[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]December 9, 2020 (Updated January 8, 2021 and January 21, 2021)[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

Let’s Bend The Curve!

 

Dear community,

 

The Government of Alberta announced new public health measures on December 8, 2020 (updated on January 18, 2021), to bend the curve, reduce the exposure to the virus and reduce the strain on the health care system from increased COVID-19 cases.

 

In light of these measures, Vecova’s main facility will be closed to consumers and employees from December 13, 2020 until further notice, and our Canmore satellite office will be closed to consumers and employees from December 21, 2020 to January 4, 2021. These closures will impact many of our programs and services, including Aquatics, Health and Fitness, our facility rentals and other onsite in-person programs we provide.

 

We look forward to the day when we can all meet together again. Like so many of you, I miss the days when our Aquatics, Health and Fitness services was full of people achieving their wellness goals, where our facility was bustling with consumers who were enjoying our many programs like Employment Services and Wayfinder, when we could all spend time together in the Atrium and just catch up. But we can only do this again when it is safe for us all. Until then, just know we are tirelessly doing our part in keeping our community safe. If you are able to contribute to our efforts, please consider donating to us at vecova.ca/donate.

 

Our province is at a critical point in our fight against COVID-19 and Vecova is confident we can do this together!

 

Take care,

 

Joan Lee

Chief Executive Officer

 

PS: For the most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 please visit:

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]December 3, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

Enjoy Vecova’s Recycling Services’ Curbside Bottle Return Service!

 

Thank you for your continued support of Vecova’s Recycling Services, which includes Calgary’s only nonprofit Bottle Depot and Bottle Pick-Up Service.

 

We know that many of you have expressed appreciation of our Bottle Depot’s curbside service. This safe alternative to returning your bottles reduces the number of touch-points between our consumers and employees, and allows Vecova to do its part to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Due to popular demand, we are continuing, expanding and improving this service!

 

Effective December 7, 2020, our Bottle Depot hours of operation are:

  • Monday to Saturday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Sunday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Closed on statutory holidays

 

Our Curbside Bottle Depot procedure has also been updated as follows:

  • We have modified points of entrance and exit (with updated signage on-site).
  • We have added new pre-screen posters available for you to review.
  • We are asking you to unload your bottles into the carts provided; our employees will then take those carts into the Bottle Depot to be counted.
  • You will be given a pager while they wait for your refund. Those with cars are asked to park in designated spots. Walk-in consumers are asked to wait in the covered carport area.
  • You will be paged to collect your refund once ready. And, all refunds will be placed in an envelope, to limit contact.
  • Please note: all pagers are sanitized after each use.

 

As with all of Vecova’s programs and services, we are also continuing to follow all Government of Alberta, Alberta Health Services and Vecova health and safety measures and protocols that have been put in place. This includes:

  • Encouraging all consumers to adhere to all of AHS’s COVID-19 recommendations.
  • Requiring all consumers to wear a mask and not use Vecova’s Recycling Services if you are presenting of COVID-19 symptoms.
  • Requiring all employees to wear their designated PPE, which includes masks and/or a mask and face shield combination, and gloves.
  • Enhanced and increased cleaning and disinfection protocols and procedures across all areas of Vecova’s Recycling Services.
  • Limiting public access to Vecova’s Recycling Services facility, including restricting access to washrooms.

 

Thank you all again for supporting Vecova’s Recycling Services! If you are interested in continuing to support Vecova during this period, please visit vecova.ca to make a donation.

 

For the most up-to-date information please continue to check in here:

 

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Photo by rawpixel.com – www.freepik.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]December 3, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

Join Vecova as we celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2020

 

December 3, 2020 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities! Proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly, this day aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society.

 

Vecova has provided programs and services to persons with disabilities since 1969 to reach our vision, where persons with disabilities are valued and integral members of society. Join us today as we celebrate the achievements of persons with disabilities at virtual events around Alberta.

 

Vecova is proud to be a sponsor of IDPD Calgary 2020. We are looking forward to attending their virtual event today, focused around the theme “Coping with COVID – Thriving with Technology.”

 

Visit here for a list of Alberta-wide events held in recognition of International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

 

Click here to join a dynamic and thought-provoking virtual presentation from Rick Hansen Foundation Ambassador Teri Thorson starting at 12:45 p.m. MST.

 

We’re looking forward to celebrating with you![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]November 25, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

We’re in this together! COVID-19 Response Update

 

Dear community,

 

I want to thank you all for your continued patience during this public health crisis. We know the tremendous impact that has been felt across households, communities and the province. We are committed to continuing to do our part. Our goal at Vecova is to continue to provide innovative, inclusive and impactful programs and services, but we can only do so when the community can participate safely.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]In light of the state of public health emergency being declared and the new restrictions mandated by the Government of Alberta (announced November 24, 2020), along with our own rigorous regulations and responses, we have made the following decisions effective November 27, 2020. This includes:

  • extending the suspension of:
    • all aquatics and studio group fitness classes until January 9, 2021
    • all evening and weekend facility rentals until January 9, 2021
    • all swim lessons (including private swim lessons) until January 9, 2021
    • all Empower Abilities Physical Therapy classes until January 16, 2021
  • continuing to:
    • offer regular registered lane swim and open swim times, but with reduced operating hours and restricted numbers until January 8, 2021
    • offer Mental Health Services at our Main Facility, but with reduced operating hours and restricted numbers until January 8, 2021
    • provide the Explore Abilities program at our Main Facility, but with reduced operating hours and restricted numbers until January 8, 2021
    • provide limited Government of Alberta programs and services at our Main Facility, but with reduced operating hours and restricted numbers until January 8, 2021
  • extending the reduced operating hours of Vecova’s Main Facility until January 8, 2021.
  • the Main Facility will be:
    • open Monday to Friday from 8:00am-4:00pm until December 18, 2020
    • closed Saturday and Sunday until January 9, 2021
    • closed from December 21, 2020 to January 4, 2021 to all consumers and employees to conduct annual maintenance and conduct a deep clean
  • continuing restricted access to the Main Facility to only:
    • consumers who are registered for lane swim and open swim
    • consumers who have an appointment with our Mental Health Services
    • consumers who are registered for the Explore Abilities program
    • consumers who are registered for a Government of Alberta program or service
    • employees who are providing onsite programs and services
    • employees who manage the facility and its operations
  • continuing to follow all Government of Alberta, Alberta Health Services and Vecova health and safety measures and protocols that have been put in place.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Vecova will continue to be proactive in managing our response to COVID-19 with guidance from Health Canada and Alberta Health Services. We encourage you to follow all of the recommendations by the Government of Alberta, Alberta Health Services and the Chief Medical Officer of Alberta to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

 

As the Government of Alberta moves forward with the new restrictions to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Alberta, we continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure Vecova is doing its part. Actions are being taken to protect the health and well-being of our entire community and all Albertans.

 

During this public health crisis, we have been touched by the kind and supportive messages we have received from the public. We know you are looking forward to resuming your normal, pre-COVID-19 routines, which Vecova played a major role in for many of you. We know that it is tiring and difficult, but we need to focus on the wellbeing of our employees and our community.

 

Vecova is a place where people connect, belong and thrive. Whether you use Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness services, our Bottle Pick-Up Service, have a family member in our Housing Services or participate in one of Vecova’s numerous other programs, you help Vecova reach its vision, where persons with disabilities are valued and integral members of society.

 

As we continue our efforts to manage our response to COVID-19, we do so with gratitude to all of you who have continued to support us at this difficult time. We are in a time where generosity and assistance of any kind, in any amount, can make a profound impact on each person we serve. Please consider donating to Vecova if you are able to by visiting vecova.ca/donate.

 

You are all integral parts of this organization and we are thankful for your support.

 

Take care,

 

Joan Lee

Chief Executive Officer

 

PS: For the most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 please visit:

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]October 16, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

Empower Abilities is back!

 

The phased reopening of our Aquatics, Health and Fitness facilities has been successful thus far, in no small part due to the incredible support and patience of our community. As such, we are now pleased to announce that Empower Abilities is resuming operations on October 24!

 

Empower Abilities is Vecova’s specialized program for children and youth with mild to moderate motor delays and disabilities. Run by our physical therapist, Empower Abilities assists your child in developing the capacity, skills and confidence for community sport, fitness and recreational activities.

 

Program Registration

 

Registration for Empower Abilities opens on October 19, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.

Classes resume on October 24, 2020.

Register here.

 

New Empower Abilities Protocols

 

Protocols for Vecova’s Empower Abilities employees are as follows:

  • Therapy Aides will work one-on-one with each consumer.
  • Therapy Aides will wear masks for the duration of the session and change their masks between each consumer.
  • Therapy Aides will be wearing eye protection –
  • A 30-minute allotment time has been set aside between each class. This time is spent to disinfect the area and equipment.

 

Empower Abilities program attendees are required to wear their masks during the information exchange and debrief times of their classes. However, they are not required to wear a mask during their session activities.

 

Parents and/or guardians of Empower Abilities program attendees may wait in the atrium, where capacity is sufficient for social distancing. Masks are required while in the facility, in accordance with the City of Calgary’s Temporary Face Coverings Bylaw.

 

We are operating in adherence with Physiotherapy Alberta College and Association’s COVID-19 protocols and Vecova’s own health and safety protocols. For Vecova’s complete Aquatics, Health and Fitness protocols, please click here.

 

Thank You

We know that many of you are looking forward to resuming your usual wellness routines, and programs like Empower Abilities are important to many families. Thank you all for your support as we worked hard to ensure that all of our services resumed in a mindful and safe way for everyone.

 

Vecova is unlike any other organization in Alberta. When you use Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness services – like Empower Abilities – you support persons of all abilities. Vecova is a place where people connect, belong and thrive. It’s where children and youth, like those in our Empower Abilities program, are encouraged to do their best in a safe and inclusive environment.

 

As we continue our efforts to safely reopen our facilities to the community, we do so with gratitude to all of you who have continued to support us at this time.

 

During this time, the need for financial assistance is growing and the generosity of our community members is appreciated more than ever. As a non-profit organization, Vecova is able to serve the community because of people like you. If you are able to donate, click here.

 

We look forward to welcoming back our Empower Abilities community! See you all on October 24.

 

If you have any questions, please contact us.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”30″][vc_column_text]Photo source: Freepik[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]October 9, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

Community doesn’t stop!

 

We hope you and your loved ones are safe and healthy. The pandemic has certainly impacted us all, yet we are hopeful that better times are soon ahead.

 

Our focus for the past several months has been on delivering Vecova’s programs, services and enterprises in as safe a manner as possible. We’ve modified dozens of our programs and services, enacted new protocols and procedures, and adapted and revised structures so we could continue to lead and support our community to connect, belong and thrive while we all fight the pandemic.

 

We continue to actively monitor the pandemic and take precautions to ensure the safety for all as the situation progresses. We continue to work diligently to ensure you are able to access our programs, services, enterprises and facilities with minimal risk. It is critical during times like these to remember to follow all Alberta Health Services guidelines: physical distancing, wearing a mask and frequent handwashing.

 

We encourage you to continue to stay up-to-date with us through our website and by following us on social media (links are below) to get the latest news and information on adjustments we have made.

 

Thank you for your support and understanding over these past several months as we adjusted our hours of operation and staffing levels.

 

Stay well.

 

Sincerely,
Joan Lee
CEO[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][nd_options_text nd_options_text_tag=”h3″ nd_options_text_weight=”bold” nd_options_text_family=”nd_options_second_font” nd_options_text=”FOLLOW US:” nd_options_text_color=”#4b4f54″ nd_options_text_font_size=”16″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”10″][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGhyZWYlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20lMkZWZWNvdmElMkYlMjIlM0UlM0NpbWclMjBhbHQlM0QlMjIlMjIlMjB3aWR0aCUzRCUyMjMwJTIyJTIwaGVpZ2h0JTNEJTIyMzAlMjIlMjBzcmMlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnZlY292YS5jYSUyRndwLWNvbnRlbnQlMkZwbHVnaW5zJTJGbmQtc2hvcnRjb2RlcyUyRmFkZG9ucyUyRmN1c3RvbWl6ZXIlMkZzaG9ydGNvZGVzJTJGdG9wLWhlYWRlciUyRmltZyUyRmZhY2Vib29rLWdyZXkuc3ZnJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRSUyNm5ic3AlM0IlMjAlMjZuYnNwJTNCJTIwJTI2bmJzcCUzQiUyMCUyMCUyMCUyMCUwQSUzQ2ElMjBocmVmJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cudHdpdHRlci5jb20lMkZWZWNvdmElMkYlMjIlM0UlM0NpbWclMjBhbHQlM0QlMjIlMjIlMjB3aWR0aCUzRCUyMjMwJTIyJTIwaGVpZ2h0JTNEJTIyMzAlMjIlMjBzcmMlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnZlY292YS5jYSUyRndwLWNvbnRlbnQlMkZwbHVnaW5zJTJGbmQtc2hvcnRjb2RlcyUyRmFkZG9ucyUyRmN1c3RvbWl6ZXIlMkZzaG9ydGNvZGVzJTJGdG9wLWhlYWRlciUyRmltZyUyRnR3aXR0ZXItZ3JleS5zdmclMjIlM0UlM0MlMkZhJTNFJTI2bmJzcCUzQiUyMCUyNm5ic3AlM0IlMjAlMjZuYnNwJTNCJTBBJTNDYSUyMGhyZWYlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy5saW5rZWRpbi5jb20lMkZjb21wYW55JTJGdmVjb3ZhJTJGJTIyJTNFJTNDaW1nJTIwYWx0JTNEJTIyJTIyJTIwd2lkdGglM0QlMjIzMCUyMiUyMGhlaWdodCUzRCUyMjMwJTIyJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ2ZWNvdmEuY2ElMkZ3cC1jb250ZW50JTJGcGx1Z2lucyUyRm5kLXNob3J0Y29kZXMlMkZhZGRvbnMlMkZjdXN0b21pemVyJTJGc2hvcnRjb2RlcyUyRnRvcC1oZWFkZXIlMkZpbWclMkZsaW5rZWRpbi1ncmV5LnN2ZyUyMiUzRSUzQyUyRmElM0UlMjZuYnNwJTNCJTIwJTI2bmJzcCUzQiUyMCUyNm5ic3AlM0IlMEElM0NhJTIwaHJlZiUzRCUyMmh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGd3d3Lmluc3RhZ3JhbS5jb20lMkZ3ZWFyZXZlY292YSUyRiUyMiUzRSUzQ2ltZyUyMGFsdCUzRCUyMiUyMiUyMHdpZHRoJTNEJTIyMzAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjIzMCUyMiUyMHNyYyUzRCUyMmh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGdmVjb3ZhLmNhJTJGd3AtY29udGVudCUyRnBsdWdpbnMlMkZuZC1zaG9ydGNvZGVzJTJGYWRkb25zJTJGY3VzdG9taXplciUyRnNob3J0Y29kZXMlMkZ0b3AtaGVhZGVyJTJGaW1nJTJGaW5zdGFncmFtLWdyZXkuc3ZnJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRSUyNm5ic3AlM0IlMjAlMjZuYnNwJTNCJTIwJTI2bmJzcCUzQiUwQSUzQ2ElMjBocmVmJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cueW91dHViZS5jb20lMkZ1c2VyJTJGVmVjb3ZhZGlzYWJpbGl0eSUyMiUzRSUzQ2ltZyUyMGFsdCUzRCUyMiUyMiUyMHdpZHRoJTNEJTIyMzAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjIzMCUyMiUyMHNyYyUzRCUyMmh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGdmVjb3ZhLmNhJTJGd3AtY29udGVudCUyRnBsdWdpbnMlMkZuZC1zaG9ydGNvZGVzJTJGYWRkb25zJTJGY3VzdG9taXplciUyRnNob3J0Y29kZXMlMkZ0b3AtaGVhZGVyJTJGaW1nJTJGeW91dHViZS1ncmV5LnN2ZyUyMiUzRSUzQyUyRmElM0U=[/vc_raw_html][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”30″][vc_column_text]Photo source: Freepik[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]June 23, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]Vecova Recycling Service’s Bottle Depot and Pick-Up Service Facility is reopening on June 29, 2020 with reduced operating hours and modified curbside service format to serve our consumers.

 

We are offering a curbside service Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to serve our consumers.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]When you come to Vecova’s Bottle Depot and Pick-Up Service:

Please limit the number of glass containers in a bag to 24 bottles or less. Please note that heavy bags are a lifting hazard for our employees and may require repackaging by the consumer before they can be processed.
Please only include recyclable beverage containers that are eligible for refund. Please note at this time we do not take concentrated drink mixes, soup containers, household plastics, olive oil containers or vinegar containers.
Please enter using the new entrance via 33 Street NW.
An employee will guide you to where you can park and unload your recyclable beverage containers.
An employee will collect your name and the first three letters of your license plate and bring your product into the facility to process your order.
Please park in the angle parking spaces on the east side of the bottle depot parking lot while we process your order.
After processing, your refund will be brought out to your vehicle in a sealed envelope.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]As Calgary’s only non-profit social enterprise Bottle Depot and Bottle Pick-Up Service, Vecova appreciates your continued support. When you use Vecova’s Recycling Services, all proceeds go directly to supporting Vecova to achieve our mission. Also, over half of our workforce is comprised of persons with self-identified barriers to employment. We demonstrate that a business can operate profitably and ethically with an inclusive workforce.

 

Click here for more tips on how to process your refund quickly and to learn more about our Recycling Services and modified hours and operations, please visit us at vecova.ca/recycling.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]June 12, 2020
Updated: June 29, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]

Dear Vecova Community,

 

As you might have heard, on June 9, 2020, the Government of Alberta announced that indoor recreation and fitness facilities are now part of Stage 2 of the Relaunch Strategy to begin on June 12, 2020. While we are excited to welcome you all back, we are not ready to open just yet, and we will not be opening our Aquatics, Health and Fitness facilities on June 12, 2020. Our tentative date of reopening is September 1, 2020.

 

We want to thank you for your patience and loyalty. We know the programs and services Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness provides are of value to the community and many of you are ready to come back. The safety and wellbeing of everyone in our community remains our top priority. We are working to update our space, our protocols and our programming to provide a safe and enjoyable experience where everyone is welcome.

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We also know our Vecova community is made up of kind and caring people who know how important it is for kids, families and individuals to have a safe place to connect, belong and thrive. As we look to re-open our facilities to the community, we know that the need for financial assistance is growing and the generosity of our community members is needed and appreciated more than ever. Please consider making a donation to Vecova at this time if you are able. 

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We will re-open our Aquatics, Health and Fitness facilities in a phased approach that minimizes the spread of COVID-19 and maintains a healthy and safe environment for all.

 

Stay tuned for more information on Vecova’s entire relaunch strategy and timelines in the coming weeks.

 

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]June 1, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]Dear Vecova community,[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]We have seen some incredible acts of kindness, service and selflessness at this time that is truly representative of who we are. This incredible outpouring of encouragement from all of you – our consumers, our partners and supporters and our employees – has been a great comfort.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”4/5″][vc_column_text]As Vecova responded proactively to the COVID-19 emergency, we have also proactively been preparing for our business recovery. We have been readying to begin to gradually resume our programs and services, reopen our facilities to our consumers and to provide re-entry to our employees over the next 3-4 months in a well-planned and thought out staged process. This staged process will be in:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

  • alignment with the City of Calgary and the Government of Alberta’s relaunch strategy
  • accordance with Alberta Health Services directions in a safe process that includes health guidelines and requirements
  • accordance with Vecova’s risk management and business continuity systems
  • alignment with Vecova’s business plans and strategic direction.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/5″ css=”.vc_custom_1592005044619{border-top-width: 1px !important;border-right-width: 1px !important;border-bottom-width: 1px !important;border-left-width: 1px !important;border-left-color: #000000 !important;border-left-style: solid !important;border-right-color: #000000 !important;border-right-style: solid !important;border-top-color: #000000 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;border-bottom-color: #000000 !important;border-bottom-style: solid !important;}”][nd_options_text nd_options_text_tag=”h2″ nd_options_text_weight=”normal” nd_options_text_align=”center” nd_options_text=”For the latest update for Aquatics, Health and Fitness:” nd_options_text_color=”#4b4f54″ nd_options_text_font_size=”18″][vc_column_text]

Reopening September 8

[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”10″][nd_options_button nd_options_padding=”8px 12px” nd_options_align=”center” nd_options_font_weight=”nd_options_font_weight_normal” nd_options_link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fvecova.ca%2F2020%2F08%2F27%2Faquatics-health-and-fitness-is-reopening%2F|title:CLICK%20HERE|target:%20_blank|” nd_options_bg_color=”#4b4f54″ nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_border_radius=”20″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”4/5″][vc_column_text]As we begin to gradually resume our programs and services, reopen our facilities to our consumers and to provide re-entry to our employees over the next 3-4 months in a well-planned and thought out staged process –Vecova will put safety first. There will be strict safety guidelines in place for our consumers and our employees. We will ready our programs, services and facilities for our consumers and our employees and install physical distancing measures, set consumer and employee program, service and facility capacity restrictions, set health and screening protocols and set new enhanced cleaning and disinfecting measures.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]While we begin to recover, we must stay vigilant and follow all public health measures, practice physical distancing and good hygiene, and continue acting responsibly. Our collective efforts will ensure Vecova’s relaunch strategy will be successful.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]If at any time, we feel the health and safety of our consumers and employees cannot be successful managed we will act accordingly. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/5″ css=”.vc_custom_1592005044619{border-top-width: 1px !important;border-right-width: 1px !important;border-bottom-width: 1px !important;border-left-width: 1px !important;border-left-color: #000000 !important;border-left-style: solid !important;border-right-color: #000000 !important;border-right-style: solid !important;border-top-color: #000000 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;border-bottom-color: #000000 !important;border-bottom-style: solid !important;}”][nd_options_text nd_options_text_tag=”h2″ nd_options_text_weight=”normal” nd_options_text_align=”center” nd_options_text=”For the latest update for Recycling Services (Bottle Depot and Bottle Pick-Up):” nd_options_text_color=”#4b4f54″ nd_options_text_font_size=”18″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”10″][nd_options_button nd_options_padding=”8px 12px” nd_options_align=”center” nd_options_font_weight=”nd_options_font_weight_normal” nd_options_link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fvecova.ca%2F2020%2F06%2F25%2Fvecova-bottle-depot-and-bottle-pick-up-service-set-to-re-open%2F|title:CLICK%20HERE|target:%20_blank|” nd_options_bg_color=”#4b4f54″ nd_options_text_color=”#ffffff” nd_options_border_radius=”20″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]

Vecova’s Relaunch Stages

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Pandemic Response (Prior to June 1)

During the pandemic response, Vecova followed the strongest public health guidelines from Health Canada and Alberta Health Services, the advisories issued from the Government of Canada and the emergency measures enacted by the Government of Alberta and the City of Calgary to manage COVID-19. This resulted in Vecova:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

  • closing and restricting access to its facilities in Calgary and Canmore
  • suspending a number of its programs and services
  • introducing service adjustments for a number of its programs and services
  • implementing a number of measures to help keep its consumers and employees healthy and safe.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Early actions allowed some of Vecova’s programs and services to remain operational. These included:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

  • Living Support Services remaining in full operation, providing 24/7 support to persons with disabilities and complex needs.
  • Mental Health Services remaining in full operation providing support online and through telepsychology.
  • Training continuing to provide specialized health training online or virtually.
  • Youth Transition and Work Experience Program continuing to meet the program needs for youth through online support.
  • Airport Contract for Service remaining in operation with modified resources.
  • Bottle Pick-Up Service remaining in operation with modified resources to pick up and process its commercial account with Alberta Health Services.
  • Internal operations including Workforce, Communications, Development, Finance, IT and Research and Strategic Services with modified resources.

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Stage 1 – Started May 25th

Stage 1 allowed Vecova to resume some of its programs and services with: service adjustments; physical distancing requirements; health and screening protocols; enhanced cleaning and disinfecting measures; and other public health guidelines in place. This included:

  • Vecova resuming its Bottle Pick-Up Service – Residential and Commercial within its Recycling Services on May 25th with reduced service hours and modified resources.

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Stage 2 – (TBD) Anticipated to Start June 22nd

Stage 2 will allow Vecova to resume some additional programs and services, reopen some of its Recycling Service facilities to our consumers and to provide re-entry to some of our employees with: service adjustments; program, service and facility capacity restrictions; physical distancing requirements; health and screening protocols; enhanced cleaning and disinfecting measures; and other public health guidelines in place. This includes:

  • June 29 (tentative date): Vecova reopening its Bottle Depot within its Recycling Services to the public with reduced service hours and modified resources.
  • Vecova reassigning its employees from its Employment Services and Wayfinder Program who have been working with Living Supports Services to resume some of its Employment Services and Wayfinder Programs with reduced service hours and modified resources and services in our consumer homes and in the community.

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Stage 3 – (TBD) Anticipated to Start September 1st – onward

Stage 3 will allow Vecova to resume more of its programs and services, reopen the remainder of its facilities to our consumers and to provide re-entry to our employees in a staged process with: service adjustments; program, service and facility capacity restrictions; physical distancing requirements; health and screening protocols; enhanced cleaning and disinfecting measures; and other public health guidelines in place. This includes:

  • Vecova reopening its Main Vecova Centre for:
    • Onsite programs and services for consumers within our Aquatics, Health and Fitness and Employment Services with capacity restrictions, reduced service hours and modified resources. Please note: not all previous offered programs and services can or will be offered and as such a phased process will occur. Further details will be communicated as this stage of our relaunch strategy is activated.
    • Facility rentals with capacity restrictions; physical distancing requirements; health and screening protocols; enhanced cleaning and disinfecting measures; and other public health guidelines in place. Please note: not all previous facility rentals can or will reoccur and as such a phased process will occur. Further details will be communicated as this stage of our relaunch strategy is activated.
    • Essential internal operations with capacity restrictions, reduced service hours and modified resources.
  • Vecova reopening its Satellite Office in Canmore for essential internal operations with capacity restrictions, with reduced service hours and modified resources.
  • Vecova resuming its Wayfinder Program with reconfigured programs and services for consumers with capacity restrictions, reduced service hours and modified resources.

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Stage 4 – Ongoing

Stage 4 allows Vecova to assess and resume its contracts for service with other organizations/businesses as they begin to resume their operations. These operations will resume in a staged process with: service adjustments; capacity restrictions; physical distancing requirements; health and screening protocols; enhanced cleaning and disinfecting measures; and other public health guidelines in place.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Additional Measures and Considerations

  • There will be strict safety guidelines in place for our consumers and our employees. We will ready our programs, services and facilities for our consumers and our employees and install physical distancing measures, set consumer and employee program, service and facility capacity restrictions, set health and screening protocols and set new enhanced cleaning and disinfecting measures.
  • The starting dates for each Stage of Vecova’s Relaunch Strategy may be delayed to ensure Vecova is in:
    • alignment with the City of Calgary and the Government of Alberta’s relaunch strategy
    • accordance with Alberta Health Services directions in a safe process that includes health guidelines and requirements
    • accordance with Vecova’s risk management and business continuity systems
    • alignment with Vecova’s business plans and strategic direction.
  • If at any time, we feel the health and safety of our consumers and employees cannot be successful managed we will act accordingly.

 

As a result, for the most up-to-date information, please continue to check-in here: https://www.vecova.ca/covid19

 

 

All the best,

 

Joan Lee

Chief Executive Officer

Vecova[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]June 1, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_text nd_options_text_tag=”h3″ nd_options_text_weight=”bold” nd_options_text_family=”nd_options_first_font” nd_options_text=”We are Vecova. Exploring ability and possibility.” nd_options_text_color=”#727475″ nd_options_text_font_size=”20″ nd_options_text_line_height=”20″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]Today, we would like to reintroduce ourselves to you.

 

We’re dynamic. We’re confident. We’re progressive.

 

We’re Calgarians. We’re Albertans.

 

We’re inclusive. We believe diversity drives innovation. We’re actively transforming our world.

 

We’ve worked tirelessly for the past half-century to serve persons of all abilities, the greater Calgary community and to create a more sustainable future for all.

 

We’re proud to create a welcoming space where everyone feels a sense of belonging and community. We’re proud to be located on the traditional territories of First Nations Peoples of Treaty 7 and the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3.

 

And, today begins a new phase at Vecova!

 

We are pleased to announce the launch of Vecova’s new Brand. Our new Brand is how we will identify, live and share our Brand Promise to you. It defines who we are, why we do what we do and our unique value and importance to the communities we serve. It’s our social contract between Vecova and you – our consumers, our employees and the community.

 

We are Vecova. Exploring ability and possibility. And, we are just getting started!

 

 

Joan Lee
Chief Executive Officer
Vecova[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1467643035435{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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