As we reflect on the past 42 years of serving families affected by schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses, we are proud of our strong history of family support and education. And as we look ahead to 2025, we recognize the importance of evolving to build an even better future for those living with schizophrenia, and their families.
The visibility of mental illness is a growing issue in the public life of many British Columbians. While we can’t do anything about the events that draw attention to untreated mental illness, BCSS has worked hard to advocate for the government, political parties, and the media to become better educated about mental illnesses, and put forward policy ideas and actions that will help.
We continue to focus on rural and underserved areas and are working to enhance partnerships with Indigenous communities. Truth and Reconciliation is a high priority for us. We endeavour to secure access to culturally appropriate support resources for Indigenous communities across BC.
There is still a lot of work to be done, but we are up to the challenge. Our commitment remains unwavering, and our latest annual report is a testament to the dedication of our staff, board members, medical policy committee, family members, volunteers, and donors.
Key Highlights from 2023-2024:
- National Schizophrenia and Psychosis Day
- June Members Education Event featuring Dr. Richard O’Reilly
- September Members Education Event featuring Dr. Harish Neelakant
- Annual General Meeting and Education Session
- Holiday Appeal and Donor Appreciation Event
- Season 4 of ‘Look Again’
- New BCSS & BCSS Youth websites
- BCSS’ Schizophrenia Prevalence Paper
- BCSS All-Staff Business Planning Session
As 2024 comes to a close, we remain committed to building and strengthening existing community partnerships and supporting our staff. Our teams across the province are extremely dedicated to BCSS’ mission and vision, and they are the key to providing effective and timely support to families.
We are incredibly grateful to all our funders, donors, supporters, and partners who are committed to supporting families affected by schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses in British Columbia through Members’ Education Events, advocacy efforts like those for National Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day, and funding research projects through the Foundation. Your generosity has made it possible for BCSS to provide thousands of families across the province with “a reason to hope and a means to cope”.
We would like to give a special thank you to Chris Sandy, who has again agreed to match all donations given during our annual Holiday Appeal campaign up to $10,000. Thank you, Chris, for your continued support of our shared cause and advocacy.
We are profoundly grateful for your support and look forward to another successful year ahead.
Should you have any questions or would like to request a copy of BCSS’ Audited Financial Statements, please email info@bcss.org or reach us via phone at 1-888-888-0029.