AFC Webinar – From Policy to Practice: Making Transportation Work for Older Adults

AFC Webinar – From Policy to Practice: Making Transportation Work for Older Adults

Our latest Age-friendly Communities webinar explores how local governments and communities can design and implement transportation systems that support older adults. Hosted by BCHC Executive Director Vanessa Manuel, this one-hour webinar features two expert presenters who discuss how older adults can stay active and independent – a key to healthy aging. Featuring: Kate Hosford –…

Online info session guides applicants through 2025 PlanH funding

Online info session guides applicants through 2025 PlanH funding

An online info session hosted by BC Healthy Communities (BCHC) marked the launch of the 2025 PlanH Healthy Communities Grants, offering guidance for local and Indigenous governments aiming to build healthier, more equitable communities. PlanH Delivery Lead Connie Allsopp and Grants & Engagement Coordinator Laura Chambers walked attendees through the application process and funding streams,…

PlanH grant fuels Penticton’s push for inclusive housing solutions 

PlanH grant fuels Penticton’s push for inclusive housing solutions 

The City of Penticton has launched a groundbreaking Social Housing and Infrastructure Plan (SHIP), developed in partnership with local housing and service organizations and supported by a Healthy Public Policy grant from PlanH. Aimed at tackling the city’s growing need for non-market housing, the plan outlines actionable steps, identifies 15 opportunity sites and aligns infrastructure…

BC Healthy Communities joins Blue Sky platform

BC Healthy Communities joins Blue Sky platform

BC Healthy Communities (BCHC) is pleased to announce that we are now active on Blue Sky, a growing decentralized communications platform. You can find us at @bchc.bsky.social. As a leader in fostering healthier, more equitable communities, BCHC is excited to join Blue Sky to better connect with organizations, partners, and individuals who share our commitment…

Indigenous youth explore entrepreneurship at YEI event at Seabird Island

Indigenous youth explore entrepreneurship at YEI event at Seabird Island

More than 40 Indigenous youth gathered at Seabird Island for the third annual Stó:lō Youth Entrepreneurship Initiative (YEI), a one-day event that offered hands-on experience in launching and growing a business. Hosted by Sqéwqel Development Corporation (SqDC), the economic development arm of Seabird Island, the event marked its most dynamic year yet. This year’s theme,…

PlanH 2025 Healthy Communities Grants anticipated soon

PlanH 2025 Healthy Communities Grants anticipated soon

The application intake for PlanH Healthy Communities Grants is anticipated to open in the Spring of 2025. Local and Indigenous governments interested in applying can prepare in advance by reviewing past application materials to understand the grant streams and eligibility criteria. The 2024 PlanH Application Guide is a good example of what to expect. For…

BC Healthy Communities welcomes Vanessa Manuel as new executive director

BC Healthy Communities welcomes Vanessa Manuel as new executive director

The Board of BC Healthy Communities Society (BCHC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Vanessa Manuel as the organization’s new Executive Director, effective February 3, 2025. The announcement was made by BCHC Board Chair, Chris Lovelace. “Vanessa brings an extraordinary health-related background that aligns seamlessly with our mission at BC Healthy Communities,” said Lovelace….

Port Hardy’s video report: Building a Healthier Community – With the help of PlanH

Port Hardy’s video report: Building a Healthier Community – With the help of PlanH

The District of Port Hardy released their final report for their 2023 Healthy Public Policy grant in the form of an innovative video. Their 2023 grant project undertook significant efforts to promote a healthy and inclusive community, guided by its four strategic pillars, with a particular emphasis on social well-being. These efforts address critical issues such as…

How to enhance older adult participation in community programs 

How to enhance older adult participation in community programs 

Are your community events consistently attended by the same small group of older adults? Expanding participation to include a larger and more diverse audience can enhance the vibrancy and inclusivity of your programs.   Join an Age Friendly Communities’ webinar on December 4 at 10:30am when our panel of experts will offer strategies for municipalities to…