Lifetime Networks
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
About
Founded in 1998, Lifetime Networks is a charity based in Victoria, Canada working on disability, employment & skills, arts & culture +2 more.
Lifetime Networks is a non-profit in Victoria, British Columbia, that supports people with developmental disabilities to build lasting friendships, independence and community connection. It was founded in 1998 by five families who wanted to secure a future for their children with disabilities, and it began by creating Personal Support Networks of unpaid, committed friends. Today it offers a range of programmes including Personal Support Networks, Best Buddies, Dynamic Duos, Respite, Being a Citizen adult education, employment support, community engagement, L.I.F.E. Based, PODS, Outreach Support and fine arts. Services are open to all without a referral process, and the organisation states it welcomes people of all abilities, backgrounds and identities. Supporters can volunteer, donate, sponsor programmes or contribute clothing through its Clothes Drop initiative. The organisation reports around 130 staff members.
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Causes & programmes
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Programmes
Personal Support Networks
Disability
Builds lasting, unpaid friendships for people with disabilities through a group of three or four friends who spend one-on-one time with the person at the centre of each Network, supported by a Facilitator.
Best Buddies
Disability · Canada
Matches people with disabilities with University of Victoria student volunteers for shared activities and monthly group events.
Dynamic Duos
Disability
Connects participants with volunteers to help overcome barriers to participating in recreational activities.
Respite
Disability
Time-limited relief for family and paid carers, arranged in flexible locations and funded through CLBC or private payment.
Being a Citizen
Education
Inclusive adult education programme focused on academic skills and social communication skills.
Employment Support Services
Employment & Skills
Individualised job search, discovery assessments, customised employment development, job development and job coaching.
Community Engagement
Community development
Tailored one-to-one support and peer activities aimed at social, academic, work-related and recreational goals.
L.I.F.E. Based Program
Community development
Supports individuals in building a meaningful, community-focused life, with growth in confidence, independence and connection.
Outreach Support
Disability
Support and mentoring for people living on their own or planning to, focused on personal goals and safety.
PODS
Community development
Small group programme connecting people with similar interests and goals.
Fine Arts and Theatre Troupe
Arts & Culture
Creative programme where participants write, create and perform their own shows, plus The DeviANTs inclusive theatre co-op.
Countries of operation
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Awards
Community Builder of the Year Award
Partnerships
University of Victoria, Community Living BC (CLBC)