arc programs

arc programs arc programs exists to create thriving communities, free of systemic barriers and full of belonging, equity, and hope.

Who we are
arc programs is a multi-disciplinary social services agency established over 35 years ago to bring about equity, inclusion and belonging in our communities. Our specialized support extends to children, youth, families and adults – who’ve historically been marginalized by systems and colonial ways. Simply put, we help families and folx in conflict. We aim to breakdown barriers, reduce st

igma and elevate voices. By fostering right relations and forging connections to the right people and programs, we strive to create caring communities across BC’s Interior through a lens of possibility, not disability. What we do
arc programs has a bold vision to ensure everyone in our communities feels connected and cared for. Our programs and services are designed to support children, youth, families and adults with diverse needs. Complex issues such as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), mental health or substance use, require complex support. And navigating the system to find it can be daunting. We’re here to make sense of it all, by working alongside parents, children, youth and adults on their journey towards hope and healing.

From 2010 to 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission heard from Survivors, families, communities and others affect...
08/26/2026

From 2010 to 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission heard from Survivors, families, communities and others affected by the residential school system. The Final Report documents those truths and sets out 94 Calls to Action toward reconciliation.

Relatives in Reconciliation and the Métis Community Services Society of BC is creating space to engage with those Calls to Action this fall by hosting a five-session Reading Circle of the Executive Summary of the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission: Honouring the Truth, Reconciling for the Future.

At arc programs, we know that reconciliation asks us to keep showing up with humility, with open hearts, and a willingness to be changed by what we learn. Some truths are difficult to sit with. They should be. Learning the truth about the harms caused by colonial systems, and the ways those harms continue, asks something of us beyond simply knowing.

The first Reading Circle is Tuesday, September 8, with two session options:

☀️ 12:00–1:30 PM
🌙 5:30–7:00 PM
📍 Kelowna Branch, Okanagan Regional Library, 1380 Ellis Street

The remaining Circles are October 13, November 10, December 8 and January 12.

You need to register by September 3, and arrangements will be made to receive a copy of the Executive Summary. Sandwiches will be provided at the afternoon session.

Afternoon: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-reading-circle-the-executive-summary-of-the-trc-report-tickets-1996405494576?aff=oddtdtcreator

Evening: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-reading-circle-the-executive-summary-of-the-trc-report-tickets-1996414735215?aff=oddtdtcreator

arc programs will be at the West Kelowna Library this Friday for the 3rd annual International Overdose Awareness Day Eve...
08/25/2026

arc programs will be at the West Kelowna Library this Friday for the 3rd annual International Overdose Awareness Day Event, ‘Who Is At The Table?’.

This year’s ‘Lunch and Remember’ will feature one empty purple chair at the table to honour those who are missing from the community.

Guests are invited to add a place card with the name of a loved one affected by the overdose crisis.

📅 This Friday
🕛 12:00 to 2:00 PM
📍 Okanagan Lake Room, West Kelowna Library

Let’s create space for conversations about grief and loss, substance use, harm reduction, mental health needs, and local supports and services.

This is a drop-in event. Bring your own lunch. Naloxone training will be available.

Today is the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, a day to remember those subject...
08/23/2026

Today is the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, a day to remember those subjected to the transatlantic slave trade and honour those who resisted enslavement and fought for freedom.

The International Labour Organization estimates that 50 million people worldwide are living in situations described as modern slavery, including 28 million in forced labour and 22 million in forced marriages.

At arc programs, our vision of communities free of systemic barriers and full of belonging, equity and hope calls us to recognize injustice, past and present.

Learn more about the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition:

https://www.unesco.org/en/days/slave-trade-remembrance

Today is World Humanitarian Day, a day to recognize humanitarian workers around the world and the people and communities...
08/19/2026

Today is World Humanitarian Day, a day to recognize humanitarian workers around the world and the people and communities affected by humanitarian crises.

It is also a reminder of the importance of protecting human dignity and responding to people with compassion and care.

At arc programs, our values of kindness, inclusion and justice guide how we work to build belonging and hope in our communities.

Today, we recognize those providing critical humanitarian assistance around the world.

Learn more:

https://www.un.org/en/observances/humanitarian-day

Supporting others includes the well-being of the people who do the work.The Caring for Communities Conference is October...
08/17/2026

Supporting others includes the well-being of the people who do the work.

The Caring for Communities Conference is October 27 at the Coast Langley City Hotel & Convention Centre.

This full-day conference brings frontline workers and Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee members together to explore psychologically supportive workplaces, collective care, cultural safety, and practical approaches to worker well-being.

Presented by the Community Social Services Health and Safety Association of BC (CSSHSA) in partnership with WorkSafeBC and The Federation of Community Social Services of BC.

Early bird registration is $75 per person until September 27.

Learn more and register:

https://csshsa.ca/caring-for-communities-conference/

What a wonderful day of connection, learning, and community!Thank you to everyone who stopped by the arc programs table ...
08/15/2026

What a wonderful day of connection, learning, and community!

Thank you to everyone who stopped by the arc programs table at the 17th Annual Indigenous Family Gathering. It was a pleasure connecting with so many children, families, and community members.

A heartfelt thank you as well to our amazing staff and volunteers who helped make the day a success.

We are grateful to the səxʷkn̓xitəlx k̓l̓ c̓əc̓əmálaʔ Early Years Table (those who care for the children) for another year of connection and collaboration, and a wonderful summer event filled with fun activities for children and families.

Today is International Youth Day.Every young person deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and shape their future.This...
08/12/2026

Today is International Youth Day.

Every young person deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and shape their future.

This year's theme is "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations."

While young people around the world grow up in different circumstances, they share many of the same hopes: access to education, meaningful opportunities, supportive communities, good mental health, and the chance to reach their full potential.

Investing in young people strengthens families and communities. By listening to youth, removing barriers, and creating opportunities to thrive, we can help ensure every young person feels seen, valued, and supported.

Learn more about International Youth Day and this year's theme:

https://social.desa.un.org/issues/youth/events/international-youth-day-2026

If you're a parent or caregiver of a neurodivergent child in BC, your lived experience can make a meaningful impact.Feel...
08/11/2026

If you're a parent or caregiver of a neurodivergent child in BC, your lived experience can make a meaningful impact.

Feelings First is looking for parents and caregivers of neurodivergent children, including autism, ages zero to five, to join its Parent Advisory Group.

You'll meet virtually every few weeks to provide feedback on the Feelings First website and share insights on early years and social emotional development.

Participants receive $25 an hour for their time.

Parents from all areas of British Columbia are encouraged to apply. Spaces are limited.

See the attached image for full details.

On August 9, we recognize the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, a time to celebrate the rich cultures...
08/09/2026

On August 9, we recognize the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, a time to celebrate the rich cultures, histories, languages, knowledge, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples around the world.

This year's United Nations theme, "Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Safeguarding Life and Well-being," recognizes the vital role Indigenous midwives play as knowledge holders, caregivers, and protectors of cultural traditions that have supported communities for generations.

This is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of advancing Indigenous rights in Canada, listening to Indigenous voices, and supporting Indigenous-led knowledge and systems of care.

Learn more about how traditional Indigenous midwives are improving maternal and newborn health by bringing together ancestral knowledge and modern healthcare:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSpuiDdjjDE

📣 ⚠️ IMPORTANT LOCATION UPDATEarc programs is looking forward to joining the səxʷkn̓xitəlx k̓l̓ c̓əc̓málaʔ Indigenous F...
08/08/2026

📣 ⚠️ IMPORTANT LOCATION UPDATE

arc programs is looking forward to joining the səxʷkn̓xitəlx k̓l̓ c̓əc̓málaʔ Indigenous Family Gathering tomorrow, Sunday, August 9.

Due to the wildfire situation in the Summerland area, Westbank First Nation facilities are being used as an emergency evacuation centre to support evacuees. The gathering has moved to a new location:

📍 Chief Tomat Elementary School Gymnasium
3365 East Boundary Road
West Kelowna, BC V4T 2R8

The gathering is still going ahead, and we are grateful to School District 23 for opening its facilities on short notice so families and community members can continue to come together for connection, culture and fun.

Please help spread the word about the new location by sharing this post with anyone who may be planning to attend.

For the latest event updates, visit the Facebook event:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1DSqpGkyMn/

We look forward to seeing everyone there. 💗

Address

120/1835 Gordon Drive
Kelowna, BC
V1Y3H4

Opening Hours

Monday 9:30am - 4pm
Tuesday 9:30am - 4pm
Wednesday 9:30am - 4pm
Thursday 9:30am - 4pm
Friday 9:30am - 4pm

Telephone

+12507632977

Website

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