On Sept. 28, Mayor Ed Mayne proclaimed October as Community Inclusion Month in Parksville.
Community Inclusion Month is a celebration of individuals with developmental disabilities. Though celebrated daily at Inclusion Parksville Society (IPS), it is fantastic to have October proclaimed as Community Inclusion Month by the province of British Columbia, and the mayor of Parksville.
IPS is a not-for-profit charitable society established in 1959 by parents of children with developmental disabilities. Since its establishment, IPS has progressively increased service provision and currently provide services to participants in five unique, person-centered programs: Discovery Program, Oceanside Day Program, Thrive, Personalized Support Initiatives and IPS Employment Services Program. IPS programs place emphasis on life skills, educational and topical discussion, employment skills, recreation and inclusion in the community.
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Inclusion is a necessity for communities that want to ensure the involvement of individuals with diverse abilities within society. As an organization, IPS encourages active inclusion in the community to break down barriers of marginalization. Through programs, participants enjoy meaningful volunteer placements, roles in employment by local businesses, and purposeful participation in group activities in the community.
Harbouring close connections with participant’s parents, family members and caregivers is essential to service delivery. It is also vital to recognize the fantastic contributions of our wonderful staff team, who continually succeed in making IPS a fantastic place for our participants.
Thank you, Parksville, for being an inclusive community.
If anyone believes they, or someone they know, would benefit from IPS services and programs, please contact Community Living British Columbia (CLBC) directly on their toll free number 1-877-334-1370.
— Submitted by Dawn McKee, acting executive director and Helena Hickman, program manager, IPS