Congratulations to Board member Sean Crump – one of Calgary’s Top 40 Under 40

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Congratulations to Sean Crump, named Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 – and one of Vecova’s incredible board members. His vision and work towards a more inclusive city inspires our entire community. Well deserved, Sean![/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”8241″ img_size=”medium” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_shadow” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https://www.avenuecalgary.com/top-40-under-40/2022/sean-crump/”][/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]June 27, 2022[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]

#InclusionForEveryone: Vecova’s 2021 Annual General Report Is Now Available

Vecova is proud to share its 2021 Annual General Report, reflecting April 2021 to March 2022, now available at vecova.ca/inclusionforeveryone2021. With each step Vecova took in 2021, the organization did it with inclusion in mind.

“Vecova took the uncertainty that we faced in the year prior to reclaim 2021 and our future,” Dr. Ivan Sierralta, Vecova’s Board Chair, shared in his annual letter. “We took this opportunity to proudly state who we are, as a diverse group of people, all working towards a common and noble goal of inclusion.”

Vecova’s Annual General Report highlights key activities and stories of how the organization continued its work towards its vision, “Inclusion for everyone,” and its mission, “Building a future for people of all abilities where everyone is valued, belongs and thrives.”

We encourage you to read our Annual Report. Thank you to everyone who made 2021 an incredible year of inclusion.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_single_image image=”7562″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” css_animation=”fadeIn” link=”https://vecova.ca/inclusionforeveryone2021/”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Introducing our new CEO, Kelly Holmes-Binns

After leading a broad search for the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Vecova’s Board of Directors is delighted to announce the appointment of Kelly Holmes-Binns as our new CEO beginning August 1, 2021.

Vecova’s new CEO will play a critical role in the organization, leading it through change and the next season of our growth, which includes the planning and building of Vecova’s new Centre for All Abilities.

Kelly is bringing the skills, passion and expertise from her twenty-one-year career to Vecova. She has demonstrated experience in both the nonprofit and business sectors, a commitment to helping others, a dedication to learning and a focus growing organizations through its culture. We are fortunate to have her at the helm.

As CEO of Habitat for Humanity Regina, Kelly helped expand the organization’s support of donors and funders and helped to forge strong partnerships with local, provincial, and Federal governments. During her tenure, Habitat for Humanity Regina had the second largest project built for any Habitat affiliate in Canada. Kelly also led the merger of three independent Habitat affiliates in Saskatchewan to create one organization, focused on greater impact for all its stakeholders.

I would like to welcome Kelly to Vecova, an organization that has led Canada’s abilities community in inclusion, innovation and impact for the past fifty-four years.

Welcome, Kelly!

– Dr. Ivan Sierralta, Vecova Board Chair[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”30″][/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]

Farewell to Joan Lee

Message from Dr. Ivan Sierralta, the Chair of Vecova’s Board of Directors

“Vecova says farewell and extends best wishes to Joan Lee, Chief Executive Officer, who is retiring on June 30, 2021.

Joan has been a strong supporter of inclusion and accessibility in our community since she first started at Vecova in 1978.

During her time at Vecova, Joan has contributed in different roles throughout the organization, from managing Vecova’s Leisure Services Department to Senior Director of Operations to interim Executive Director for over a year.

She will be ending her career with Vecova after serving as the Chief Executive Officer since 2010.

We will miss her enthusiasm and commitment to Vecova and our vision of an inclusive society. Her contributions to Vecova will continue to be realized long after she leaves.

On behalf of Vecova, I would like to extend our appreciation for her leadership, and in particular, through the most recent turbulent period of managing Vecova as we responded to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Joan, thank you for all you have done for Vecova.”

– Dr. Ivan Sierralta, Vecova Board Chair[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”4088″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”30″][/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=”1/6″][/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]February 1, 2021[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

CEO Public Notice Announcement

Vecova Centre for Disability Services and Research Board of Directors announced today its CEO, Joan Lee, will be retiring June 30, 2021.

Joan has been a leader in the not-for-profit sector for decades and with Vecova for the past 42 years. She has played an instrumental role in the development and success of Vecova through her vision and inspiring leadership. The Board of Directors thanks Joan for her long and dedicated service that has made Vecova a leader in the not-for-profit and disability sectors and poised for a strong future. We will greatly miss her and sincerely wish her all the best in her retirement.

“It has been my great honour to lead an organization that is deeply committed to serving people of all abilities. Our dedicated employees, volunteers, donors and community partners work tirelessly to uphold Vecova’s mission each and every day, ultimately improving the lives of those we serve. I am privileged and proud to have been part of such an impactful organization that provides ‘top notch’ quality services to our consumers. Vecova has an incredible vision for the future and plans for a new Centre of All Abilities where people will come together in an inclusive and welcoming space where everyone will feel a sense of belonging and community that supports positive life outcomes. I look forward to seeing this become a reality for Vecova.” – Joan Lee.

The Board of Directors has engaged Pekarsky & Co. to lead the search for its next Chief Executive Officer. For more information about this search, please see https://pekarskyco.com/jobs/chief-executive-officer-vecova-wr-557/.

During this transition period, it is Vecova’s priority to continue to advance our strategic vision while maintaining our delivery of high quality services and a stable and impactful organization.

Dr. Ivan Sierralta

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

Aquatics, Health and Fitness is Reopening

Welcome back!

Vecova is reopening its Aquatics, Health and Fitness facilities on September 8, 2020.

We have been doing our best to ensure that the phased reopening of our Aquatics, Health and Fitness facilities minimizes the spread of COVID-19 and maintains a healthy and safe environment for all. This phased reopening will have modified hours of operation, changes to operations and programming and enhanced health and safety protocols to serve you safely as you achieve your health and wellness goals.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

What’s New?

**Hours of Operation* (September 8 – December 19)**

Monday – Friday from 7:45 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday – Sunday from 7:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

*Please note: facility renters may have extended hours for their programs.

Book a Reservation

To ensure we can adhere to capacity standards at all times, you must pre-book a reservation for every visit to access Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness facilities if you are not in a registered program.

You must now pre-book a reservation for lane swimming and open swim. Reservations can be booked up to 7 days in advance. (For example, if you want to visit on a Monday, you can book your reservation on the previous Monday through Sunday).

Bookings for reservations will begin on September 1, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. Please click here or call (403) 284-2231 to make your reservation.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Program Registration

To ensure we can adhere to capacity standards at all times, all fitness classes (aquatics and dryland) and all swimming lessons will now be registered programs. A full list of the programs that will be offered from September to December is available here.

Registration for Aquatics Fitness Classes will begin on September 1, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
Registration for Dryland Fitness Classes will begin on September 8, 2020 at 8:00 a.m.
Registration for Swimming Lessons will begin on September 8, 2020 at 8:00 a.m.

Registration for all programs can be made online at vecova.ca or by calling (403) 284-2231.

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What You Need to Do Before You Visit

To help us reopen safely, please review the following information to ensure you are prepared before visiting our facility:

Before your first visit (and only the one-time) you must sign a waiver. The waiver will automatically be available upon check out of one of our programs.
Before every visit you must complete Vecova’s online Pre-screen Health Assessment Tool prior to accessing Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness facilities. Please click here.
Please wear a mask upon entrance to and within the facility, both before and after attending an activity as per the City of Calgary bylaw. Masks can be removed during classes.
Please arrive changed and ready to attend your pool or dryland activities. All lockers and showers are closed. Please note: Leave all non-essential valuables and personal belongings at home. A designated space on the pool deck will be provided for all pool users. Designated spaces around the gymnasium and studio rooms will be available for dryland participants to store essential valuables and belongings. The deck shower in the pool area will be available pre and post pool entry for all pool users.
You must now pre-book a reservation for lane swimming and open swim in advance. Please click here or call (403) 284-2231.
Plan your visit in advance to limit your time in the facility. Parents will be able to enter the facility to drop-off and pick-up their child, and assist with changing after the program.
Please be aware that spectators will not be permitted on the pool deck for swim lessons, rental groups or fitness programs. Four designated viewing spots will be available outside the pool for one person or family to use.
Ensure you have the materials you need. The Concession and Pro Shop at Consumer Services will be closed. Vending machines will be available for use.

Please visit vecova.ca to review further details and specific guidelines for your specific class.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

What Health and Safety Measures Have We Made

Vecova has taken significant measures to promote the health and safety of our consumers. These protocols include:

Health pre-screening prior to entry before every visit through a digital Pre-screen Health Assessment Tool.
Requirement of all persons to wear a mask upon entrance to and within the facility, both before and after attending an activity as per the City of Calgary bylaw. Masks can be removed during classes.
Designated hands-free entrance and exit to and from the facility with expanded waiting area and overflow space.
Directional signage and markers to promote one-way flow of traffic between Consumer Services, fitness studios, pool deck, entrance and exit.
Plexi-glass barriers at Consumer Services.
Enhanced daily cleaning and disinfection procedures for all areas of the facility.
Increased availability of hand sanitizers in all areas of the facility.
Eliminating the need for parking passes for users to prevent multiple entries and exits.
Reduced class sizes and increased use of our larger fitness studio spaces.
Limiting the pool area to a maximum of 24 people at one time, with a maximum of one person/family in each of the four lanes available for open swim times.
Limiting the number of participants in a swim class (four and 10 participants depending on the swim lesson level).
No shared equipment within classes.
No travelling in classes (no movement beyond 1 metre).
Physical distancing measures between users within fitness classes (e.g. 2 metres for low intensity fitness classes and 3 metres for high intensity fitness classes).
Cohorting of swim lesson participants, renters and employees to limit social interactions and potential spread of the virus.
Partial access to washrooms. Certain sinks and areas will be closed to ensure social distancing is followed.
Closure of the Concession (including coffee service) and Pro Shop at Consumer Services. Vending machines will be available for use.
Spectators will not be permitted on the pool deck for swim lessons, rental groups or fitness programs. Four designated viewing spots will be available outside the pool area for individuals to use. These spots are spaced out and limited to use by one person or family.
Only individuals with a reservation or registered for classes or programs are permitted in the facility.
Parents will be able to enter the facility to drop-off and pick-up their child. Parents will also be able to support their child while changing at the end of their program.

Protocols for Vecova’s Empower Abilities:

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 – either their own glasses or safety glasses.
A 30-minute allotment time has been set aside between each class. This time is spent to disinfect the area and equipment.

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Thank You

During this temporary closure period, we have been touched by the kind and supportive messages we have received from the public. We know many of you are looking forward to coming back to our facility, reconnecting with friends and participating in your wellness routines.

When you use Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness services – from our fully accessible warm 34.5° salt-water pool to our variety of fitness programs – you support persons of all abilities. Vecova is a place where people connect, belong and thrive. 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.

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 donating to Vecova if you are able.

To learn more about what you need to know before you visit and the changes we have made click here to see our Reopening FAQs.

If you have any questions, please contact us.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/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]June 30, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer][vc_column_text]We are proud to announce Vecova’s participation in the Girls20 program, #GirlsonBoards. Through our participation we are excited to on-board a trained and vetted Young Director to play an integral role in our key decision-making as an organization.

Meet the 4th cohort of boards at www.girls20.org/meet-the-boards[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]