Pathways
Pathways was originally set up in
2004-05 to fill a need for a drop-in center where individuals with or without a
developmental disability could come together to build personal networks and
friendships. It was also meant to offer individuals an opportunity to
learn personal safety skills, self advocacy and empowerment, social development,
peer support and mentorship. It operates three evenings per week.
Yearly memberships are available to people with a developmental or learning disability, as well as their families and friends, at a cost of $25.00 per year. This is $5.00 for a PAACL membership, and $20.00 for the Pathways membership (approximately 15 cents per day).
Although Pathways is facilitated by staff, it is by all accounts a member driven clubhouse. Input into decisions are welcomed by all members and decisions themselves are based on consensus or majority vote. Rules of the clubhouse were also compiled by its members.
Pathways currently has 45 members and have also had a number of guests such as Phil Johns from the Fire Department and Rob Foster from Community Policing over the last several months.
Near the end of each month the group chooses activities they would like to take part in and a monthly calendar is put together based on those choices.
A "calendar of events" can be picked up at the Administration office each month, or click on the link below.
Program activities can include such things as movie night, bingo, WII games, crib tournaments, spa night, casino night, potluck dinners, "jams" with local musicians and crafts.
Pathways clubhouse members know how to have a good time, and guests are always made to feel welcome. Check out their schedule and come down for a visit.
Self Advocacy - The Self Advocate group meets the second Friday of each month at 2:00 pm in Pathways. At the self advocacy meetings we discuss such things as community inclusion, housing issues, social networking, effective communication and information on the RDSP.
Two self advocates also sit on the PAACL Board of Directors. They serve a two year term and are voted into the position by their peers.
Along with other advocates from Powell River, Courtney and Port Alberni we received a grant of $5000.00 from BCACL. With this money the advocates are putting on a “Priming yourself for leadership” convention on June 5th 2010 in Courtney.
In May there is a vote for any advocates who are interested in running for a position as a PAACL board member for a two year position.
Hours of operation
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 3:00 - 6:30
located at 3008 2nd Ave (enter through the alley off Angus)