News - Vecova

We’re incredibly proud to share some exciting news from our Vecova community.

Daniella Paulich, our exceptional Art Therapist, has been named one of The Calgary Herald’s 20 Compelling Calgarians for 2026, an honour that recognizes individuals who are making a meaningful difference in our city.

Through her creativity, compassion, and deep commitment to the people she supports, Daniella uses art therapy to help individuals express themselves, build confidence, and connect in powerful ways. Her work goes far beyond the art itself, it creates space for healing, growth, and belonging.

Daniella’s recognition is a reflection of the heart she brings to her work every day and the positive impact she continues to have across our community.

👏 Please join us in celebrating Daniella and this well-deserved recognition. We’re so proud to have her as part of the Vecova team.

Read the full article here: https://calgaryherald.com/news/2026-compelling-calgarians-inspiring-people-and-stories

Over the past year, we’ve heard from many people who believe Vecova is closing. We want to be very clear:

Vecova is not closing.

What is changing is where and how some of our programs are delivered, and these changes are helping us reach more people with disabilities across Calgary.

What’s Actually Changing

Vecova is moving away from operating a single, centralized facility and instead working across multiple community locations and partnerships. This includes closing our outdated building and expanding into new spaces across Calgary.

Offer programs in more accessible spaces across the city
Partner with trusted recreation and community centres
Focus our resources where they have the greatest impact

Our New Central Hub in the Beltline

In January, Vecova will open Vecova Central Hub @ Beltline, which will serve as our downtown administrative and program hub.

The Central Hub will:

Support staff, programs, and community services
Help us stay connected to partners and participants across Calgary

This location strengthens our presence downtown and supports the long-term sustainability of our services.

What About the New NW Location?

Our new Northwest location, Vecova NW @ Kaleidoscope, offers a range of community programs, skill-building activities, and support services designed to promote independence, connection, and well-being for people with disabilities.

Together, these locations, along with offsite programs and partnerships, allow Vecova to remain flexible, responsive, and community-based.

Aquatics Programming Has Changed, Not Disappeared

While Vecova no longer operates its own pool, adapted aquatic programming continues through partnerships with local Calgary pools and recreation centres, including Vivo.

This approach allows us to keep offering warm-water aquatic programs for people with disabilities without the barriers of maintaining our own facility.

What Hasn’t Changed

Our mission
Our commitment to people with disabilities
Our focus on inclusive recreation, employment, housing, and community services

Vecova has been part of the Calgary community for over 50 years, and we’re continuing that work in new and more sustainable ways.

👉 New to Vecova? Learn more about who we are on our FAQ Page.

Each year, Giving Tuesday inspires individuals, businesses, and organizations around the world to make a difference. For us at Vecova, it’s an opportunity to highlight the importance of inclusion and to celebrate the impact your support has on the lives of people of all abilities.

Why Giving Tuesday Matters

Giving Tuesday is more than a single day of donations. It’s a reminder that every act of kindness, big or small, helps strengthen our community. Your contributions directly support programs and services that empower individuals, create opportunities, and help people thrive.

Whether it’s through employment supports, wellness services, or community-based programs, your generosity fuels the work we do every day.

2X the Impact This Year

This year, we’re excited to share that your Giving Tuesday gift will go even further. On December 3, your donations will be matched and doubled. This means:

$1 becomes $2
$25 becomes $50
$50 becomes $100
$100 becomes $200

Your support will effectively double, helping us enhance inclusion, expand opportunities, and ensure people of all abilities have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Every matched donation helps us:

Expand inclusive programs for people of all abilities
Provide meaningful opportunities for employment and skill-building
Support individuals in leading healthy, vibrant lives
Strengthen community connection and belonging

Our Current Campaign: Four Ways to Make an Impact

From mental health supports to employment, housing, and more, each area has its own goal and unique impact but every gift helps move all of our programs forward. When one goal is reached, your support fuels the rest, helping us create a stronger, more inclusive community for people with disabilities. Help create a stronger, more inclusive community for people with disabilities!

Join us in supporting people with disabilities and give in the way that inspires you.

We invite you to be part of this incredible day of giving. Whether you donate, share our message, or encourage others to get involved, every action helps create lasting impact.

Support Vecova Through Our Amazon Wishlist

Looking for another way to make an impact? Vecova has an Amazon Wishlist where you can purchase items that directly support our programs and the people we serve. From supplies for art classes and wellness programs to resources that help participants thrive, every item on the wishlist makes a real difference.

List: https://www.amazon.ca/hz/wishlist/ls/2NM08UG2KI2JF?ref_=abls_nvfly_yl

Check out our Wishlist, choose the items that inspire you, and help us create a stronger, more inclusive community for people with disabilities. Every gift counts!

September 30th, on Truth and Reconciliation Day, we take a moment to pause and reflect on the painful history of residential schools and the ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples across Canada. This day is about more than just remembering—it’s about understanding the truth of our shared history and committing to meaningful steps toward reconciliation.

At Vecova, we know that reconciliation isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s an ongoing journey, one that challenges us to listen, learn, and act. We are dedicated to making this commitment part of our daily work, ensuring that our programs and services respect the cultures, experiences, and traditions of Indigenous communities.

We believe in the power of community and inclusivity, and we know that by working together, we can create real change. Whether it’s through the way we deliver our services or how we connect with the community, we’re striving to honor Indigenous voices and perspectives in everything we do.

We invite you to join us in learning, listening, and reflecting. Let’s honour the resilience of Indigenous peoples and commit to building a more inclusive, respectful future—together.

Please note that Vecova will be closed this day.

#TruthAndReconciliation #EveryChildMatters #IndigenousVoices #Vecova

MilkJar founder, Holly Singer started MilkJar candles in 2016 with the goal of raising $500 in profits for disability programs that support learning and growth. As of May 2024, MilkJar has raised over $300,000 for non-profits helping support initiatives towards inclusion and safe workplaces. Selling a variety of candles, diffusers, perfume rollers and supporting other local brands and artists, $1 from every product sold at MilkJar is donated to numerous organizations and charities. “We’re the feel-gooder candle co, making clean-burning and natural scented goodies that give back to your community.”

MilkJar majorly supports individuals:

With disabilities experiencing gaps in their employment due to technology or training
Focus on inclusive employment and safe workplaces
Provide community and inclusive spaces for anyone affected by being marginalized in the workplace

In partnership with MilkJar, Vecova got smelling and made a candle of their own. Called “New Home Smell”, Vecova’s, Housing, Wellness and Communications executives created a candle that reflects Vecova’s Programming, Housing and Employment Services. After careful delegation, the final product is a candle that immediately warms up any room with notes of oakmoss, sandalwood and orange. “Smells like security, peace and prosperity”, Vecova has always strived to create a space that is inclusive and welcoming, no matter the disability, age or circumstances, Vecova is a safe space for all abilities.

BUY NOW

Vecova’s commitment to youth development extends far beyond mere accommodation; we strive to lead the charge in fostering inclusivity and removing barriers that might otherwise limit the full potential of our young participants. At the heart of Vecova’s youth programming lies a belief in creating a future where every individual, regardless of disability, is afforded the chance to grow and succeed. We go beyond mere compliance with legal requirements; we embrace, welcome, and actively seek to integrate young people with disabilities into our community. “Every other Recreation Centre in Calgary accommodates us and tolerates us because that’s what’s required of them; that is the law. But Vecova welcomes us. Embraces us. Wants us. We feel like we belong here and are part of a community – and that is priceless.”

One of our flagship youth programs is the Mixed Ability program in collaboration with Jump Start. The program offers an inclusive space where youths between the ages of 6-20 can try several new sports, learn new activities and participate in living an active life. The cost of the program is deliberately kept low at $10 for two sessions, ensuring accessibility for all, regardless of financial means. However, our commitment to inclusivity doesn’t end with affordability. Recognizing that true inclusivity encompasses a spectrum of needs, Vecova is continuously seeking out creative avenues of support.

This is where initiatives like our Plant Inclusion campaign come into play. For every donation, or $5 ”Mixed Inclusion” seed package purchased, in partnership with Rogers: Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink, is matching 50% of the donations. These funds are instrumental in sustaining and expanding our youth programming, ensuring that Vecova remains a beacon of inclusivity and opportunity for all young people. As we gear up for another exciting summer, marked by the opening of registration on June 4th for July-August programs, we invite everyone to join us in our mission. While signing up for summer camps, swim classes, and other activities at Vecova, consider donating to the Plant Inclusion campaign. Together, we can sow the seeds of inclusivity and cultivate a future where every youth, regardless of ability, can blossom and thrive.

At Vecova, we are deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where individuals with disabilities can thrive, connect, and lead fulfilling lives.

“My wife and I cannot express enough gratitude for the remarkable support and care provided for our son John Jr by the housing team at Bishops Manor. They provide a positive and safe home environment along with camaraderie experiences when he participates in peer group activities in Calgary. At Vecova, John’s abilities don’t hold him back. They support his love for skiing, curling and golfing as well as making meaningful connections with other residents. The Vecova team’s dedication has transformed all of our lives and we are forever grateful.” -John and Ann S.

John and Ann’s heartfelt gratitude resonates deeply with us, affirming the impact of our housing team’s dedication and support. Within Bishop Manor, we strive to create more than just a home—we cultivate a sense of belonging, safety, and opportunity for all residents.

Vecova’s ethos centers on empowering individuals to pursue their passions and interests, regardless of their abilities. John Jr’s love for skiing, curling, and golfing is not only supported but celebrated, fostering a culture of inclusion and empowerment. Through peer group activities and shared experiences, residents forge meaningful connections and friendships, enriching their lives in countless ways.

Our commitment to holistic support extends beyond physical accommodation. We recognize the importance of nurturing independence and self-confidence, which is why our housing team goes above and beyond to ensure that residents have access to a diverse range of opportunities for growth and development. The camaraderie between residents and staff is built on a foundation of compassion, respect, and genuine care. Each member of our team is dedicated to enhancing the lives of those we serve, fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

As we reflect on John and Ann’s testimonial and the countless stories of transformation within Bishops Manor (1 of our 11 homes), we are reminded of the profound impact of our work. Vecova’s housing program is not just about providing shelter—it’s about creating a space where hope flourishes, barriers are dismantled, and dreams are realized.

In Vecova’s Bishops Manor, like all of our homes, we see the power of inclusion, compassion, and community coming together to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all. We are honored to walk this journey alongside our residents, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering lives and building a more inclusive society, one step at a time.

Vecova Celebrates Successful Giving Tuesday Campaign, Raises $58,002.51

Calgary, AB – November 29th, 2023

Vecova, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating inclusive communities where persons of all abilities can thrive, is thrilled to announce the success of its Giving Tuesday campaign, which raised an impressive $58,002.51.

The campaign, which ran from November 1st to November 28th, was meticulously crafted and overseen by the collaborative efforts of Vecova’s Fund Development team, led by Kathy Bhana, Fund Development Coordinator, and Michelle Thompson, Fund Development Manager, alongside the Marketing & Communications team, spearheaded by Mikaela Kirton, Marketing & Communications Manager, and Justeen Noyes, Social Media Specialist.

The generosity of donors during this period was not without its perks. Four lucky contributors will soon be announced as winners of special prizes, adding an element of excitement to the campaign’s conclusion on Friday, December 1st.

These funds will be allocated strategically to further Vecova’s mission, with a transparent breakdown of the distribution.

The significant contribution earmarked for housing will go a long way in supporting Vecova’s initiatives to provide inclusive and accessible living spaces for individuals of all abilities. The funds allocated to Vecova directly will bolster the organization’s overarching efforts, while the portion dedicated to programs will facilitate the development and implementation of initiatives that foster inclusivity and empowerment.

Vecova extends heartfelt gratitude to all donors, supporters, and the dedicated teams behind the scenes who made this Giving Tuesday campaign an outstanding success. The funds raised will undoubtedly make a meaningful impact on the lives of those Vecova serves, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to building a more inclusive and accessible world.

Giving Tuesday is an international movement where Canadians are encouraged to give to their favourite not-for-profits and charities. This Giving Tuesday, we invite you make a gift to Vecova to help us create limitless possibilities for people of all abilities.

With your support, we can continue to break down barriers and create opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Each dollar is a step toward positive change and contributes to building a more inclusive community for us all.

And here’s the exciting part – thanks to our incredible matching donors you can make double the difference, and be entered to win one of our fabulous prizes:

$500 West Jet Gift Card
$250 Marriott Gift Card
150 West Jet Gift Card
$100 Concorde Group Gift Card

It’s a fantastic opportunity to make a difference and be part of a movement that values diversity, accessibility, and equality, and maybe even win something in the process.

Click here to join us in celebrating Giving Tuesday by making your donation today.

Join us in The Atrium at Vecova on November 25th, 2023 from 12p-5p for our Semi-Annual Garage Sale. 1000’s of items are for sale in support of disability programs, housing, and the Vecova facility.

This sale is open to the public and we invite everyone to come. Cash or card accepted.