July 2025 – Newsletter

Living  with Disabilities


This month we are highlighting the everyday experiences of people living with disabilities. Too often, disability is framed only in terms of challenges. But living with a disability also means living with strength, creativity, and purpose.

People with disabilities go to work, fall in love, explore new hobbies, and shape their communities in meaningful ways. With the right support, accessibility, and respect, barriers can be broken down and full lives can flourish.

In home sharing, inclusion is not just about physical access. It is about recognizing each person’s voice, celebrating what they bring, and supporting their independence. Whether that means adapting a space, learning new communication tools, or making sure someone has a choice in their daily routine, small changes can open doors to big possibilities.

This month let’s remember: accessibility is a right, not a favour. And when we center dignity and joy, everyone benefits.


“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”

Theodore Roosevelt


Important Days in the Disability Community

* Canada Day (https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/canada-day.html)  - July 1
* World Hepatitis Day (https://www.worldhepatitisday.org/)  - July 28



Living with Disabilities:



Everyday Strength and Joy in the Face of Barriers


People with disabilities live full and meaningful lives, filled with relationships, goals, and contributions. But they often face extra challenges that others do not. With the right support, accessibility, and respect, those challenges can be reduced. This article highlights what it means to live with a disability, the importance of autonomy and inclusion, and the value of removing everyday barriers. It also shares an example of how home sharing can help someone thrive and provides regional resources across BC to support individuals and families.
Read It Here! (https://homesharingbc.ca/2025/07/02/living-with-disabilities-everyday-strength-and-joy-in-the-face-of-barriers/)


Looking for a Home Sharing Coordinator in Kelowna for your Microboard?


Email us at: info@homesharingbc.ca  and we can share the contact information for Laurie who currently has availability.

Apply for a Civic Agency: City of Vancouver Vacancies on civic agencies (boards, commissions, committees, and panels) occur periodically throughout the year.

Serving on civic agencies like boards, commissions, committees, and panels is a powerful way for people with disabilities to influence decisions that shape our communities. When PWD are represented in these spaces, their lived experience helps ensure public services, policies, and programs reflect the needs of everyone. Participation brings diverse voices to the table and helps break down barriers to inclusion. Vacancies open throughout the year, this is a chance to be heard, valued, and part of the change.
Learn More (https://vancouver.ca/your-government/apply-for-a-civic-agency.aspx#vacancy2)


HSP Awards 2025 Nominations Are Now Open


We’re excited to announce that nominations for the HSP Awards 2025 are now open. This is your opportunity to recognize the incredible home sharing providers who make a lasting difference in people’s lives. Whether they are just starting out or have dedicated years to this work, we want to celebrate their commitment to person-led, inclusive, and empowering support.

Submissions are open until August 29, 2025.

Let’s honour the individuals who help others thrive in community.
Nominate Now (https://homesharingbc.ca/hsp-awards/nominations/)


Free Tools, Resources & Training
Provided by Home Sharing Support Society BC (HSSSBC)


Each month we work hard to bring you the best tools, training and resources for little or no cost.  The following tools, resources and training is proudly brought to you by the HSSSBC.  Enjoy!

The Canadian Accessibility Network is pleased to share the following collection of resources with individuals, organizations, businesses, and communities working to advance accessibility across Canada.

Resources - Canadian Accessibility Network.

Engaging Persons with Disabilities guide is now available on the CAN website (https://www.can-rca.ca/resources/) .

Please share these wonderful resources.


Circle of Friends


About this module:

We all have and need people in our lives. A circle of friends is a good way to make your life better. This module describes how to start a circle of friends, how you can keep control over the process, and how a circle can help you in many different ways.

This module features presentations from many leading professionals and self-advocates, including Jack Pearpoint, Patti Scott, Doug Smith, and Tyrone Towers.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
* Describe what a circle of support is and how it could help you.
* Explain who takes part in a circle.
* Understand how to find and invite people to be part of your circle.
* Explain how to keep a positive circle.

Module Length: 35 Minutes

Link: Open Future Learning

*Search: “ Circle of Friends” in the OFL search bar
Explore The Module (https://www.openfuturelearning.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=login.SideBySideModules)


Ask an Expert: Indigenous-Specific Mediation Services


Elaine, an Indigenous person receiving disability support, preferred a culturally grounded approach to resolving conflict. She accessed Elders' Circle mediation through a local Indigenous service agency to address concerns with a service provider. The process centered on respectful dialogue and cultural values, helping both parties find understanding and a path forward.

How to Access:

Indigenous community organizations or Friendship Centres may offer traditional and trauma-informed conflict resolution options. These may include Elder-led mediation, talking circles, or other culturally rooted practices. Contact your local Indigenous agency to learn more.

The Home Sharing Support Society BC (HSSSBC) is seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our volunteer Board of Directors.

We are particularly looking for individuals outside the Lower Mainland with experience as
Self-Advocates, Home Sharing Providers, Service Providers, or with a background in Finance/Accounting.

Help shape the future of home sharing and improve inclusive housing options for adults with developmental disabilities across British Columbia. Meetings are held online, with opportunities for in-person connections.
Apply Now (https://homesharingbc.ca/recruitment/)


Thank you for reading till the end.


We have a little gift for you.


Tag us and another home sharing provider on social to win a gift card!

Facebook: Home Sharing Support Society BC (https://www.facebook.com/homesharingbc)
Instagram: homesharingsupportsocietybc