2011 2012 ANNUAL REPORT

MISSION STATEMENT
supporting abilities, promoting action and advancing rights, responsibilities and social justice.
We are a federation working with partners to build community and to enhance the lives of children and youth with special needs, adults with developmental disabilities and their families by

Message from the President and Executive Director

This past years legacy is one of unprecedented public dialogue that resulted in real social change. It is marked by the leadership of a unified federation of individuals with developmental disabilities, families and the community agencies that serve and support them. Rarely have we seen this kind of broad, sustained and engaged discourse on developmental disability and human rights in British Colombia. The power of our individual stories and the collective voices of committed people transformed the province in an unparalleled public conversation about the rights of people with developmental disabilities. BCACL was at the centre of this conversation, calling for an end to cuts and for a short and long term plan to address growing waitlists. Throughout, we insisted that families and individuals with developmental disabilities be at the center of the decisions that impact their lives. We can be proud of the incredibly difficult work we did and will continue to do, profiling the many barriers faced by people with developmental disabilities as they take their rightful place as full citizens in communities across B.C. Amidst this extensive advocacy campaign, BCACL also delivered powerful training and community development workshops. With the support of our member agencies, we hosted The Road to Inclusion; One Conversation at a Time, where we met with over 350 people and talked about their hopes and dreams for a full life in the community. The guidance, direction and community links formed the foundation and leverage we needed for our advocacy and strategic planning. We coordinated a provincial tour with Dave Hingsburger, renowned expert and long-time advocate for people with developmental disabilities. Peter Blocks workshop taught us ways to lead by convening community. At the Understanding Home and Shared Living Roundtable we brought service providers together from across the province to share and exchange knowledge, experiences and concerns around the shift to new residential models with the view to develop shared agendas for moving forward. The Searching for Home national forum inspired new directions and vision as we explored how we support real homes in the community for people the developmental disabilities. As part of organizational transformation we continued our member engagement work, stewarding in a new, modern constitution and bylaws reflecting the changing face of community living in BC, opening up membership to all those organizations who serve people with developmental disabilities. A new strategic vision was developed through an open and transparent process that canvassed member agencies, families and people with developmental disabilities. The BCACL Foundation spearheaded new events and campaigns that you will learn more about later in this annual report. BCACL continues to be led by a committed Board of Directors, guiding, challenging and inspiring us towards a vision of full citizenship. Along with the support of a skilled and dedicated staff, we have much to be proud of in a year that called us to stand together in the face of immense challenges and opportunities and grow our movement, one conversation at a time.

Annette Delaplace, President

Faith Bodnar, Executive Director

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Supporting Abilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Promoting Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Advancing rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Strategic Planning & Membership Engagement . . . 14 Report from Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Financial Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Thank You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
2011 2012 Annual Report 2

SUPPORTING ABILITIES
As BCACL advocates for the rights and opportunities of people with developmental disabilities and their families, we know that the ability to break down barriers and make change exists within each individual, each family and each community. Our job is to create the space for abilities to shine and lead the charge towards a world where everyone belongs. We do this by supporting groups, member organizations and individuals who are leading change in community or who show an interest in becoming active in our movement.

Scholarships Making an Impact

What really inspired us was the chance to hear from international speakers on disabilities and what they were doing in their communities, states and countries and the opportunities that exist for my son to attend post-secondary for a semester abroad. Pacific Rim International Conference on Disabilities attendee It is nice to see how [self advocates] have overcome so much and they know what needs to be done. I know I will keep learning. I hope we dont forget that we need to hear their stories, good or bad. We need to continue celebrating the little and the BIG things in our lives. Shelley DeCoste, self advocate who attended the No More Barriers video launch. This conference allowed for sharing, networking, and future planning in the area of supported employment. This information will be shared with teachers in our district who support students with special needs and at various parent groups at transition meetings and on a one to one basis. Educator who attended the CASE conference

Scholarships
BCACL provides scholarships for people with developmental disabilities, family members and community members to attend events that help build personal and professional development. This past year BCACL provided over fifty scholarships to people with developmental disabilities, family members and professionals to attend training and community development events. A few of those events included: Edenvale self advocacy retreat in Abbotsford 7 self advocates Canadian Inclusive Lives Learning Initiative with the Centre for Inclusion and Citizenship at UBC 9 self advocates, 3 family members Community Development workshop with Peter Block hosted by BCACL 4 family members, 2 students, 3 community members, 10 professionals Searching for Home national forum on home options for people with developmental disabilities 8 family members, 3 professionals Canadian Association for Supported Employment conference 2 educators Communication: Whos Listening? Workshop with Dave Hingsburger hosted by BCACL 2 self advocates, 3 family members National Down Syndrome conference in Vancouver family of 4 Pacific Rim International Conference on Disabilities in Hawaii 2 self advocates No More Barriers BC Self Advocacy Foundation video launch 2 self advocates

SUPPORTING ABILITIES

Ripple Effect Family Retreat

BCACL is committed to fostering leadership among families in communities around B.C., which is why every year we go on the road with The Ripple Effect family retreat. In October 2011, BCACL hosted eight family members for an inspiring weekend on the waters of Kootenay Lake at Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort. The group explored the history of B.C.s community living movement, advocacy skills and tools, leadership skills, and ways to transform communities. Participants said that the experience and the learning was awesome, and commented on the value of having a couple days away from life. BCACL hosted a reunion retreat in March 2012, where we discussed the impact of our work in October and what families have been doing since, while continuing to share information and tools for effective leadership and advocacy. Robert Goertz and Tracy Lloyd attended their first Ripple Effect retreat in October, 2011. The family is involved in the Sotos Syndrome Support Association of Canada and this year is responsible for seeking out and developing workshops for the North American Sotos conference, held in Vancouver. They credit ideas presented at the Ripple Effect around asset mapping, community engagement and networking for giving them the tools and confidence they needed to reach out and develop conference sessions for families supporting a child with Sotos Syndrome. This was the seventh time BCACL has hosted The Ripple Effect retreat, which has now reached 68 family members.

The BC Self Advocacy Caucus

Back: Mandy Wold, Ruth Stanton, Michael McLellan, Shelley DeCoste, Tanya Norman (support), Sky Hendsbee Front: Colleen Mosimann, Jason Tibayan, Robbin Richardsen, Lynn McCormack, Lynetta Beingessner, Nikita Williams, David Wegenast Missing from photo: Shawn Palmer, Liam Wuthrich

The BC Self Advocacy Caucus is made up of 14 self advocates from across B.C. who are elected every year at the BCACL Annual General Meeting by their peers. BCACL and the BC Self Advocacy Foundation support the Caucus to meet three times a year to talk about issues that are important to self advocates in B.C. The Caucus makes recommendations to the BCACL Board of Directors and staff. This year the Caucus identified three barriers for self advocates: Affordable housing Innadequate PWD benefits Insufficient medical and dental coverage Individual members continue discussions in their home communities with their self advocacy groups, lobbying for change in their home communities and bringing feedback to the Caucus. Ripple Effect 2011 Participants
Back: Steve Campen, Lisa Hammond, Allison Ferraro, Malerie Meeker, Tracy Lloyd, Annette Delaplace Front: Sylvia Kalmakoff, Cara Campen, Laney Bryenton, Betty Hohn, Holly St. Pierre, Jeremy Vis

2011 2012 Annual Report

SUPPORTING ABILITIES

MY TIME ON THE BC SELF ADVOCACY CAUCUS

Colleen Mosimann from Cranbrook talks about how her time on the Caucus has motivated her to make change in her home community.

Colleen Mosimann is a self advocate from Cranbrook who just finished a four-year term on the BC Self Advocacy Caucus. She returned to the Caucus in 2008 after serving from 2000 to 2004. Before Colleen joined the Caucus for the first time, she wanted to check it out and see if it was something she was interested in. When she attended the meeting as a guest, she found herself disagreeing with something one of the members said. She spoke up and expressed her opinion. That day she learned that speaking her mind would make her a valuable Caucus member and was encouraged by the group to join. The Caucus got me talking a lot more, says Colleen. Colleen feels well supported in her life and has the help she needs, when she needs it. Her time on the Caucus has shown her many self advocates across B.C. dont have enough support and struggle to have their basic rights realized. Learning this has motivated her to make change in her own community and mobilize self advocacy groups from across the Kootenays. Thanks in part to Colleens hard work, regional meetings are now held every two months, bringing together self advocates from Kimberly, Cranbrook and Creston. Local Cranbook
5 British Columbia Association for Community Living

self advocacy meetings are held monthly. Being on the Caucus has inspired me to do more for others. I am now involved in the community and tell people whats happening in the Caucus. I am trying to get youth involved in Cranbrook but its hard. When asked what self advocacy issue is closest to her heart, Colleen doesnt hesitate: IQ eligibility. It doesnt make sense, she says. If people need support, they should get it. Just because someone has a higher IQ doesnt mean they dont need support. But IQ eligibility stops people from getting it. I keep thinking, how am I going to change that rule? I keep asking people what we should do, I bring it up in meetings. This needs to change. Affordable housing is also important to Colleen. People have trouble accessing housing because its too expensive and they cant get support. Ive also talked to people who have landlords who dont want to fix things. Right now Colleen is encouraging self advocates in Cranbrook to run for Caucus, filling her vacant seat. Colleen may be leaving the Caucus but in no way does she consider her work done. There is still lots to do, she says.

PROMOTING ACTION
Individual Advocacy
BCACL provides advocacy support to individuals and families who need our help. Most people who get in touch with us are family members supporting a person with a developmental disability. People find us through Internet searches, referrals from government staff or from one of our member agencies. Frequently we hear, You helped my friend, and they told me I should call you. This past year BCACL assisted over 200 individuals, in most cases to receive the community, residential or educational supports they needed but had been denied. BCACL Advocates listen to advance the rights and interests of the person with a developmental disability involved. We support people to take steps to resolve whatever situation, barrier or conflict they are facing. In 2011 we created a fact sheet for families, outlining the steps to take when they have been declined support or if they have a complaint about the support they are receiving. We also held workshops facilitating families to learn how to advocate for themselves to receive the support they need. Sometimes circumstances demand BCACL advocate directly on someones behalf. This could involve attending a meeting with someone and ensuring their voice is heard, writing a letter to decision makers or working with partners to ensure that the rights of people with developmental disabilities are being respected at all times. Our individual advocacy work informs and inspires our systemic advocacy work and provides an important call to action for systemic change.

Systems Advocacy
Since Community Living BC (CLBC) was created in 2005, BCACL has been working to ensure the Crown agency meets the needs of people with developmental disabilities and their families. To do this we work collaboratively with CLBC on community development projects, policy development and other work that furthers the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in B.C. We also work to ensure that CLBC has the funding it needs to fulfill its mandate. When, in 2009, CLBC embarked on a service redesign initiative to balance its budget (a Crown Corporation cannot run a deficit budget), BCACL began to hear from families and individuals whose services and funding from Community Living BC were being reduced or cut altogether. Many were being forced to move from their homes without their input or consultation and against their wishes. BCACL responded, writing to the CEO of CLBC in April, 2011 and met with the new Minister of Social Development Harry Bloy, demonstrating how service redesign was impacting the lives of self advocates and families and stressed that it must be stopped immediately, followed by an increase in funding to address the growing waitlists. BCACL continued working hard towards this goal throughout the year. Our voice - together with the voices of self advocates, their families and friends, our members and community partners, was finally heard when the provincial government promised real change to CLBC and invested $40 million of new funding.

2011
March
CACL meets B with families and individuals across the province as part of our Road to Inclusion tour. We hear about youth transitioning out of high school with no supports available and from families who are having their services reduced or cut. CACL plans a B campaign to bring forward stories of families and individuals who are not receiving the supports they need.

BCACL ADVOC
June
TVs Investigators C confront the Premier about families who are not receiving supports and services. The Premier promises to follow up on cases such as these and ensure they receive the supports they need. CACL sends out a B call urging families who are not receiving the supports they need to email the Premier immediately and ask that she intervene on their behalf. imes Colonist T reports on provincial governments refusal to cover rising costs faced by service providers. CACL writes a B letter to the Premier asking for her urgent attention to the CLBC funding crisis. he BCACL T Federation votes at its annual general meeting to publicly highlight and address the issues resulting from Service Redesign, including inconsistent, oppressive and arbitrary practice, the inappropriate use of the Guide to Support Allocation, growing waitlists, lack of transparency and choice, and cuts to services that are budget driven and which are placing people in danger.

May
CACL continues to B hear from families who want to make their stories public and who also need advocacy support from BCACL. CACL sends out call B to action, telling our stakeholders what we have been hearing from families and how people can help get the message out. LBCs funding C crisis brought up multiple times in the Legislature as Opposition MLAs question the Minister about CLBCs inability to fund plans for youth with developmental disabilities transitioning out of high school. imes Colonist reveals T a drop in funding per individual every year since CLBC was created. he Canadian Press T runs its series on the state of community living in Canada. The leading story is based in B.C., featuring a family in Burnaby.

August

October

he BC T CACL writes to the Minister of Social B Community Development calling for an external Living Action review of Community Living BC (CLBC) Group issues a and an immediate moratorium on service press release redesign. calling for a he CLBC Board of Directors issues a T 70 M budget statement announcing that the CEO of lift to stem CLBC would be stepping down. community he Minister of Social Development T living crisis, announces a client support team to halt growing assist individuals and families concerned safety risks & about services provided by CLBC. BCACL restore public expresses concern that the approach confidence. is an ad-hoc piece-meal solution to a serious problem. We continue our call for an increase in funding.

September
he provincial government announces an investment of $8.9 T million to CLBC. BCACL responds to the increase, showing our appreciation but also our concern that it doesnt come close to addressing the needs of people with developmental disabilities and their families. CACL presents to the Select Standing Committee on B Finance, showing the need for an immediate financial investment into Community Living BC. The presentation, along with many others by our community partners, results in a recommendation by the committee for an increase in funding to CLBCs budget. he Times Colonist reports that the Minister of Social T Development Harry Bloy has instructed Community Living BC to make their waitlist statistics public by October 3, 2011. remier Christy Clark shuffles her Cabinet, announcing a P new Minister of Social Development, Stephanie Cadieux. BCACL requests an urgent meeting with the Minister. Deputy Ministers working group is created by the Premier A to review CLBC and to make recommendations to improve the way in which adults with developmental disabilities and their families are supported and served in British Columbia. he Ministry of Finance launches an internal review to T investigate CLBCs budget management. The auditors review CLBCs caseload, Request for Service List, operating costs, cost pressures and other areas.

April
CACL brings the B concerns of families to the new Minister of Social Development, Harry Bloy. We stress the need for urgent action on problems surrounding Community Living BC. CACL writes to B CLBC CEO Rick Mowles, expressing our concerns and asking for accurate waitlist numbers. he Community T Living Action Group (of which BCACL is a member) holds a press conference to release a collaborative report on the crisis in community living. CACL hears from B members about the effects of service redesign and CLBC funding deficiencies at an Executive Directors network meeting.

British Columbia Association for Community Living

ACY 2012
November January
CACL Executive Director B nternal review results in I Faith Bodnar writes an announcement by the opinion editorial piece provincial government published in newspapers of a 12-point plan across B.C. The letter brings and $40 million to attention to the important strengthen supports role of families in driving for British Columbians change and bringing the with developmental community living crisis to disabilities. public attention. CACL commends the B CACL issues a press B provincial government release in response to the for the plan and the Ministers comments that new funding as a the community living crisis positive first step, is not maybe as large signaling willingness as some would like us to by the Premier and believe because the client Minister of Social support team had only Development to listen received 63 complaints. and work diligently BCACL continues calling towards understanding for a financial investment and acting on this and systemic change. issue. BCACL urges t the request of A Government to act the Minister of Social quickly to come up Development, Community with accurate waitlist Living BC issues an interim numbers. report conceding to isolated cases of failure March on the part of CLBC. CACL surveys families B The Minister responds to and individuals to find the report, showing an out if the new funding understanding of the issues is making a positive but no recommendations impact on their lives. for systemic change. Three months after the BCACL continues calling investment, we start for a financial investment hearing from more and systemic change. families who are not getting the supports they need.

PROMOTING ACTION

More than 275 print and broadcast media storiesarticles, interviews, and commentaries since late April have made BCs community living crisis one of the most important and widely covered issues in the province .

December

he Community Living T Action Group writes a letter to the editor, published in the Vancouver Sun reiterating a call for an external review, an increase in funding and a moratorium on service redesign. haw TVs Voice of the S Province interviews reporter Lindsay Kines and UVic professor Michael Prince about protecting the vulnerable.

April
imes Colonist T Newspaper nominated for Michener Award for coverage of community living crisis. The award recognizes journalism that results in systemic change for the greater public good.

Visit the BCACL website for a full list of media coverage: www .bcacl .org/CLBC-Crisis/Media 2011 2012 Annual Report 8

Community Development
As we work to improve our systems, organizations and communities, we must ensure change is authentic and meaningfully includes those who are affected by it. In October, 2011, BCACL hosted a full day community building workshop with renowned author and community builder Peter Block. As diverse groups within the community came together, participants talked about how leaders can effect change through listening, convening and inviting. This day supported BCACL and our partner organizations to come up with new and innovative ways to plan community development initiatives that include everyone.

collaborative, early planning for the transition out of high school is necessary to ensure students transition from high school to a full life in community. Students need quality education plans that lead to a meaningful life after they graduate. Families also need more information about what to expect after high school and how to get there.

On My Way Transitions Project

In 2011-12 BCACLs project on transition planning for youth with developmental disabilities began to take shape. A group of students from Charles Best Secondary School and their families, the district work experience facilitator and the student services department coordinator stepped forward to share their stories of planning for the future after high school. We hired a coordinator and invited partners to participate in the new project with the students and their families. We created a website to showcase filmed interviews and written accounts of the students, families and community partners. We officially launched the project at the 2012 BCACL conference in Penticton on June 1, 2012. The Cross-Ministry Transition Planning Protocol, signed in 2009, has been used to guide the work of our project. The protocol provides clear direction on the roles and tasks in assisting a young person with a developmental disability through the transition from school to adult life. Through our project we have learned that many individuals were previously unfamiliar with this valuable resource. By introducing the protocol to the project participants, we now have a clearer understanding of the steps required in making transition planning simpler and more successful.

The Transition out of High School

This year BCACL travelled across the province as part of our Road to Inclusion tour, which wrapped up in April, 2011. Over the course of six weeks, BCACL met with several hundred individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, and services providers in eight B.C. communities. Time and time again we heard that the biggest challenge for individuals and families was the transition out of high school. Students with special needs were finding that the support to live and participate in community did not exist after graduation. Families were faced with long waitlists for supports for community inclusion, employment and respite. The funding just isnt there, they were told. Budget cuts and service redesign were certainly one of the factors making the transition out of high school so hard for students and families. Integrated,

Promoting action at a leadership level

Real, sustainable change must be well funded and driven by good policy at a provincial leadership level. When BCACL met with the Minister of Education on May 31, 2011, we talked about what leadership was required to ensure successful transitions for students with special needs: Educators and support staff need to be aware of the transition planning protocol and be trained in transition planning. The Minister must take leadership role in preparing policies that school districts should adopt when transition planning with accompanying provincial standards. Provide targeted grants for release time so that the school team can attend adequate transition planning meetings.
9 British Columbia Association for Community Living

BCACL President Annette Delaplace, Executive Director Faith Bodnar and high school student Derris Le Nobel in Victoria for a meeting with the Minister of Education.

PROMOTING ACTION

ON MY WAY KAYLAS STORY

Kayla is an energetic, fun and talented 17 year old student getting ready to graduate from her last year of high school. When BCACL first approached Kayla and her mom, Teresa, to participate in our on my way transitions project, the family was interested but hesitant. Kaylas mom, Teresa, didnt know what the future held for her; she was overwhelmed and anxious. She knew she had to start planning for Kaylas future but didnt know what that could look like. One year later, Kayla is about to graduate and her future is full of potential. When Kayla first told me she wanted to be a teacher, I didnt think it was possible, says Teresa. I thought instead I would help her start her own business. I set up a bath-bomb making studio in our home. But Kayla wasnt interested and now I have a basement full of bath-bomb materials, she laughs. I should have listened to her. Kayla loves working with kids and shes good at it. When an opportunity opened up for Kayla to work at the same day care she had attended as a child, her dream of being a teacher seemed possible. The work experience facilitator in Kaylas school district arranged for Kayla to work at the day care one shift per week. Kayla is great with the kids at the daycare and the kids love her. Its wonderful to see Kayla back here after so many years. She has come such a long way since she was here as a child. Kayla was the first child with special needs to attend the daycare, says Jacquie, manager of the daycare. She probably taught us more than we taught her. Fourteen years later, we have many kids attend who have special needs. Kayla and Teresa recently met with STEPS Forward, an organization that supports universities and colleges to include students with special needs. If accepted into the program, Kayla would attend the Early Childhood Education program at Simon Fraser University. They also met with Douglas College to explore post secondary opportunities. As one of the requirements to attend is the ability to use public transit independently, Kayla has started bus training with a volunteer Special Education Assistant student. With a bit of planning and collaboration, Kaylas future is looking bright. Tune in to the on my way website to follow Kayla as she and her family work towards realizing her dreams.
2011 2012 Annual Report 10

ADVANCING RIGHTS
BCACL is a human rights organization. This means that the human rights of people with developmental disabilities are the cornerstone of our work and ground us in everything we do. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, ratified by Canada in 2011, is a beacon that inspires and guides our work. Article 19, the right to live independently in community with the supports needed to do so, mandates the closure of institutions and guides us as we advocate for the supports people need to live in community. The closure of institutions was not our final fight, nor will it be our final victory. As the final structure of Woodlands Institution was demolished last year, we were reminded that we can never go back to the days of segregation and exclusion. We must fight to ensure that all people with developmental disabilities have the support to which they are entitled to live in community. In October, 2011 after a relentless advocacy effort by BCACL, self advocates and local service providers, New Westminster City Council decided to listen to the wishes of self advocates and vote in favour of demolishing the remaining Woodlands Tower. The conversations we had and the stories we shared that day in October as the walls of Woodlands came down, are inextricably linked to our advocacy and community development work. Recognizing the right of people with developmental disabilities to live independently in community also means ensuring that they have access to the supports they need.

Coming up with solutions together

On January 26-27, 2012, the BC Association for Community Living, the Canadian Association for Community Living and People First of Canada held a two-day national forum on policy, practices and innovations in building and sustaining real homes for people with intellectual disabilities. Searching for Home brought together community living agencies and workers, families, self advocates, housing advocates and other stakeholders to share ongoing efforts, confront barriers and develop potential strategies for innovative practices and developments in market housing, social housing, and co-housing, as well as addressing the deeper question of what makes a house into a true home. The forum was also supported by Community Living BC and The Venture. On September 23, 2011, the Executive Directors Network of the BC Association for Community Living hosted a Provincial Roundtable on Home and Shared Living, looking at philosophy, models and practice of residential supports The event revisited recommendations and actions associated with the Family Life Model of Care Forum held in 2007, and came together to ask critical questions around values & philosophy, standards, roles, sustainability, risks and practice implications. Through the support of BCACL, 110 participants met on September 23rd, 2011 at the Metrotown Hilton Hotel in Burnaby, BC. As more people choose home sharing as an option, our Federation is ensuring we have a common understanding around what is needed for the model to be safe and rooted in the values of full citizenship and inclusion.

ADVANCING RIGHTS

WOODLANDS DEMOLITION CEREMONY WORDS FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

My first thought for today is one of thanks to all those who worked relentlessly to make today truly memorable. As well, we thank all those individuals, families, community members and organizations who got us here over many, many decades. We remember those who stood up and said no one belongs in institutions, those who challenged generations of people and governments who justified the institution under so many false pretexts and stood fast even when there was danger of losing sight of the truth; a simple yet profound truth; that no one should have ever been confined in places like Woodlands, not in 1878, not in 1958, not in 1974 not in 1998 and not in 2011. No then, not now, not ever. Most importantly, today is about remembering the thousands who died in this god forsaken place and for those who survived. Today we can be part of releasing the ghosts that inhabit this structure, the bricks and mortar that hold the memories of terrible things we are still reconciling and demanding redress for, of things that never should have happened, yet did, of things we knew about within weeks of it opening, of things that were done under the eye of those who knew better, looked the other way and should have acted, yet didnt until more than 100 years after it opened. We have no excuses none. We know that by tearing down this structure we are not wiping out what went on in its walls. Rather we are finally honouring the wishes of former residents

who continue to be traumatized by the mere sight of this structure, for what it represents and also for what happened within its walls. We know that souls cannot be crushed in the rubble; they cannot be washed away as the building is torn down and that the evidence of what happened will not disappear with demolition. We are called here today to take up the dreams and nightmares of the souls who are with us in these bricks, of events that are imprinted in the stone, of lost dreams, of unimaginable pain, cruelty and rejection gone unchecked. It is our job here today as fellow human beings to give some measure of peace and a step towards reconciliation. It is our job today to reclaim the humanity that the Centre Block stole and to remember, to always remember what this was all about and what it must never about. It was about a structure with a perverse sense of architectural history rather than humanity, it is about expediency, jobs, money and economic development. It was never about the wellbeing and human rights of people confined here. It was never about the people confined here. Today can and must be a celebration of reclaiming personal power and embracing what we can no longer deny that community is for everyone; no exceptions, no exceptions, absolutely no exceptions. We are a few of the many voices that inspired public conversation and social change. As a result this site will become a
2011 2012 Annual Report 12

...community is for everyone; no exceptions, no exceptions, absolutely no exceptions.

new public garden and will provide the opportunity and space for the whole community to acknowledge what happened here and for the community to be part of the healing and in so doing, heal itself. We provide the space that will be transformed into a place of peace, to learn and relearn the lessons that we are not that far removed from. Woodlands is closed but other places like it still open today in Canada, reminding us that denying humanity lurks not just under the surface but out in the open and that we are only steps away from what is being torn down today. So let us all know the truth, let us show each other what it really means to be human and let us embrace each other in our hearts and actions. Let us say so long and good riddance to the remains of a crumbling old building and by doing so release us to a new day. BCACL thanks and acknowledges the hard work of the BC People First Society for hosting the Woodlands Institution demolition ceremony.
13 British Columbia Association for Community Living Former Woodlands resident Shelley Starr travelled from Port Alberni to take part in the Demolition ceremony.

STRATEGIC PLANNING AND MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT

In 2011-2012, BCACL revamped our strategic plan and renewed engagment with our stakeholders and our role as a Federation. Through the strategic planning process, it was clear that people with developmental disabilities, families, and member agencies are the heart of our organization. As we plan for the future, their voices must be heard and drive the work of the federation. In this year of intense planning, increased advocacy and the crisis in community living, BCACLs strategic planning provided a clear focus for our priorities. For 2011/2012, BCACLs strategic planning was not our only major internal project. The Federation held a Special General Meeting on January 28, 2012 and passed a new Constitution and Bylaws. Changes to our bylaws came after a lengthy period of discussion, shepherded by the Board of Directors Bylaws Committee, developed through BCACLs member engagement process, and sparked by membership resolutions. Privately owned, or for-profit, service providers are now eligible for full membership in BCACL alongside non-profit associations and providers. BCACL looks forward to welcoming new members to the Federation, united in our vision and values of full citizenship for people with developmental disabilities. This change was put forward to the members after a resolution at the 2011 Annual General Meeting directed the Board of Directors to look at this option. Other changes include family membership, recognizing the importance of the family voice in the community living movement. The new bylaws also saw changes to the Board of Directors. The president and other officers will now serve for two-year terms; and the BCACL Executive Directors Network will now appoint an executive director or CEO to serve a one-year term on the Board. Two Board members are also now mandated under the Bylaws to be family members of people with developmental disabilities. Many of these changes were influenced by what we heard through the Road to Inclusion tour and BCACLs ongoing member engagement process. We will continue to connect with our members as well as engaging intensively with individuals and families in the years to come, in a process of change, growth and inclusion, knowing that all voices must be part of our federation in order to advance our vision and mission.

2011 2012 Annual Report

14

THE BCACL FOUNDATION

Building a legacy for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Message from Rory Summers, President of the BCACL Foundation
This past year was one of change, growth and new direction for the BCACL Foundation. We launched the Reason to Care campaign by hosting two events, the 2nd annual Art Re-Sale and Living Luxe. Building a foundation for financial sustainability remains a priority as we implement a new strategic plan that will build our donor base. As well, the Foundation will embark on a new communications and branding initiative with a focus on expanding our capacity to attract new resources and support and bring new people into the movement. Our success continues to be possible through the support from our Circle of Friends, member agencies, donors, community members and conference supporters. Your gifts sustain us throughout the year and inspire us to build a more inclusive community for people with developmental disabilities and their families.

THE BCACL FOUNDATION Reason to Care Art Re-Sale

BCACLs 2nd Annual Reason to Care Art Re-Sale and Live Auction kicked off March 3rd at Heritage Hall in Vancouver, once again demonstrating a huge outpouring of generosity from hundreds of donors. Raising over $45,000 from the sale of more than 700 pieces of preloved art, lucky attendees picked up treasures throughout the day. Live entertainment from Lexi Thomas, Adam Reid and Paul Sommerfeld provided the perfect back drop to an amazing community event open to all tastes, ages and budgets. Local New Westminster artist, Cliff Milne engaged in a live demonstration resulting in a beautiful original piece that was sold at the evenings Live Auction. Students from the Magee Secondary School were back, volunteering throughout the event, adding to the tremendous success of the day. Thank you to all the artists, donors, art lovers, treasure hunters, collectors, volunteers, staff, Board and committee members who worked for months to make this a true community event where together we inspired a world where everyone belongs.

Living Luxe
BCACL held its 1st Annual Signature Fundraiser at the CBC Studio 700 in downtown Vancouver, raising over $35,000. The evenings emcee, Stephen Quinn charmed the audience, while over 100 guests experienced an evening of live music, exquisite BCACL supporters Tracy Theemes and Corinne Schindler at the Living Luxe fundraising event. canaps and sweets paired with wines and signature cocktails. The evening featured over 50 silent and live auction packages. Thanks go to Sound Explosion Entertainment for donating their DJ services as well as V&G Music for keeping the atmosphere lively with their great jazz trio. All proceeds raised go directly towards BCACLs work in enhancing the lives of children and youth with special needs, adults with developmental disabilities and their families.

Information Sessions and Reason to Care Luncheon

This year we launched a series of free, one-hour information sessions, detailing our Federations family roots, history and the impact of BCACLs work and advocacy across the province. Attendees are introduced to and inspired by the dynamic people who have been a part of making BCACL what it is today. Culminating in a fund raising luncheon, we launched our new Giving Society and look forward to bringing in even more people to work of BCACL in the years ahead.

Reason to Care Art Re-Sale and Live Auction Sponsors:

Blossoms Burnaby Now Coast Plaza Hotel and Suites Fairmont Chateau Whistler Georgia Straight Granville Island Florist Granville Island Toy Company Hampton Inn and Suites Hilton Metrotown Huber Meadus Real Estate Ikea Investors Group New Westminster Record North Shore Artists Guild Original Cakerie Petley Jones Gallery PODS Ramada Penticton Sandman Penticton Stella and Dot SurDel Party Rentals Terrace Big Brothers and Big Sisters Trent Studio Vancouver Ticket and Tourist Service Velvet Pumpkin Productions
2011 2012 Annual Report 16

Living Luxe Sponsors

Gourmet Republik The Original Cakerie Firefly Fine Wines and Ales Russel Brewing Company Onni Group of Companies Sound Explosion Entertainment Elephant Island Orchard Wines Dupuis Langen Rolfe Benson LLP Granville Island Florist Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton

THE BCACL FOUNDATION

THANK YOU
Every year, BCACL donors generously support our work, making a difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities and their families. We thank the thousands of donors whose names could not fit on this page but who have made it possible for us to continue our important work.

Colliers International
The organizers of the 23rd Annual Colliers International Charity Golf Tournament, selected BCACL as the events recipient, with $80,000 being raised in an afternoon of golf. We extend our deepest thanks to Colliers International Victoria for this incredible donation. As a result, BCACL can continue to its advocacy work and people with developmental disabilities are able to live, work and contribute in their communities.

us to be there as we support families and individuals. Our heartfelt thanks to Alan Rae and RBC Dominion Securities for their extraordinary support and leadership in ensuring the success of this tournament.

Circle of Friends
Our Circle of Friends monthly donors make all the difference once again for BCACL. The many individuals who give every month without fail stand with us as we work to advance rights, support abilities and promote action in the lives of people with developmental disabilities and their families.

Vipond Classic Tournament

The Shaughnessy Gold and Country Club celebrated its 36 year partnership with BCACL, hosting the Vipond Classic Golf Tournament. Together we raised $60,000, allowing

Legacy Donors:
Vancouver Foundation Dietrich Endowment Fund Vancouver Foundation Jensen Endowment Fund

Grants and Gifts

Allan Rae from RBC Dominion Securities presents Executive Director Faith Bodnar with the proceeds of the Vipond Classic Golf Tournament.

The BCACL Foundation Human Resources and Social Development Canada New Westminster Community Development Society United Way of the Lower Mainland

17

British Columbia Association for Community Living

United Way 2% Other Revenue 13%

BCACL Member Agencies 40%

Where the Money Came From

Donations and Resource Development 16% Community Living BC (Event Sponsorships) 3% HRSDC Community Inclusion Initiative (Pathways to Citizenship) 21%

Gaming Grant 5%

A FINANCIAL

OVERVIEW

Membership Support (provincial and national federations) 11%

Annual General Meeting, Special General Meeting, Bylaw Revisions, Strategic Planning 4% Administration 8%

FOR 2011 2012

BCACL receives most of its core operational funds from our member agencies, the Government of Canadas Community Inclusion Initiative and our donors. If not for these vital contributions, BCACL would not have achieved the successes mentioned in this report. This year, Community Inclusion Initiative partners (provincial and territorial associations and People First of Canada) launched a new website to showcase our respective projects. BCACL is grateful for the support and guidance we receive from the Canadian Association for Community Living in the ongoing progress and success of the Community Inclusion Initiative, in which we have participated since 1997. You can see our Pathways to Citizenship work featured at www.communityinclusion.ca/ ciipartnerpages/british-columbia/

How We Put the Money to Work

Program Initiatives: supporting abilities, promoting action, advancing rights 77%

2011 2012 Annual Report 18

THANK YOU
BCACL extends our sincere thanks and appreciation to the many volunteers who dedicated countless hours this past year working with us to accomplish our vision. Whether it was volunteering at one of our fundraising events, speaking at a workshop or community forum, or advising and brainstorming with BCACL staff on special projects, your time and efforts have made our successes possible. BCACL Member Organizations The 2011/12 year was again marked by the commitment of BCACL Members to building and sustaining good lives in communities across BC. They were there for families and thousands of individuals with developmental disabilities, weathering change with a clear and unwavering commitment to inclusion and human rights. At BCACL the strength and commitment of our Member agencies was essential as we advanced our advocacy efforts creating one of the most extensive dialogues on developmental disability this province and country has seen in many years. BCACL Members deliver everyday on the promise of full citizenship and in doing so create a groundswell of strength for the entire sector. At BCACL this capacity and the community connections it brings was and is at the heart of our work. The BCACL Board of Directors Officers Annette Delaplace (President) Geoff Wright (Vice President) Al LeFebvre (Treasurer) Directors Jo-Anne Gauthier Kathleen OHanley Doreen Shaw Paul Pallan Rachel Adair Rory Summers Jennifer Baumbusch Sky Hendsbee The BCACL Staff Faith Bodnar, Executive Director Karen De Long, Director of Community Development Danielle Kelliher, Director of Communications Salima Mawji, Director of Resource Development Frank Peng, Director of Finance and Administration Jeremy Vis, Coordinator of Family Support Charlotte Kates, Membership Services Coordinator Mazy Tolentino, Office Manager Janice Bai, Assistant Accountant Lowena Ko, Receptionist and Office Support Wayne Wong, Maintenance Karla Verschoor (maternity leave)

227 Sixth Street New Westminster, BC V3L 3A5 Tel: 604 777 9100 Toll-free: 1 800 618 1119 Email: info@bcacl.org

BCACL is a proud member of the Canadian Association for Community Living