Our Story
Kindale began in Armstrong in 1959 as a small school for children with special needs. The vision for the school came from Lydia Boss, a public health nurse serving Armstrong and Enderby. Aware of a number of children in the area — including her own son Gary — who had no access to public education due to developmental disabilities, Lydia was determined to create a solution.
She presented her idea to the Armstrong Kinsmen Club, whose members embraced the challenge and rallied others in the community. A new society was formed, raising awareness and funds to bring Lydia’s vision to life. Volunteers from the Armstrong Kinsmen Club, the Enderby Lions Club, and many other dedicated community members worked evenings and weekends to build the school — completing it in record time. This spirit of community building is a foundational part of Kindale’s identity and continues to be reflected in our motto, mandate, and philosophy to this day.
From those humble beginnings more than 50 years ago, Kindale has grown into a dynamic Community Living Agency. Today, we employ full-time, part-time, and casual staff, along with contractors and volunteers, who support adults and youth with disabilities — and their families — across most communities in the North Okanagan and Columbia Shuswap.
The services we provide are guided by the individual needs, goals, and dreams of those we serve, as identified through person-centred planning. Our day program centres have evolved from traditional sheltered workshops into inclusive community hubs, where individuals can connect and engage in meaningful activities alongside their peers. Employment opportunities are also integrated, and include both paid and volunteer roles.
As we continue to learn from the people we support, we remain committed to innovation, inclusion, and growth in the years ahead.
Core Beliefs
Mission
Provide person-centered support for people with disabilities through a community-based network that fosters inclusion, independence, and meaningful connection.
Philosophy
To be part of a future where people with disabilities are empowered to make their own choices, build meaningful community connections, and live with dignity in inclusive, natural environments that respect their rights and individuality.
Our People
The Board of Directors oversees the work of Kindale Developmental Association, operating under a Policy Governance model. The Board consists of up to ten elected Directors and one or two People’s Representatives, all serving as dedicated volunteers.
Director elections take place annually at Kindale’s Annual General Meeting each July. The Executive Director serves as a non-voting member of the Board.
To contact the Board, please call 250-546-3005 or email kindale@kindale.net.
First Name Last Name
Postition
First Name Last Name
Postition
First Name Last Name
Postition
Membership & Rights
Kindale welcomes persons served, friends and family members, caregivers, staff, and community members to become valued Members.
To apply, please click here to download the Membership Application Form. Submit the completed form and payment by mail, fax, email, or in person at the Kindale Head Office in Armstrong.