July's Community Conversations

Spencer van Vloten
Jul 16
4 min read

Updated: Jul 17

Hello community leader!

Each month in Community Conversations, we look at issues, events, resources, and opportunities in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

If you're interested in receiving updates like this by email, sign up for my newsletter below! Also feel free to contact me if you're aware of any opportunities you'd like included.

All the best,

Spencer van Vloten

Community Resources

Save Money, Prepare For Extreme Weather

Launched this month, the BC Home Energy Planner helps renters and home owners save on home energy costs and be prepared for extreme weather events. If you're interested in saving and being prepared, this tool is a great fit for you

Accessible Adventures

Summer’s here—what is there to do? The Family Support Institute put together a list of ideas for inclusive, sensory-friendly, low-cost activities.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors or stay cool indoors, there’s something for everyone.

One Cool Map

When it's summer in Vancouver and the days get hotter, take steps to protect your health. Use the city's Where To Keep Cool map to find cooling centres, misting stations, spray parks, wading pools, and more.

Funds, Programs, & Awards Now Open

Farmers Market Coupons Have Returned

The Farmers Market Nutrition Coupon Program has returned again this year, helping seniors and low-income families access fresh summer produce at local markets. Each household enrolled in the program can receive up to $27 a week in coupons for up to 16 weeks. Free coupons are available but run out fast.

Special Opportunity For New Musicians & Filmmakers

VIFF Amp is a free program which nurtures, educates, and champions new musicians and filmmakers with unique career development opportunities. Participants receive mentorship from industry experts and a $250 stipend towards professional development.

Know An Outstanding Senior? Recognize Them!

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Seniors of Distinction Awards! Recognize a community member from the Lower Mainland who is 65 or over, and who has made outstanding contributions in arts, leadership, community service, or healthy living.

What's Happening: Advocacy & Engagement Opportunities

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact in your community, or know someone who is? Several exciting opportunities are now open.

Child Care & Caregivers

The Provincial Child Care Council is looking for seven new members. The council's mandate is to provide the Minister of Education and Child Care with strategic advice and expertise on child care.
Parents and caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities are invited to join a caregiver advisory council, aiming to identify caregivers’ most pressing support needs. Participation will involve taking photos, virtual interview, virtual workshop, and providing feedback on an infographic. Participants will receive an honorarium.

Community Living

The Home Sharing Support Society BC is seeking passionate individuals to join their board of directors and improve inclusive housing options for adults with developmental disabilities across British Columbia. They are particularly looking for individuals with experience as Self-Advocates, Home Sharing Providers, Service Providers, or with a background in Finance/Accounting.

Healthcare

The Vancouver Division of Family Practice is seeking a patient partner to provide guidance for a local, coordinated, and comprehensive primary care delivery system. This community member will help promote and advance accessibility, affordability, and high-quality care for all members of the community.

Helping Seniors

Meals on Wheels is looking for compassionate drivers and bikers to deliver nutritious meals, a friendly hello, and a brief wellness check to seniors and homebound neighbors, helping them stay safe, nourished and connected to their community.

Youth

CBC is consulting kids and teens ages 11 to 16 with disabilities to make content more relevant and accessible to people with disabilities. Participants will share their thoughts about news and digital accessibility with a group of CBC journalists.
The Rick Hansen Foundation School Program is recruiting youth 13-30 for its Youth Leadership Committee. Committee members will work to make communities more inclusive and accessible for young people.
UBC researchers want to learn more about how individual differences in emotional and social processing relate to stress and mental health among young adults on the autism spectrum. Autistic young adults 18-30 will earn gift cards of their choosing for their contributions to this valuable research.

Navigating The System: How To Get A Free Air Conditioner

If you are a current client of your regional health authority's Home Care Program or Mental Health and Substance Use Program, you may be eligible for a free portable air conditioner from BC Hydro.

How to apply

Review the eligibility criteria to make sure you qualify.
If you rent your home, you'll need to get your landlord's consent. Complete the landlord consent form.
Submit your application online. If you can’t apply online or need additional support, call 1-800-224-9376.
After your application is received, you will be contacted after a few weeks to let you know if you're approved.
If approved, you will be contacted within one to two weeks to schedule a visit to your home. Installations typically occur within four weeks of submitting your application.

BC Trivia: A Special (And Very Furry) Friend

Which expert swimmer has the thickest fur in the world and the bite force of a bear?

Sea otters were nearly extinct from BC by the early 1900s due to overhunting during the maritime fur trade.

However, from 1969–1972, 89 sea otters were reintroduced to the west coast of Vancouver Island from Alaska. Their population in BC has since rebounded, from under 100 to over 8,000!

More Updates: Events, Contests & More!

Events