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Show your support for FSI’s values and beliefs. Become a member or a volunteer Resource Parent/Peer (RP) today!

Volunteer

Would you like to support other families faced with similar circumstances to you and your family? Are you looking to mentor others on their journey? Are you interested in finding ways to celebrate diversity with other families? Become a Resource Parent/Peer.

Benefits of volunteering with FSI


FSI MEMBERSHIP AND VOLUNTEER RESOURCE PARENT

What is the difference?

As an FSI volunteer Resource Parent/Peer (RP), you have formally agreed to join a network where you will be called upon to offer 1-1 support to families across the province. 

Volunteers: 

  • Mentor and coach;
  • Guide families to resources;
  • Attend meetings, take notes, debrief
  • Listen and learn.

FSI membership demonstrates support of FSI’s work.

Members are invited to an AGM and, if eligible, enjoy voting rights.

The people who are eligible to vote at the FSI AGM are family members to persons with a disability.

Membership sign up

So, I’m not automatically an FSI member when I become an RP?

Correct. Becoming an RP is separate from becoming an FSI member. However, we do encourage all RPs to become members and have their voices heard!

Am I required to be a member in order to be a volunteer Resource Parent?

No, there is no requirement to be a member in order to volunteer. These two things are not related.

Membership

Having a membership gives you the right to vote and have your voice heard at our Annual General Meeting. Show your support for our values and beliefs.

Membership Options

For families and individuals:
1 year = $25; 2 year $45; 3 year $60; 4 year $75; 5 year $90

For non-profits and government agencies:
1 year = $60; 2 year $110; 3 year $150; 4 year $180; 5 year $200

For corporations and businesses:
1 year = $100; 2 year $190; 3 year $270; 4 year $340; 5 year $400

Membership Sign-up 

Donate

When you donate to FSI you are helping us to support families all over BC.

Your donation goes towards strengthening our volunteer network with training, networking opportunities and assisting our peer mentors to be equipped to take complex calls.

Your funds can be directed towards advocacy, family support, peer networking, workshop development and mentorship. Your contribution can also help to ensure that our database is current, and that our computers have up to date software to we can keep all our records safe, secure and confidential.

FSI makes every effort for our work to be sustainable over time so your financial contribution will be long lasting and go towards many families who are in need of supports.

Every donation counts and your help is very much appreciated! When you donate we can offer you a tax receipt right into your inbox!

Thank you for considering a donation to FSI today.

Ways to Donate

CanadaHelps.org

CanadaHelps will send you a tax receipt as soon as your donation is processed. Your donation goes straight to FSI.

Donate a Car

Donate a Car Canada accepts vehicle donations for FSI. Working or not, old or new, donate your vehicle to this program and FSI will benefit. 

Offline methods

For offline methods such as cash or cheque, please complete this form and mail it to the FSI office.

FSI website

Donate directly from our website one time (or monthly) using a credit card or Paypal account through our website. Your personal information will be stored behind secure encryption. 

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Donation Total: $50.00 One Time

Leave a Legacy

Have you ever wondered about the future and what it might bring to families with family members with a disability? You can make a difference by designating the Family Support Institute of BC Society as your charity of choice when considering leaving a gift through your will or any other gift planning instrument (like the Leave a Legacy program). Through our volunteer network FSI has supported tens of thousands of families over the past 30+ years – building a better quality of life for families in communities throughout BC.

Photo of two people looking at each other

Enrich People’s Lives

Every day families with family members with a disability are supported by the FSI office or through our volunteer Resource Parent/Peer network, ensuring that families receive the support they deserve and need.

Provide Support

Financial assistance is essential to support and sustain the charitable work of FSI. Many people generously give their money, time and energy to FSI and are unaware that by leaving a gift in their will or estate plan, they can continue to help families in need.

Leave A Memory

Choosing to leave a gift from the heart brings meaning, dignity and purpose to a life well lived. This is your opportunity to participate in the charitable and community work most meaningful to you, in a way that allows important causes like FSI to be well supported now and long after you are gone.

Build the Future

Many of us require some kind of assistance - physical, financial or spiritual. Maybe you were given a scholarship that made the dream of post-secondary education possible or experienced compassionate support during a crisis. Your gift can contribution to the future sustainability of FSI.

Celebrate your life and make a difference in the lives of families that follow.

Career Opportunities

Thank you for your interest! There are no employment opportunities at this time.

Title: Contract Event Planner & Facilitator
Classification: 10 Hours per week
Terms: ASAP – September 30, 2025
Wage: $30 per hour
Reports to: Director of Operations
Work Environment: Remote

POSITION SUMMARY & PURPOSE
Are you passionate about supporting families of school-aged children with disabilities and creating inclusive learning opportunities? The Family Support Institute of British Columbia (FSI) is seeking a Contract Event Planner & Facilitator to coordinate and manage the 2025 Summer Institute.

Summer Institute is a 3-day, bi-annual event held in August, dedicated to fostering inclusive learning environments and strengthening family engagement. This fully virtual gathering brings together educators, families, and school-based teams and shares innovative strategies, and
collaborative approaches in inclusive education. Through in-depth training or a particular strand topic combined with keynote presentations. Summer Institute provides a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and advocacy.

More information can be found at FSI Summer Institute.

This role requires a highly organized and detail-oriented professional who can oversee all aspects of event planning, logistics, and facilitation to ensure a seamless and engaging experience for participants. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with the FSI team, presenters, and community partners to execute a high-quality learning event that supports inclusive education and family engagement.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Develop and manage sponsorship relationships to support the event and enhance participant experience.
  • Develop and manage the overall event plan, timeline, and logistics for the Summer Institute.
  • Coordinate with speakers, facilitators, and panelists, ensuring seamless scheduling and support.
  • Oversee event registration, participant communication, and troubleshooting during the event.
  • Facilitate live virtual sessions, including moderating discussions and managing participant engagement.
  • Ensure accessibility features are in place, such as captioning, ASL interpretation, and other accommodations.
  • Work closely with the Director of Operations and other team members to align the event with FSI’s mission and goals.
  • Manage event technology, including virtual meeting platforms, ensuring a smooth user experience.
  • Coordinate with marketing and communications teams to promote the event and drive participation.
  • Develop post-event reports, including participant feedback and key learnings for future improvements.
  • Provide administrative support related to event execution, such as budget tracking and vendor coordination.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Proven experience in event planning, coordination, and facilitation, preferably in a virtual setting.
  • Strong knowledge of online event platforms (e.g., Zoom, MS Teams, Microsoft 365) and virtual engagement tools. Knowledge of the EZ Reg platform would be beneficial.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
  • Knowledge of accessibility requirements and inclusive event planning best practices.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience working with diverse communities, including individuals with disabilities and their families, is preferred.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

  • Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment.
  • Experience moderating and facilitating discussions in a professional setting.
  • Proficiency in digital tools for event planning and communication.
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure and troubleshoot live event challenges.

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • This position must be flexible in terms of daily/weekly work hours (extended or varying), with tasks often being of a time-sensitive nature.
  • This is a remote-work position; candidates must have a reliable internet connection, a computer with video conferencing capabilities, and a quiet space suitable for hosting virtual events.

DURATION OF CONTRACT

This is a contract position running from ASAP through September 30, 2025 with the opportunity, if appropriate, to renew for another contract for the 2027 event.

This position description outlines the key responsibilities for the role and is not meant to be exhaustive. The activities, responsibilities and obligations of this position may be modified from time to time, through discussion between the supervisor and the team member to effectively meet the requirements of Family Support Institute of BC.

The Family Support Institute of British Columbia is strongly committed to cultural safety, equity, diversity, anti-racism, and to being a welcoming and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply and join us in our mission to create a more inclusive and empowering future for all.

Please apply with cover letter and resume to:
Patti Mertz
Director of Operations, FSIBC

Title: Indigenous Practice Advisor
Classification: Part time OR Full Time OR Contract
Terms: Temporary Leave Coverage, March 2025 – June 2026
Wage: $38.00 per hour
Reports to: Director of Operations
Work Environment: Remote

POSITION SUMMARY & PURPOSE

The Indigenous Practice Advisor plays a vital role in supporting the Family Support Institute of BC (FSI) in advancing Indigenous relations and promoting cultural safety within the organization. This position leads initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive practices that recognize and address the intersectionality of Indigeneity and disability, enhancing the lives of Indigenous individuals with disabilities and their
families.

As a province-wide leader, the Indigenous Practice Advisor collaborates with the FSI team to develop innovative approaches for strengthening relationships with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit partners, as well as Indigenous agencies, individuals, and communities. The role emphasizes the unique experiences and needs of Indigenous individuals living with disabilities, both within and beyond First Nations communities, including urban and rural areas.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Providing culturally informed practice consultation and planning guidance to FSI staff, board members, and Resource Parents/Peers (RPs), with a specific focus on the intersection of Indigeneity and disability.
  • Coordinating local, regional, and provincial training initiatives that integrate cultural safety and disability awareness.
  • Developing and delivering expert online and in-person training and support sessions.
  • Participating in cross-ministry policy development, advisory roles, and community-based forums to advance systemic change.
  • Guide the ongoing implementation of FSI’s commitments to Truth and Reconciliation, Anti-Racism and cultural safety, with a focus on disability inclusion.

This dynamic position requires agility, enabling the Indigenous Practice Advisor to move seamlessly between providing support as requested by families, and supporting FSI projects. They will identify local challenges and translate them into opportunities for systemic change while working collaboratively with staff and executive leadership.

The Indigenous Practice Advisor must have a comprehensive understanding of BC Indigenous issues, including the history and lasting impact of residential schools, the intersections of disability and culture, and actionable steps to fulfill FSI’s Truth and Reconciliation and Anti-Racism commitments.
 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Relationship Building and Collaboration

  • Establish and sustain effective working relationships with Indigenous Peoples, organizations, and authorities in BC.
  • Act as a liaison between Indigenous individuals and staff to foster cultural safety and mediate culturally-based misunderstandings.
  • Collaborate with the FSI team to ensure culturally safe policies, practices, and communication materials.
  • Regularly seek input and guidance from FSI’s Indigenous Advisory Circle (IAC)
 

Strategic Leadership

  • Identify and implement strategies to meet the needs of Indigenous Peoples seeking FSI support, aligning efforts with the organization’s Strategic Plan and Cultural Safety Plan.
  • Chair the Indigenous Advisory Committee and coordinate its bi-monthly online and bi-annual in- person meetings.

 

Training and Capacity Building

  • Provide Indigenous cultural competence training for FSI staff, management, RP’s and the Board.
  • Mentor Resource Parents (RPs) in connecting with and supporting Indigenous families.

 

Advocacy and Policy Engagement

  • Participate in cross-ministry policy development and community-based forums to advance systemic change.
  • Monitor provincial, national, and international Indigenous-related matters (e.g., UNDRIP, DRIPPA action plans) and provide relevant guidance to the organization.


Community Engagement and Support

  • Support Indigenous communities with information and resources for planning.
  • Design and implement strategies to enhance awareness of FSI services among Indigenous Peoples and stakeholders.

 

Additional Duties

  • Perform related tasks as required, ensuring alignment with FSI’s mission and commitments.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training and Experience

  • Minimum five years’ experience working with Indigenous Peoples in the community.
  • An understanding of the various jurisdictions is critical.
  • Demonstrated understanding and knowledge of the disability sector, including but not limited to, services and supports for children, youth and adults with a disability and their families, funding sources, provincial and local initiatives

 

KNOWLEDGE

  • Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to FSI’s vision, mission, and beliefs
  • Well-developed understanding of issues impacting quality of life of BC’s Indigenous Peoples
  • Knowledgeable about FSI’s vision, mission and mandate, and the array of supports and services provided in B.C.
  • Familiar with the structure and operation of developmental disability supports and services in B.C.
  • Familiar with community serving organizations that play a role in supporting all citizens, including those of Indigenous heritage
  • Understand different learning styles and corresponding communication strategies
  • Familiar with the elements of aboriginal protocols, including circles, elder participation, etc.
  • Understand program and policy development and the implementation of them in practice for families in BC, particularly those of Indigenous heritage
  • Understand trauma informed practice

 

SKILLS and ABILITIES

  • Leadership and project management
  • Ability to lead service, projects, or program delivery activities
  • Ability to lead transformation projects; change management
  • Ability to conduct policy gap analysis or analysis of needs
  • Ability to represent the organization to regional, or provincial stakeholders on high level strategic initiatives
  • Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to speak in public forums
  • Team player who can collaborate with community and agency colleagues
  • Critical thinking / issue analysis
  • Ability to write clearly
  • Organizational skills
  • Able to effectively conduct meetings
  • Community and organizational development
  • Problem solving, negotiation, conflict resolution, facilitation and research
  • Program and policy development
  • Able to communicate effectively with diverse community partners
  • Computer literacy / word processing skills

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • This position must be flexible in terms of daily/weekly work hours (extended or varying), with tasks often being of a time-sensitive nature. Travel required throughout B.C.
  • Possession of a valid class 5 B.C. Driver’s license and clean drivers abstract.
  • Applicant subject to a criminal record review.
  • Preference may be given to candidates who self-identify as Indigenous with the required combination of education and experience

*Please note this position is for leave coverage and is therefore restricted to the term stated above.

This position description outlines the key responsibilities for the role and is not meant to be exhaustive. The activities, responsibilities and obligations of this position may be modified from time to time, through discussion between the supervisor and the team member to effectively meet the requirements of Family Support Institute of BC.

The Family Support Institute of British Columbia is strongly committed to cultural safety, equity, diversity, anti-racism, and to being a welcoming and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply and join us in our mission to create a more inclusive and empowering future for all.

SEND A COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO:

Angela Clancy, Executive Director 


Patti Mertz, Director of Operations

Sponsors & Donors

PLEASE NOTE that some sponsors and funders targeted their support towards a specific project or work. 

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Donation Total: $50.00 One Time