What’s the Latest: New Kelowna ‘Home for Belonging’ gives neurodivergent community a permanent place to connect
Autism Okanagan opened its new ‘Home for Belonging’ in Kelowna, providing a permanent space for the neurodivergent community. The facility will host various programmes and activities aimed at fostering connection and support.
Autism Okanagan’s ‘Home for Belonging’ officially opened in Kelowna after over a year of rezoning efforts and renovations. The new facility aims to serve around 1,000 neurodivergent individuals aged four to 40, with plans to potentially double that number as programming expands.
The City of Kelowna supported Autism Okanagan in rezoning efforts over the past year to establish the new ‘Home for Belonging,’ which is now a permanent space for the neurodivergent community. Executive director Christy Phillips announced plans for various programs, stating, “Now, all of our programs will be in the same place,” indicating an intention to expand outreach to potentially double the current participant numbers.
What remains unclear — It is not specified how many participants are currently enrolled in the new programmes offered at the ‘Home for Belonging’.
New Kelowna facility provides permanent space for neurodivergent community
Autism Okanagan has opened a new facility, the ‘Home for Belonging,’ in Kelowna, aimed at providing a permanent space for the neurodivergent community and their caregivers. The grand opening took place this weekend, following more than a year of preparation and renovations on the property donated by the Hall family. The initiative moves the organisation away from temporary venues, allowing all programs to be hosted in one location.
Christy Phillips, executive director of Autism Okanagan, highlighted the importance of the new space: “Now, all of our programs will be in the same place,” she said. “All the kids will come, and all the kids will now have a regular routine.” Previously, programs were held in various settings like recreation centres and libraries, which limited consistency for participants.
The path to establishing the ‘Home for Belonging’ involved significant challenges, including rezoning procedures with the City of Kelowna and incidents of break-ins, which resulted in the theft of programming equipment. Community support played a crucial role during this period, helping to replace the lost items. The centre will offer a range of activities, including LEGO, digital arts, Dungeons & Dragons, and social groups, aimed at fostering connections among members.
Currently, Autism Okanagan serves approximately 1,000 individuals aged four to 40. The new facility has the potential to double this number, as it is open to all neurodivergent individuals, regardless of formal diagnosis. Programs typically run for two to five months, creating opportunities for participants to establish relationships and routines.
Phillips emphasised the centre’s mission: “As they age, they will grow up in the house, and it will just become a place that is theirs and where they always belong.” This dedicated space aims to nurture a sense of community and belonging for its users, enhancing the support network for families of neurodivergent individuals.