Independent Living Vernon

02/11/2026

Investment will expand services throughout B.C., provide additional direct funding to families

02/11/2026

Breaking: MCFD Announces Individualized Funding for Children and Youth with Down Syndrome

Today, the Province of British Columbia’s Ministry of Children and Family Development announced sweeping changes to the provincial system for providing essential supports to children and youth with developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome.

It is a transformational development that will positively impact all Down syndrome families in BC, and DSRF as an organization.

Read the exciting news: https://bit.ly/3MoA5Dh

02/10/2026

YOU Group today at the People Place 3:00-5:00. Topic: Relationship Boundaries.

02/10/2026

Please check out the latest ILV e-newsletter.

02/05/2026

In partnership with the Family Support Institute BC, AutismBC is sharing an open letter calling for more neuroaffirming, trauma informed media representation of people experiencing mental health distress. This letter comes in response to news coverage of a Port Coquitlam resident in the care of Community Living BC (CLBC) experiencing mental health distress last week on their residential property.

"We are concerned that public commentary may unintentionally reinforce misunderstanding about disability and community-based supports. When language or framing around people with disabilities focuses on behaviour rather than context, rights, and systems responsibility, the messaging can unintentionally escalate fear and undermine inclusion," the letter reads.

It is addressed to the Mayor, City of Port Coquitlam, BC Human Rights Commissioner, CLBC, news outlets, and the Provincial Accessibility Committee (PAC), asking them to "pause, reflect, and reframe public conversations in ways that support dignity, safety, and community belonging.

Read the letter: https://www.autismbc.ca/blog/news/responsible-public-communication-about-disability-distress-and-community-supports/

02/04/2026

🌍 World Cancer Day – February 4 🎗️
Today, we stand together to honor those who are fighting cancer, remember those we’ve lost, and support the families and caregivers walking this journey every day.

At Independent Living Vernon, we believe in the power of community, compassion, and inclusion. No one should face cancer alone — and today is a reminder to lead with empathy, check in on one another, and continue advocating for awareness, support, and hope.

💙 Together, we are stronger.
🎗️ Together, we care.

02/04/2026

YOU Group had a great time at the non-profit business Pup-n-cup (Diversity Den)!!!! Where a few of them volunteer, one is a CEO and two sell their merchandise and others share their Art Work. What an absolutely wonderful business to have in the community! It can be found at 2101 43rd St.

02/03/2026

YOU Group dinner club today @ Pup-n-cup (Diversity Den) 3:00-5:00!!!

02/02/2026

Yes. Our staff and volunteers are capable and empowered. We can help you with your empowerment with our access to many resources.

Hussein Disability & Inclusion Specialist Shares
What communities think vs. what is true about disability
Disability is still too often seen through pity, fear, or low expectations.
But the reality is this: people with disabilities are capable, skilled, and active contributors to society when barriers are removed.
Inclusion is not charity.
It is a right.
When we design for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and uphold the UNCRPD, we shift the problem from people to systems.
The issue is not disability; the issue is inaccessibility.
Let’s move from stereotypes to rights.
From exclusion to participation.
From “helping” to including.
Nothing about us, without us.


Illustration of Community Perception How People Think /Helpless and Dependent vs The Reality How it really Is/ Capable and Empowered

02/02/2026

02/02/2026

OpenDyslexic is a new open source font designed to aid readers with dyslexia! Check out the link below for more info on how the font works and to download it, free of charge!

https://opendyslexic.org/about #

02/02/2026

🖤 Black History Month – Canada 🖤
Black History Month is a time to recognize and learn about the important contributions Black Canadians have made — and continue to make — to our communities, culture, and history.

In Canada, Black history dates back over 400 years. From early settlers and community leaders to artists, activists, healthcare workers, and advocates, Black Canadians have helped shape our country in meaningful ways. This month is also an opportunity to reflect on the challenges Black communities have faced and the ongoing work toward equity and inclusion.

At Independent Living Vernon, we are committed to learning, listening, and building a community where everyone feels respected, supported, and valued.