[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]February 19, 2021[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Vecova’s Housing Services Works to Resolve COVID-19 Cases

Calgary, Alberta (February 19, 2021). Vecova’s Housing Services has experienced COVID-19 cases in one of our Vecova-operated residences. With Alberta Health Services, we are managing the situation to ensure the safety of the community.

We are following all recommendations from Alberta Health Services, including the testing of all individuals and employees at the affected location. Additionally, our team has completed thorough contact tracing in collaboration with Alberta Health Services. We have directly contacted all individuals, families/guardians and employees who may have been in close contact with those affected.

The individuals who have tested positive have gone into mandatory self-isolation. They will remain in self-isolation until all Alberta Health Services recommendations regarding the end of their quarantine period or their return to work have been met. We wish them all a quick recovery.

We thank all of our employees for their continued efforts to keep our Housing Services safe for all individuals who live and work within those residences.

Vecova’s top priority is to ensure the health and safety of our community. Our Housing Services has an extremely high standard of health and safety measures and protocols in place to minimize the risk for COVID-19 and to manage a positive result. We remain diligent in the enforcement of proper PPE usage in all Vecova facilities, which is critical to the health and safety of all of our employees and individuals. We also continue to follow the guidance and recommendations provided by Alberta Health Services, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health and Alberta Occupational Health and Safety.

We thank you for your patience, understanding and continued support during this time.

About Vecova – vecova.ca

Vecova® is a leading edge, registered and accredited charitable organization that has been meeting the lifelong and changing needs of persons of all abilities and the community since 1969 through our programs and services, social research and innovation and enterprises.

For media requests:
Kaitlyn Pecson

Communications Manager

Vecova
[email protected][/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_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 2, 2021[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

Doing our part for the community!

On January 29, 2021 the Government of Alberta announced a step-by-step approach to ease public health restrictions, which would begin on February 8, 2021. At this time however, all on-site programs at Vecova are still on hold in accordance with AHS restrictions. Vecova’s Main Facility will remain closed until further notice.

Thank you all for your patience and understanding. We look forward to welcoming you back to Vecova when we can safely!

Take care,

Joan Lee

Chief Executive Officer[/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 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]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=”1/6″][/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 13, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Dear Community

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across Alberta, the Government of Alberta is instituting a series of new targeted public health measures that come into effect today Friday, November 13, 2020. As a result, Vecova will be implementing the following effective immediately.

This includes:

suspending all aquatics and studio group fitness classes until November 28^th*
suspending all Empower Abilities Physical Therapy classes until November 28^th*
suspending all evening facility rentals until November 28^th*
suspending all swim lessons (including private swim lessons) until November 28^th*
continuing to offer regular registered lane swim and open swim times, but with reduced operating hours.
Vecova’s Main Facility operating hours until November 28th* will be:
- open Monday to Friday from 8:00am-4:00pm
- closed Saturday and Sunday
continuing to offer Mental Health Services at our Main Facility but with restricted numbers
continuing to provide the Explore Abilities program at our Main Facility
continuing to provide limited Government of Alberta programs and services at our Main Facility
restricting 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.

I appreciate your commitment to Vecova, and with these additional measures, I ask for your continued support to create a safe place to connect, belong and thrive.

Vecova thanks you for your patience as we respond to the targeted health measures. If you have questions, please review the information posted on our website first at https://www.vecova.ca; if you are unable to find the answer you need, please contact us [email protected] or call (403) 284-2231 to talk to a consumer representative.

* Please note: Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness will be offering credits or refunds for suspended programs and services. We will need time to work through the administration of those refunds. Thank you for your patience as we work through those processes. We will contact you directly once the processes are in place.

Suspension dates may also be extended and additional health and safety measures may be instituted as we continue to follow the recommendations and guidance of the Government of Alberta and provincial health authorities in order to keep everyone safe. As a result, for the most up-to-date information, please continue to check in here: https://www.vecova.ca and follow us on our social media sites.

All the best,

Joan Lee

Chief Executive Officer

Vecova[/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 12, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Dear Community,

As you might have heard today, the Government of Alberta announced a series of new targeted public health measures that come into effect Friday, November 13, 2020 for the next two weeks to help stop the spread of COVID-19 cases that are continuing to rise across Alberta.

As a result of these targeted public health measures, Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness has cancelled all swim and fitness activities for tomorrow morning (November 13, 2020). This includes:

· Lane Swim at 8:00am to 9:00 am

· Deep Water Workout at 9:30am to 10:15am

· Aquatics Gentle Fitness (all levels) at 10:45am to 11:30am

We will be open tomorrow afternoon at 12:00pm for regular registered lane swim, cohort swim and private swim lessons.

We want to thank you for your patience and loyalty. We know that our facilities, programs and services our Aquatics, Health and Fitness provides are of value to you as a safe place to connect, belong and thrive.

Please stay tuned for more information tomorrow, once we have had the opportunity to fully review further the new targeted public health measures instituted on indoor fitness classes and team sports, and the impact that will have on our operations from November 14th – November 28th.

Thank 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=”1/4″][/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]November 10, 2020[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Vecova’s Housing Services Continued Efforts to Resolve COVID-19 Cases

Calgary, Alberta (November 10, 2020). Vecova’s Housing Services has seen an increase in COVID-19 cases, as with the increased cases within the general population. These cases have occurred in both Vecova operated and at private residences and not at Vecova’s main facility location. With Alberta Health Services, we are managing the situations as they arise.

Alberta Health Services has advised Vecova that some individuals living within the affected homes will need to be tested. Alberta Health Services has also recommended that the employees working in those residences receive testing. Additionally, our team has completed thorough contact tracing in collaboration with Alberta Health Services. We have directly contacted all individuals, families/guardians and employees who may have been in close contact with those affected.

The employees who have tested positive have gone into mandatory self-isolation. They will remain in self-isolation until all Alberta Health Services recommendations regarding their return to work have been met. We wish them all a quick recovery.

Additionally, we are pleased to confirm that the original COVID-19 case, confirmed on October 21, 2020 by Alberta Health Services, has now been resolved. Additional cases since then have also been cleared. These employees have recovered from COVID-19 and are safely back at work.

We thank all of our employees for their continued efforts to keeping our Housing Services safe for all individuals who live and work within those residences.

Vecova’s top priority is to ensure the health and safety of our community. Our Housing Services has an extremely high standard of health and safety measures and protocols in place to minimize the risk for COVID-19 and to manage a positive result. We remain diligent in the enforcement of proper PPE usage in all Vecova facilities, which is critical to the health and safety of all of our employees and individuals. We also continue to follow the guidance and recommendations provided by Alberta Health Services and Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health.

We thank you for your patience, understanding and continued support during this time.

About Vecova – vecova.ca

For media requests:
Kaitlyn Pecson
Communications Manager
Vecova
[email protected][/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_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]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[/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]August 26, 2020 (Updated: October 16)[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

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.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

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.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]

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][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]