A Community Where Everyone Belongs
Our Vision
Gulf Islands Families Together Society (GIFTS) is a charitable non-profit organization that supports people with diverse abilities by recognizing and facilitating their right to employment, social, recreational and educational access, and housing in their community. GIFTS strengthens community on Salt Spring by supporting people with disabilities to apply their individual talents and experience to tackling challenges such as staffing shortages, social inclusion, skills development and housing. Governed by a volunteer board of directors, consisting of family members, self-advocates and community members.
*Note: We choose the phrase diverse abilities in place of the current term ‘disability’ which is how funding is determined through government programs.
What We Do
GIFTS provides support as a host agency for Community Living British Columbia through a wholistic approach. Working with individuals and families to understand their needs and then work toward providing one on one support to ensure that individuals can participate in their community how they choose. We collaborate and partner where needed to ensure that the needs of individuals and families are being met, that we all grow together with empathy and respect.
Support workers provide support to individuals based on uniquely tailored plans. Plans may include independent living skills, employment, volunteer, or recreation activities.
GIFTS also assists individuals and families with respite, residential support, training and long range planning.
Building Inclusive Futures Together
Advocacy
People have the right to make choices about their lives. Families formed GIFTS to ensure their sons and daughters were supported to participate in activities of their choice in the community. GIFTS provide access to resources and information that promote full citizenship of all people.
Transitional Support
GIFTS can assist high school students and their families in planning for their future. PATH (Planning Alternative Tomorrows of Hope), designed by Marsha Forest and Jack Pearpoint, is used as a primary planning tool in this process. The intention is to help youth plan for their lives beyond high school, connecting them to people, resources and services that support their long-term goals, as well as supporting guardians navigating the transition through funding agencies.
Community Inclusion
GIFTS facilitates meaningful choice of participation in community. Whether the activity is working independently, in supportive environments, volunteering or participating in community recreational and social groups, people need to be fulfilling and enjoying personal goals. At GIFTS, an individualized support plan is developed for each person and that plan guides the support team. The support team consists of support workers, family, employers and community members, who are hired and matched for compatibility with the person. Typically, these supports are funded by Community Living British Columbia.
Housing
GIFTS supports people with disabilities in finding the most suitable living option for their needs. Regardless of a person's level of independence, each option should promote growth, independence, participation in community and be secure and supportive. Some people live with their families, others live with a 'host family', and some live independently or with roommates in their own homes or apartments.
Opportunities Without Limits