Interior Community Services

10/02/2026

The events on Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc lands this past weekend are a painful reminder that the harms of racism and colonialism are not simply part of our history. Their impacts continue to be felt today.

Following the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we continue to hold Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, Survivors, families, and Indigenous people throughout our community in our thoughts.

At Interior Community Services, we believe everyone deserves to experience dignity, respect, safety, and belonging. We condemn acts of racism and hatred, and acts intended to intimidate or cause harm. These values also call us to focus on what we can contribute: supporting healing and safety, treating one another with dignity and care, and building relationships grounded in respect and trust.

Reconciliation is rooted in truth, but it is also about relationship. It asks us to listen, learn, acknowledge harm, and remain committed to the ongoing work of building and strengthening relationships. We recognize our own responsibility in this work and remain committed to approaching it with humility, care, and respect.

09/30/2026

Today, we honour survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities, while remembering the children who never returned home. It is also a time to reflect on the lasting impacts of intergenerational trauma that continue to affect Indigenous Peoples today.

This day is more than reflection, it’s a call to action. It reminds us of the inequities that remain, such as:
▪️ The overrepresentation of Indigenous children in the child welfare system
▪️ Inequities in health care, education, housing, and clean drinking water
▪️ The urgent need for systemic change and justice

At Interior Community Services, we are committed to fostering respectful relationships and ensuring Indigenous voices are heard, valued, and prioritized.

We encourage everyone to mark this day in a meaningful way whether through personal reflection, learning, or attending local events. Together, we can walk the path of reconciliation with respect, awareness, and action.

09/29/2026

Volunteer Families Needed!

Do you have a baby who will be 2–4 months old by October? You could help make a BIG difference in our community!

The Roots of Empathy program is looking for volunteer families to help teach empathy, emotional awareness, and kindness in local classrooms. Your baby will become a "Tiny Teacher" by visiting a classroom throughout the school year and helping students learn through observation and connection.

✨ Nine classroom visits over the school year
✨ Support social and emotional learning for students
✨ Make a meaningful impact in your community

Interested in learning more? Contact:
Kathy Price [email protected]

Visit rootsofempathy.org to learn more!

Please help spread the word to families who may be interested!

09/10/2026

Today, on World Su***de Prevention Day, Interior Community Services joins individuals, organizations, and communities around the world in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging conversations about mental health and su***de prevention.

Every life matters, and every conversation has the potential to make a difference. Taking the time to check in with a friend, family member, coworker, or loved one can help someone feel seen, supported, and connected.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember that support is available and reaching out is a sign of strength.

Visit www.iasp.info/wspd to learn more

***dePreventionDay

08/31/2026

Today, Interior Community Services joins communities around the world in recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day.

This day is an opportunity to remember and honour those whose lives have been lost to overdose, support the families, friends, and communities impacted, and raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma surrounding substance use.

We recognize that substance use affects people from all walks of life, and that compassion, understanding, and access to support are essential components of a healthier community. At ICS, we remain committed to supporting individuals and families through harm reduction, education, advocacy, and access to services.

Today, we encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect, learn, and help create a community where people feel safe reaching out for support.

Learn more: www.overdoseday.com

08/24/2026

Are you a new parent looking for wellness support?

Enjoy Your Baby is a free 5-session mental health and wellness program designed for parents and caregivers of babies aged 0–12 months. This supportive group will help you build confidence as a parent, strengthen your connection with your baby, manage stress and anxiety, and connect with other parents in a welcoming environment.

📅 Tuesdays, September 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
⏰ 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
📍 Interior Community Services, 396 Tranquille Road
💻 Online or In-Person
✅ Free to attend

To register, contact Michelle at 250-554-3134 or [email protected].

Learn more at www.EnjoyYourBaby.ca.

08/14/2026

Interior Community Services is seeking new members to join our Board of Directors and help guide the future of our organization. We're looking for community-minded individuals who are passionate about strong governance, community impact, and organizational sustainability.

We especially welcome expressions of interest from individuals with experience or connections in:
• Fundraising and resource development
• Indigenous communities and perspectives
• Lived experience related to social services, mental health, housing, or community supports
• The Merritt region and surrounding communities
• Community partnerships, advocacy, and sector networks
• Diverse backgrounds and perspectives that reflect the communities we serve

Previous board experience is an asset, but not required. If you bring strategic thinking, a collaborative mindset, and a commitment to making a difference, we encourage you to apply.

To express your interest, please submit:
• Your motivation for seeking the role
• Relevant background and experience
• How you can contribute to the ICS Board of Directors

Send your expression of interest to: [email protected]
To learn more about ICS: interiorcommunityservices.bc.ca

08/12/2026

Interior Community Services is proud to share our 2026–2031 Strategic Plan.

The plan reflects input from staff, leadership, our Board of Directors, community partners, and the experiences and feedback shared by people who access our services through the teams that support them. It establishes five strategic priorities that will guide our work over the coming years:

• Quality Services
• Sustainable Workforce
• Effective Partnerships
• Strong Infrastructure
• Responsible Stewardship

We invite you to explore the full Strategic Plan and learn more about our vision for the years ahead.

View the complete Strategic Plan here: interiorcommunityservices.bc.ca/strategic-plan-2026-2031/

08/05/2026

07/23/2026

Please join us in congratulating Deniz Demirkapi on her appointment as Central Operations Officer (COO) at Interior Community Services!

Deniz’s leadership, experience, and commitment to our mission will help support the continued growth of ICS and strengthen our ability to deliver responsive, high-quality services throughout the communities we serve.

We are excited for this next chapter and look forward to the positive impact Deniz will have as we continue Enriching Lives and Strengthening Communities.

Congratulations, Deniz!