News - Vecova

Vecova invites the Calgary community to attend its third annual (dis)ABLED Art Show & Sale on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Brentwood Sportsplex. Organized by Dani Paulich, counsellor and art therapist at Vecova, the event celebrates the creativity, talents and artistic expression of artists with disabilities. The show provides an opportunity for artists to share their work with the community, connect with visitors and sell their creations directly to the public.

Attendees can explore a variety of unique, original artwork available for purchase while enjoying an inclusive and welcoming community event. The day will also feature raffles, door prizes and interactive art-making activities for visitors to participate in.

The (dis)ABLED Art Show & Sale aims to create opportunities for artists with disabilities to showcase their abilities, gain recognition for their work and connect with the wider community through art.

“Art is a powerful way for people to express themselves, share their perspectives and connect with others. This event celebrates the creativity of artists with disabilities while creating an opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate their work.” said Dani Paulich, Counsellor and Art Therapist at Vecova.

Vecova welcomes community members, art enthusiasts and anyone looking for unique handmade artwork to attend and support local artists.

Details:

Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026

Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Location: Brentwood Sportsplex

Address: 1520B Northmount Drive NW, Calgary, AB

Activities: Art sales, raffles, door prizes and interactive art-making

For more information, please contact Vecova.

Vecova

Daniella Paulich, Mental Health Counsellor & Art Therapist, [email protected]

September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a day to honour residential school Survivors, remember the children who never came home, and recognize how residential schools continue to affect First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities today. The day also takes place on Orange Shirt Day, which helps people learn about the impacts of residential schools and remember that Every Child Matters.

Understanding the history

For many years, Indigenous children were taken away from their families and communities and sent to residential schools. These schools were created to force Indigenous children to leave behind their cultures, languages and traditions. The effects of residential schools are still felt by Survivors, families and communities today. Learning about this history helps us better understand the experiences of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and why reconciliation is important.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was created following a recommendation from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. It gives us a day to honour Survivors and their families, remember the children who never came home, and learn about the history and lasting impact of residential schools.

Beyond wearing orange

Wearing orange on September 30 is one way to show your support and remember the children who never came home. But Truth and Reconciliation is about more than wearing orange for one day. It is also about learning, listening to Indigenous voices and understanding the history of residential schools and their impact on Indigenous communities.

At Vecova, we believe everyone should feel respected, included and supported. Truth and Reconciliation gives us a chance to learn more, reflect on the past and think about how we can help build more welcoming and inclusive communities.

Taking time to learn and reflect

There are many ways to take part in Truth and Reconciliation. This September 30, you can:

Learn about the history of residential schools and how they continue to affect Indigenous communities.
Listen to the stories and experiences of Indigenous Survivors and communities.
Learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
Support Indigenous-led organizations, events and community programs in Calgary
Take time to think about what Truth and Reconciliation means in your community and workplace.

Resources in Calgary

If you would like to learn more about Truth and Reconciliation, there are many local resources available in Calgary.

Visit the City of Calgary’s Indigenous Relations resources to learn more about Truth and Reconciliation in our community.
Explore Indigenous books, stories and learning resources through Calgary Public Library.
Learn about the work of the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary and the services they provide to the Indigenous community.
Visit The Confluence to learn about local history and take part in Truth and Reconciliation programming.
Look for local Orange Shirt Day events and community activities happening around Calgary.

Resources in Airdrie

City of Airdrie – Indigenous Relations and Truth and Reconciliation: Learn about Airdrie’s work toward Truth and Reconciliation, local Indigenous communities and upcoming opportunities to learn.
Circle Connections for Reconciliation: Explore local resources for learning about residential schools, Indigenous history and reconciliation. The City of Airdrie works with Circle Connections on Truth and Reconciliation initiatives.
Airdrie Public Library: Explore books and other resources to learn more about Indigenous histories, cultures and experiences.
City of Airdrie Indigenous Culture Programs: The City supports Indigenous-led storytelling, teachings, cultural workshops and other opportunities to learn and connect.

Details:

All Vecova locations will be closed Wednesday, September 30, in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

This includes our Airdrie, NW Kaleidoscope and Beltline locations.

Vecova and Lacrossing Barriers, in association with the Calgary Irish Rugby Club, are excited to present Fall Rugby 2026!

This inclusive program is designed to introduce participants to the core skills of rugby in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment. Participants will have the opportunity to learn new skills, stay active, build confidence, and connect with others while experiencing the fun of rugby.

While some tackle practice equipment, including tackle bags and gym mats, will be used to help participants develop skills, the remainder of the program will be non-contact. Games will be played as Flag Rugby, creating a fun and accessible experience for participants.

The Benefits of Rugby for People with Disabilities

Participating in sports can offer many benefits for people with disabilities, and rugby is a great way to get active while learning new skills and connecting with others.

Through adapted and inclusive rugby programs, participants can build physical skills such as coordination, balance, movement, and overall fitness while developing confidence in a supportive environment. Learning the fundamentals of a new sport can also encourage problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

Just as importantly, sport creates opportunities to meet new people, build friendships, and feel connected to a community. An inclusive program allows participants to try something new, celebrate their achievements, and enjoy being part of a team.

With non-contact activities and Flag Rugby games, Vecova’s Fall Rugby program provides a welcoming opportunity for participants to experience the excitement of rugby while learning and having fun.

Special Price for Fall 2026!

Join us this fall for five exciting sessions:

Dates:
September 12, 19, and 26
October 3 and 17, 2026

Time:
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Location:
Calgary Irish Rugby Club
4334 18 St NE, Calgary, AB, T2E 8N7

Ages:
10 and up

The City of Calgary Fair Entry Card is accepted for this program.

Please Note: This program does not provide one-to-one support.

Whether you’re trying rugby for the first time or looking for a new way to stay active and connect with others, Fall Rugby is a great opportunity to learn, play, and have fun in an inclusive environment.

Spaces are available now! Join us this fall!

Learn more about the Calgary Irish Rugby Club here: https://www.calgaryirishrugby.com

At Vecova, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to explore new interests, build confidence, and connect with their community through recreation.

Our Adult Adapted Cricket Program is a fun and inclusive day program designed for adults living with disabilities who want to learn a new sport, try new activities, and spend time with others in a welcoming environment.

Join Vecova at the Calgary Cricket Center for a fun Tuesday afternoon discovering the exciting world of cricket. Whether you are picking up a bat for the first time or you already love sports, this program offers a chance to learn skills, stay active, and have fun.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn different cricket techniques, including bowling, batting, and fielding. Want to learn how to bowl a googly? Practice your swing? Improve your batting skills by hitting a six? Our program encourages participants to explore the sport at their own pace while building confidence along the way.

But the fun does not stop at cricket! The Calgary Cricket Center’s state-of-the-art facility also gives participants the chance to try other activities, including:

Pickleball
Bocce ball
Floor curling
Batting practice using the facility’s bowling machine

Whether you are interested in learning the rules of cricket, trying a new activity, or simply enjoying time with others, this program provides a supportive environment to get involved and have fun.

Program Details

📍 Location: Calgary Cricket Center – 7005 6 St SE
📅 When: Tuesdays
⏰ Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

The facility opens at 12:30 p.m. for participants who need early drop-off and closes at 3:30 p.m. to support late pick-up.

Please note: This program does not provide one-to-one support. Participants who require an aide for recreational activities, work, or school will need similar support within this program.

City of Calgary Fair Entry Card accepted for this program.

Ready to try a new sport, learn new skills, and connect with others? Join Vecova for an afternoon of cricket and community! Register now: https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/vecova/activity/search/detail/28653?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

Finding healthy ways to understand and manage our emotions can be an important part of supporting our well-being. Vecova’s Creative Coping Skills Group provides a welcoming space where youth and adults can explore their emotions, express themselves, and learn practical coping strategies through creativity.

What is Creative Coping?

Creative Coping is an 8-week, in-person group offered to youth and adults with PDD funding. The program combines art therapy, group discussion, self-care education, and hands-on activities to help participants better understand themselves and their emotions.

No two people experience emotions in exactly the same way. Through creative activities, participants are encouraged to explore their feelings in a way that feels comfortable for them.

Express Yourself Through Art

Art can provide another way to communicate thoughts and feelings. Throughout the group, participants have opportunities to work with different art materials and explore a variety of creative activities.

Participants are encouraged to express themselves through art and, when comfortable, share their experiences and feelings with the group. The focus isn’t on creating a “perfect” piece of art—it’s about exploring, creating, and finding a way to express what you’re experiencing.

Building Coping Skills

Creative Coping also focuses on understanding emotions and learning what we can do when those emotions become overwhelming.

Participants are guided through different coping strategies and activities that can help them:

Recognize and understand their emotions
Explore healthy ways to express feelings
Learn strategies for managing difficult emotions
Discover the importance of self-care
Build confidence in communicating their experiences
Connect with others in a supportive group environment

Making Self-Care Part of the Conversation

Self-care is another important part of Creative Coping. Participants explore why taking care of ourselves matters and learn different ways to incorporate self-care into everyday life.

The goal is to help participants discover strategies that work for them and build a better understanding of how self-care can support their overall well-being.

A Welcoming Space to Connect

Creative Coping is more than an art group. It is an opportunity to create, connect, learn, and grow alongside others in a supportive environment.

Participants can explore their emotions at their own pace, try new creative activities, and build skills they can take with them beyond the group.

Ready to Get Creative?

If you’re looking for a supportive way to explore emotions, learn coping skills, and connect with others, Creative Coping Skills may be a great place to start.

Creative Coping Skills Group
📅 8-week in-person program
👥 Youth and adults with PDD funding

Learn more about Creative Coping Skills and register today: https://vecova.ca/service/creative-coping-skills/

Fall 1 Registration Is Open!

Join us for another season of inclusive programming where you can build confidence, explore new interests, try new activities, and connect with the community.

This fall, discover new ways to get active, explore your creativity, build friendships, as well as learn new skills. From recreation and social programs to wellness activities and adapted opportunities, Vecova’s programs are designed to celebrate abilities, encourage independence, and create meaningful experiences where everyone can connect, grow, and have fun!

🍁 What’s waiting for you this fall?

New experiences and activities to explore
Opportunities to build friendships and community
Programs that support confidence, wellness, and personal growth
A welcoming space where everyone belongs

At Vecova, we believe everyone deserves the chance to discover their strengths and take part in meaningful experiences. Our programs are designed with inclusion at the heart, creating opportunities for participants to connect, grow, and thrive.

Benefits of Joining Vecova’s Fall 1 Programs 🍂

Participating in Vecova’s inclusive programs offers opportunities to:

Build confidence by trying new activities, developing skills, and celebrating personal achievements
Create meaningful connections by meeting new people and building friendships in a welcoming environment
Stay active and engaged through recreation, wellness, and adapted activities that support overall well-being
Explore new interests and discover hobbies, talents, and activities you enjoy
Develop independence by learning new skills and gaining confidence in everyday experiences
Support personal growth through opportunities that encourage creativity, communication, and self-expression
Be part of an inclusive community where everyone is valued, supported, and encouraged to participate

At Vecova, every program is designed to help participants connect, grow, and thrive while creating experiences that celebrate individual abilities.

Explore programs here: https://vecova.ca/programs/

👉 Register today to start your next adventure with Vecova.

🏊 Still time to register for summer swimming lessons!

Enjoy the Calgary South Outdoor Pool and the Forest Lawn Outdoor pool this August and learn essential swimming skills!

Registration for Vecova’s swimming programs is still open the end of August.

Explore Cospa’s website here: https://www.cospa.ca

At Vecova, we believe caregivers need support, too.

Caring for someone living with dementia can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging. It can affect your emotions, physical health, and overall well-being. Many caregivers spend so much time caring for someone else that they forget to take care of themselves.

Our Dementia Caregiver Group is designed for people who are caring for someone with dementia or a related condition. Led by Dani Paulich from Vecova’s Mental Health Services team, the group offers a safe and welcoming place to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.

During each session, caregivers can share their experiences, learn helpful coping skills, and discover resources that can support them in their caregiving journey. You don’t have to do it alone, we’re here to help.

What to Expect

Each session is designed to help caregivers manage both the daily challenges and the long-term responsibilities of caring for someone with dementia. The group includes a variety of supportive activities, including:

Art therapy
Peer support and shared experiences
Psychoeducation
Resource-building
Guided discussions and self-reflection

Topics include:

Managing stress and preventing burnout
Practicing self-compassion
Emotional regulation
Finding moments of joy
Building resilience
Accessing community resources
Navigating the changing caregiving journey

The group meets you where you are and offers practical strategies you can carry into everyday life.

A Safe Space to Connect

Many caregivers can feel alone, overwhelmed, stressed, or unsure of what to do next. Talking with others who are going through similar experiences can help you feel supported and understood.

Our Dementia Caregiver Group provides a safe and welcoming space where caregivers can share their experiences, learn helpful strategies, and connect with others. The group is led by an experienced mental health counsellor that give guidance and support each session.

Program Details

Location: Vecova Northwest (Unit 1, 2520 Capitol Hill Crescent NW)
When: Wednesday afternoons
Cost: Free

Interested in Joining?

If you’d like to learn more about the Dementia Caregiver Group, we encourage you to connect with Dani Paulich, Mental Health Counsellor, Art Therapist, and Group Facilitator.

Daniella is happy to answer questions about upcoming session dates, group topics, availability, and whether the program is a good fit for you.

Email: [email protected]

At Vecova, we’re committed to supporting not only individuals living with dementia, but also the caregivers who provide compassion, care, and connection every day. You don’t have to navigate the journey alone.

From Airdrie to Calgary, Vecova is creating inclusive spaces where people can connect, grow, and thrive. We also continue to provide services in Cochrane and the Bow Corridor, ensuring support reaches individuals and communities where it’s needed most. Read more about our locations below: (Link to blog)

Vecova Across Our Communities: Three Locations and Continued Support in Cochrane and the Bow Corridor

At Vecova, we’re proud to support individuals of all abilities through inclusive programs, services, and community connections across multiple locations. With three unique spaces in Airdrie and Calgary, we’re able to meet people where they are and create opportunities that foster independence, belonging, and growth.

Each location has its own identity and strengths but together, they share one mission: building an inclusive community where everyone can thrive.

📍 Vecova Airdrie

104 MacKenzie Way SW #4105, Airdrie, AB T4B 0L3

Our Airdrie location has quickly become a welcoming hub for connection, learning, and engagement. Over the past year, it has grown into a vibrant community space where participants build confidence, develop skills, and form meaningful relationships.

From social programming to individualized support, Vecova Airdrie focuses on creating a safe, inclusive environment where participants feel valued and supported every day.

📍 Vecova NW @ Kaleidoscope

Unit 1, 2520 Capitol Hill Crescent NW, Calgary, AB

At Vecova NW @ Kaleidoscope, creativity, connection, and community come together. This location offers a dynamic space where participants can engage in meaningful programming designed to support personal growth, independence, and social inclusion.

With a strong focus on engagement and accessibility, Kaleidoscope continues to be a place where individuals are encouraged to explore their interests and build lasting relationships in a supportive setting.

📍 Vecova Hub @ Beltline

The Kahanoff Centre, Calgary, AB

Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, the Vecova Hub @ Beltline brings services and supports into a central, accessible community space. This location allows us to connect with individuals, families, and community partners in a vibrant urban setting. The Hub plays an important role in outreach, connection, and collaboration, helping to bridge services and create new opportunities for inclusion across the city.

🌄 Supporting Cochrane and the Bow Corridor Community

Vecova continues to proudly support individuals in Cochrane and the Bow Corridor region. Our services remain active in the area, ensuring that participants can still access meaningful programs and supports within their community. Although we no longer have a physical office space in Canmore, our presence and commitment remain strong. We continue to work alongside individuals and partners in Cochrane and the Bow Corridor to promote inclusion, independence, and community connection.

Summer registration opens on Tuesday, June 2nd at 8:00 AM. Get ready to secure your spot in our exciting lineup of programs designed to support connection, learning, recreation, and personal growth. From recreation to social opportunities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this summer.

Whether you’re looking to try something new, stay active, build skills, or connect with others in the community, our summer offerings are designed to be inclusive, welcoming, and fun for all ages and abilities.

Spaces can fill quickly, so early registration is strongly encouraged. We recommend reviewing program details ahead of time so you can plan your summer and register for your preferred sessions as soon as registration opens.

At Kaleidoscope:

Social & Community

*New* Coffee & Bingo – Thursdays – 9:30 -11:00 am
Located at: Kaleidoscope

Start your Thursday with Coffee & Bingo! This social & Community program is a relaxed morning of warm drinks, friendly conversation, and classic Bingo fun. It’s a welcoming, low-pressure way to connect, laugh, and enjoy the morning together. (No experience needed)

Active Arts – Thursdays 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Located at: Kaleidoscope

This fun, welcoming program combines weekly creative art projects (clay, painting, collages) with gentle, accessible movement and fitness games. Designed for all abilities, create, move, and connect in a supportive environment.

Club Vecova – Wednesdays 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Located at: Kaleidoscope

This fun social program lets participants vote on weekly activities like bingo, floor bowling, and group games. It’s the perfect place to try something new, play games, and build friendships through teamwork and casual conversation.

Creative Kitchen – Mondays 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Located at: Kaleidoscope

Creative Kitchen brings people together to explore food, health, and connection. Each week, participants will help prepare simple, nutritious, and delicious recipes to enjoy as a group. Every session also features fun group games and built-in social opportunities to encourage teamwork, conversation, and friendship.

Explore Abilities – Tuesdays 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Located at: Kaleidoscope

This fun social-educational program features a new theme each week to spark curiosity and growth. Participants will enjoy plenty of time to chat, play tabletop games, and build friendships. A includes theme-based gentle movement and hands-on creative projects like music and crafts.

Children’s Adapted Recreation – Saturdays 11:15 AM – 1:30 PM
Located at: Vivo Recreation Center

Children aged 6–12 will match up with volunteers for a fun-filled session of swimming, sports, and games.

Youth Adapted Recreation – Saturdays 2:00 PM – 4:15 PM
Located at: Vivo Recreation Center

Youth ages 12–17 are paired with awesome volunteers for an action-packed afternoon of sports, games, and swimming.

Outdoor Swimming Lessons with COSPA – Tuesdays + Thursdays + Fridays
Located in: SE AND SW Calgary

We’re excited to partner with the Calgary Outdoor Swimming Pools Association (COSPA) to bring our adapted aquatics programming outdoors this summer for both youth and adults. These inclusive swimming lessons will be offered at two outdoor pool locations in South Calgary outdoor Pool, & Forest Lawn Outdoor Pool, providing a supportive environment to build confidence, safety, and water skills while enjoying the summer season.

Adaptive Inclusive Rugby for Youth & Adults – April 25^th – June 27^th 9:30am – 11:30am Located at: Calgary Rugby Park – 9025 Shepard Rd SE

This program introduces the core skills of rugby in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment. While tackle practice equipment (such as tackle bags and gym mats) will be used, the remainder of the sessions are non-contact. Partnership with Lacrossing Barriers, in association with the Southern Alberta Rugby Union.

FUNdamental Movement – Sundays 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Located at: Calgary Western High School – 641 17 Ave SW

FUNdamental Movement is a multi-sport program in Calgary focused on building foundational movement skills for children with disabilities. Develop coordination, balance, throwing, catching, and teamwork through engaging, game-based activities that help build confidence and physical literacy. Great for children with disabilities who want to build physical skills, increase confidence, and explore different sports and movement activities.