over the years while we worked towards this important initiative. Your input and feedback have been instrumental in shaping this program, and we are thrilled to see it come to fruition.
This group policy is effective immediately and fully funded by CLBC. If you provide home sharing services under a contract with an approved CLBC Agency and have homeowner or tenant insurance, you will automatically receive coverage.
Individualized Funding agreements or Person-Centred Societies / Microboards are covered by this program if you have ‘home sharing’ as a funded service in your current CLBC contract. Agents and Directors of Person-Centered Societies should contact their CLBC analyst if they need to make a claim.
We recognize that home sharing providers play a critical role in our services, providing essential support and care to individuals with diverse needs. We also understand that accidents can happen, and damages to homes or property may occur as a result of individual support needs or unforeseen incidents.
The new Home Sharing Property Support Program safeguards home sharing providers through two different streams:
1. Insurance Rider for Major or Catastrophic Damages:
If you are under contract with an agency, you are eligible for this component which offers extensive protection against major or catastrophic damages. This program aligns with your existing insurance arrangement, providing coverage of up to $500,000 with a deductible of $25,000. We will ensure a smooth claims process for you by covering the deductible if a claim proceeds. Upon enrollment, you will receive a certificate of coverage, completed by your contracting agency, and an adjuster will work collaboratively with you and your agency to assess damages should you need to make a claim.
This program is fully funded by CLBC, and we will work with your contracting agency to arrange payment or reimbursement of any deductible.
2. Reimbursement Program for Minor Damages:
In addition to the Insurance Rider, we are introducing a reimbursement program to cover minor damages. This program reimburses home sharing providers with the cost of repairing minor damages to their homes caused by the individuals they support. Our CLBC funded home sharing agencies will work closely with home sharing providers to assess damages.
When damage occurs, the contracting agency will work closely with the home sharing provider to assess the damage. For damages less than $1,500, agencies can authorize reimbursement directly. For damages over $1,500, agencies will seek pre-approval from their CLBC analyst. Agencies will invoice CLBC on a regular basis for the approved damages, and this approach streamlines the payment process, ensuring efficient approval and payment for minor damages.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the individuals we serve and for being an integral part of the CLBC community.
Additional Resources:
Supporting Documents: To help you learn more about this program and how to make a claim, we have posted further information on our CLBC website including a list of Frequently Asked Questions and a Guidance Document for Agencies (home sharing providers may also find this document helpful). You can view these materials on the Home Sharing Property Support Program webpage here.
Information Session: We have scheduled an information session for home sharing providers and service providers with CLBC staff and the insurance provider. Mark your calendar; the session is on Wednesday, January 17 from 11am to 12pm (PST). Stay tuned for a formal invite! For those who cannot attend, it will be recorded and posted on the CLBC website by the end of January.
If you need further information about the program, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your agency.
CLBC Update for Individuals and Families
| Welcome to the December 2023 edition of CLBC’s Update for Individuals and Families, our last edition of the year. As a reminder, you can find all Updates (including past editions) posted on our website here. You can also check out CLBC’s Facebook page here and Twitter page here.If you know of anyone who would like to receive future Updates, please share the link to our sign up page with them. If you have a specific question, or feedback about this update, you can send an email to CLBCInfo@gov.bc.ca.Topics in this edition include:CLBC and Government NewsCLBC releases progress report for International Day of Persons with DisabilitiesNew Chair for the CLBC Provincial Advisory CommitteeApply to be on CLBC’s Accessibility CommitteeCLBC Indigenous Advisory Committee unveils new logoLand acknowledgement ceremony held in Prince George, Lheidli T’enneh TerritoryHousing Innovation Survey extended to December 31Your voice counts! Provide your feedback on the Canada Disability Benefit Self Advocacy CornerSelf advocate athlete is making a differenceSelf Advocates of Semiahmoo share videoEnjoy the Holiday Edition of the Kamloops Self Advocate NewsletterStaying Supported and ConnectedCrafting a vision for an inclusive lifeCall for Workshop Proposals for Inclusion BC’S annual conferenceCanadian Health and Wellbeing in Developmental Disabilities Digital Conference taking place in FebruaryResources available to support mental healthConcurrent Disorders Webinars offered by BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services Upcoming Plan Institute WebinarsComplete a survey to validate how poverty is measured in CanadaCLBC Community CouncilsJoin a Community Council event in your local communityRichmond Community Council GatheringVancouver Council hosts Celebration of Community Inclusion Join a Community Council Stories and CelebrationEngaging around housing at Housing CentralVideo profiles creative partnership supporting people with developmental disabilities who have complex needs CLBC and Government News CLBC releases progress report for International Day of Persons with Disabilities  Earlier this month, December 3 marked the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). This annual day of recognition is about promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities and raising awareness of the inclusion of people in all aspects of political, social, economic and cultural life.Many community celebrations took place, including a self-advocate panel discussion hosted by BC People First and a screening of the Freedom Tour movie hosted by the BC Self Advocacy Leadership Network. To help honour this day, CLBC released the first report documenting progress towards our 2022-2025 Strategic Plan goals and the vision for “communities of belonging, and lives of connection.” Learn more and read about key achievements from the first year of the plan here. New Chair for the CLBC Provincial Advisory Committee  Congratulations to Zafar Adeel, member of the Simon Fraser Community Council, who was appointed by the CLBC Board of Directors as the next Chair of the Provincial Advisory Committee (PAC). In addition to being a parent of a young man who receives support from CLBC, Zafar is a professor at Simon Fraser University and a resource parent with the Family Support Institute. Click here to read more about Zafar.For more information about the Provincial Advisory Committee and how to get involved in your local Community Council, contact CLBC’s Community Engagement team at CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca. Apply to be on CLBC’s Accessibility Committee British Columbia’s accessibility law, the Accessible British Columbia Act, was put into place in June 2021. To align with this law, CLBC is creating an Accessibility Committee and is currently accepting applications. The committee will help us identify, remove and prevent barriers, and guide us to become a more accessible organization for all people with disabilities. The Accessibility Committee will meet virtually about four times per year. Meetings will be approximately 1.5 hours long and held in the mid to late afternoon on a weekday. Learn more about the Accessibility Committee here, including how to submit an application to join the committee by January 5, 2024. CLBC Indigenous Advisory Committee unveils new logo Symbols play an important role in Indigenous cultures across Canada. They serve as visual markers, connecting individuals and communities, collective traditions and ancestral wisdom. They are powerful tools that convey cultural identity and foster a sense of empowerment and resilience. As part of November’s Indigenous Disability Awareness Month, CLBC’s Indigenous Advisory Committee (IAC) proudly shared its logo, a symbol that honours the committee’s past and will represent it into the future. “The support for, and incorporation of, the new Indigenous Advisory Committee logo is another positive step forward by CLBC as it continues its journey forward. Today, and in generations to come, Indigenous peoples will see this logo and know that they are not only part of CLBC and welcomed, but will be forever instrumental in its ongoing success,” says Neil Belanger, IAC Chair and CEO of the BC Aboriginal Network on Disability Society. Read more about the new logo and the meaning behind it here.  Land acknowledgement ceremony held in Prince George, Lheidli T’enneh Territory CLBC’s Prince George office recently hosted a special land acknowledgement ceremony to show recognition and respect for the unceded traditional ancestral territory of the Lheidli T’enneh peoples, past and present, whose land our office resides on. Read the full story here. Housing Innovation Survey extended to December 31 The UBC Centre for Inclusion and Citizenship is working with CLBC to gather data about housing. They are running a survey on housing innovation that aims to study innovative solutions to inclusive housing options. Any experience and knowledge that survey participants share will be valuable in helping to understand what supports innovative housing solutions. Click here to take the Housing Innovations Survey before December 31, 2023. Your voice counts! Provide your feedback on the Canada Disability Benefit The Government of Canada is asking for feedback from Canadians to help inform the design of the regulations for the Canada Disability Benefit. This new benefit aims to address financial hardships and reduce poverty among working-age Canadians with disabilities. Learn more about the Canada Disability Benefit here. Feedback is being collected from now until Thursday, December 21, 2023. All Canadians, especially individuals with disabilities, their caregivers and family members, as well as organizations dedicated to working with people with disabilities, are invited to participate and share their views. Learn more about this opportunity and how to provide your feedback here. There will be more opportunities to provide input after draft regulations are published, which is expected to be in 2024. Self Advocacy Corner Self advocate athlete is making a difference Self advocate, CLBC employee and athlete David Johnston was recently featured in a Special Olympics article. He has a passion for sharing stories about athletes and is currently taking part in a six-month Athlete Storytelling Training Series. Through this training opportunity, seven athletes across the Special Olympics North America Region learn storytelling skills such as writing a lead, conducting an interview, drafting a social media post and pitching a story to an editor. Read more about how David is taking his own experiences and turning them into a passion for helping others. Self Advocates of Semiahmoo share videoTo recognize the recent International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Self Advocates of Semiahmoo created a video for their Facebook channel sharing some of the things that they have accomplished and are proud of in their lives, as well as advice and ideas for others. You can watch the video here. Enjoy the Holiday Edition of the Kamloops Self Advocate NewsletterLooking for interesting interviews, good jokes, recipes and ways to stay connected during the holiday season? Check out the Holiday Edition of Krystian Shaw’s Kamloops Self Advocate Newsletter, written by people with diverse abilities. You can read the newsletter on the Self Advocate Net website here. Staying Supported and Connected Crafting a vision for an inclusive life Families Supporting Regular Equitable Authentic Lives (R-EAL) hosts an online Imagine the Possibilities event each month. This is a safe and supportive space for families to explore the possibilities and opportunities of lifelong inclusion for their family member with a developmental disability. Upcoming sessions will take place on:December 19, 2023 at 6:30pm (PST)January 16, 2024 at 6:30pm (PST) Learn more about the event and reserve your spot here.  Call for Workshop Proposals for Inclusion BC’S annual Conference Inclusion BC’s annual conference, Everybody Belongs, will be held from May 30 to June 1, 2024 in Nanaimo. The call for workshop proposals is now open. Anyone interested is invited to share their knowledge and experience with an engaged audience. Inclusion BC is looking for proposals in the areas of community and disability supports, early years supports, education and childcare, employment and skill development, health and wellness, and housing and income supports. Check out the Inclusion BC website here for more information on what they are looking for and how to apply.  Canadian Health and Wellbeing in Developmental Disabilities Digital Conference taking place in February Join the third annual Health and Wellbeing in Developmental Disabilities digital conference taking place virtually on February 7 and 8, 2024. The conference will feature health professionals, community partners and people with lived experience sharing practices that contribute to positive physical and mental health outcomes for people with developmental disabilities throughout their lives. Learn more about the conference and register here. Resources available to support mental health The holiday season is a joyful time for many. However, we also recognize that for others it can be a challenging time. Here are some resources that are available to support anyone dealing with challenges during this time and throughout the year:HelpStartsHere.gov.bc.ca – Managed by the B.C. Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, this website provides information and resources around wellbeing, mental health and substance use. The phone line 310-6789 (no area code required) is also available for anyone seeking emotional support and mental health information. The Government of Canada Crisis Line – People across Canada can call and text 9-8-8, a new three-digit service, for help when they need it most. The service offers trauma-informed and culturally affirming support to anyone who is thinking of suicide, or who is worried about someone they know. Concurrent Disorders Webinars offered by BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services is offering a webinar series called Demystifying Concurrent Disorders created by patients and families for patients and families. You can watch webinars from the Demystifying Concurrent Disorders series here, and also find information about upcoming webinars as they are scheduled. Upcoming Plan Institute Webinars  Plan Institute hosts regular webinars on the Registered Disability Saving Plan (RDSP) and Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning.Registered Disability Savings Plan Webinars The Beginner RDSP workshop (Level 1) is for those who want to learn what an RDSP is, who qualifies, how to apply for the Disability Tax Credit, and how to open an RDSP. The Advanced RDSP workshop (Level 2) is for those who already have an RDSP or have already taken Level 1 and would like to deepen their knowledge and learn how to maximize growth. The next RDSP webinars are scheduled for January 10, 2024 (Level 1) and January 17, 2024 (Level 2). Learn more about the RDSP webinars and register for upcoming sessions here. Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning (BC) Webinars In this webinar, attendees learn how to arrange their estate, prepare a will, and the various ins and outs of setting up a trust specifically for a relative or loved one with a disability. The next Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning webinars are scheduled for January 18, February 15 and March 28, 2024. Learn more about the Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning (BC) webinar and register here. Complete a survey to validate how poverty is measured in Canada Statistics Canada is gathering input from Canadians through a survey to help validate how poverty is measured. It is important that the voice and experience of people with disabilities is represented in this data. Learn more about the Market Basket Measure of Poverty Survey here. Anyone interested can complete the survey here. CLBC Community Councils Join a Community Council event in your local community  Councils have been busy over the fall planning holiday events and sharing connections over a meal, such as the CLBC Upper Fraser Council pictured here at a recent Council gathering in Abbotsford in November.Anyone interested is invited to attend these upcoming gatherings to learn how Community Councils are making a difference and find out ways to get involved: Richmond Community Council Gathering When: January 25 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm PST Where: Thompson Community Centre at 5151 Granville Avenue, Richmond RSVP: CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca Vancouver Council hosts Celebration of Community Inclusion The Vancouver Community Council is hosting a celebration of community inclusion on January 27, 2024, from 11am to 2pm. The event will highlight the abilities and accomplishments of persons with developmental disabilities and include presentations from self advocates and allies, information tables, games, a caricature artist, snacks and prize. Click the picture to the right to see all the details. For anyone interested in attending, RSVP to spencer@bcdisability.com. Join a Community Council Are you interested in volunteering to create inclusive communities? Community Councils are an important way for CLBC to listen and learn from people we serve. Learn more about CLBC Community Councils here. Contact CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca to set up a time with the Community Engagement team to learn more about volunteering on a CLBC Community Council. Stories and Celebration Engaging around housing at Housing Central During November, attendees from across B.C. took part in the sold out Housing Central conference in Vancouver, with CLBC staff and self advocates playing important roles. Hosted each year by the BC Non Profit Housing Association (BCNPHA) and delivered in partnership with the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) and the Co-operative Housing Federation of BC (CHF BC), Housing Central is Canada’s leading education, professional development and networking event for the community housing sector. CLBC is a proud sponsor of the conference. During the conference, CLBC Housing Leads were at our booth in the exhibitors’ hall actively connecting with attendees about the importance of inclusive, accessible and culturally safe housing. CLBC staff also presented some of the conference’s informative and engaging sessions. Read more about CLBC at Housing Central 2023 here. You can also learn more about inclusive housing by visiting the KeyToHomeBC.ca website, created through a partnership between CLBC and Inclusion BC.  Video profiles creative partnership supporting people with developmental disabilities who have complex needs At the Housing Central Conference, CLBC CEO Ross Chilton presented a new video profiling Grosvenor House in Surrey. This creative pilot project between CLBC, Lookout Housing and Health Society and the Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre Association (FRAFCA) is helping people with developmental disabilities who have complex needs, including those dealing with addiction and homelessness. You can watch Ross’s speech here and click the image below to watch the video on Grosvenor House. Signing off Community Living BC wishes you a happy and safe holiday season and best wishes for the new year! CLBC thanks the people we serve, their families, service providers, the self-advocacy community, our community partners and British Columbians across the province for their efforts during this past year to help keep people safe, connected and included in their communities. We look forward to bringing you more news, information and resources when the Update resumes in late January 2024. Until next edition…  |
CLBC Update December 2023
| CLBC reminder to get your flu and COVID-19 shots |
| Community Living BC encourages anyone who has not yet had their flu and COVID-19 update vaccinations to do so as soon as possible. The BC Centre for Disease Control reports that while COVID-19 activity has started to decline, it continues to be a risk especially for those who remain unvaccinated. At the same time, the number of influenza cases has begun to climb and adult visits to emergency departments for respiratory symptoms have increased. CLBC encourages the people it serves, families and support workers to get both vaccines at the same time. You can find more information about the fall respiratory illness immunization campaign here. Individuals supported by CLBC remain a priority to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Invitations were sent by email or text message to everyone who has registered to receive a COVID-19 immunization in B.C. The invitation has a direct link to book your COVID-19 and flu appointment online. These vaccines are free and available at pharmacies, health authority clinics and some primary care providers’ offices. You can also book COVID-19 and flu immunizations through the Get Vaccinated system. If you need help scheduling your vaccine appointment, call: 1-833-838-2323. This phone line is available 7 days a week, from 7am to 7pm, and from 9am to 5pm on statutory holidays. If you are a person who receives CLBC supports and are unsure about getting your shots or still trying to decide, you can listen to a personal message from Dr. Bonnie Henry and stories from other self-advocates on our You Can Too! web page here. CLBC urges all who intended to get the shots, but have delayed doing so, to book both shots at the same time and before the holiday season. |
CLBC Update
Topics in this edition include:
CLBC and Government News
Recognizing Indigenous Disability Awareness Month
Join CLBC’s open board meeting on November 29
Watch for your COVID-19 and flu vaccine invitation
Join the conversation about Community Inclusion Services
Represent your community on CLBC’s Provincial Advisory Committee
Recognizing International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Housing Central conference coming up in November
Self Advocacy Corner
Camping out with TALK Northwest
Share your photo with CLBC and the Celebrate Diverse ABILITIES magazine
Why don’t we talk about FASD?
Join People First of Canada’s LGBTQIA2S+ Working Group
Know your rights and responsibilities living in home sharing
Staying Supported and Connected
New Nidus website is now live
Learn with NIDUS about Representation Agreements and what happens after death
Is your family looking to hire support staff? Join this presentation
New accessible Human Rights resources available
CLBC Community Councils
CLBC Community Councils are raising awareness about aging
Volunteer on a CLBC Community Council
Upper Fraser and South Vancouver Island Community Councils hosting open houses in November
Stories and Celebration
Widening Our World (WOW) Award recipients recognized
Reflecting on Community Inclusion Month
Recognizing Remembrance Day and Indigenous Veterans Day
CLBC and Government News
Recognizing Indigenous Disability Awareness Month
Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM) is recognized each November and officially proclaimed by the government of B.C. to highlight and celebrate the unique contributions First Nations, Métis and Inuit people with disabilities make to communities throughout the province. Created by the BC Aboriginal Disability Network Society (BCANDS) in 2015, the month also brings awareness to the barriers and challenges that Indigenous people with the disabilities and their families face.Read a message from Ross Chilton, CLBC CEO, here. You can also visit the Indigenous Relations page of the CLBC website here to learn how CLBC’s Indigenous Relations team is building relationships with Indigenous communities and helping individuals and families access culturally safe services.
Join CLBC’s open board meeting on November 29
CLBC will be holding its next open board meeting from 9 AM to 12 PM (PST) on Wednesday, November 29. CLBC eligible individuals, families, service providers and members of the public are welcome to join remotely via the Microsoft Teams meeting platform. The meeting includes reports from the Chairs of CLBC’s Indigenous Advisory Committee and Provincial Advisory Committee.
To receive a link to join the meeting, email Padminee.Chundunsing@gov.bc.ca with your name and agency name (if applicable).
Watch for your COVID-19 and flu vaccine invitation
Vaccination remains an effective way to protect people from severe illness and hospitalization due to COVID-19. It is important to stay up to date with COVID-19 booster shots, which help keep a high level of protection. Learn more about immunizations on the Government of B.C. website here.Individuals supported by CLBC remain a priority to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Invitations will be sent by email or text message to everyone who has registered to receive a COVID-19 immunization in B.C. The invite will have a direct link to book your COVID-19 and flu appointment online. These vaccines are free and available at pharmacies, health authority clinics and some primary care providers’ offices.
If you have questions about your COVID-19 immunization options, or need help booking an appointment, call 1-833-838-2323. The phone line is open from 7 AM to 7 PM every day, and 9 AM to 5 PM on statutory holidays. Translators are available. Telephone service for people who are deaf is available by calling 711 and Video Relay Services (VRS) sign language interpretation is free for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired.
Join the conversation about Community Inclusion Services
In October 2023, CLBC began a series of discussions with individuals, families, service providers and key community partners in remote, urban, and Indigenous communities to gather an understanding of people’s experiences, best practices for community inclusion programs, and what ideas people have for the future of these services. The purpose of this work is to identify best practices for community inclusion supports and recommendations for services and programs for people with diverse abilities in B.C.
For more information about this project and how to participate, visit the CLBC website here. You can also contact Fred Ford at 250-812-2221 or fred.ford@gov.bc.ca.
Represent your community on CLBC’s Provincial Advisory Committee
The Community Living Authority Act requires CLBC’s Board of Directors to establish a Provincial Advisory Committee (PAC) made up of people and families served by CLBC. The PAC provides information and advice to the CLBC Board through its members who represent each of the 13 CLBC Community Councils.
The PAC meets in person four times each year and ensures two-way communication between Community Councils and the CLBC Board, highlighting both successes and concerns identified by Councils that have provincial implications for CLBC and the people it serves. You can listen to the experiences of PAC members on the CLBC website here
There are currently PAC vacancies from the Upper Fraser, South Central Okanagan, South Vancouver Island and North Region Community Councils.
To learn more about the role of PAC and how to volunteer on your local Community Council, contact the CLBC Community Engagement team at CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca.
Recognizing International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Every year, December 3 marks United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This day is about promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities and raising awareness of the inclusion of people in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life.Learn more about International Day of Persons with Disabilities Day here. CLBC and others will be sharing posts on Facebook and Twitter (or X), with the hashtag #IDPD2023.
Housing Central conference coming up in November
The annual Housing Central conference, hosted by the BC Non-Profit Housing Association (BCNPHA) and the Co-operative Housing Federation of BC (CHF BC), aims to strengthen and grow the community housing sector so all British Columbians have a safe, secure home they can afford.
From November 20 to 22, the conference will draw delegates from throughout B.C. and across Canada for three days of learning, networking and engaging with colleagues in the community housing sector.CLBC is a proud sponsor of this event and will also be sharing information and connecting with attendees as an exhibitor. CLBC staff are involved in a number of sessions at the conference, and CEO Ross Chilton will give a short speech. CLBC will be sharing highlights from the conference on our Facebook and Twitter (or X) pages.
Self Advocacy Corner
Camping out with TALK Northwest
TALK Northwest Society is one of the four Self Advocacy groups that received grant funding during the pandemic to help people stay safe and connected. As a way to celebrate connection to each other and the lands we live on, TALK Northwest members used the last of their grant funding to host a two-day Kispiox Advocates Camp Conference in September.
“There were so many special moments shared. The morale was high, the group dynamics were amazing, and everyone was so respectful and encouraging to each other. Everyone raved about their experience and has dreams for a future campout conference event,” said camp leaders.
Read the full story here.
To learn more about TALK Northwest Self Advocacy group, email them at talknorthwest@gmail.com.
Share your photo with CLBC and the Celebrate Diverse ABILITIES magazine
CLBC is looking for high resolution images that showcase the people we support living their best life in community. This might be a picture of you at work, hanging out with friends, at college/university, hosting a party, trying something new, enjoying your hobby, or even just relaxing at home. The top five photos selected will be featured in the next Celebrate Diverse ABILITIES magazine along with a short write-up about each photo. Authors will receive $100 for their photo and story or short write-up.
You might be wondering what we mean by high resolution. Please set your camera or phone’s picture quality to “High” or “Large” to capture high resolution pictures. (For any experienced photographers, photos should be at least 300dpi and at least 1000 pixels wide).
Do you have a photo you’d like to share with CLBC? Email them to CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca
Why don’t we talk about FASD?
Congratulations to Self Advocacy leader Michael Oswald from the CLBC North Shore Sunshine Coast Community Council who recently had his story on living with the effects of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) published by the Coast Reporter. In his article, “Why don’t we talk about FASD?”, Michael shares his own experiences and asks how we can all bring greater awareness to FASD to reduce the stigma around it.
Read Michael’s story here.
Join People First of Canada’s LGBTQIA2S+ Working Group
People First of Canada is a national organization representing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. If you are a People First member and you identify as being LGBTQIA2S+, you are invited to apply for their new working group that meets monthly. For more information or to join the group, please send an email to monica@peoplefirstofcanada.ca.Also, did you know there is a BC People First (BCPF) organization that is part of the international People First movement? BCPF has been the independent voice of self advocates in B.C. for over 40 years. The more members who join BCPF, the stronger the voice for self advocates will be. It’s free to join!
Learn more about BCPF and how to become a member here.
Know your rights and responsibilities living in home sharing
Are you a self advocate who lives in home sharing? The Home Sharing Support Society of BC is hosting a self advocate-led presentation called “How do you advocate? What you need to know”. The virtual event takes place on Thursday, November 23 from 10 to 11:30 AM (PST).
Join the discussion to:Hear common concerns and challenges.
Connect and network with others in home sharing arrangements.
Learn how to advocate for yourself and access support.
Take part in the Question-and-Answer session.
To register, visit the Home Sharing Support Society of BC website here.
Staying Supported and Connected
New Nidus website is now live
Nidus is a non-profit organization that provides education, support and assistance with personal planning and Representation Agreements. They have developed institutional expertise about the creation, use, and support around these important planning tools. Nidus has recently launched their new website at www.nidus.ca.
Check out the new Nidus website for:Information and Resources
Representation Agreement (and related) Forms
Events Calendar
And more…
Learn with NIDUS about Representation Agreements and what happens after death
With the support of CLBC, Nidus is presenting an information webinar focusing on Representation Agreement Section 7 (RA7) and what happens after death. This session will provide you with valuable insights, practical tips and real-life experiences. All are welcome to attend including services providers, family members, persons with disabilities and CLBC staff.The webinar takes place Tuesday, November 21, from 12 to 1:30 PM (PST). Register for the webinar here.
Is your family looking to hire support staff? Join this presentation
Support Worker Central (SWC) is a free, province-wide job board created for people with disabilities and their families who hire their own support staff. The site also shares guidance on hiring staff, your legal obligations, necessary paperwork, and other valuable information needed when becoming an employer. There are currently over 500 profiles of people looking for work on SWC.
Join the Family Support Institute for a virtual presentation on Wednesday, November 15 at 7:00 PM (PST) to learn more about how to access this pool of potential staff. During this presentation, you will learn how the job board works, how to post a job, the available resources to help you with hiring staff, as well as an opportunity to ask questions.
Register for the “Learn about Support Worker Central” presentation here.
New accessible Human Rights resources available
BC’s Office of the Human Rights Commissioner (BCOHRC), together with the Human Rights Tribunal and the Human Rights Clinic at the Community Legal Assistance Society (CLAS), are launching a new set of resources designed to help people understand the system and know who to talk to.
Here are some of the new resources:B.C. Human Rights System web portal – A clear and concise overview of each part of B.C.’s human rights system. Visit www.bchumanrightssystem.ca.
Short animated videos – These videos introduce what human rights are, how they are protected, and how the human rights system works in B.C. Watch the videos here.
Additional resources – A directory of clinics, advocates and organizations offering human rights support, as well as printable handouts in multiple languages that provide information about the human rights system. Visit www.bchumanrightssystem.ca/additional-resources
CLBC Community Councils
CLBC Community Councils are raising awareness about aging
Community Councils across the province are raising awareness on the topic of aging and helping to share information about planning supports available for people and families supported by CLBC who are getting older.On October 11, the North Vancouver Sunshine Coast Council hosted a forum called “Plan for a Better Future”. Participants heard from a parent on her struggles, a self advocate caring for an aging parent, and from the Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. Other speakers included CLBC’s manager of Service and Community Development, and representatives from the Family Support Institute, Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN) BC and the Community Living Society.
Read the full story on the CLBC website here.
Help us by sharing these resources to support people and families as they age:Aging Resources – Community Living BC
PLAN Institute
Future Planning Tool
Access Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
Information on Personal Support Networks
If you have any questions about CLBC aging resources, email CLBC.Health@gov.bc.ca.
Volunteer on a CLBC Community Council
People who sit on CLBC Community Councils include individuals and families who receive support from CLBC, service provider partners and community allies. These volunteers care about creating culturally safe, accessible, and inclusive communities.
In partnership with CLBC, volunteers on Community Councils:Build relationships with community leaders to create a more inclusive B.C.
Connect individuals and their families to information, resources and each other.
Listen to the experience of people and families served by CLBC to make things better.
Take actions that lead to social change and inclusive communities for all people.
All Councils are currently recruiting volunteers. Contact CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca to learn more.
Upper Fraser and South Vancouver Island Community Councils hosting open houses in November
You are invited to attend these upcoming gatherings to learn how Councils are making a difference and find out ways to get involved:
Upper Fraser Council GatheringWhen: November 8 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Where: CLBC office at #201 – 2777 Gladwin Road in Abbotsford
RSVP: Alison.Lowe@gov.bc.ca
South Vancouver Island GatheringWhen: November 28, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Where: CLBC office at #410 – 29 Helmcken Road in Victoria
(There is also the option to join virtually. RSVP for access to the MS Teams link.)
RSVP: CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca
For more information, visit the CLBC Community Councils website here and/or contact the CLBC Community Engagement Team at CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca.
Stories and Celebration
Widening Our World (WOW) Award recipients recognized
The recipients of the 2023 CLBC Widening Our World (WOW) Awards are being recognized with award presentation celebrations in their local communities for their inclusive hiring practices and workplaces.We’re sharing photos and stories from these events at www.CommunityLivingBC.ca/WOW, where you can also learn more about this year’s recipients who were selected from an amazing field of nominees: Keith Larson – Redux Nutrition, Chilliwack
Bobbi Hunt – Mark’s Work Wearhouse, Abbotsford
Brendon Osborn – Cintas, Langley
Kylah Bryde – North Peace Leisure Pool, City of Fort St. John
Reflecting on Community Inclusion Month
As Community Inclusion Month wrapped up last week, we want to highlight how important this time has been. It has been a month where we focus on embracing diversity and fostering a sense of belonging in our communities. Everyone has a part to play in building inclusion and we all benefit when there is opportunity for everyone to achieve their potential. There were many great Community Inclusion Month events held in communities across the province this year and we want to thank everyone who got involved, whether by joining events, organizing them or working with local governments to recognize this important time of recognition, celebration and awareness. Your efforts have helped create more welcoming and inclusive communities for all.
Visit CLBC’s Community Inclusion Month webpage here to find highlights from the month.
Signing Off
Every November, Canadians recognize November 8 as Indigenous Veterans Day and November 11 as Remembrance Day. These days honour those who have served and continue to serve Canada during times of war, conflict and peace.
Read a statement recognizing today’s Indigenous Veteran’s Day from Premier David Eby, Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, and Mitzi Dean, B.C.’s military liaison.
Self Advocate Net has created a page on their website here to share information and messages recognizing Remembrance Day.
Until next edition…
Community Inclusion Month
Greetings from CLBC,
For more than two decades, CLBC has proudly marked the occasion of Community Inclusion Month in October. This month allows us to honor the dedication of individuals, families, and community members who tirelessly work towards creating more inclusive communities and opportunities for all British Columbians, especially those with developmental disabilities.
Every year, CLBC joins the Province and Inclusion BC to identify a theme that helps build awareness about the importance of including people with developmental disabilities in all aspects of their communities. This year, the focus for the month is to build awareness about the importance of including people with developmental disabilities in their communities in all aspects of society including living independently, access to healthcare, employment, cultural activities, recreation, and sport.
You can read the government Community Inclusion Month proclamation here.
Remember, we all play a crucial role in creating a more inclusive society. Here are some things you can do:
- Participate in Community Inclusion Month events that are taking place in your community.
- Join us in recognizing Community Inclusion Month by sharing your support on social media. Use the hashtag #CommunityInclusionMonth to spread the message of inclusivity far and wide.
- Let us know what’s happening in your community. You can let us know at CLBCInfo@gov.bc.ca and we will help spread the word via our website and social media pages.
- Visit CLBC’s Community Inclusion Month page here and stay connected with us throughout the month.
- Share impactful stories, videos, and testimonials of individuals benefiting from inclusion with us. Reach out to CLBCInfo@gov.bc.ca, and together we will amplify your efforts through our website and social media platforms.
- During Community Inclusion Month, CLBC will be recognizing inclusion champions through our Widening Our World (WOW) awards. We look forward to announcing the winners in the coming days on our website here. Help us celebrate this year’s WOW Awards and the recipients as award presentations take place.
Every step we take forward together can make change. We thank all British Columbians for their support and contribution to fostering inclusive communities, places where everyone has possibilities and is welcomed.
Happy Community Inclusion Month 2023!
With warm regards,
Ross Chilton
CEO, Community Living BC
