Advocacy & Empowerment

Encouraging personal growth and the development of self-advocacy skills, our consumers can receive one-to-one support in applying for disability benefits as well as assistance to gain the skills needed to appeal decisions regarding disability benefits if required. This program also assists individuals and families in the transition from youth to adult services.

Available Workshops

Know Your Rights - Income Assistance

We will cover all of the key sections of the Income Assistance Act, with particular attention to topics such as crisis grants, medical needs, nutritional allowances, security deposits, etc. This workshop explains in plain language what your rights are, so that you know what to ask your work for. We talk about how to get help if your rights are not being respected, but look specifically at the appeal process in a second workshop.

Know Your Rights - Residential Tenancy

This workshop examines your rights as a tenant. You will come to understand what your landlord can and cannot do, as well as what your responsibilities are as a tenant. This workshop does not look at the arbitration process, as arbitration is covered in a separate session.

Applying for Income Assistance (Persons with Disability /Persons with Multiple Barriers)

Discover the criteria for eligibility for the Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance's PWD (Persons With Disability) status and the PMB (Persons With Multiple Barriers) designation. Get tips for talking to your doctor, as well as other people who might be of assistance in proving your eligibility for these benefits.

Know Your Community

A practical look at the different resources in Nanaimo. Learn how to access essentials such as food, clothing, shelter and counseling - where, when and how.

Appeals & Arbitration

Take a good look at what happens at each stage of an appeal! Learn how to ask for a decision to be appeal; how to write letters; and how to gather evidence.

Problem Solving/Goal Setting

Discuss how to define issues and how to develop strategies to resolve them - share best practices with us and others.

Communication Skills

In order to have your rights respected, you must be able to communicate your needs and feelings effectively: in a manner that is respectful and clear. Together, we will explore the difference between passive, assertive, and aggressive communication. Learn how to communicate your needs and get what you need to meet those needs.

Conflict Resolution

Explore the many different ways individuals respond to conflict, how to manage your own stress, and how to resolve issues in a positive, productive fashion.

Advocacy and Empowerment Skills