Cowichan Independent Living

04/14/2026

We all know someone whose strength, kindness and leadership make our community better. Is there a peer who comes to mind?

Don't miss your chance to nominate someone for the 2026 Susan Marshall Fighting Spirit Award. The award includes a cheque for $1,000 and will be presented at SCI BC’s 2026 Annual General Meeting.

One of the nominators of the 2025 award recipient, Marney Smithies, shared: “Marney reminds us that the fighting spirit is not only about overcoming adversity, but about choosing joy, building community, and lifting up others along the way.”

The nomination form includes just three questions:
1. Please describe how the Nominee exhibits a “Fighting Spirit”.
2. Please describe the activities the Nominee been involved in within their community and/or SCI BC that have benefited other members of the community.
3. Please explain how the Nominee is a role model for other members of SCI BC.

Submit your nomination by 8 pm on June 1, 2026. Visit sci-bc.ca/awards.

04/14/2026

On April 2nd, 2026, Disability Alliance BC and our Right Fit Program partner Individualized Funding Resource Centre Society held a press conference at the Ha...

04/14/2026

"Growing up with Down syndrome, Liz Etmanski says she was called plenty of derogatory names in school — but the main one was always the R-word.
“[It’s like] having the wind knocked out of you, like you're not visible to them. It's really like an attack to your heart,” said Etmanski, an artist, writer and advocate in her 40s, living in , .
“People that use it think they can get away with it … all they're doing is putting you down.”
The R-word has been considered taboo for years, used as a slur against people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In the 2010s, celebrities including the Kardashians and basketball player LeBron James issued apologies for using it publicly.
But the slur appears to be making a resurgence, despite its ongoing capacity for harm. It’s been frequently used by high-profile figures like Elon Musk and Joe Rogan, while U.S. President Donald Trump levelled it against Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz in a Thanksgiving Day post last year. People appeared to follow his example in the weeks that followed, Montclair State University tracked a more-than-threefold increase in the word being used on platform X."
[read the full article and listen to audio online at: cbc . ca / radio / the current]

04/14/2026

PTC is committed to empowering its students to achieve independence, employment, equality and first-class citizenship. It is about teachers who are blind working with students who are blind to increase everyday skills and confidence. Learn more about Pacific Training Centre Division of Canadian Orga...

04/07/2026

📌 Attention current CDCP members – it is almost time to renew your coverage for 2026/27!

Renewals will open from April 15 to June 1, 2026. Members can renew their coverage as soon as they file their tax return and receive their 2025 Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency.

For more information about the

👉 Canada.ca/dental

04/07/2026

04/07/2026

04/07/2026

We’re excited to share with you our updated and expanded Community Resource Guide, designed to better serve our community!

What's New?
• Resources are grouped by topic so you can find the resources and services you need with ease.
• Updated information including recent changes to our departments,
programs, and services.
• Details on external organizations that provide supports or services for Quw'utsun Mustimuhw.

Keep this guide until Fall 2026
Downloadable PDF: https://cowichantribes.com/download_file/5403/0
Flipbook: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/f097b03c4f.html

04/02/2026

World Autism Awareness Day is an invitation to recognize the contributions of people with autism and to challenge outdated narratives. Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects many aspects of a person’s life. It involves differences in social communication, interaction and patterns of behaviour or interests.

Every person with autism has their unique strengths and support needs, which may change over time. Fostering an inclusive and supportive society is essential to ensuring that children and adults with autism can lead full and meaningful lives.

For resources on autism, please visit: https://www.autismbc.ca/

04/02/2026

if you have any questions give us a call or send us an email

04/02/2026

Cowichan Independent Living would like to thank the 100 Men Who Care Cowichan Valley For their generous donation.