Osanis Inclusion Services Inc.

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 (America/Vancouver) | 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
2024-12-03 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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

Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
2024-12-03 - 2024-12-04 | Need2 Office, 2390 Arbutus Road, Victoria, BC, V8N 1V7, Canada
We are now registering for our upcoming ASIST workshop taking place on December 3/4, 2024.

ASIST is a two day workshop that provides suicide first aid training to participants. This training provides participants the competencies needed to prevent suicide by recognizing signs, providing a skilled intervention, and developing a safety plan to keep someone alive.
You do not need to work in the health or mental health field to take ASIST. We need people in all roles in the community to be ASIST trained to create a suicide-safer community!

The cost of the workshop is $325. Student rate is available upon request.

The workshop will take place at the NEED2 office.
Lunch, coffee/tea and snacks will be provided
To register or for more information email communityeducation@need2.c

Esquimalt Celebration of Lights
2024-12-01 15:00 - 19:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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.

42nd Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade
2024-11-30 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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!

Teens In Control
2024-11-28 16:00 - 17:30, 2024-11-21 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Vancouver) | Esquimalt Neighbourhood House Society, 511 Constance Avenue, Victoria, BC, Canada
This workshop is for youth ages 13 – 18 years old who have a family member or friend with a mental illness or substance use disorder. Each session gives youth the opportunity to connect with peers who share similar experiences while learning about mental illness, self-care techniques, and skills for communicating with a loved one with mental illness.

Dates: Thursday, November 21 & 2024
Thursday, November 28, 2024
Time: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Esquimalt Neighbourhood House Society

RVSP: Mary Beth Hall: manager@bcssyouth.org | 236-335-0917

Drop-in Floor Hockey for Individuals with Diverse Abilities (18yrs+)
2024-11-27 13:00 - 14:30, 2024-11-20 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Vancouver) | 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

CSSHSA First Aid Webinar
2024-11-26 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Join us for an informative webinar on November 26th at 10 AM as we cover essential topics such as understanding your workplace’s first aid needs, new first aid requirements effective November 1, 2024, developing and maintaining first aid procedures, and more. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to stay up-to-date and ensure your workplace is prepared for any emergency. Register today!

Esquimalt Farmers Market
2024-11-24 11:00 - 17:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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

Creative Wellness for Caregivers
2024-11-23 13:00 - 16:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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.

SASS Monthly Caregiver Support Meeting
2024-11-21 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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!

Accessible Workplaces: Supporting People with Disabilities: In-Person & Online
2024-11-21 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Vancouver) | BC
This key note will provide everyone with a better understanding of how to communicate, support and work with people with various types of disabilities.
Marco will share some of his personal lived experiences as a person with a disability in the workforce and include specific tips on how to navigate some of the barriers that have been experienced by staff and the community both in-person and online.
Topics Covered:

Understanding Disability – General language, definitions and the use of Person First Language

Breaking Down Attitudinal Barriers – My first job and the importance of innovation

Overcoming Physical and Virtual Barriers – How simple changes can make all the difference

Communicating with Confidence – Tips on language and interacting with people with disabilities

Creating Authentic Connections – Getting to know your team and community members in a meaningful and authentic way

What you can do to support inclusion – As managers and team members

Q & A Period – Time Answer Your Questions

Date: November 21st, 2024
Time: 10:00AM – 11:30 AM (PST)
Location: Virtual session via Zoom
*Once registered the link to the session will be sent out the day prior to the event.
Registration closes two days before the event at 4:00 PM. To ensure your participation, please register before this deadline.
To Register:
Visit our website at www.homesharingbc.ca, under the “Events” tab from the main menu, and click on the session link to sign up.
WHO IS MARCO?
Marco Pasqua is an award-winning Entrepreneur, Accessibility Consultant and Inspirational Speaker. After graduating from the Art Institute of Vancouver, he spent 5 years in the video game industry. During the recession of 2010, he lost his job, which turned out to be the biggest blessing in disguise. Marco decided it was time to use his voice to make a positive impact on the world, so he built his own brand as a professional speaker and entrepreneur. As an entrepreneur, he has remained focused on social impact, keeping a philanthropic approach to the work that he does. Some of his most memorable talks include TEDxStanleyPark, The United Way as an impact speaker and The Duke of Edinburgh Awards. Throughout his life, Marco has also been involved with a number of organizations as a spokesperson, helping to spread advocacy for persons with disabilities across Canada.
As an Accessibility and Inclusion Consultant, he has worked with some of BC’s biggest change-driven business leaders who are champions for more accessible, inclusive workplaces. It’s through these experiences that he is helping to pave the way for all Canadians to have universal access to the programs, services and places that they live, work and play.

Examining BC's Response to Sexual Assault
2024-11-19 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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.

Behaviour Interventionist Basic Training Workshop
2024-11-16 09:30 - 2024-11-17 16:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
This interactive, online foundational workshop will teach you the basics of ABA and behaviour intervention. You will leave the course with practical tools you can use in the classroom or home environment. Past attendees have included parents, community group leaders, students, educators, classroom assistants, and other individuals who work with or support children on the spectrum.
Topics include:
Day 1

Introduction to ABA
Core elements of Discrete Trial Training
Functions of behaviour
Reinforcement techniques
Prompting and prompt-fading strategies
Challenging behaviour
Ethics
Data collection

Day 2

Motivating operations
Preference assessments
Token economies
Language Strategies
Maintenance and generalization of learned skills

November 16th, 9:30 – 4:30 Saturday AND Sunday
Upon completion of this two-day course, you will be sent a certificate to confirm your attendance.
Cost: $125 (plus fees) per attendee.

Concert for Hope. Help. Home. with Ria Mae
2024-11-15 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver) | Royal & McPherson, 805 Broughton Str., Victoria, BC, V8W 1E5, Canada
Friday, November 15th at the Royal McPherson Playhouse.
Get your tickets here: https://www.rmts.bc.ca/production-detail-pages/2024-mcpherson-playhouse/ria-mae/
Since the June 2016 release of Mae’s full length, self-titled debut album, the three-time JUNO nominee has toured Europe with Tegan & Sara, North America with Dido, and Canada with Scott Helman and many other incredible musicians. She has performed with k.d. lang, Melissa Etheridge, Elle King, Xavier Rudd, Shawn Hook, Family of the Year, Francesco Yates, Coleman Hell and more. She has performed at various PRIDE festivals and events in Halifax, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, and Montreal.
About Community Living Victoria
Community Living Victoria has been dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, their families, and the community for an impressive 69 years. Since its establishment on December 16, 1955, by a group of committed parents, Community Living Victoria has grown to become the largest not-for-profit community living service provider on Vancouver Island.
At Community Living Victoria, the primary focus is on promoting full citizenship and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The organization offers a wide range of support services to children, youth, and adults with intellectual disabilities, as well as their families.
The core values of Community Living Victoria revolve around the principles of community living. These principles include respecting the uniqueness, dignity, and worth of each individual. The organization recognizes the importance of self determination, personal happiness, and satisfaction for every person they support. They strive to create a meaningful life for individuals where their gifts and contributions are valued.
Community Living Victoria firmly believes that quality of life matters for everyone they serve. Our services are designed to empower individuals and provide them with access to a full range of life choices. By upholding these principles and values, Community Living Victoria continues to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their communities.

Stand up for Mental Health
2024-11-14 19:00 - 21:30 (America/Vancouver) | 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/

Drop-in Floor Hockey for Individuals with Diverse Abilities (18yrs+)
2024-11-13 14:30 - 16:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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

15th Annual Federal Policy Forum on Inclusion
2024-11-13 09:00 - 2024-11-14 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | BC
Hosted by Inclusion Canada & People First of Canada in collaboration with the Office for Disability Issues.
Virtual Event via Zoom Webinar
Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 12pm-3:30pm EasternThursday, November 14, 2024, 12pm-3:45pm Eastern
This year’s policy forum will focus on accessible and affordable housing. On Day 1, we will look at the current state of housing in Canada for people with an intellectual disability. We’ll discuss the barriers that prevent the creation of true inclusive housing. On Day 2, we’ll look at innovative housing solutions that promote real inclusion and talk about the steps we need to take individually and collectively to make this a reality.
Format: 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 both government and community. A recording of the event will be provided to everyone who registers.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/15th-annual-federal-policy-forum-on-inclusion-registration-876828847687?aff=oddtdtcreator

Creative Options For Home
2024-11-12 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | BC
Creating and exploring options for home is perhaps one of the more difficult aspects of future planning for people with a disability. Many families have found creative and innovative ways to support their loved one in having a home of their own and one of their own choosing. Learn how families have implemented creative housing solutions.

This webcast will include:

An overview of the steps needed to develop a creative, individualized housing plan.
Personal stories from families who have implemented creative housing solutions.
An overview of the Developmental Services Ontario’s housing toolkits and housing navigators.

This webcast includes a Q&A with our panelists. The webcast will be recorded and remain available to watch for one month after the air date.

Register Here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/5rwyk3e
About the Speaker:

Kelly Casey, Facilitator, KC Professional Solutions

With over 30 years of experience in the area of Developmental Services, Kelly is looking to continue supporting agencies and families through the Transformation of services in their communities. The combination of her experience in community development and her formal education in business and social services have provided her with the skills to assist agencies in revising their service delivery models to support the changing needs of their consumers.
In addition, Kelly’s extensive clinical knowledge in developmental services, dual diagnosis and autism have provided her with the skills to support individuals and families in the development and implementation of their person directed plans and individualized residential models.

Craft Workshop
2024-11-12 16:30 - 18:30 (America/Vancouver) | 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

Parents Together Program
2024-11-12 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Vancouver) | 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/

DBT Skills Groups for Adolescents & Caregivers
2024-11-01 - 2024-11-15 | TBD
DBT for Adolescents & Caregivers
We will be offering a Multi-Family DBT Skills Training Group starting in January 2025 located in Victoria, BC. Intakes open on November 1, 2024, and the screening form will be available on that day below.
What: 26-week Multi-Family DBT Skills Training Group
When: January -July 2025
Where: In-person in Victoria, BC (location TBD)
Who: Adolescents aged 13-17 who are residents of the CRD and struggle with BPD symptoms or emotion dysregulation, with the strongly recommended option for two caregivers to attend.
Cost: Free
Intake Date: November 1, 2024. The screening form for clients is now open until November 15, 2024, or until full.
Screening is now open: https://bit.ly/DBTforYouth
Intake Process: Please read carefully.

Complete Screening Form

The screening form will be available on our website when intakes open on November 1, 2024, and will close two weeks later.

The form will assess eligibility based on the following criteria:
a) The adolescent and caregiver must be residents of the CRD for the entire duration of the program.
b) The adolescent is experiencing clinically significant symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) or severe emotion dysregulation, although no formal diagnosis is required.
c) The adolescent must be under the care of a registered therapist for the entire duration of the program.
One-Hour Zoom or Phone Assessment

If eligible, you will receive an informed consent form via email for completion.

You will then be scheduled for a one-hour Zoom or phone appointment to review the consent form and an assessment to ensure the program aligns with your goals.

Due to limited space, not all applicants will be accepted into the group. You will be notified of your status within one month of completing the screening form.

Please note: We do not maintain a waitlist for the DBT Skills Training Groups.

Annual Halloween Dance by EMBRACE
2024-10-26 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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

Embracing Success: Educating Students with Down Syndrome (Conference)
2024-10-25 08:00 - 16:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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!

Embracing Success: Educating Students with Down Syndrome
2024-10-25 08:00 - 16:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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!

FREE Parenting Workshops
2024-10-21 18:00 - 2024-11-18 19:30 (America/Vancouver) | 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.
​
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.
​
Communication Skills & Managing Conflict – Nov 4, 6 – 7:30 pm
Nonviolent communication and other helpful communication strategies, de-escalating conflict, creating and sustaining connection.
​
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.

2024 Provincial Election
2024-10-19 | BC
The 2024 BC election has been called. Final Voting Day is October 19, 2024.
You can vote if you are:

a Canadian citizen,
18 or older on October 19, 2024, and
a resident of B.C. since April 18, 2024.

There are lots of ways to vote from now until Final Voting Day on October 19. Eligible voters can vote:

at any district electoral office during office hours
by mail
at advance voting from October 10-13, and October 15-16, or
on Final Voting Day, Saturday, October 19, 2024.

Find more details on our Ways to Vote page.
Where to vote
Check out our Where to Vote app to find voting places near you. The Where to Vote app shows district electoral offices, advance voting places, and voting places for Final Voting Day on October 19.

Where to Vote Application

New voting processes
New voting processes are being used to administer this election. This includes using networked laptops instead of paper lists to look up voters and cross them off the voters list. This helps us serve voters faster.
Electronic tabulators will be used to count paper ballots. Tabulators are accurate, secure and efficient. They help us report results quickly on election night.
Learn more about how we’re modernizing the voting process to serve voters better.
Voter’s Guide
We’re sending a voter’s guide to every household in B.C. to help voters vote. Look for yours in the mail, or read the digital version here. The guide is also available in non-English languages on our Translated Materials page.
Register to vote
Get ready to vote by registering or updating your information today. Online and phone registration closes at midnight on October 7. After October 7, you can still register in person when you go to vote, but voting might take a bit longer.
Registered voters will get a Where to Vote card from Elections BC. Bring it with you when vote to help make voting faster and easier.

The Rise of Ziggy Stardust - Becoming a Service Dog Team
2024-10-17 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual Event
Dr. Jennifer M. Gagnon (she/her/hers) (PhD, Political Science, University of Minnesota, BA, University of British Columbia) is a Lecturer in the School of Journalism, Writing, and Media at the University of British Columbia (UBC). She is the creator and chair of UBC’s Disability Affinity Group for disabled faculty and staff which works towards the goals of community care and Disability Justice. She is a recipient of the 2021 Killam Teaching Prize at UBC which recognizes excellence in teaching innovation. Dr. Gagnon identifies as a bisexual settler and disabled woman and strives to bring her whole self to her teaching and research.

Description of event: Join Dr. Jennifer M. Gagnon, an advocate for service dog awareness, as she shares her journey and insights into service dog handling.

To register, please click here.

Registration closes two days before the event at 4:00 PM. To ensure your participation, please register before this deadline.
