Jenny's Remarkable Sign Language Journey at Garth Homer: A Story of Growth, Confidence, and Communication Triumphs

According to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC ( Alzheimer Society of British Columbi a ), it’s estimated there are 85,000people living with the disease in the province. For people with intellectual disabilities, the diagnosis often comes earlier in life than for the general population. And for those with Down Syndrome, the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease , one of the most common forms of dementia, is about three to five times greater than in the general population. Caring for those with dementia is a large part of what staff at the Garth Homer Society’s Pathways program do each and everyday. “Dementia is unfortunately a big part of our program,” says certified dementia caregiver Roslyn Wagstaff. She recently completed three months of specialized training and is now sharing her learnings with fellow caregivers. “It’s a progressive brain disease and not something [our clients] can help or will get better,” explains Wagstaff. “For some people it will progress quickly; for others …more slowly.” Wagstaff has been with Pathways since 2011 and was attracted to the program by her love of working with the elderly. Designed for older age clients with higher communication, behavioural or complex needs, Pathways adopts a “go with the flow” approach to programming. On average, Wagstaff and her colleagues care for six to eight clients with dementia attending the program. “Every day is a new day,” she says. “Actually, every hour is a new hour – you have to be flexible.” One of the greatest takeaways from her training was delving into the seven As of dementia: Anosognosia (loss of insight), Amnesia (loss of memory), Aphasia (loss of language), Agnosia (loss of recognition), Apraxia (loss of purposeful movement), Altered Perception and Apathy. “Everyone’s journey with dementia is different,” adds Wagstaff, noting one of her clients has recently started “sundowning” which refers to a state of confusion that occurs in the late afternoon and lasts into the night. “She gets picked up at 1pm but continues coming in the morning as getting into the care to come to the centre means she’s not sitting at home.” “She still has friends here. The feelings are there, even if she doesn’t remember people’s names.” The goal of Pathways is keeping clients coming to the centre for as long as possible. Maintaining cognitive skills is key. For many, that means playing games or listening to music on an iPad. One Pathways participant copies numbers off the stock exchange onto paper which encourages the fine motor movements necessary to write. Other activities like Gameshow Tuesday are designed to reach down into memories that are still there for clients. Patience, kindness and a good sense of humour are all qualities Wagstaff say are needed in large doses, not only for a certified dementia caregiver like herself but for those who care for her clients when they’re away from Pathways. She also stresses self-care, perspective and gratitude as tools caregivers should use for themselves. For Wagstaff, that means taking her dog for a walk after work. It’s time to herself that’s precious as when away from Pathways. Wagstaff helps support her mother-in-law who has dementia. “I get through by remembering the person she used to be and being thankful for the time we have together.”

“If these walls could talk” is the perfect idiomatic expression* to describe Garth Homer Society’s (GHS) new, temporary location that the Society is set to move into Mid-2025. Built in 1950, SJ Willis School at 923 Topaz Avenue has served as a junior high, high school, and continuing education centre for new Canadians and mature students. Its most recent large group of tenants were 800 students from Victoria High School who temporarily relocated to the space while their school (the oldest in the city) was seismically upgraded. Garth Homer’s need to relocate is similar to Vic High’s as plans to open a new Centre for Belonging at its current Nigel Valley location are Underway. “We have been searching for a relocation space for a long time,” says Geoffrey Ewert, Garth Homer’s CEO. “Many people told us it would be impossible to find a suitable space and we’re so grateful for a strong relationship with School District 61.” Recognizing that moving is one of the top stressors in life (preceded only by divorce and the death of a loved one) as anxiety can sometimes be triggered by having to adapt to a new environment**, Ewert says the move will be gradual and well planned for the 97 clients who are relocating. “An email communication has gone out to our community,” explains Ewert, adding that affected team coordinators have started planning, while all staff were notified in December 2024. In February, GHS management and team coordinators started taking trips to SJ Willis for on-site discussions related to logistics and required renovations. Ewert notes that care is being taken to ensure transition plans are customized for each program that will make the move. GHS clients will benefit from having extra program space at SJ Willis (31,800 sq. ft) compared to 24,000 sq. ft at the current GHS Centre site, plus access to a full-size gymnasium and commercial kitchen to accommodate programming and activities that currently run in the kitchen and auditorium at the current Darwin Street Location. “SJ Willis is a great fit for our needs because it is not situated on a busy road and the location is close to the current GHS Centre which mitigates any potential negative impact on transportation for clients,” adds Ewert. The former school also has ample parking with space for the GHS fleet and is large enough to accommodate the size of GHS’ operations. * an expression whose meanings cannot be inferred from the meanings of the words that make it up ** Cohen, S., Murphy, M. L. M., & Prather, A. A. (2019). Ten Surprising Facts About Stressful Life Events and Disease Risk. Annual review of psychology, 70, 577–597.

Introduction: The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a powerful financial tool designed to support individuals with disabilities in building a stable financial future. By contributing to an RDSP, individuals can benefit from long-term savings that grow with tax-deferred earnings, government grants, and bonds. This plan not only provides a safety net for future needs but also helps individuals achieve greater financial security and independence. Step-by-Step Guide Ensure Eligibility: To open an RDSP, you must first meet specific eligibility criteria: Disability Tax Credit (DTC): You need a valid DTC certificate to qualify for an RDSP. This ensures that the RDSP is used to support those with disabilities as defined by the Canada Revenue Agency. Residency and Age: You must be a Canadian resident and under 60 years old when you open the RDSP. The plan can remain active until age 59. Choose a Financial Institution: Selecting the right financial institution is crucial for managing your RDSP effectively. Look for banks or credit unions that offer comprehensive RDSP services. When choosing an institution, consider factors such as fees, investment options, and customer support. Discuss your RDSP options with a financial advisor to ensure you select a plan that aligns with your financial goals and needs. Open the RDSP Account: Once you’ve chosen a financial institution, you can open your RDSP account. Here’s what you’ll need: Identification: Provide personal identification such as a BC Services Card or driver’s license. DTC Certificate: Ensure you have a copy of your valid DTC certificate. Additional Documentation: Depending on the institution, you may need to provide proof of residency or other personal documents. Tips for Discussing RDSP Options with a Financial Advisor: Clearly outline your financial goals and expectations. Ask about different investment options available within the RDSP. Inquire about fees and charges associated with managing the RDSP. Contribute to the RDSP: Contributing to your RDSP is a vital part of building your savings. Here’s what you need to know: Contribution Limits: You can contribute up to $200,000 to an RDSP over its lifetime. Annual contributions are not capped but consider regular contributions to maximize growth. Government Grants and Bonds: Canada Disability Savings Grant (CDSG): The government will match your contributions up to a certain amount each year. The matching rate depends on your family income. Canada Disability Savings Bond (CDSB): If you have a low or modest income, you may receive a bond of up to $1,000 per year, regardless of contributions. The financial institution managing your RDSP will automatically apply for the CDSB on your behalf. The bond is deposited directly into your RDSP based on the income information provided in your tax return. Manage and Grow the RDSP: Effective management of your RDSP is key to maximizing its benefits: Investment Options: Explore different investment options available through your RDSP, such as mutual funds, GICs, or stocks. Regular Contributions: Make regular contributions to take full advantage of the government grants and bonds. Withdrawals: Be aware of the rules governing withdrawals, as they can affect the amount of government grants and bonds you receive. Typically, withdrawals should be planned to ensure the longevity of your savings. Conclusion: Opening a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a proactive step toward securing your financial future. By taking advantage of the RDSP’s benefits, you can better create a stable financial foundation and access valuable government supports. We encourage you to consult with a financial planner to tailor your RDSP strategy to your personal needs and goals. The Garth Homer Society is committed to providing information and resources to support independence and long-term security. However, this blog series is intended for informational purposes only. The content is not to be considered legal or financial advice, as the Society does not provide financial advisory services.

Introduction: The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a valuable financial tool that provides tax relief for individuals with disabilities and their families. This non-refundable tax credit can significantly reduce the amount of income tax owed, easing financial strain . Additionally, qualifying for the DTC opens doors to other important financial aids, such as the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and the Child Disability Benefit (CDB), making it a cornerstone of financial planning for people with disabilities in Canada. To maximize your benefits, it’s important to apply as soon as you believe you or your loved one may be eligible. Despite its importance, the DTC remains underutilized. Estimates suggest that only 40% to 50% of eligible Canadians are accessing this credit, often due to barriers such as the complexity of the application process or lack of awareness. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of applying for the DTC, helping you navigate the application with confidence and clarity. Step-by-Step Guide: The first step in applying for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is determining whether you or your loved one qualifies. The DTC is designed for individuals with severe and prolonged challenges in physical or mental functions. To be eligible, the following criteria must be met: Severe: The condition must significantly restrict an individual’s ability to perform basic activities of daily living, such as walking, speaking, hearing, or managing mental functions. This means the impairment must be substantial enough that it profoundly impacts daily life and requires significant support or adaptation. Prolonged: The condition must have lasted, or be expected to last, for at least 12 months continuously. This ensures that the DTC is reserved for individuals with long-term and persistent conditions, rather than temporary or short-term disabilities. In addition to these primary criteria, eligibility may also be considered if: Life-Sustaining Therapy: The individual requires life-sustaining therapy, such as regular treatments that are essential for survival. Cumulative Effects: The individual experiences cumulative effects from multiple conditions that are both severe and prolonged, making it challenging to manage daily life without substantial support. To confirm eligibility, consider whether the condition significantly affects the individual’s daily activities and if the challenges are expected to be long-lasting. If you are unsure about whether the condition meets these criteria, it may be helpful to consult with a medical professional who can provide detailed information and support. Complete the DTC Application Form (T2201): The application process for the DTC involves completing Form T2201, the Disability Tax Credit Certificate. This form has two main parts: Part A – Information about the Applicant: Basic personal information and details about the challenges faced by the individual applying. Part B – Medical Practitioner’s Assessment: This section must be completed by a qualified medical practitioner, such as a doctor, optometrist, audiologist, or psychologist, depending on the nature of the condition. Tips for Completing Form T2201: Be Thorough: Provide as much detail as possible about the challenges and how they impact daily life. This can strengthen your case for approval. Keep Records: Retain copies of all documents submitted, as well as any additional medical reports that might support your application. Medical Practitioner’s Role: The role of the medical practitioner in the DTC application process is crucial. They are responsible for certifying that the individual’s condition meets the criteria for the DTC. Submit the Application to the CRA: Once Form T2201 is completed and signed by both the applicant (or their representative) and the medical practitioner, it’s time to submit it to the CRA. How to Submit: By Mail: Send the completed form and any additional documentation to your local tax centre. The mailing addresses are listed on the CRA website. Online: If you’re registered for the CRA’s My Account service, you can upload the completed form directly through the online portal. Additional Documentation: Depending on the condition, you may need to submit additional medical reports or supporting documents. Ensure all paperwork is complete to avoid delays. Follow Up and Processing Time: After submission, the CRA will review the application. Processing times can vary, but it typically takes 8 to 12 weeks for the CRA to reach a decision. During peak tax season, processing times may be longer. What to Expect: Notification of Decision: The CRA will notify you of their decision by mail. If approved, the DTC can be applied retroactively for up to 10 years, providing significant tax relief. Further Information Requests: In some cases, the CRA may request additional information or clarification from the medical practitioner. Be prepared to follow up if necessary. Tips for Following Up: If you haven’t received a response within the expected time frame, contact the CRA for an update on the status of your application. If your application is denied, you can request a review or appeal the decision. Consider seeking professional advice if you choose to appeal. Conclusion: Applying for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) can seem complex, but the financial benefits it offers are well worth the effort. By qualifying for the DTC, you not only gain immediate tax relief but also unlock access to other valuable financial aids like the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). To maximize your benefits, it’s important to apply as soon as you believe you or your loved one may be eligible. Stay tuned for the next post in this series, where we’ll dive into the details of applying for the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) benefits, offering another layer of support for individuals with disabilities in British Columbia.

As the holiday season draws upon us, have you ever wondered why and how some of the festive traditions we observe came to be? Take Christmas hampers, as an example. France’s William the Conqueror is credited for bringing hampers to England in the 11th Century. In fact, the word ‘hamper’ comes from the French word ‘hanapier’ - which means ‘a case for goblets’. As is the custom today, baskets were first given as a charitable offering to those in need with supplies lasting a single family for several weeks. ( lewisandcooper.co.uk ) Hundreds of years later, it’s the same spirit of giving and community building that’s behind Garth Homer’s hamper program explains coordinator Rebecca Koval, who supports Garth Homer clients. “They genuinely love giving back to the community, they love to be part of the community, they like seeing how it makes people happy.” Over 20 clients are behind the holiday hamper initiative which started over nine years ago and is a mainstay of the Society’s STARR program which is designed to meet the needs of higher-needs individuals who may display challenging behaviours due to several factors, including autism and anxieties. By working to fund, fill and deliver hampers, participants are supported to be more successful in their daily activities and learning. Koval says the tasks involved in creating the hampers are based on clients’ individual abilities. Some like to go shopping which builds independence in terms of selecting items and making a purchase. “We have one client who loves wrapping presents” chuckles Koval. “If you gave her a whole room of gifts she would wrap them in one day.” Generating the money needed to fill the hampers is a year-round endeavour that sees clients delivering newspapers as well as collecting and sorting items for recycling. “We usually spend $1,000 per family,” explains Koval, who this year reached out to Quadra Village Community Center to identify who in the community could use a little help around the holidays. Two families have been selected and asked what their needs and wants are. “It can range from winter coats and socks to movie tickets and board games that give recipients a chance to do something as a family,” says Koval. Hampers also contain all the fixings for a holiday dinner; be that turkey, ham or a vegetarian option along with vegetables and bread rolls. Taylor Burkinshaw has helped with the hampers for three years running and especially likes buying, wrapping and delivering the hampers. A highlight is also singing Christmas carols for families at delivery time. “Leaves and berries,” she exclaims when reminded by Koval about the songs performed. For her colleague Tessa Pastro, last year was her first time being involved with the program and says volunteering is what drives her to participate. When asked by Koval why volunteering is important to her Pastro immediately sums it up with one word, “[It makes me] happy!” Off to New Zealand with her family in mid-December, Pastro leaves knowing that her contributions to a hamper will make another family’s holiday extra special. Burkinshaw, Pastro and Koval are unanimous in selecting their favorite part of the hamper program: getting the chance to celebrate the season with hamper recipients, one that’s made sweeter with the sharing of hot chocolate. “[That experience] is so visual and in the moment,” shares Koval. “We’ve had years where people cry. It’s very beautiful.” She’s also quick to point out that it’s not just the families who benefit from the hamper program as it gives just as much to the Garth Homer clients. “They are the most authentic people I’ve ever met in my life,” she marvels. “They’re happy and just to grateful to be in a safe environment where they’re appreciated, they can give back and are respected.”

It was a rough patch with her teenage son that led Karen Jensen and her family to the Garth Homer Society. “It was very fortuitous that I chose Garth Homer for him 10 years ago,” says Jensen. Her son had been out of her care for a few years she explains, adding there were some significant and heartbreaking behavioural issues, during his formative years, that led to expulsion from high- school. Back in her care as a young adult, Jensen knew she had to act…not just for her son but for the entire family. After comparing programs in the Victoria area, she says it became “blindingly obvious” that Garth Homer was the right place for her son. “That was a good day when we signed on at Garth Homer,” Jensen adds. “With the support of the patient, caring and dedicated Garth Homer staff we were able to have my son progress on a much better pathway,” Jensen adds with an air of relief. “In the 10 years since he’s been a client of the Garth Homer Society, he’s made steady, noticeable progress which is remarked upon by friends and family who don’t see him everyday like his brother and I do.” It's no surprise that Jensen and her family are regular donors to the Society. Research into philanthropy shows donors are purpose driven individuals who want to be part of something meaningful. They give to organizations they trust because they want to make an impact. It was her son’s stepfather who made the family’s first significant five-figure donation to Garth Homer. “He could see the benefits my son was receiving and by extension the two of us,” explains Jensen. Beyond the benefits their family experiences through having their son in a fulfilling and varied day-program, Jensen says giving back helps the broader community as well. “Garth Homer means a lot to so many people in our community and when our loved ones do well there’s a ripple effect that we all feel”. Since his passing, Jensen has carried on her husband’s tradition of giving what they can, when they can. For her that entails volunteering time at the Society and being a member of the Garth Homer Foundation board, in addition to the yearly donation she makes. “For me this is a way of giving thanks for everything we have because things can always be worse,” explains Jensen while acknowledging that supporting a child with developmental disabilities can be extremely hard. “By supporting organizations [like the Garth Homer Society] I’m basically saying thank you to the universe.” Jensen’s also quick to point out the benefits of giving saying she uses the tax receipt to mitigate what’s owed at tax time and parlays any refunds into new donations. Not one to rest on her laurels in terms of supporting the Garth Homer Society, Jensen says she’s motivated by recognizing how lucky the community is to have the organization as a neighbour. “It is serendipitous that [my family] landed in this city many, many years ago, “she states with gratitude. “If we were living in many other centres in this country, we wouldn’t have access to a program that is so perfect, not just for my son, but for a lot of the clients there.” Asked how she knows Garth Homer Society is making a difference she says it’s simple, “If you go into the building, you see the looks on the faces, people are happy.” Founded in 1979, the Garth Homer Society provides meaningful community inclusion programs for people with diverse abilities. Its mission is to provide services and opportunities to help people with disabilities over the age of 19 make a life, a home and a place in the world where all belong. GHS has over 220 clients participating in 11 different community and employment programs within the Greater Victoria area. Four key program and service areas encompass community inclusion, services for people who are aging, employment services and residential services. Programs are as diverse as the community members served and include art and music, life and technology skills development, volunteering and employment programs, plus outdoor and community activities. Every client has an individualized plan, with the goal of providing a lifelong continuum of support to meet changing needs at every stage of life.

Tucked away in a strip mall, in a less travelled part of Victoria’s downtown, is a studio and gallery that’s home to 16 artists whose imagination, originality, strength and courage shine through their creations. Welcome to the Garth Homer Society’s ArtWorks space. Located at 2-1950 Government Street, it quietly opened in 2021 and features a main level gallery illuminated by natural light from floor to ceiling windows on two sides. Three working studios on both levels round out the dynamic footprint which ArtWorks studio and gallery coordinator Alison Duerden believes is an environment that contributes to the creative energy in the space. “Our artists explore a wide range of mediums: drawing and painting, collage, embroidery, needlepoint, jewelry-making, sculpture, mixed media, photography, stop-motion animation, and printmaking,” says Duerden, who stresses a dedicated studio space is vital for an artist’s growth. She describes the space as a safe, creative haven where they can experiment with new ideas and mediums as they develop their artistic voices. “It nurtures a sense of community, fosters collaboration, and creates opportunities for our artists to connect with the broader arts community in Victoria.” Since 1998, the ArtWorks program has provided adults with developmental disabilities, who are passionate about creating art and want to explore and further develop their art making skills, with a place and mentorship. The goal is to develop a portfolio they are proud to show publicly and offer for sale. Each artist has at least one piece always displayed. “As soon as an artist completes a piece, we celebrate the achievement by installing it in the gallery, either on the wall or on a plinth in the main area.” It’s an approach, that while less formal than most galleries, is one that captures the diversity and spirit of the artists working there says Duerden. Sarah Ksionzyk is one of those artists. As a creative with autism, her mother Brenda says prior to discovering ArtWorks her daughter was prone to limiting her talent to one distinct style. Today, as she prepares for her first commercial exhibit, Sarah, aided by ArtWorks staff’s gentle coaxing and guidance on flexible thinking, is producing very different pieces thanks to exposure to an array of art genres. “It has really expanded her world,” marvels Brenda. “The skills she’s learned have really opened so many doors for her. [ArtWorks] has done so much to get her out there in the community, doing shows and selling her art.” Gemma Kidd recently joined Artworks and wants to improve her skills with the goal of one day selling her pieces like Sarah. “I’m allowed to have my own flair,” she exclaims while explaining that ArtWorks not only teaches you new things but is also really fun. Duerden and the ArtWorks team have big plans for the future. Artists and staff are gearing up for the annual end of year ‘Paint the Halls’ exhibition that will be open to the public. In the New Year, the program will launch a pottery and ceramics class having just acquired an accessible wheel. The long-term vision is to open the gallery to the community one day a week so that art-lovers and the curious can enjoy Garth Homer clients’ talent. “Our evolving program will give us more opportunities to feature exhibitions in 2025, with more structure and exploration built in,” Duerden explains. As a graduate of the Ontario College of Art and Design, and a painter in her own right, Duerden says the level of creativity at ArtWorks blows her mind. “Working with ArtWorks clients pushes me and gives me the courage, to try things I’ve not done before.” She says key to showcasing an artist’s evolution is having a gallery that increases visibility and representation allowing the artist to share their stories, gain feedback, and be recognized as professionals. “It’s empowering for our artists to see their work appreciated by a wider audience, and that recognition plays a big role in their growth as creators and individuals.” * Henri Matisse (born December 31, 1869, Le Cateau, Picardy, France—died November 3, 1954, Nice) is an artist often regarded as the most important French painter of the 20th century. (Henri Matisse | Biography, Art Style, Paintings, Prints, & Collage | Britannica )

Anticipation is building for the Garth Homer Society's Paint The Halls artist event on December 5, 5pm - 8pm at the ArtWorks Studio and Gallery, 2-1950 Government St., Victoria BC. A recent piece written by longtime Black Press Journalist Christine van Reeuwyk , highlights the event and invites the community to attend. Read the full story on the Victoria News website.

Quadra Village Community Centre’s (QVCC) Community Programs Coordinator Charmaine Koenig worked at the Garth Homer Society for two years and says leaving her casual position was a hard decision to make, until she realized she could take a little bit of Garth Homer (so to speak) with her. “When some of the staff said they volunteered at QVCC, I took that as an opportunity to maintain a connection with a lot of Garth Homer clients,” she explains. Charmaine oversees the food distribution and community support programs offered by QVCC, many of which are supported by Garth Homer volunteers Monday through Friday. For example, Monday sees Garth Homer’s Discovery team delivering baked goods and watering plants, while someone from the STARR program picks up and recycles bottles. The OPTIONS team cleans toys for QVCC’s out of school care program on Fridays. These are just some of the contributions GHS volunteers make at QVCC. “They are helping out in so many different and amazing ways,” marvels Charmaine. “It’s really nice to have a team of people who are engaged and motivated to do this kind of work. [Our centre benefits from] that kind of energy.” Volunteers have even given themselves a nickname, ‘the Garth Homies’, and are known for always wanting to do — and provide — more. One teaches QVCC staff sign-language as part of their visit. “Our community is better because of not just who they are, but because of their knowledge and expertise,” adds Charmaine. Both Garth Homer Society and QVCC share similar visions and core values, making the partnership strong. Each strive for a world where everyone has the capacity, resources, support and opportunities to reach their potential.