The Diverse Village

07/22/2026

Special Olympics is looking at expanding their program offering on SSI to include youth in the fall. Help inform what is needed by filling out this interest form:

https://tinyurl.com/38rjbh9m

Stay tuned for a "Try-it" sports day in August. Please reach out if you are interested in coaching or volunteering.

If you have a homeschooled developmentally disabled teen who might be interested in PE credit, personal fitness goals or S.O. competitive sports please reach out.

07/19/2026

Come join us Wednesdays from 2-5 at GIFTS for Magic the Gathering! Learn how to play MTG, sharpen your skills and form friendships with other MTG enthusiasts.
Other games also available. Please stay and play with your child if they need support for the frustrating aspects of gameplay.

07/14/2026

Funding is changing for children with support needs in BC. Connect online in a virtual meeting with Audrey from Disability Alliance BC to learn more about the Disability Tax Benefit - who is it for, how to apply and why it's essential for the new BC Children and Youth Supplement.

Thursday, July 23 · 7:00 – 8:30pm PST
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/djk-dona-fqo

07/13/2026

Today I dropped of a sensory kit to go into Lost Field Farm Camp's quiet room. Having a space and tools to regulate throughout the day is great for ALL children! Want to make a kit of your own for camp, a long car ride, or a camping trip and need some ideas? Here is what's in this one:

Weighted Blanket
Jumping toy
Noise Cancelling headphones
Body Sock
National Geographic Fun Books (This or That, Weird but true, Jokes, Facts, etc)
Sand Timers
Assortment of Fidgets (Mechanical, squishy, popping, weighted, and puzzles)

06/22/2026

Tonight TDV invites all local families to meet the GIFTS/TDV board. It’s an opportunity to ask any questions, give input and meet other families.

5-7pm at GIFTS (152McPhillips ave) Children welcome, food provided.

06/01/2026

Wondering what TDV is up to in June? All events are posted on our online calendar!

Youth programs are wrapping up but Lego Drop in will continue through the summer on Thursdays from 2-5 at GIFTS Gulf Islands Families Together Society
https://thediversevillage.ca/calendar/

June 7th - Early Years Fair, 10-12pm @ SSE
June 13th - Parent Support Group, 3-5pm @ GIFTS
June 20th - They Are Sacred movie, 7pm @ GIFTS
June 22 - Board and Families Get-together 5-7pm @ GIFTS

05/25/2026

Did you know? The Diverse Village has a Family Assistance Fund that supports families of neurodivergent children in the Gulf Islands by reducing financial barriers associated with assessments, therapies, and essential medical-related expenses.

The current application cycle is open until May 31. You can learn more about eligibility, covered expenses, application timelines, and how funding decisions are made here:

Supporting Families Financial Assistance Fund The Diverse Village Family Assistance Fund supports families of neurodivergent children by reducing financial barriers to assessments, therapies, and essential medical-related expenses. This page outlines eligibility, covered expenses, application timeli...

05/12/2026

This weekend TDV has two events on!
Saturday 1-3pm come recycle a T-shirt into a bag!
Sunday 3-5pm Parent Support Group

05/06/2026

I'm pleased to promote “Raising Teens Who Talk to You,” available on Amazon.com to download for just $1.99 USD / 2.71 CAD for the next 24-48 hours.

This book was created for parents navigating life with their teens who want to feel more connected, more steady, and more confident in how they’re showing up. Each chapter brings a different voice, but they all come back to this:

When we move from trying to change our teens → to understanding and supporting them, things begin to shift.

My friend and TDV board member Amanda from The Attuned NeuroFamily wrote a chapter focusing on neurodivergent teens. It’s about understanding your teen more deeply, supporting their nervous system, and building connection in ways that feel respectful and doable in real life. "Anchored Through the Storm: Morning Battles to Meaningful Connection with Your Neurodivergent Teen."

From conversations about intimate relationships and social media to navigating mood swings and independence, Raising Teens Who Talk to You is a grounded, compassionate guide offering practical, connection-based strategies.
https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/B9lWmqD/RaisingTeens

Links to purchase your copy of Raising Teens Who Talk to You by Jason and Cecilia Hilkey

04/29/2026

Julie Sweetnam is back facilitating Clay Play focused on "Transformation" for youth in May! Multiple activities will be offered including print making, painting with clay, rolling, making and finishing a hand built bowl and spoon.

$15 covers materials and firing, subsidy available if needed. Registration is required.