At Vecova, our Bottle Pickup Program has grown into something much bigger than a recycling initiative, it’s a community-driven movement that supports inclusion, sustainability, and local impact all at once.

What started as a simple way to collect refundable beverage containers has become a meaningful service that brings people together, supports accessible employment, and raises vital funds for programs that empower people with disabilities.

Now, as we continue to grow, we’re excited to share that our Bottle Pickup Program, already making a strong impact in Southeast Calgary is looking to expand into Airdrie.

Making a Difference in Southeast Calgary

In Southeast Calgary, the Bottle Pickup Program has been helping households, businesses, and community groups turn everyday recycling into real community impact.

Every pickup contributes to:

Reducing waste and supporting environmental sustainability 🌱
Creating meaningful work and skill-building opportunities
Generating funds that directly support Vecova’s inclusive programs
Building stronger connections between Vecova and the community

What makes this program so special is that it’s not just about bottles—it’s about people. Each pickup supports inclusive employment opportunities and helps participants build confidence, independence, and valuable workplace skills.

Why Expansion Matters

Demand for the Bottle Pickup Program has grown steadily, especially in communities that want easier, more accessible ways to recycle while supporting local social impact initiatives.

Expanding into Airdrie means we can:

Reach more households and businesses who want convenient recycling solutions
Increase funding for inclusive recreation and community programs
Create more supported employment opportunities for people with disabilities
Strengthen community connections beyond Calgary

This growth reflects something we see every day, communities want to give back, and they’re looking for simple, meaningful ways to do it.

How It Works

Our Bottle Pickup Program is designed to be simple and accessible:

Book a pickup online or through Vecova
Leave your bagged refundable containers outside
Our team collects, sorts, and processes them
Refunds are reinvested directly into Vecova programs and services

It’s an easy way to make a big difference without leaving your driveway.

More Than Recycling

Every bottle collected supports Vecova’s broader mission: building inclusive communities where everyone belongs.

Funds raised help support programs like:

Adapted recreation and aquatics
Employment readiness and training
Community participation programs
Accessibility and independence supports

So when you schedule a pickup, you’re not just recycling you’re investing in inclusion.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, expanding into Airdrie represents an exciting step forward. We’re eager to connect with new households, local businesses, and community partners who want to be part of something impactful and practical.

Together, we can turn everyday recycling into lasting change one bottle pickup at a time. 💚♻️

Inclusive Swimming Lessons with Vecova and COSPA

Looking for inclusive, supportive, and sensory-aware swimming lessons this summer?

Registration for Vecova’s Children’s & Adults’ Adapted Aquatics program opens April 14 through the Calgary Outdoor Swimming Pools Association (COSPA) website.

Vecova is proud to once again partner with COSPA to bring our trusted adapted aquatics programming outdoors for another summer season.

This year, families can register for lessons at two outdoor pool locations in Calgary:
• Forest Lawn Outdoor Pool
• South Calgary Outdoor Pool

These programs are designed to provide safe, welcoming swimming experiences for children and adults who benefit from additional support in the water, helping every participant build confidence and water skills at their own pace.

A Program Families Already Know and Trust

Many families will recognize this program from its former name, SwimAbilities.

Now reimagined as Vecova’s Children & Adult’s Adapted Aquatics, the program continues Vecova’s long-standing commitment to adapted recreation and inclusive swimming programs.

Lessons are designed specifically for individuals with:

Physical disabilities
Cognitive disabilities
Sensory differences
Emotional or behavioural support needs
Autism or other neurodiverse conditions

Our goal is to help every swimmer build confidence, comfort, and water safety skills at their own pace.

What Makes These Lessons Different?

Vecova’s adapted aquatics program focuses on creating a calm, inclusive environment where every participant can succeed.

While these are not private lessons, the program uses a low instructor-to-participant ratio of 4:1, allowing instructors to:

Provide more personalized guidance
Adjust instruction based on each swimmer’s needs
Create meaningful one-to-one moments within the group

All participants are also required to have a parent, caregiver, or aide in the water during the lesson. This helps create a safe and supportive experience while also allowing caregivers to continue practicing skills outside of lessons.

Caregivers are not charged a fee to participate in the program.

Program Details

Locations:

Forest Lawn Outdoor Pool
South Calgary Outdoor Pool

Ages: Children (7–16) and Adults

Registration opens on Tuesday, April 14th at 9:00am on the Cospa Website: https://www.cospa.ca

Program Schedule:

Adult & Child Classes from End of June to August 2026

June to July

Child: Tuesdays & Thursday’s: 4:00pm-4:40pm – $136.00 / per session – June 30, 2026 until July 2

Adult: Friday’s 12:00pm-1:00pm – $68.00 – July 3, 2026 until July 24,

August 2026

Child: Tuesday + Thursday’s 4:00pm-4:40pm – $136.00 / per session – July 28, 2026 until August 20

Adult: Friday’s 12:00pm-1:00pm – $68.00 – July 31, 2026 until August 21

Explore now on the COSPA Website: https://www.cospa.ca

Linda’s Las Vegas Dream: A Journey of Confidence, Choice, and Support

Some dreams take time, planning, patience, and the right support. For Linda, a trip to Las Vegas had been a meaningful goal written into her Individual Support Plan (ISP), and in January, that dream became reality thanks to the dedication, encouragement, and thoughtful planning of her supportive roommate, Evelyn.

From January 15th, Linda and Evelyn spent four unforgettable days in Las Vegas, creating memories that will last a lifetime and celebrating an important milestone in Linda’s journey of confidence, independence, and joy.

A Dream Years in the Making

Linda and Evelyn have been working together since 2019, building trust, confidence, and life skills step by step. Over the years, Linda has grown tremendously, becoming more independent, more confident, and more willing to try new things.

Planning for this trip started back in 2024. One of the first big steps? Figuring out Linda’s passport situation. With determination and support, Linda secured her first 10-year passport, a huge achievement and an exciting sign that international travel was now possible.

This trip wasn’t just a vacation. It was directly connected to Linda’s ISP goals, including:

Traveling confidently
Trying new experiences
Making choices about food and activities
And one very specific dream: trying unlimited steak at a Korean BBQ restaurant for the first time

Goal set. Goal achieved. ✅

First-Time Flyers & VIP Treatment

This was Linda and Evelyn’s first flight together, and Linda embraced the experience with pure excitement.

At the airport, Linda received accessible wheelchair support and was among the first passengers to board the plane, which she absolutely loved. She proudly showed her passport, checked her boarding class, and even said hello to the pilot. Feeling confident and social, Linda soaked in every moment.

Despite expectations that she might be tired, Linda stayed wide awake, eyes bright with excitement. Evelyn shared that she had never seen Linda so energized. Linda truly felt like royalty.

Staying at The Palms

The pair stayed at The Palms, where their room was thoughtfully set up to be accessible and comfortable. Having a space that met Linda’s needs allowed her to fully relax and focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about barriers.

Linda looked amazing, felt amazing, and carried herself with a new level of confidence. Evelyn even joked, “Who is this?” seeing Linda shine in such a big way.

The Spa Experience: A Powerful Moment

One of the most emotional highlights of the trip was Linda’s visit to the spa.

It was Linda’s first spa experience, and it moved her to tears. She described it as “really amazing,” and it was clear how meaningful it was for her. The calm environment, the pampering, and the sense of being cared for made a deep impact. Moments like this remind us that experiences many people take for granted can be profoundly powerful when they happen for the first time.

Shows, Talent & Vegas Magic

While in Vegas, Linda and Evelyn saw a live show featuring incredible juggling and variety-style talent. Linda was amazed by the performances and loved the energy of the show.

Everything felt big, bright, and exciting. Linda embraced it all.

Food Adventures & Unlimited Korean BBQ

Food was a major highlight of the trip (and one of Linda’s biggest goals).

Linda:

Tried unlimited Korean BBQ for the first time
Enjoyed steak as much as she wanted
Ate at buffet-style restaurants
Shared huge nachos at the Flame Restaurant
Explored different foods and portions, deciding for herself what felt “just right.”

These experiences allowed Linda to practice choice-making, listen to her body, and enjoy new flavours, all while having fun.

Confidence You Could See

Throughout the trip, Linda’s confidence was impossible to miss.

She walked faster
She didn’t use her cane
She was social and talkative
She looked happy, excited, and proud

Vegas seemed to unlock a new level of belief in herself.

Linda returned home not just with souvenirs, but with something far more valuable: confidence, memories, and proof that she can do big things.

Trips like this don’t happen overnight. They are made possible through thoughtful planning, trust, and the kind of personalized support that grows over years. At Vecova, supportive roommates work closely with the people they support to help them pursue their goals, big or small, and to build the confidence to try new experiences.

A Huge Thank You to Evelyn

This trip would not have been possible without Evelyn’s dedication.

From:

Long-term planning
Budgeting
Travel coordination
Accessibility considerations
Emotional support
And steady encouragement

Evelyn went above and beyond to make sure Linda’s dream became a reality.

Supportive roommates like Evelyn don’t just help with day-to-day life; they help turn meaningful goals into real experiences.

A Milestone Worth Celebrating

Linda’s Las Vegas trip was more than a vacation.

It was a celebration of growth.
A celebration of independence.
A celebration of trust.
A celebration of dreams coming true.

We are so proud of Linda for stepping outside her comfort zone and embracing new experiences. And we are incredibly grateful to Evelyn for walking beside her every step of the way.

Here’s to more goals achieved, more confidence built, and many more unforgettable adventures ahead.

Spring is in full swing, and that means Spring Session 2 at Vecova is just around the corner! Our next session begins Tuesday, April 7, and we’re excited to welcome participants back for another season of recreation, connection, and skill-building.

At Vecova, our programs are designed to support people of all abilities through inclusive recreation, wellness, and community programs. Whether you’re looking to stay active, try something new, or connect with others, Spring Session 2 offers something for everyone.

Programs That Build Skills and Confidence

Vecova’s recreation programs focus on developing fundamental movement skills, teamwork, and confidence in a supportive environment. Participants can explore a variety of activities designed to encourage movement, creativity, and social connection.

Our programs help individuals build skills such as:

Balance and coordination
Throwing, catching, and movement skills
Teamwork and communication
Confidence through physical activity

These foundational skills help participants feel comfortable engaging in sports, recreation, and everyday activities.

One of the most important parts of Vecova programs is the sense of community. Participants have the opportunity to meet new people, build friendships, and experience the joy of being part of an inclusive group.

Our trained staff and volunteers create a welcoming environment where everyone can participate at their own pace and feel supported along the way.

Join Us This Spring

Spring Session 2 begins April 7, and we can’t wait to get started. Whether you’re returning to a favorite program or joining us for the first time, we look forward to seeing you at Vecova.

To learn more about available programs and how to register, visit our program registration page.

Let’s make this spring a season of movement, connection, and fun at Vecova.

Vecova is excited to announce the return of Adaptive Inclusive Rugby for Spring 2026, in partnership with Lacrossing Barriers and the Southern Alberta Rugby Union. This inclusive program offers individuals of all abilities the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of rugby in a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment.

Designed to focus on skill development, teamwork, and fun, the program introduces participants to the core skills of rugby while encouraging confidence and physical activity. Whether someone is brand new to the sport or simply looking to try something different, Adaptive Inclusive Rugby provides a great way to get involved and experience the excitement of the game.

Learning the Game in a Supportive Environment

Participants will explore key rugby skills such as passing, movement, teamwork, and game awareness. Coaches will guide athletes through engaging drills and activities that build confidence and encourage participation at every level.

To help introduce elements of the sport safely, tackle practice equipment such as tackle bags and gym mats will be used, allowing participants to learn proper technique in a controlled setting. However, the remainder of the program will be non-contact, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for everyone involved.

This approach helps participants learn the basics of rugby while keeping the focus on fun, movement, and skill-building.

Program Details

Adaptive Spring Rugby will run weekly from April 25 to June 27, offering a consistent opportunity for participants to build skills and connect with others through sport.

📍 Location: Calgary Rugby Park
📅 Dates: April 25 – June 27, 2026
⏰ Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

The program is open now to participants of all ages, and welcomes individuals interested in exploring rugby in a supportive and inclusive setting.

Support Needs

Please note that this program does not provide one-to-one support. Participants who require individual support to attend recreational programs should plan to attend with their own support worker or caregiver.

Join Us This Spring

Adaptive Rugby is more than just learning a sport, it’s about building confidence, trying new skills, and being part of a welcoming community. Through teamwork, movement, and encouragement, participants will have the opportunity to discover what they can achieve on the field.

We look forward to welcoming athletes and families to Adaptive Spring Rugby 2026 and sharing the joy of inclusive sport together.

Register now: https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/vecova/activity/search/detail/28611?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

Spring is just around the corner, and so is a new season of opportunities at Vecova! 🌷 We’re excited to announce that Spring 1 program registration opens on February 10th at 8:00am, giving you access to a wide range of inclusive, engaging, and supportive programs for people of all ages and abilities.

Whether you’re looking to get active, explore creativity, build independence, or connect with others, there’s something for everyone this spring.

What to Expect This Spring

Our Spring 1 lineup is designed to support physical wellness, social connection, personal growth, and skill development, all in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

From beginner-friendly options to more advanced skill-building opportunities, our programs are tailored to meet participants where they’re at.

Registration begins at 8:00am on Tuesday February 10th.

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

Recreation is about more than movement; it’s about confidence, connection, and having fun in a supportive environment. Vecova’s adapted recreation programs offer inclusive opportunities for children, youth, and adults with disabilities to stay active, try new activities, and enjoy meaningful social experiences.

From adapted aquatics to inclusive sport and movement-based programs, there’s something for every age and ability level.

Explore all recreation and community programs at:
https://vecova.ca/programs/#programs

Here’s what’s happening this season:

🏊‍♀️ Adult Adapted Aquatics

Location: Vivo Recreation Centre | Calgary
Program Details: https://vecova.ca/programs/adult-adapted-recreation/

Vecova’s Adult Adapted Aquatics program is designed for adults living with disabilities who want to build aquatic skills, stay active, and enjoy the social benefits of recreation in a warm pool.

Participants work toward individual aquatic goals, explore new water-based activities, and take part in group games that encourage connection and fun in a safe, supported environment. All ability levels are welcome.

Important notes:

Participants are required to have an aide in the water for safety.
Lifejackets and flotation devices are provided as needed.
Program runs out of the Vivo Recreation Centre, 11950 Country Village Link NE, Calgary.

🎾 Children’s Adapted Recreation (CAR) & Youth Adapted Recreation (YAR)

Saturdays | Location: Vivo Recreation Centre
Program Details: CAR https://vecova.ca/programs/childrens-adapted-recreation/
YAR https://vecova.ca/programs/youth-adapted-recreation/

Looking for the best Saturday ever? CAR and YAR are fun, high-energy respite programs for children and youth aged 6–18.

Participants are matched one-to-one with volunteers and enjoy an afternoon filled with games, sports, swimming, and laughter. These programs focus on inclusion, friendship, and giving kids and youth the chance to just be kids in a supportive setting.

Good to know:

Caregivers do not need to stay onsite, but must be reachable by phone.
Programs run out of Vivo Recreation Centre, 11950 Country Village Link NE, Calgary.

🏃🏽‍♀️ FUNdamental Movement

Location: Western Canada High School | Calgary
Program Details: https://vecova.ca/programs/fundamental-movement/

FUNdamental Movement is a multi-sport program focused on building the foundations of movement, sport, and play in a fun and inclusive way.

Rather than specializing in one sport, participants explore a wide range of movement skills, including throwing, catching, kicking, balance, coordination, and teamwork, through engaging, game-based activities.

The program emphasizes exploration, confidence-building, and accessible play, helping participants discover what their bodies can do and how movement can feel empowering.

Location:

Main gym at Western Canada High School, 641 17 Ave SW

Please note:

This program does not provide one-to-one support.
Participants who require one-to-one support in other settings will need to bring the same level of support to this program.

🌊 Adapted Swimming Lessons – Kids & Teens

Registration through the City of Calgary
Program Details: https://liveandplay.calgary.ca/REGPROG/public/booking/CourseTypes/SWIMADAPTED

These adapted swimming lessons are designed specifically for kids and teens with disabilities and are delivered in partnership with Vecova and the City of Calgary.

With small class sizes (one instructor for every four participants), lessons are tailored to each swimmer’s needs and focus on building confidence and independence in the water.

Lessons focus on:

Comfort, buoyancy, and propulsion
Water safety skills
Adapting instruction to sensory, physical, cognitive, and emotional needs

Important:

A parent or support person is required to be in the water with each participant.
Registration is through the City of Calgary:
Adapted swimming lessons – kids & teens (City of Calgary)

⚽ Friday Mixed Ability Indoor Soccer

Location: Vivo Recreation Centre | Calgary
Program Details: https://vecova.ca/programs/mixed-ability-soccer/

Vecova’s Friday Mixed Ability Indoor Soccer is back! This inclusive drop-in style program welcomes people of all abilities and experience levels.

Each Friday, teams are created, and the games begin with the right balance of friendly competition, inclusivity, and plenty of cheers. Participants can register for the full session or choose drop-in days that work for them.

Please note:

This program does not provide one-to-one support.
Participants requiring one-to-one support in other settings will need the same level of support here.
Games take place at Vivo Recreation Centre.

Inclusive Recreation for All Ages

Vecova’s recreation programs are designed to create welcoming, accessible spaces where people with disabilities can move their bodies, build skills, and connect with others through play and physical activity.

To explore all programs and register, visit:
https://vecova.ca/programs/#programs

Warm Up Your Winter: Join Vecova’s Social Programs This Season ❄️

Winter in Calgary can feel long, but community, connection, and shared experiences can make it brighter. At Vecova, our winter social programs offer welcoming spaces for adults with disabilities to learn, socialize, build friendships, and enjoy meaningful activities in a supportive environment.

Whether you’re looking for relaxed morning gatherings, creative afternoon programs, or opportunities to stay active and engaged, there’s something for everyone. Explore our full list of programs at Vecova.ca/Programs:
https://vecova.ca/programs/#programs

Here’s what you can look forward to this winter:

☕️ Coffee & Social

Monday–Thursday Mornings | 9:00–11:00 AM
Program details: https://vecova.ca/programs/coffee-and-social/

Start your day with connection, conversation, and a cozy cup of your favourite warm drink! Coffee & Social is a relaxed drop-in style program where participants can enjoy coffee, tea, or hot chocolate while taking part in friendly activities like bingo, card games, and other light social fun.

It’s a great opportunity to meet new people, build confidence in a welcoming group setting, and enjoy an uplifting start to your morning.

Participants must come with a support person.

🍳 Creative Kitchen

Monday Afternoons | 1:00–3:00 PM
Program details: https://vecova.ca/programs/creative-kitchen/

No oven? No problem! Creative Kitchen is a new hands-on program where participants explore healthy foods, prepare simple and delicious snacks and meals, and enjoy them together as a group.

In addition to food exploration, the program includes easy movement activities, group games, and plenty of opportunities for social connection. It’s all about learning, sharing, and building confidence in the kitchen one recipe at a time.

Participants must come with a support person.

🎨 Explore Abilities

Tuesday & Thursday Afternoons | 1:00–3:00 PM
Program details: https://vecova.ca/programs/explore-abilities/

Curiosity meets community in Explore Abilities, a fun social-educational program with a new theme each week. From tabletop games to gentle movement to creative expression through arts, crafts, and music, participants get to try a bit of everything.

With built-in time for conversation and teamwork, Explore Abilities encourages people to connect, discover new interests, and grow at their own pace.

Participants must come with a support person.

🎳 Club Vecova

Wednesday Afternoons | 1:00–3:00 PM
Program details: https://vecova.ca/programs/club-vecova/

Looking for mid-week fun? Club Vecova is a participant-guided social club where the group helps choose weekly activities. From bingo to floor bowling to favourite group games, every session offers something new.

It’s a space to play, socialize, try new experiences, and enjoy the supportive community that makes Vecova feel like home.

Participants must come with a support person.

💛 The Early Stage Dementia & Wellness Program

Twice Weekly
Program details: https://vecova.ca/programs/the-early-stage-dementia-wellness-program/

For adults 60+ with a dementia-related condition, this wellness program combines tailored physical exercise, cognitive activities, and social engagement in a safe, supportive environment.

Participants benefit from structured routines, brain-boosting activities, and opportunities to build meaningful connections. A valuable weekly caregiver support group, led by Vecova’s senior clinical psychologist, is included as part of the program.

Join Us This Winter!

Vecova’s social programs are more than just activities; they’re warm, welcoming communities where people can build friendships, try new things, and feel supported all season long.

Explore all programs and register today:
https://vecova.ca/programs/#programs