I work as a facilitator for Community Living BC, one specific trend in my field has been changing way we support individuals/families from working one to one (professional and client only) to supporting our clients in group settings. This new way has greatly inspired social connection which is more relatable based on a commonality of caring for their loved one with a developmental disability. I have observed friendships, mentor-ship, and compassion flourish between participants. An example of a mother, (Who’s son has severe autism), had learned that another family walked the track once a week and ask to join in. Clearly without the professional’s assistance, she had created a great way to establish natural supports for her and her son.
One-way CLBC has made this transformation is when we share information about who we are as an organization. In the past, families were expected book a 1:1 orientation with the facilitator. In its place, CLBC is now offering free ‘Welcome Workshops.’ Accommodating about twenty participants for a four-week series of workshops called, “Getting Started, Community Mapping, Planning and the Real Deal.” Families engage by information sharing, joining in activities and icebreakers and have opportunity to share stories and ask questions.
The best part of these workshops is the complimentary dinner provided prior to the workshop. This encourages social interactions in a comfortable and casual way.
Of course, with Covid restrictions, in person settings could not happen so CLBC, adapted the workshops to a virtual platform. The feedback for both in person and online workshops from our participants continues to be overwhelming with positive reviews. It is a highlight of the work I do, and I am honored to be part of it.
My role here as a WW presenter, has me excited to see our organization meet the needs of families who tell me all the time how they feel alone and are struggling without supports. This change has brought meaning to families instead of just a ‘talking head’ in front of a classroom, it has brought the gift of interconnections and for me transparency that I can empathize, and I do, but I will never walk in their shoes as well as someone who is living a parallel journey.
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