Osanis Inclusion Services Inc.

ADHD - The Real Deal
2025-10-07 18:30 - 20:00, 2025-10-21 12:00 - 13:30, 2025-10-28 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
ADHD doesn’t just affect the person living with ADHD. It also affects those around them. As parents of kids living with ADHD, we can benefit from learning what ADHD is and how to support our kids. Learn from Dr. Duncan,Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as he dispels some myths and explains how and why the ADHD brain works the way it does.
Join us and other families for this video presentation and discussion that’s facilitated by a FamilySmart Family Peer Support Worker.
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.

RE/MEMBERING: Zine’ing Loss & Grief
2025-10-08 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
The Vancouver Hospice Society is hosting a 6-week in-person support group for young adults aged 18-29 who are grieving the death of a person. The support group will explore zine-making as a creative outlet for processing grief and loss, based on guided reflection prompts within a space of shared connection. A zine (from “magazine”) is a mini self-created booklet made for a small circle of distribution.
Open to Vancouver residents Virtual Orientation: Wednesday, Oct. 8, 5:30–7:00 PM In-person Sessions: Wednesdays, 5:30–8:30 PMOct. 15, 22, 29 & Nov. 5, 12, 19
Registration is required. To register, please send an email to counselling@vancouverhospice.org

Open the Door - A three part series designed to transform the mental health system
2025-10-10 15:30 - 17:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Parents are fighting for their children’s lives within a mental health system steeped in stigma. They are scared, isolated, and exhausted, caught in a cycle of navigating a fragmented system that fails to meet their needs. Their plea is clear: accessible, comprehensive care with long-term support. Community leaders and policymakers are invited to join this virtual guided conversation grounded in real stories and honest dialogue. Families and self-advocates are welcome to attend. Together, let’s explore how we can open the door to help families, inform policy, and build a future where every person has the chance to thrive. When we listen—really listen—we can create lasting change.
Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) is a provincial not-for-profit society committed to supporting families who have a family member with a disability. FSI is unique in Canada and the only grass roots family to family organization that has a broad volunteer base. FSI SUPPORTS AND SERVICES ARE FREE TO ANY FAMILY

REGISTER HERE

When Sensitivity Hurts: RSD and the Neurodivergent Mind
2025-10-14 16:30 - 17:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
The Montreal Center for Learning Disabilities presents “When Sensitivity Hurts: Understanding Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria.
Do you or someone you care about struggle with overwhelming emotional responses to perceived criticism or rejection?
Join ADHD coach and researcher Dr. Janina Maschke for a free webinar exploring Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). A powerful and often misunderstood experience common in neurodivergent individuals.
You’ll learn:

What RSD is and why it happens
How it impacts daily life, relationships, and mental health
Tools to manage emotional intensity with compassion
Practical strategies for building resilience and self-understanding

Led by a global expert with a Ph.D. in Psychology and extensive experience supporting neurodivergent minds.

Fed Family Chat
2025-10-14 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
This virtual event is an opportunity to hang out with other youth in and from care and have fun. Together we can shape how we want to spend our time together.
This Fed Family Chat will be taking place on
Tuesday, Oct 14, 7-8 PM
Sign Up for Fed Family Chat

We are so excited to share space and connect with you!

ADHD & Autism Series - Free webinar
2025-10-15 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
The Adult ADHD Centre & The Adult Autism Centre are launching a free webinar series, “ADHD & Autism,” featuring Dr. Anita Parhar and Dr. Gurdeep Parhar.
The inaugural session, titled “I have been diagnosed with ADHD, could I also be Autistic?” takes place on October 15, 2025, from 4:00–5:00 PM PDT / 6:00–7:00 PM CDT / 7:00–8:00 PM EDT.
This interactive event is open to individuals, families, and professionals seeking expert insight on dual diagnoses, with opportunities for practical guidance and live Q&A.
Registration is free, and all are welcome to attend this informative session on the overlap between ADHD and autism.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: It’s More Than Overwashing Your Hands
2025-10-15 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Living with OCD can present unique challenges that affect both our kids and us as families. For those living with it, simple tasks become overwhelming and disrupt daily life. Learn from Dr. Katherine McKenney, R. Psychologist and Director, Cornerstone Child & Family Psychology Clinic; and Kelsey, a young adult who lives with OCD. Together they discuss ways to strengthen our understanding and to support our kids living with OCD.
Join us and other families for this video presentation and discussion that’s facilitated by a FamilySmart Family Peer Support Worker.
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.

PSS Parenting Workshop Registration
2025-10-15 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
This workshop will explore: how parenting has changed, when parenting styles collide, and how to find common ground.

Leaving High School, What's Next?
2025-10-20 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
How do you prepare for this big change in your child’s life? This workshop is designed to help families understand how to prepare for their child’s transition from high school into a full life in the community. Drawing on the experiences of many parents and professionals, we will discuss roles and responsibilities, the planning process, planning tools and available resources and services.
REGISTER HERE

Children in Care - A Group for Parents and Caregivers
2025-10-21 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-04 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
A support group for those with kids in care, considering care, or feeling pressured to place their kids in care.
Only families who have experienced this unique journey truly understand the challenges it brings. Whether due to removal, a special needs agreement, or a voluntary care agreement, placing a child with extra support needs into the Ministry’s care is an incredibly difficult and emotional decision. Families often face feelings of guilt, judgment, and isolation during this process. You’re not alone. Join us for an open and heartfelt conversation with other families who share your experience. This is a space for parents and caregivers to connect, share, and support one another without fear of judgment.
Let’s come together to find hope, resilience, and connection.
** PLEASE NOTE: This meeting is reserved for families with a member with a disability and self advocates only ** Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) is a provincial not-for-profit society committed to supporting families who have a family member with a disability.
FSI is unique in Canada and the only grassroots family to family organization that has a broad volunteer base. FSI SUPPORTS AND SERVICES ARE FREE TO ANY FAMILY

Young Sibling Peer Support Network
2025-10-21 16:30 - 18:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Find support for children and youth aged 8-11 who have a sibling with a disability! The Young Sibling Peer Support Network hosts free, monthly online peer groups for siblings of people with a disability or chronic health condition. For now, online groups are open to siblings living in the Victoria, Vancouver, and Prince George regions.
Siblings anywhere in BC can also check out the following resources:

Sibling Resource List: A collection of supports and information created to help families.
Recommended Books: A curated list of books for siblings and families, available through the BC Children’s Hospital Family Library in person or online.

To learn more about the peer support groups, you can watch this Information Video on YouTube, or contact 604-875-3594 or siblingcentre@cw.bc.ca
Victoria:
Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:00 pm
Vancouver:
Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:00 pm
Prince George:
Friday, October 24, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:00 pm

Mental Health First Aid Course
2025-10-22 08:30 - 16:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Join us for an engaging and impactful full-day Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certification Course, designed to equip you with essential skills to assist individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or decline in well-being. Taking place in-person, this interactive training is scheduled from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM and will provide you with hands-on techniques to recognize, support, and guide individuals toward recovery.
Throughout the course, participants will learn how to:

Recognize early signs of mental health declines or crises
Encourage open discussions about mental health and well-being
Guide individuals to appropriate professional or community supports
Offer support in mental health or substance use crises
Use MHFA actions to maintain your own mental health

Upon successful completion, participants will receive a Mental Health First Aid certificate from the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC).
Pre-Course Requirement:
Before attending the in-person training, participants must complete a self-directed online module (Module 1), which introduces key concepts and strategies to be explored in the live training (Modules 2 and 3). The online module takes approximately 2 hours to complete, and proof of completion is required prior to the start of the in-person modules. Completion of Module 1 is mandatory to participate in the in-person course. Failure to complete the online module by the specified deadline will make the participant ineligible for a refund or transfer of registration.
Important Note: A minimum of 8 participants is required for the training to proceed. If fewer than 8 participants are confirmed 48 hours prior to the session, the course will be rescheduled in accordance with MHCC’s group size policy.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellations must be submitted via email (training@csshsa.ca) at least 5 business days before the scheduled course to receive a refund or reschedule.
Late cancellations or no-shows are not eligible for refunds or rescheduling.

Early Years and School Age Navigation
2025-10-22 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-11-05 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Caring for little ones with extra support needs is marked by joy, fear, and overwhelm, usually all in the same day! Navigating the toddler and preschool years or if the school years are on the horizon, can be a uniquely challenging time. Join Cari Rawling, (ECE/parent), and Heather Beach (parent), for supportive sessions on Navigating the Early Years. We are here to listen, provide resources, and create a safe place to discuss the parenting experience of young children with diverse abilities.
Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) is a provincial not-for-profit society committed to supporting families who have a family member with a disability. FSI is unique in Canada and the only grassroots family to family organization that has a broad volunteer base. FSI SUPPORTS AND SERVICES ARE FREE TO ANY FAMILY
REGISTER HERE

Free Webinar: Learning with Neurodiversity
2025-10-22 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Experience “Learning with Neurodiversity” on October 22, 2025, hosted by Deanna Fidelak and the Adult ADHD Centre. Unlock strategies for post-secondary neurodivergent students and discover academic support options in this free live webinar.
Join us from your preferred time zone:
4pm – 5:30pm PDT; 6pm – 7:30pm CDT; 7pm – 8:30pm EDT; and 8pm -9:30pm ADT.
The session provides expert advice and practical resources to empower diverse learners. Open to all seeking inclusive learning opportunities and support.
Reserve your spot now!

Aging Caregivers
2025-10-22 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
We cannot slow the aging process in ourselves or in the people we care for! As we get older, our ability to care for our family member becomes more and more difficult. Planning our own future, and the future of our loved ones can be a terrifying process. Will we be able to provide the necessary care? Will they be well cared for in the future, after we are gone? What can we do to make the future easier? Connecting with other families in similar situations is the best way to problem solve and figure out what will work best for our specific situations. Join our call with other “mature” parents and caregivers and we can problem solve together!

Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) is a provincial not-for-profit society committed to supporting families who have a family member with a disability. FSI is unique in Canada and the only grassroots family to family organization that has a broad volunteer base. FSI SUPPORTS AND SERVICES ARE FREE TO ANY FAMILY

Heartspace Gentle Movement
2025-10-23 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Join Tyra Skibington, certified yoga instructor, for a 45-minute gentle movement program, accessible for all abilities. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a comforting beverage, have a clear space on the floor with a chair or couch nearby for support, but otherwise no special equipment required!
Tyra has been a yoga teacher for over 10 years. She is passionate about caring for the caregiver because she is one. She knows the power of pausing through breath work and loves to share restorative movement as part of that practice. Join Tyra by inviting space and more breath into your body. This will help clear the mind, calm the nervous system and bring awareness to the body.
Register Here

FASD - Thinking Outside of the Box
2025-10-23 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-30 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
September is FASD Awareness Month, and International FASD Day is on September 9!
When we talk about FASD, the conversation often focuses on the challenges—but there’s so much more to the story. There are incredible strengths, talents, and successes worth celebrating.
Join us for an uplifting event where we shine a light on the achievements and unique abilities of individuals living with FASD. This is a chance to hear powerful stories from those with lived experience, as well as the people who support and love them.
Come be part of a joyful conversation—one that honours the gifts that come with FASD and invites you to share your own moments of pride and hope.
Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 7:00 pm
This Family Hangout takes place weekly.
Register Now

Embracing Success Education Conference
2025-10-24 09:00 - 16:00 (America/Vancouver) | Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC, Canada
This one-day conference is designed especially for educators including classroom teachers, resource teachers, education assistants, and other professionals who work in the school setting with an emphasis on providing knowledge and strategies that can be applied in the classroom and school setting to support students with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities.
This year’s conference focuses on foundational academic skills, featuring expert-led sessions on literacy and numeracy instruction specifically tailored for students with Down syndrome. Our presenters have developed practical, evidence-based approaches that educators can immediately implement in their classrooms and school settings. Join in person or take part virtually!

2025 Au-Some Conference
2025-10-25 10:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto) | Virtual Event
About the event

Au-Some Conference 2025 – Featuring Inspiring Neurodivergent Voices
On October 25, 2025 from 10 AM – 3 PM EST, during Autism Acceptance Month, Autism Canada will host the 9th annual Au-Some Conference – the only Canadian event where every presentation is created and delivered by neurodivergent individuals. This powerful day of learning and connection will be presented virtually via Zoom and accessible on our YouTube channel, offering lived experience–led conversations that educate, empower, and inspire change.
Featured Presenters

Alex Watts – ADHD Speaker & AdvocateAn internationally recognized ADHD speaker, advocate, and creative entrepreneur, Alex blends lived experience, humour, and insight to break down neurodivergence in a relatable way. His energetic approach inspires acceptance, empowerment, and action. (Topic: Pathological Demand Avoidance)

Dani Bowman – Artist & EntrepreneurAn autistic animator, artist, and founder of DaniMation Studios, Dani has taught animation to over 3,000 students and premiered 14 short films at San Diego Comic-Con. She is also a cast member of Love on the Spectrum and a dedicated mentor for young creators. (Topic: Rethinking Autism and Employment in Creative Fields)

Charlotte Bergslien – Autistic & ADHD Content CreatorKnown as “The Spectrum Girl” to her 1.5M+ followers, Charlotte uses her platform to explore dating, friendships, travel, and self-esteem in the neurodivergent community. Her candid, uplifting content champions authenticity and inclusion. (Topic: Autism, Mental Health & the Power of Online Advocacy)

priyana – Singer & SongwriterA South-Asian, autistic, queer folk-indie artist from Toronto, priyana blends music and crochet to create safe, expressive spaces for her audience. Her latest album, Days I’ve Cried This Year, reflects her creative process and lived experience. (Topic: Music as a Space for Lived Experience, Rest, and Creativity)

Andreas Souvaliotis – Social EntrepreneurFounder of Carrot Rewards and Green Rewards, Andreas is a bestselling author and global leader in harnessing behavioural science for social good. He champions innovative approaches to public health, climate change, diversity, and citizenship. (Topic: Entrepreneurship and the Benefits of Being on the Spectrum)

Join us for a day that celebrates autistic voices, amplifies lived experiences, and brings together a nationwide community committed to inclusion and understanding.

Engage at Every Age
2025-10-28 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Toronto) | Virtual Event
Engage at Every Age: When young and old connect, great things happen!
Join us for a free webinar presented by Andrew Fleck Children’s Services. In this session, Andrew Fleck Children’s Services (Ottawa) will be sharing their insights and reflections acquired over the past few years, facilitating intergenerational programming between children ages 0 – 4 and diverse older adult populations in a variety of settings. Participants will have an opportunity to learn from their challenges and successes and ask questions about the early stages of developing an intergenerational program.
Intergenerational programming offers a powerful opportunity to foster meaningful, everyday connections between children and older adults. Both generations benefit from time spent together, enjoying shared interests and forming lasting friendships. Rather than limiting these moments to occasional, planned visits where seniors passively observe, we’re exploring what’s possible when interactions are naturally embedded into daily routines within an early learning and care setting.
Open to anyone developing or considering an intergenerational program with children up to 4 years of age.
Presented By:
Neeka Barnes – Director, Special Projects Andrew Fleck Children’s Services
Neeka Barnes has worked in the early learning and care field for 46 years. She has a diverse background that includes roles as a consultant, life skills coach, and college professor. For the past several years, she has worked as the Director of Special Projects at Andrew Fleck Children’s Services.
José Alejandro Fernandez Cruz – Intergenerational Program Assistant, Andrew Fleck Children’s Services
Jose Alejandro Fernandez Cruz (RECE, Bach. Early Learning and Community Development) is the Intergenerational Program Coordinator with Andrew Fleck Children’s Services. As part of the Engage At Every Age Intergenerational Child Care Project, he conducts research into the best practices of shared-space intergenerational programming and facilitates the involvement of older adults in the program.
Email: jfernandez@afchildrensservices.ca
REGISTER HERE

Advancing Inclusive Education: Global Perspectives
2025-10-28 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Last month, our global inclusion movement came together in person at Inclusion International’s World Congress in Sharjah, UAE — a powerful gathering of advocates and families driving inclusion forward worldwide from over 70 countries.
Join us as we reflect on what we heard in Sharjah and explore the current global landscape of inclusive education — what progress is being made, where challenges remain, and what lessons we can carry forward together.

Rare But Not Alone
2025-11-03 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Join us in this welcoming space for families who care for someone with a rare disorder (diagnosed or not). Rare disorders and conditions affect a small number of people in the country or even the world. Living with a rare disorder or condition can feel invisible and isolating, and sometimes there are seemingly no answers. But it doesn’t have to be scary all of the time—especially if you have others beside you! Join our supportive group and find strength in numbers as we share stories, connect with others who understand, and build upon our supportive networks.
Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) is a provincial not-for-profit society committed to supporting families who have a family member with a disability. FSI is unique in Canada and the only grassroots family to family organization that has a broad volunteer base. FSI SUPPORTS AND SERVICES ARE FREE TO ANY FAMILY FSI is committed to making our events as accessible as possible to everyone who wants to attend. If you have accessibility needs, please let us know when you register, or send us an email to discuss your specific needs. Sign language (ASL) interpretation can be available with 3 weeks notice. Please identify that you require ASL when you register.

SEA: For Adults online workshop
2025-11-03 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
A 90 minute online suicide prevention workshop developed by NEED2 to provide foundational information about suicide that is accessible and relevant to adults; no matter their role in the community.
November 3, 2025 6:30-8pm
Once you’ve registered you will receive the zoom link the day before the workshop.
Register Here.

Supporting The Transition To CLBC
2025-11-03 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Are you a family member supporting an adult with developmental disabilities? This Family Hangout is designed to help you navigate Community Living BC (CLBC) services and supports for adults ages 19+ (or transition-aged youth) with clarity and confidence. Whether your loved one is newly eligible or already receiving support, this group offers practical guidance and emotional reassurance for families walking this path.
This is a welcoming space for families to ask questions, share concerns, and gain the knowledge needed to support your adult family member with dignity and purpose.
The first session begins Monday, November 3, 2025, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm
This Family Hangout will take place every other week, on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month.

REGISTER HERE

What's holding us back? The future of inclusive education in Canada
2025-11-05 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
16th Annual National Policy Forum on Inclusion
This year’s policy forum will be a 3-part virtual series exploring the realities of inclusive education in Canada. The series will bring together self-advocates, family members, educators, and policy experts. Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities says that people with disabilities have a right to an inclusive education at all levels. We will explore what gets in the way of these rights in Canada and highlight examples of how we can overcome these barriers together.
Format: 3-part virtual event via Zoom webinar. The forum will include a series of panels and interactive Question & Answer periods. Panels include perspectives of lived experience from people with an intellectual disability and families, as well as research and policy expertise from community organizations and educators.
Your ticket gives you access to all 3 sessions

Wednesday, November 5, 2025, 7pm-8:30pm Eastern
Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 7pm-8:30pm Eastern
Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 7pm-8:30pm Eastern

A recording of the event will be provided to everyone who registers.
The forum will be held in English. Simultaneous French interpretation and English and French CART will be provided.
Important: ASL and LSQ will be available upon request. Please identify that you require ASL or LSQ when you register, and no later than October 28, 2025. ASL and LSQ interpreters are in high demand. It’s important to us that community members have access to interpreters in their daily lives for things like medical appointments, education, and legal processes. Understanding that access to interpretation is a valuable and limited resource, we will book interpretation only when a need for them is identified.
To help us provide an accessible event, please indicate your accommodation needs when you register.
For questions about this event, please contact: forum@inclusioncanada.ca
