The
programs and opportunities are briefly outlined below.
We are always looking for creative and better ways to
reach and serve people with developmental disabilities
in the Capital Region.
One-On-One
Matching Program
- Making
and supporting matches between individuals is our core
program.
- Each
volunteer "advocate" is matched with a person
living with a disability - once matched, the pair make
there own arrangements and priorities.
- Volunteer
advocates come from all walks of life - no special skills
are required.
- Protégés
may have any one or several of a broad range of disabilities.
- We
support these relationships through regular contact and
support,
- We
are always in need of new volunteer advocates to be
matched with protégés on our waiting list.
We
believe that people with disabilities can participate
to their fullest in the life of the community only if
the community is prepared to see them as valued members.
To
complement our programs for individuals, we work toward achieving:
- More
effective and accessible supports, programs and services.
- Increased
public awareness of issues relating to people with disabilities.
Best Buddy Program
Best Buddies is a university/college based volunteer program
designed to foster friendships between adults with intellectual disabilities
and students.
Best Buddies Victoria is a program that Citizen Advocacy has
been running through the University
of Victoria Student Society
since 2000. This project matches university students with people with
developmental disabilities to form friendships. Citizen Advocacy recruits,
screens, and matches students with individuals with disabilities throughout the
academic year. The program has been very successful in facilitating matches
that have endured over time, provided opportunities for people to meet that may
not have occurred naturally, and contributed to the sense of self worth of all
the participants.
Student Buddies & Buddies make contact with each other
once a week by phone or e-mail. One-to-one activities (going for coffee, taking
a walk, etc.) take place twice a month. All the Buddy pairs get together at
least four times per year for a group event.
Currently, the Citizen Advocacy Best Buddies program in Victoria has 23 active
matches, and three associate members.
Best Buddies International was founded in the United States
by Anthony Kennedy Shriver in 1989. It has since grown to encompass over 1000
chapters worldwide.
For more information, or to register online as a volunteer,
please visit www.bestbuddies.ca
You may also contact the CA office: (250) 598-6786 or by
email: bestbuddies@islandnet.com
Group Home Matching Program
The
group home program encourages volunteers to become a part of a
comfortable setting supported by on-site staff. You will meet a
variety of clients with a diversity of interests. This is an
excellent opportunity for a person who enjoys friendly get-togethers,
interesting activities and the companionship of others.
If this opportunity appeals to you then please contact us at (250) 598-6786 or by email: citizen@islandnet.com
