arc programs

Communities are stronger when every person can thrive.

On World Population Day, we are reminded that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a community.

Building a better future is about ensuring people have access to the supports, opportunities, and connections they need to live healthy, meaningful lives.

At arc programs, we see how early support, inclusive services, and strong community partnerships help children, youth, adults, and families build belonging and hope.

Learn more about World Population Day:

https://www.un.org/en/observances/world-population-day

Supporting a transgender or gender creative child can bring questions, and no one must navigate them alone.

Presented by TransParent Okanagan in partnership with This Space, BRIDGE is a free program for parents and caregivers in Kelowna that offers a welcoming space to learn, connect, and build confidence alongside others with shared experiences.

Please see the poster for program dates, registration details, and the QR code to sign up.

The arc programs Central Okanagan Family Connection Centre provides coordinated services for children and youth ages 0 to 18 with developmental support needs, neurodiversity, or disabilities.

We provide developmental services, therapies, family supports, inclusive childcare services, educational workshops, community resources and more, through one welcoming entry point.

Every family's journey is unique, and we're here to help you find the support that's right for yours.

We are conveniently located in the Capri Centre Mall in Kelowna. Learn more about the Central Okanagan Family Connection Centre by visiting or submitting a service request today:

https://arcprograms.com/fcc/

Young people deserve a seat at the table.

Recruitment for Simon Fraser University's CHART Lab Youth Advisory Council and Youth Community of Practice Working Group has been met with strong interest.

Youth who signed up will be sharing their perspectives, helping inform research, and contributing to initiatives that support youth well being across British Columbia.

We look forward to seeing the impact this work will have in communities across the province.

Learn more about the CHART Lab and its work: https://chartlab.ca/

Strong communities are built by listening to the people who know them best.

BGC Okanagan is hosting an advisory meeting for youth and guardians on Wednesday, July 15th to discuss concerns, education, and ideas about restorative justice.

See the attached image for more information, including the QR code you can scan to register.

Please share this information with youth and families that may be interested in attending to share their perspectives.

July is Disability Pride Month. 💙💚❤️🤍💛

This year's theme, "The World Works Better With Us," reminds us that every person has unique strengths, perspectives, and experiences that make our communities richer.

At arc programs, we are committed to inclusivity and accessibility, creating spaces where everyone, including people with disabilities, are valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Learn more about Disability Pride Month from the Canadian Association for Supported Employment:

https://www.supportedemployment.ca/disability-pride-month/

Disability Pride Month - Canadian Association for Supported Employment Every year in July, Disability Pride Month celebrates persons who experience disability, their identities and culture, and their positive contributions to

Canada Day can hold many different meanings.

For some, it is a day of celebration, gratitude, and connection. For others, it is a reminder of the ongoing impacts of colonization, residential schools, and policies that have harmed Indigenous Peoples, families, and communities.

It is also a time to reflect on the many stories that make up Canada today.

Generations of Indigenous Peoples, newcomers, immigrants, refugees, and settlers have shaped the communities we now call home. Each story adds to the larger tapestry of Canada, while also reminding us that belonging must be built with honesty, respect, and responsibility.

At arc programs, we are grateful to live and work on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the syilx Okanagan Peoples. As our understanding of Canada continues to evolve, we believe that listening, learning, and meaningful action help create communities where everyone can experience belonging, equity, and hope.

Learn more about our commitment to reconciliation:
https://arcprograms.com/about-us/reconciliation/

We wish everyone a safe and meaningful Canada Day, with time to connect with family, friends, neighbours, and community.

Understanding your rights is an important part of building safer, more informed communities.

The BC Civil Liberties Association has released its new Pathways to Police Accountability Toolkit, a free resource designed to help people understand the options available if they believe their rights have been violated during an interaction with police.

The toolkit explains different accountability processes in plain language, compares available pathways, and includes practical tools such as checklists to help people understand what to expect.

Whether you are learning for yourself, supporting a family member, or working in the community, this resource may be helpful.

Learn more and access the free toolkit here:

https://bccla.org/resource/pathways-to-police-accountability-toolkit/

Your voice can help shape better opportunities for young people across British Columbia.

The Public Health Association of BC (PHABC) is inviting youth ages 16 to 30 who are receiving income assistance to share their experiences looking for work, training, or employment supports in the food systems sector.

The survey explores barriers to employment, the supports that make a difference, and opportunities that can help young people build meaningful careers.

Participants who complete the survey can enter a draw to win one of four $50 gift cards.

If you or someone you know is eligible, consider taking part and helping inform future programs and supports.

Take the survey: https://www.phabc.org

The Central Okanagan Family Connection Centre is pleased to share its 2025/26 Impact Overview.

The overview highlights how the arc programs FCC continues to support children and youth with support needs and their families through accessible, coordinated, and family-centered services across the Central Okanagan.

This year’s overview includes updates on:
• Service access
• Family engagement
• Care coordination
• Child and youth outcomes
• Community connection
• Language access
• Workforce stability
• Quality of Life improvement

The arc programs FCC provides flexible support for children and youth with developmental support needs, disabilities, and neurodiversity. Services are inclusive, responsive, and focused on the strengths and needs of families.

Read the full blog post here: https://arcprograms.com/central-okanagan-family-connection-centre-impact-overview-2026/