Community Inclusions
Day Programs

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Kindale provides Community Living and Day Options to adults of all ages – from youth to seniors – and at all levels of functioning. These day programs make an immense difference in the lives of people with developmental and other disabilities. They provide opportunities for skill enhancement, recreation, socialization and community inclusion that significantly enhance self esteem and quality of life.

In recent years Kindale has committed to moving services out of ‘sheltered’ settings into the community wherever possible. This is particularly important for younger people who participated in the public school system and never experienced institutionalization. These young folk are often reluctant to participate in traditional programs. As a result Kindale has opened two ‘Community Inclusion Centres’ that operate more like a drop in or resource centres and many of the activities occur in the wider community. The first to open was ‘Mainstreet Connections’ in Vernon in 2008. ‘Independent Generation’ opened in Armstrong in 2009.

Mainstreet Connections

Mainstreet Connections opened in Vernon in 2008 as an expansion of the New Beginnings program which began in 2002. In April, 2021, Mainstreet Connections moved to a new location on 27th Street.

Mainstreet is a program with a younger demographic with many that lead independent or semi-independent lives in the community. The program is adaptable and provides flexibility with those who participate in the program, offering various services and activities, including outreach services, skill development, and recreational activities.

Independent Generations

Established in Armstrong in 2009 and relocated to its current site down the street from the main office, Independent Generations champions community inclusion by encouraging participants to engage actively beyond the center. Our programs and activities emphasize involvement in the wider community to foster meaningful connections and personal growth.

Here’s a glimpse of what we offer:

  • Life Skills Development: Supporting persons served with essential skills including computer literacy, self-care, problem solving, numeracy, planning, research, relationship building, creativity, empathy, self-improvement, communication, networking, and much more to enhance independence and personal growth.

  • Adventure Group: Explore the outdoors through activities such as hiking, swimming, and visiting unique locations, promoting wellness and environmental awareness.

  • Recycling Initiatives: Participate in collecting and sorting recyclables, encouraging teamwork and environmental responsibility.

  • Creative Arts: Engage in arts and crafts projects, collaborate with Mezzy Crafts for inclusive art classes, and take part in the Joining Hands art program.

  • Culinary Programs: Build practical culinary skills via baking, hot lunch preparation, and home economics classes.

  • Sports & Recreation: Take part in physical activities such as basketball, curling, sledding, snowshoeing, and golf, fostering fitness and teamwork.

  • Literacy & Learning: Improve literacy skills through book clubs, math and reading programs, and social story discussions.

  • Community Engagement: Get involved by delivering flyers, assisting with yard maintenance, and participating in community projects that promote inclusion and social connection.

  • Wellness & Leisure: Enjoy chair yoga, meditation, muscle relaxation exercises, and fun group activities like karaoke, bingo, and themed Fun Fridays.

  • Music & Dance: Participate in music programs, singalong groups, and fitness activities like Zumba and Just Dance for creative expression and cardiovascular health.

  • Social & Practical Skills: Enhance independence through programs such as traffic awareness, laundry skills, and window painting.

Season Centre

Seaton Centre, established in 1993 on land donated by the Kinsmen in Vernon, features 3,700 square feet of fully wheelchair-accessible program space. It is designed to accommodate persons with various disabilities. As we move away from traditional, center-based programs, Seaton Centre is evolving into a multi-use hub, partnering with a variety of programs and services.
Explore the diverse range of activities we offer, all designed to promote personal growth, skill development, and community involvement:

  • Essential Life Skills: We support persons served in building practical abilities such as digital literacy, self-management, critical thinking, numeracy, planning, research, interpersonal relationships, creativity, empathy, communication, and continuous personal development—empowering them for greater independence.

  • Home Economics Program: Participate in baking and culinary activities, from meal planning and shopping to making treats like Peanut Butter Bread and Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes.

  • Arts and Crafts: Enjoy creative projects such as tie-dye shirts and holiday ornaments, fostering artistic expression and teamwork.

  • Walking Group: Take part in community walks, tracking steps indoors during winter and exploring local parks in warmer months.

  • Bowling: Socialize and have fun at Lincoln Lanes while improving coordination.

  • Meditation and Muscle Relaxation: Start the day with relaxation techniques to boost well-being and reduce stress.

  • Music Program and Karaoke: Play instruments, sing favorite songs, and enjoy lively karaoke sessions across various music genres.

  • Recycling Program: Engage in sorting and recycling to promote environmental responsibility.

  • Hot Lunch Program: Develop cooking and budgeting skills by planning, shopping for, and preparing meals for peers.

  • Lawn Sports and Basketball: Participate in outdoor sports such as soccer, basketball, and bocce ball to stay active and build teamwork.

  • Fun Friday: Celebrate weekly themed days like Disney Day and Tie-Dye Day to foster a fun, community atmosphere.

  • Book Club: Enhance literacy and comprehension through shared reading and movie watching.

  • Math, Reading, Spelling, and Counting: Work towards personal academic goals with targeted learning support.

  • Adventure Group: Enjoy outdoor excursions including hiking and visits to local attractions like BC Wildlife Park.

  • Foosball/Air Hockey Games: Improve hand-eye coordination with friendly competition.

  • Heaven Can Wait (Boating): Experience peaceful boating adventures on the water.

  • Bingo and Picnic Lunches: Join group games and outdoor meals to promote social interaction.

  • Monthly Poster and Seaton Decorating: Participate in creative projects celebrating special events and birthdays.

  • Join us at Seaton Centre for a fulfilling and dynamic experience as we continue to expand our programs and partnerships!