Osanis Inclusion Services Inc.

Connecting With Our Kids When Anxiety Leads to Social Isolation
2024-09-25 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
ONLINE EVENT: Connecting with Our Kids When Anxiety Leads to Social Isolation
When kids spend a lot of time alone because of their anxiety, it can be frustrating and challenging for parents. In this video, a parent and counsellor talk about the hard stuff and some strategies that can help us connect with our kids when they are socially isolated.
Victoria Keddis hosts a conversation with Diane Evans, a parent with lived experience and Christine Yu, MA & RCC and a Doctoral member of Anxiety Canada’s Scientific Advisory Committee.
Come together and watch a video presentation and stay for a facilitated conversation by our Family Peer Support Workers.
6:30pm-8:00 pm Pacific Daylight Time (British Columbia)
7:30pm-9:00 Mountain Standard Time (Alberta)
These events are funded for parents and caregivers living in the Province of British Columbia and for CASA families in Alberta. If you are from another province or territory, or live outside of Canada, we welcome you to visit our video library at www.familysmart.ca/videos and use our resources. Thank you.
Register Here: https://familysmart.ca/event/connecting-with-our-kids-when-anxiety-leads-to-social-isolation-2/

Dance Together with Tiffany & Erin
2024-10-02 15:45 - 2024-10-23 16:30 | Theatre SKAM, 846 Broughton St., Victoria, BC, V8W 1E4, Canada
Dance Together with Tiffany & Erin
We’ve heard your requests and it’s finally here: A friends and family class! This intergenerational class is designed for individuals of all abilities to get moving together. It’s a space for friends and family to playfully connect through dance and music based activities.
Program Details

Wednesday afternoons from 3:45pm to 4:30pm
October 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd
This intergenerational program is open for individuals of all abilities ages 6 and up.
Dancers under the age of 14 are asked to attend with a family member or support.
At Theatre SKAM (846 Broughton St.)
Free Program

Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScVBcMTEb7m1hGqLOPRPYmayEA6OAY_YO7udOpG8VGFgU21Qg/viewform

Connect and Learn - Monthly Events
2024-10-03 18:30 - 2024-10-23 20:00 | BC
Monthly events for families and caring adults who are parenting a child or youth with mental health and/or substance use challenges.
Registration Required.
Visit: https://familysmart.ca/monthly-events/

Survive Strive Thrive 2024
2024-10-05 09:00 - 16:00 | Michele Pujol Room, Student Union Building, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2
Welcome to Survive Strive Thrive 2024!
Join us for an exciting event filled with inspiration, motivation, and growth. This in-person gathering will take place at the Michele Pujol Room, Student Union Building. Get ready to connect with like-minded individuals, learn valuable insights, and take your personal and professional development to the next level.
Whether you’re looking to overcome challenges, set new goals, or simply network with others on a similar journey, Survive Strive Thrive 2024 is the place to be. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to thrive and make meaningful connections. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Download the “conf.app” app on the App Store or Play Store and use access code “SST”.

Virtual Yoga (hosted by CAN) for Autistic Youth & Adults
2024-10-05 10:30 - 11:45 | Virtual Event
Join us for Yoga with Mel! Open to all levels of yoga experience, this class focuses on breath, movement, and relaxation. This is a safe and welcoming for individuals of all abilities to explore the benefits of yoga.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:
• A formal autism diagnosis is NOT required; participants can self-identify as Autistic.
• Participants must have a CAN account.
• Participants must be of the correct age when the program starts.

REGISTRATION INFO:
• Registration is first-come, first-served. Open while availability lasts.
• Waitlist option will appear once the session is full.

Introduction To the Disability Tax Credit and The Registered Disability Savings Plan
2024-10-09 18:00 - 19:00 | The Foundry, 546 Yates Str., Victoria, BC, V8W 1K8, Canada
Have you ever wondered if you and your family would qualify for The Disability Tax Credit? A lot of families wonder and even try and sometimes they are told they are not eligible. There is a program where you can talk with an expert and they will walk you through all the steps and important criteria you need to know to qualify.
Audrey from Disability Alliance BC will be providing an introduction to the Disability Tax Credit and the Registered Disability Savings Plan.
Topics covered will include:
– How government programs can help you access thousands of dollars in government funding
– How to access support with applications
– Eligibility
Followed by a question and answer session
Date & Time: Wednesday October 9th at 6 pm
Location: The Foundry Victoria, 546 Yates St.
RSVP: Lisa.Tate@FamilSmart.ca
If you want to begin accessing these programs, reach out to Audrey at audrey@dabc.ca.

Thanksgiving Dinner by Burnside Gorge Community
2024-10-10 17:00 - 19:00 | Burnside Gorge Community Centre, 471 Cecelia Rd., Victoria, BC, V8T 4T4, Canada
The annual BGCA Thanksgiving Dinner is on Thursday, October 10 between 5-7 pm. Join us for a heartwarming Thanksgiving Community Dinner! Open to all, the dinner is by donation, and it’s the perfect opportunity to come together, and share a meal. Don’t miss this chance to connect with neighbours and friends!
Date: Thursday, October 10
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Location: 471 Cecelia Rd.
Registration deadline: Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.
To register, call 250-388-5251 or email: frontdesk@burnsidegorge.ca

FREE Parenting Workshops
2024-10-21 18:00 - 2024-11-18 19:30 | BC
Edward Milne Community School Society (EMCS) is partnering with Sea to Tree Health & Wellness to offer parents FREE workshops to support and navigate the challenges of parenthood. Please register by calling: 250-642-6371 or email here.

The Teen Brain – Oct 21, 6-7:30 pm
Understanding how brain development impacts everything in your teenagers life, how to support their growth,
mental health warning signs, and internet safety.
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Talking Sex, Drugs, and Rock & Roll – Oct 28, 6 – 7:30 pm
How to have these potentially difficult, but very important conversations.
Understanding what risks and choices your teenager may be facing and supporting them to find their own boundaries.
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Communication Skills & Managing Conflict – Nov 4, 6 – 7:30 pm
Nonviolent communication and other helpful communication strategies, de-escalating conflict, creating and sustaining connection.
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Dealing with Stress & Anxiety in Your Family – Nov 18, 6 – 7:30 pm
Tools to manage stress and anxiety, instilling resilience, where to find help if you need it.

About the Facilitators:
Tyler (he/him) is completing his master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. Tyler has worked with children and youth in many different capacities and settings including with unhoused youth and youth in the criminal justice system. Tyler has two young children.

Hermione (she/her) has a focus on health promotion and community development and engagement. She has worked for many years in the areas of sexual health, mental health, and substance use. Hermione is Mum to one and step-mom (Mumsy) to two. All three of her children are now adults.

Embracing Success: Educating Students with Down Syndrome
2024-10-25 08:00 - 16:00 | Cedar Hill Golf Course, 1400 Derby Rd, Victoria, BC, V8P 1T1, Canada
This one-day conference is designed for educators, including classroom teachers, resource teachers, education assistants and other professionals who want to learn strategies to support students with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities. Learn from the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation’s experienced multi-disciplinary team. Join us in person or take part virtually!
Date: October 25, 2024
Time: 8am – 4pm
Location: Cedar Hill Golf Course, 1400 Derby Rd, Victoria
Price: $150 ($100 Early Bird until Sept 30)
Lunch and snacks included!

Embracing Success: Educating Students with Down Syndrome (Conference)
2024-10-25 08:00 - 16:00 | Cedar Hill Golf Course, 1400 Derby Rd, Victoria, BC, V8P 1T1, Canada
Join us for a one-day conference designed to equip you with the knowledge and strategies to empower students with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities. This event is specifically tailored for classroom teachers, resource teachers, education assistants and other school professionals.
Register here: https://fundraise.dsrf.org/event/embracing-success-2024/e614498
Lunch and snacks included!
Topics and Sessions

Learner Profile of a Student with Down Syndrome
Proactive Positive Behavior Support Strategies
Teaching and Consequence PBS Strategies
Mental Wellness for Educators and more!

Annual Halloween Dance by EMBRACE
2024-10-26 18:30 - 20:00 | Fairfield Community Centre – Garry Oaks Room, 1341 Thurlow Rd, Victoria, BC, V8S 5K2, Canada
The Annual Halloween Dance is back! This all ages, all abilities event is an opportunity to get together and dance!
Program Details:
Saturday, October 26th from 6:30pm – 8:00pm
At Fairfield Community Centre in the Garry Oaks Room (1341 Thurlow Rd)
This multigenerational event is open for individuals of all ages and abilities. We ask that participants who are under the age of 18 or those who require 1:1 support to please attend with a guardian or support worker.
Free Event. Registration Required.
To register, go here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9YTQZ0yrW4070j1lhuxBPU_uMEpu9Q4kq-d2ZU7GAp58BIg/viewform

Parents Together Program
2024-11-12 12:00 - 13:30 | Boys & Girls Club (bgc), 4-961 Dunford Ave, Victoria, BC, V9B 2S4, Canada
Parents Together Program (13-19yrs) Sometimes parenting challenges can feel overwhelming. This program for parents of teens provides ongoing support. A manual and materials are provided to participants. Parents may stay in the group as long as they feel they need support and help in their daily parenting. Guest speakers may be invited for specific topics.
Topics include:

Attachment and relationship-based practices
Communication and 6 critical messages
Developmental changes in pre-adolescence
Adolescent brain development
Boundaries, and turning over responsibility as appropriate
Self-care – taking back your life
Adolescent mental health
Substance use and teens

Date: Tuesdays, Ongoing & Online – Daytime 12-1:30PM or *** In Person- Evening 6:30-8PM
Cost: Free
Register: https://bgcsvi.org/programs/parenting/

Craft Workshop
2024-11-12 16:30 - 18:30 | Island Community Mental Health, 125 Skinner Street, Victoria, B.C., V9A 6X4, Canada
Join us for a hands-on, 4 week macrame workshop with Lindsay Beal.
Learn to create beautiful plant hangers, jewelry, and more while discovering how crafts can be a form of therapeutic expression. All skill levels are welcome!
Every Tuesday in November
4.30pm-6.30pm
125 Skinner Street, Victoria BC, V9A 6X4
Email hello@socialgatheringplace.ca to register

Drop-in Floor Hockey for Individuals with Diverse Abilities (18yrs+)
2024-11-13 14:30 - 16:00 | Victoria West Community Center, 521 Craigflower Rd, Victoria, BC, V9A 6Z5, Canada
Participants of all levels and abilities welcome!
When: Every Wednesday from 2:30pm to 4:00pm starting September 18, 2024
Where: Victoria West Community Center
521 Craigflower Road
Victoria, BC

Stand up for Mental Health
2024-11-14 19:00 - 21:30 | Greater Victoria Social Gathering Place Society
To celebrate their 20th Anniversary, Stand up for Mental Health is partnering with the Greater Victoria Social Gathering Place Society and Mental Health Recovery Partners South Island (MHRP SI) to bring their star comics from Vancouver to perform a show at 8pm on Thursday, November 14th at Hecklers Bar & Grill.
What’s so funny about mental health?
As far as Stand Up For Mental Health (SMH) is concerned – everything!
Founded by award-winning counsellor and stand-up comic David Granirer who himself suffers from bipolar, SMH, which is based in Vancouver teaches stand-up comedy to people with mental health issues as a way of building confidence and fighting public stigma.
Granirer has won awards for his program in Canada, the US, and Australia, including one from the Governor General of Canada, and was also named one of the 150 Difference Makers in Canadian mental health.
Since 2004 Granirer has trained over 700 SMH comics and run his program in over 50 cities in Canada, the US, and Australia.
SMH has performed over 500 shows for government departments, corporations, the military, universities, colleges, and even did a show for the US Secret Service.
Says Janine Theobald, Executive Director MHRP SI, “We are tickled to partner with the Social Gathering Place and SMH to showcase a group of talented comics sharing their recovery journeys through the lens of humour. Mental illness and substance use challenges can be dark and lonely, and this event promises to crack-up stigma and bring the community together demonstrating we are in this together and our challenges can become our greatest strengths…or at least, a funny and relatable story.”
Thursday, November 14th
Doors: 7PM | Show: 8PM
Hecklers Bar & Grill, 123 Gorge Road East
General Admission: $20 | Reduced Ticket: $10
19+, No minors permitted

Buy tickets here: https://www.showpass.com/standupformentalhealth/

Examining BC's Response to Sexual Assault
2024-11-19 12:00 - 13:00 | theDock: Centre for Social Impact, 100-722 Cormorant Street, Victoria, BC, V8W 1P8, Canada
Trigger Warning: This workshop will discuss sexual assault, systemic racism, systemic failures in the area of sexual assault response and gender-based violence.
Join us for an engaging workshop that explores the current landscape of sexual assault response in British Columbia. This session will provide an overview of the existing support systems, challenges, and opportunities within the province. Attendees will have the chance to share their perspectives, discuss desired changes, and collaboratively brainstorm ideas to enhance sexual assault response over the next five years. Together, let’s envision a more supportive and effective approach for survivors and communities across BC.
Please note that participants will not be asked to share their individual experiences with gender-based violence.
Chloe Hunt
Chloe Hunt is a social impact entrepreneur and former tech product manager with a deep commitment to advancing gender-based violence initiatives. Drawing from years of experience in the sector, Chloe is actively involved in government-funded research focused on overcoming barriers to accessing care in northern Canada. Her passion for social change drives her ongoing efforts to improve access to care across the country.

Drop-in Floor Hockey for Individuals with Diverse Abilities (18yrs+)
2024-11-20 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-11-27 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-12-04 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-12-11 13:00 - 14:30 | SJ Willis High School, 923 Topaz Avenue, Victoria, BC, V8T 2M2, Canada
This is a FREE event. Participants of all levels and abilities welcome!
All the equipment is provided and all that is needed is athletic wear and water bottle.
This is an opportunity to meet others, be active and have fun. It is held every Wednesday from 1:00 – 2:30 at SJ Willis Educational Center in Victoria. If an individual has a support worker, they are welcome to come as well.
Please note: The volunteer staff does no personal care.
At SJ Willis, the gym is huge and if you want to just come and hang out in the gym during this time without playing floor hockey, this is also an option.
When: Every Wednesday from 1:30pm to 2:30pm
Where: SJ Willis High School (Gym)
2970 Glasgow St,
Victoria, BC
V8T 5B9

SASS Monthly Caregiver Support Meeting
2024-11-21 19:00 - 20:00 | Sooke Autism Support Society, 6489 Beechwood Place, Sooke, BC, V9Z 0Y7, Canada
SASS MONTHLY CAREGIVER SUPPORT MEETING – Thursday, November 21 at 7 pm @ the Seaparc Boardroom (with new dimmer switch for better lighting)
Special Topic: Sexual Health & Education – For All Ages
Guest Speaker: Lexi Kosick, M.Ed., BCBA FIVE Behaviourial
A big THANK YOU to our meeting sponsor this month Bosley’s Pets who has graciously donated a Gift Certificate for our Door Prize : )
We will be distributing the Holiday Craft & Care Packages at this meeting
There will be Final Registration for Sensory Santa in December which takes place on Friday, December 13 from 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm

SASS FESTIVAL OF TREES FAMILY EVENT – Sunday, November 24 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm @ Seaparc
Come help us decorate the SASS-sponsored Tree at the Festival of Trees
Also enjoy a Family Swim or Skate compliments of SASS!

Creative Wellness for Caregivers
2024-11-23 13:00 - 16:00 | Community Options for Children and Families, 1595 Bay St., Victoria, BC, Canada
Join a small group of parents (or other caregivers) for a cozy and comforting break in November.

Esquimalt Farmers Market
2024-11-24 11:00 - 17:00 | Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street, Esquimalt, BC, V9A 6H7, Canada
The EFM Holiday Market is where food lovers do their Christmas shopping, showcasing over 90 beloved EFM vendors from this Summer, Fall, and seasons past. From gourmet treats and artisanal condiments to culinary-inspired gifts like handcrafted pottery, linens & kitchenware, you’ll discover a treasure trove of foodie finds. You will also find handmade jewelry, children’s clothing, ornaments, greeting cards, artwork, youth vendors and so much more.
While you shop, enjoy live music and indulge in a delicious selection of bites from our curated food trucks, offering flavors as unique as the gifts you’ll find. It’s a celebration of local talent and tastes, all under one festive roof!
When: Sunday, November 24th, 11am-5pm
Where: Esquimalt Recreation Centre at 527 Fraser Street.
Who: Over 90 makers, bakers, growers and creators, & food trucks
Admission: By donation

42nd Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade
2024-11-30 17:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Victoria, Government + Belleville, Victoria, BC, V8W 1W5, Canada
The 42nd Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade presented by Chek will kick off at 5:00pm on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at Government and Belleville.
We will once again be collecting food and cash for the Mustard Seed Street Church and Food Bank. They will be giving out hot chocolate at Douglas and Humboldt starting at 4:30pm.
The Victoria Disability Resource Center will have live audio description this year at their location at Government and Belleville. Please reach out to https://drcvictoria.com/ to find out more information.
Santa and Mrs Claus will be taking pictures by donation following the parade. Centennial Square. Join everyone as the DVBA kicks off Lights of Wonder November 30th. Come and enjoy the lights and bring the family!

Esquimalt Celebration of Lights
2024-12-01 15:00 - 19:00 | BC
Esquimalt’s Celebration of Lights is a magical event for the whole family. Lights, Music, Food, Santa and it is FREE to the whole community. It is a community event where people can come together to celebrate the holiday season with lights and festivities. We also feature a Music Bingo in the spring of each year to help support our upcoming Esquimalt Celebration of Lights.
Hope to see you all there for the start of the parade at 5 pm on December 1st, 2024 for the parade and at the Arena right after for a visit with Santa, a hot dog from the Lions and singing with your neighbours.

Now What? A beginning conversation to support families moving from reacting to responding when our kids begin experimenting with substances
2024-12-03 18:30 - 20:00, 2024-12-10 18:30 - 20:00 | Virtual Event
ONLINE EVENT: Now What? A beginning conversation to support families moving from reacting to responding when our kids begin experimenting with substances.
Learning that our kids are trying substances can be scary. As families, we are a valuable resource to help them navigate the choices they are making, but it can be hard to know how to respond. This video introduces parents and caregivers to some ways that can help us move from reacting to our fears about substance use and towards a more thoughtful response that supports connection with our kids.
Victoria Keddis, a parent with lived experience hosts a conversation with Douglas Hardie a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Program Coordinator with Island Health supporting Child, Youth and Family Mental Health and Substance Use Programs.
Come together and watch a video presentation and stay for a facilitated conversation by our Family Peer Support Workers.
6:30pm-8:00pm Pacific Time (most of British Columbia)
7:30pm-9:00pm Mountain Time (Alberta)
These events are funded for parents and caregivers living in the Province of British Columbia and for CASA families in Alberta. If you are from another province or territory, or live outside of Canada, we welcome you to visit our video library at www.familysmart.ca/videos and use our resources. Thank you.

Register Here
Watch video now: https://youtu.be/Qhqrbrw62Tg?si=Hpl_QjjBu2ph6-1D

Now What? A beginning conversation to support families moving from reacting to responding when our kids begin experimenting with substances
2024-12-04 12:00 - 13:30 | Virtual Event
ONLINE EVENT: Now What? A beginning conversation to support families moving from reacting to responding when our kids begin experimenting with substances.
Learning that our kids are trying substances can be scary. As families, we are a valuable resource to help them navigate the choices they are making, but it can be hard to know how to respond. This video introduces parents and caregivers to some ways that can help us move from reacting to our fears about substance use and towards a more thoughtful response that supports connection with our kids.
Victoria Keddis, a parent with lived experience hosts a conversation with Douglas Hardie a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Program Coordinator with Island Health supporting Child, Youth and Family Mental Health and Substance Use Programs.
Come together and watch a video presentation and stay for a facilitated conversation by our Family Peer Support Workers.
12:00pm-1:30pm Pacific Time (most of British Columbia)
1:00pm-2:30pm Mountain Time (Alberta)
These events are funded for parents and caregivers living in the Province of British Columbia and for CASA families in Alberta. If you are from another province or territory, or live outside of Canada, we welcome you to visit our video library at www.familysmart.ca/videos and use our resources. Thank you.

Register Here
Watch video now: https://youtu.be/Qhqrbrw62Tg?si=Hpl_QjjBu2ph6-1D

Now What? A beginning conversation to support families moving from reacting to responding when our kids begin experimenting with substances
2024-12-05 18:30 - 20:00 | Virtual Event
ONLINE EVENT: Now What? A beginning conversation to support families moving from reacting to responding when our kids begin experimenting with substances.
Learning that our kids are trying substances can be scary. As families, we are a valuable resource to help them navigate the choices they are making, but it can be hard to know how to respond. This video introduces parents and caregivers to some ways that can help us move from reacting to our fears about substance use and towards a more thoughtful response that supports connection with our kids.
Victoria Keddis, a parent with lived experience hosts a conversation with Douglas Hardie a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Program Coordinator with Island Health supporting Child, Youth and Family Mental Health and Substance Use Programs.
Come together and watch a video presentation and stay for a facilitated conversation by our Family Peer Support Workers.
6:30pm-8:00pm Pacific Time (most of British Columbia)
7:30pm-9:00pm Mountain Time (Alberta)
These events are funded for parents and caregivers living in the Province of British Columbia and for CASA families in Alberta. If you are from another province or territory, or live outside of Canada, we welcome you to visit our video library at www.familysmart.ca/videos and use our resources. Thank you.

Register Here

Winter Art Market
2024-12-07 13:00 - 16:00 | Fernwood Community Centre, 1240 Gladstone Ave, Victoria, BC, V8T 1G6, Canada
Join us for the Winter Art Market!
Celebrate the season with us and explore beautiful, one-of-a-kind creations crafted by artists from the recovery community. This special event is the perfect opportunity to find unique holiday gifts, support local talent, and enjoy an afternoon of art, music, and community.
When: Saturday, December 7th, 1-4 pm
Where: Fernwood Community Centre, 1240 Gladstone Ave, Victoria, BC
What to Expect:
– A wide array of handmade arts, crafts, and holiday treasures
– Live music to keep the festive spirit going
– Delicious snacks to enjoy while you shop
– A warm and welcoming space to connect with local artists and support the recovery community
Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift or just want to experience a joyful, creative afternoon, we’d love to see you there!
