When I was much younger, I worked one year for a flourishing community services society in the Fraser Valley. Since then I’ve observed that quite often these local organizations have to scramble to attract financial resources and volunteers. Knowing this, I was deeply intrigued by what the Lower Similkameen Community Services Society is accomplishing in Keremeos and surrounding communities. “We have wonderful volunteers and staff,” Executive Director Sarah Martin said in a conversation last week. “Also, the people on our board are amazing.” She attributes the organization’s success to the skills, energy, time and compassion of committed people. By working collaboratively, they have developed a vibrant network of services.
Sarah’s enthusiasm about the society’s programs is palpable. Her voice is animated and her hands at times wave in sync as she talks. She still seems a little surprised at her leadership role. “My family moved to the Yukon when I was six months old,” she said. “We did a lot of hunting and fishing. My husband Karl lured me to this area with a promise of warm water and fresh peaches. We moved onto the farm of his mother, Lee McFadyen, where we still live and help. I attended the Okanagan College, mostly by the Distance Education program, with an emphasis on Business Administration.” She probably earned enough credits for a diploma but apparently this wasn’t important to her and she didn’t apply for it. “I knew I had an affinity for numbers,” she said, “but I wasn’t aware of any leadership potential.” She began working for LSCSS in 2008.
After a thumbnail biographical sketch, Sarah turned her attention to the people and programs. She gave full credit to Walter Despot, former Keremeos mayor and current board member. “Walter was one of the individuals who mentored me,” she said. She recalls vividly his observation that, “some people have to plan for longer than their own lifetime.” She also benefited from the counsel and guidance of Eileen Oliver- Bauer.
“We benefit from having many services under one roof,” she said. “In some communities there is competition for resources and volunteers. Here we are all part of the same organization.”
They receive funding from the United Way and OneSky Resources. “There are also small pots that provide funds. About 55 % of our income comes from housing projects. This provides a measure of stability and permits us to pay our office staff, cooks, care aides and others. Our budget is over 2 million.”
“Our services address needs from cradle to grave,” Sarah said. “Mother Goose and Friends is an early literacy program. It features stories, games, music, fun and community field trips for young children. PEACE provides short term education, information and supportive counselling on an individual and group basis to children and youth who have witnessed or experience violence. The program also supports youth up to age 19 in developing healthy relationships and independent living skills.”
An impressive number of services enable seniors and persons with disabilities to stay in their homes. The Volunteer Drivers program transports people to medical appointments, grocery shopping and other activities needed for health and well-being. Meals on Wheels provides hot lunches three times a week. Better at Home, a provincial program, allows seniors to remain in their homes by assisting them in day to day tasks. Recently they have added housekeeping and light yard work.
Some years ago there was an awareness of a growing migration to this area from the coast. Seniors, individuals with disabilities, and others with limited income needed affordable housing. In 2008 they applied to have Tumbleweed Terrace constructed. “People are happy at Tumbleweed,” Sarah said. “One woman told me when she moved in it was the first time she could afford new linens for her bed.” She smiled, then added, “Tumbleweed Terrace and Mountain View Manor give people a sense of safety and security. They no longer need to impose on their children and grandchildren for a place to live. We have a long waiting list and currently we’re building 24 new units.”
Sarah understands that often when people apply to a government office for assistance, the answer is “no.” “Because of the wide range of services and committed staff, people who come to us are likely to hear “yes.” We’ll find help or support for them. A provincial official told us our program is amazing and should be replicated throughout the province.”