Community Investors VXIII - Between Friends

The 18th non-profit highlighted in the CIES Community Investors Series is Between Friends. Between Friends is a charitable organisation that has been operating in Calgary & area for over 30 years.  Through their programs, they endeavour to benefit all people and increase the community’s awareness, positive attitudes, and sensitivity towards their fellow citizens with disabilities.

Between Friends was originally established in 1970, as the Pink Pelican Club, by a group of parents seeking social, recreational, and community based activities for their teenagers with disabilities. The Pink Pelican Club rapidly expanded as programs provided a bridge for community participation. In 1982, the organisation obtained registered charitable status and a new name.

Between Friends provides quality social, recreation and self-development opportunities for people with disabilities to connect, grow and belong.They focus on abilities, not disabilities. This allows each person to set their own goals and determine their level of participation.

Many people with disabilities seek social and recreational activities that are fundamental to enriching self-esteem, quality of life, and mental and physical health. Between Friends facilitates programs with these goals in mind while promoting a focus on shared interests over individual differences.

Between Friends offers a variety of programs to children, youth and adults that reduce the barriers of isolation and function as the building blocks of friendship. They provide opportunities that challenge, stimulate and pique the curiosity of our participants.

The positive impact Between Friends has on the lives of individuals with disabilities extends to the greater community and CIES sends its heartfelt thanks for all the work they have done for Calgary for more than 30 years. For more information and details on how you can get involved visit there website.