Inclusion Parksville

Inclusion Parksville began in 1959 and was started by local parents of children with special needs who wanted their children to go to schools in Parksville and Qualicum Beach and not go away to an institution. In the 1970's a sheltered workshop began, known as TEC (Technology Education Centre). Participants made and sold items such as pompoms, picnic tables, planter boxes, and stakes for BC Hydro, as well as working in a pottery studio. In the 1980's the Association started to grow as adults moved from institutions back into their community. Throughout the 1990's and 2000's, Inclusion Parksville continued to expand and began offering more services to fit individual needs and goals such as a Supported Work program, Self Help Skills, Semi-Independent Living, and more recently, a Customized Employment Program, Personalized Supports Initiative Program and Young Adult Program. The two day programs grew and focused on providing opportunities for community volunteering and working, recreation and building skills in a variety of areas to promote independence and equality in the community. Today, Inclusion Parksville provides services to more than 60 individuals in the District 69 area.