Who are we?
Building Friendships, a program of the Courtenay Recreational Association, is proud to support its mission to promote healthy, active living, volunteerism, multiculturalism, life-long learning and well-being for all.
Established in 1993 by a group of parents inspired by John McKnight's vision for an inclusive community, we are dedicated to supporting, building, educating and promoting a welcoming community for everyone.
We believe that a community that embraces the diversity of its residents will grow stronger. Through participation and contribution, relationships have the opportunity to flourish, providing a sense of belonging and self-worth.
What we do
We support members of the community who have a developmental disability to establish and maintain meaningful relationships. Through interviews and community exploration, we help each person discover their unique gifts, interests and capacity. This process helps expand and strengthen everyone’s social circle — building a more welcoming and inclusive Comox Valley.
Our dynamic team is skilled and trained in a variety of services for people with developmental disabilities. As active members of the Comox Valley community, they take pride in promoting inclusion both professionally and personally.
Drop by the Lewis Centre to meet the team.
Staff: Michelle Sandiford, Damon Bell, Gina Finotti
Core values
- Relationships are important
- Everyone belongs
- Diversity builds a strong community
- Everyone has something to contribute
- Everyone has choices
Resourcing and consulting
If you're interested in our program but don't qualify for services under Community Living BC, we can help provide ideas and direction. Visit us at the Lewis Centre to chat. We always enjoy meeting new people.
How to get involved
To get involved with Building Friendships, call Community Living BC at 250-334-1370 and ask for a referral to the program, or contact us directly — we'll help guide you through the referral process.
Our sponsors
Building Friendships is very fortunate to have had the long-time support of two critical organizations:
- City of Courtenay
- Community Living BC, which provides core funding