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Pilot program

One stop shop to connect people to resources

Sep 15, 2020 | 11:16 AM

A new pilot program will start this month to offer community navigation services to individuals going through life challenges in Vernon.

The program is being offered by NexusBC under the direction of the new community navigator Randel Erbacker.

“NexusBC has identified a significant need to establish a one stop shop to direct people to local resources. We have wonderful resources in Vernon, but people need to be aware of them and some folks need support to access these services,” said Kelly Johnson, Executive Director of NexusBC Community Resource Centre.

With funding from the Foord Family, Enderby and District Financial Community Endowment and the Valley First Community Endowment Foundation, the CONNECT program is being put into place to help.The purpose of the pilot program is to advance education and promote wellbeing by being a one stop shop for equipping individuals of all ages, caregivers, immigrants, and groups, with education, resources, promotion, community navigation, and referrals.

NexusBC has seen an increase in individuals requiring direction to local services as well as support for initiating calls regarding appointments and or waitlists. These people are experiencing barriers to accessing services and this is where CONNECT steps in.

The new community navigator, Randel Erbacker, was born and raised in Vernon, and has over 12 years of experience working in the non-profit sector and a wealth of knowledge in community supports, is committed to seeing successful outcomes.

“One of the most important things you can do on this earth is to let people know they are not alone.” (Shannon L. Alder).

“This is a quote that resonates deeply with Mr. Erbacker, who finds it very rewarding to facilitate life change in our community, connect people to supports they may not be aware of, and assist people to access services when they need a helping hand,” stated Johnson.

The CONNECT Community Navigator will direct people to local resources and services, as well as support them through application processes and intakes so they are connecting to the resources they need.

“This program works so well with our existing Seniors Services Program which provides the same connection to resources, just for folks over 60”, said Judy Katalinic, Coordinator for Better at Home and Seniors Services at NexusBC.

For more information about the program contact Randel at NexusBC – 250-545-0585 x 101 or visit their website at www.nexusbc.ca

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