Celebrating Okanagan Inclusion: A Welcome from Inclusion BC

Inclusion BC is delighted to welcome Okanagan Inclusion as a new member of our federation. With a shared commitment to fostering equity, accessibility, and belonging, this partnership represents a powerful opportunity to amplify the voices and needs of people with developmental disabilities across British Columbia.

Okanagan Inclusion was founded in 2013 to address the growing need for personalized, person-centered services in the South Okanagan. Since then, they have flourished, offering a range of programs including supported employment, shared living arrangements, respite services, and community inclusion initiatives. Their efforts align perfectly with our shared vision of an inclusive province where everyone has the freedom to thrive.

A standout feature of Okanagan Inclusion’s work is their dedication to inclusive employment. Their employment services guide people to pursue employment as a means to full inclusion in community. At the same time, the program also addresses employers’ growing demand for qualified, reliable employees by providing creative employment solutions, candidate screening, and one-to-one support through the hiring and training process. Through personalized support, Okanagan Inclusion empowers people to achieve financial independence while showcasing the immense value of an inclusive workforce. Their model not only benefits participants but also helps shift community attitudes toward greater acceptance and understanding.

Community-building remains at the heart of Okanagan Inclusion’s approach. Their programs bring people together through social activities, shared learning experiences, and advocacy efforts, reducing stigma and nurturing understanding. This sense of community not only enriches participants’ lives but also strengthens the broader social fabric of the Okanagan region.

At Inclusion BC, we see this partnership as a significant step forward in advancing our collective mission. Okanagan Inclusion’s expertise and grassroots connections enhance our capacity to address systemic barriers and advocate for meaningful policy changes. We are equally eager to support their initiatives with provincial-level resources and advocacy, ensuring that their local impact resonates across British Columbia.

This collaboration underscores the importance of collective action in building a truly inclusive society. Each organization within our federation contributes unique strengths, and together, we create a powerful force for change. Okanagan Inclusion’s history of service, innovation, and advocacy will undoubtedly inspire our work and deepen our shared commitment to leaving no one behind.

As we celebrate this new chapter, we extend our heartfelt welcome to Okanagan Inclusion. Their contributions have already made a profound difference in the lives of many, and we are excited to join forces in creating a brighter, more inclusive future.

Welcome, Okanagan Inclusion, to the Inclusion BC family. Together, we are stronger.