This past June, BCSS had the amazing opportunity to table and showcase at the 43rd Annual BC Elders Gathering, organized by BC Elders Communication Center Society.
With more than 1,800 participants from all around BC, the BCSS Vancouver Region team met many lovely people over the two days of the gathering. According to the BC Elders Communication Center Society, these gatherings provide a chance for participants to gain perspective on how other First Nations live. It also provides an opportunity for people to build connections between communities and across generations and demonstrate respect, regard, and honour for Elders across BC.
In addition to learning about Indigenous culture, BCSS staff and volunteers who attended connected with many elders and families who asked for support for their loved ones living with a mental illness.
After an afternoon of talking with the team, Earl H., an elder from a remote BC community, shared his appreciation:
“I feel so special seeing all of you here. Your volunteers are good people because they want to learn about my culture and my people from my community. Thank you for being here, it means a lot to my community. My son has mental illness, and I’ve been taking care of him for a long time, and sometimes I need someone to talk to… now, I know I can call BCSS to help myself. Your volunteer gave me information about family support groups and how I can call BCSS to talk over the phone. I appreciate it. Seeing all your volunteers here helping me makes me want to become a volunteer so I can help people too.”
Noleen Mueller, a BCSS Vancouver Regional Educator, tells us that one highlight of the event was partaking in the traditional ceremonial procession at the beginning of the gathering. It honoured, acknowledged, and respected the traditions of Indigenous culture as well as the land they were celebrating upon. When asked about the event, Noleen exclaimed, “We can’t wait to be a part of it again next year!”
A special thank you to our BCSS volunteers who attended and helped provide information on our programs and services to anyone who dropped by the community table.