REMINDER: Spectrum’s Office will be closed Monday, May 22nd for Victoria Day
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With the mini-heat wave coming this weekend, it’s a good time to review the Extreme Heat policy:
https://sscl.sharevision.ca/public/PolicyDirectory/General%20Policies/39.1.ExtremeHeat.pdf
Here’s a short list of things you can do to stay safe during a heatwave:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
- Stay out of the sun, especially between 11am – 3pm
- Respect fire bans and check trail and road closures before leaving home
- Identify somewhere you can cool down, such as community centers, libraries, shopping malls, parks and other shaded green spaces
- Follow your city/region’s social media to stay updated on heat, flood and fire warnings
- Use awnings, shutters, blinds or window coverings to keep your home cool
- Identify those close to you who are at risk and support them
- Keep pets indoors or in cool, shaded areas during midday hours
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Zero Waste Fair – Killarney Community Centre
WHERE: Killarney Community Centre 6260 Killarney Street Vancouver, BC V5S 2X7
WHEN: Saturday, May 20th 9am – 1pm
FREE SWAP | 10:00am-1:00pm
The Free Swap is a community event where people are invited to bring small portable items in good working condition to give away and take home something new-to-you!
Conditions:
– Bring up to 5 small, portable items.
– Each item must be small enough to carry under one arm.
– Items must be in good, working condition.
– Accepted items include: clothing, housewares, small electronics, books, toys, games, and art.
If you are interested in learning more about our first ever free swap, please contact us at reduce.waste@vancouver.ca.
BIKE TUNE-UPS | 9:00am-1:00pm
Register for a bike tune-up or simple repair as part of the repair cafe. If your repair requires any replacement parts, you will need to provide those yourself.
SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS | 10:00am-1:00pm
FoodMesh – Find out how a Vancouver organization is collaborating with partners to reduce food waste.
Reusables – Want to get takeout, but want to avoid the waste? The future of takeout containers.
Oceanwise – More information coming soon!
REPAIR CAFE | 9:00am-1:00pm
SPEC (Society Promoting Environmental Conservation) in partnership with the City of Vancouver offers FREE repair cafes because the more we can repair, the longer products stay in circulation, and this means less waste!
Book a free appointment time slot between 9:00am-1:00pm to receive in person repair help from our volunteer repairers.
Please read carefully:
ONE REPAIR TICKET PER HOUSEHOLD and ONE ITEM PER APPOINTMENT. If more are booked we will have to cancel the subsequent tickets for repair timeslots. EXCEPTION: if we still have tickets available on the Monday before an event, we will open those to folks who have already booked a repair.
Each person bringing an item to be repaired must complete a waiver form on site.
PLEASE! Be mindful of our VOLUNTEER FIXERs and the other folks there to get their items fixed. Please note that you may be encouraged to get involved in the physical repair of your item, along with the volunteer repairer, so that you are learning and empowered to repair some of your own items at home.
Please book your appointment in the CORRECT CATEGORY. If booked in the wrong category, there is a good chance you will not be seen! You must arrive ON TIME for your appointment. If you arrive late, you will have forfeited your spot.
Please be PATIENT and KIND. This is a FREE event, and the FIXERS are VOLUNTEERS.
IF YOU ARE UNWELL, PLEASE DO NOT ATTEND
Repair categories:
Computers: ie) desktops and laptops. Not accepted: printers, monitors & tablets
Cell phones: screen replacement. You must provide a replacement screen. Not accepted: iPhone XR series and newer models (released in 2018).
Electronics: Home entertainment items including stereos, guitar amps, electric pianos. VCRs. DVD players, and kids’ electronic toys.
Small appliances: e.g. lamps, toasters, foot heaters, hair dryers, and fans.
Clothing/textiles: e.g. shirts, pillowcases, pants, tablecloths. Learn how to repair holes in socks, gloves ad sweaters. Not accepted – items requiring alterations, hemming, bag repair, shoes and zipper replacement (zipper repairs may not be possible due to complexity and time).
General: small, portable items e.g. jewelry and other miscellaneous items.
Not accepted – shoes, bags, furniture (upholstery) or large appliances.
Coffee and Tea:
This is a Cafe right? Grab a free coffee or tea and chat with others while you wait for your repair booking. Please bring your own mug though, as this strives to be a zero waste event!
This event is funded with assistance from the City of Vancouver & Metro Vancouver.
Click Here for More Information and to book FREE tickets
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Families Supporting Regular Equitable Authentic Lives (REA-L) Virtual Gathering
REA-L is a non-profit organization dedicated to decreasing dependency on traditional services for families, by encouraging the engagement and sharing of information with other families.
“We believe families are the catalyst for change that can create a positive shift in the lives of people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and the inclusive communities they contribute to.”
They are holding their first Virtual Gathering for all members of the public who may be interested in learning more about REA-L and their opportunities.
WHEN: Tuesday May 16th, 7pm – 9pm
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A special presentation announcement “Natural Authority” by Yuji Kajiwara and Angela Clancy (Family Support Institute).
This will talk about the importance of supporting decision-making rights to everyone.
Where: Spectrum Society’s Barb Goode Training Center, 3223 Kingsway
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Still Moon Arts Society looking for Artists and Performers
The Still Moon Arts Society is calling for artists and performers to participate in the 21st Annual Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival on Saturday, September 23rd. They are looking for performers for the Harvest Fair, and artists for the Streamside Lantern Installation. The festival will feature live music, dance, shadow puppets, ecological arts and workshops, youth performances and more! This is a celebration of harvest abundance, diverse cultural traditions, the natural environment of Renfrew-Collingwood, and its communities.
How to Apply: visit www.StillMoonArts.ca
Application Deadline: Sunday, May 21st, 11:59pm
Any Questions? Contact amanda@stillmoonarts.ca
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Operation Trackshoes is Returning June 9th – 11th
Operation Trackshoes, an annual sports festival for British Columbians with developmental disabilities, is returning this year to celebrate their 50th anniversary! It will include both competitive, non-competitive and fun events and many entertainment venues, along with Saturday night banquets and dances.
When: June 9th- 12th, 2023
Where: University of Victoria
Learn how to participate here.
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Renfrew Community Centre
Where: Renfrew Community Centre, 2929 E 22nd Ave
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Emergency Travel Assistance provider is changing
Effective July 1, 2023, the emergency out-of-country and out-of-province travel assistance provider, will change to Global Excel Management (GEM). GEM will replace Allianz Global Assistance (Allianz). The goal is to ensure an easy transition.
What this means:
Allianz will continue to manage claims incurred prior to July 1, 2023 for the remainder of 2023.
Plan members can download their new travel card on mysunlife.ca or the my Sun Life mobile app on or after July 1, 2023. There will be no change to your coverage. And since the telephone numbers remain the same, there’s no impact if a plan member hasn’t downloaded their new travel card yet.
As of July 1, 2023 when plan members log in to mysunlife.ca or my Sun Life mobile app, you will receive a prompt to download the new travel card.
Sunlife will send an email beginning July 4, 2023 to all plan members with ETA coverage, if they have your email on file. Plan members will also have access to a website where claims can be submitted and tracked.
If you have any questions regarding Travel Benefits, please email HR at hr@spectrumsociety.org
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Compass Works – Hospitality Training at Easter Seals House
A 22-week on the job work experience program that gives certification to obtain entry level employment in the hotel industry.
Training & Certification
Receive skills and certification training in:
- disability management
- upskills, essential skills, and soft-skills
- basic computer skills for employment readiness that includes resume building, interview skills and networking
- SuperHost, WHIMIS, FoodSafe, and Foundations of Workplace
- job-specific skills related to housekeeping, front desk reception, and guest services with the support of a job coach.
On-The-Job Work Experience
CompassWorks runs out of Easter Seals House in Vancouver where you will learn to apply your training at the front desk, in housekeeping and guest services
Skills for Success
The skills you’ll learn will help give you the confidence and experience you need to be successful working in the hotel industry.
Job Search and Follow Up Support
Learn new skills in building your resume and sharpen your interview skills. Plus, you’ll receive follow up support with your job search.
Who Can Apply?
This program is best suited for persons with disabilities, with equal opportunities for Indigenous with disabilities.
Register Today!
Contact your local WorkBC Centre to meet with a Case Manager who will determine if you are eligible for this program.
Contact Information:
3981 Oak Street, Vancouver
Easter Seals BCY: 236-521-4608
vmanyamba@eastersealsbcy.ca
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BC’s Accessibility Tool
In October 2022, the B.C government launched the Accessibility Feedback Tool (the Tool). The Tool allows individuals to report the barriers they encounter in accessing government services. The feedback received will be shared with relevant ministries and may be used to inform future accessibility plans.
WEBSITE: gov.bc.ca/accessibilityfeedback
VOICEMAIL: (250)940-8569
EMAIL: accessibility@gov.bc.ca
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For those receiving benefits with Spectrum, we offer our EAP (Employee Assistance Program) to provide 24/7 confidential support to our employees. If you are not currently receiving group benefits but are in need of support, please reach out to your supervisor or Human Resources at hr@spectrumsociety.org so we can provide you with accessible options of support. For immediate access to set up assistance, you can click here: Lumino VC (dialogue.co) OR download the app directly onto your smart device by going to the App Store and searching Lumino Health Virtual Care. The graphic is as follows and you will need your benefit group number and Access ID to set it up:
Improving the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) experience
Sunlife has added two new service enhancements to the Lumino Health Virtual Care EAP:
- a new phone number for immediate support,
- 24/7 service support by Dialogue across all Lumino Health Virtual Care products.*
- When accessing EAP via the app is not possible:
- Plan members can get access to immediate help through their EAP by calling 1-844-342-3327. A Member Service Specialist will assess your needs and coordinate care with the appropriate resources.
Plan members are also able to access the EAP through the app or online.
New 24/7 Dialogue support*
If you or your dependents are having trouble using the app or website and need help accessing your account, they can:
- contact Dialogue by emailing sunlife-support@dialogue.co Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
- visit help.dialogue.co and use the chat feature for assistance, for after hours and weekend support.
For questions regarding benefits plan information, you can
- contact hr@spectrumsociety.org
*Applies to all Lumino Health Virtual Care products – Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Primary Care, Stress Management & Well-Being
Spectrum recognizes that our teams do an incredible job of supporting people in our services. The work that each of you do is valuable and at times, difficult. Please do honor what your body/mind may be communicating. If you feel increased stress or grief, please pay attention to those signals and reach out to the EAP or us for resources of support.
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What is happening in Vancouver in May?
Click on the link below to see what’s happening:
https://www.destinationvancouver.com/events/calendar-of-events/vancouver-events-in-may/
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Is there anyone you know that is looking for meaningful work?
If you have a friend, family member or meet someone in the community that is interested in joining the team and you refer them to Spectrum, you could be eligible for a referral bonus!
If the person referred is hired and maintains at least 6 months of consistent employment with Spectrum, we will award a $250 Referral Bonus.
*for more information on the program, please email hr@spectrumsociety.org
We thank you for bringing us quality applicants/employees!
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ACADEMIE DUELLO
www.academieduello.com
The art of the sword at Academie Duello is a group activity for 4-8 people; social + exercise!
They are looking for fellow introverts to find a group of people to organize smaller private classes with instead of going to the much larger drop-in classes and for a reasonable price. See for yourself what wielding a sword like in RPGs is like!
The length of each class depends on # of participants
$170 for 10 credits in one month, ~2 classes a week
1 credit = 10 minutes private lesson duration
Examples of the possible split of credits/class frequency/length depending on the number of people
2 people = 20 credits
3 people = 30 credits
4 people = 40 credits
5 people = 50 credits
6 people = 60 credits
7 people = 70 credits
8 people = 80 credits
For anyone interested in learning more about this opportunity, please contact Sarah Woollacott at sarah.woollacott@spectrumsociety.org
| Home – Academie Duello – Learn Swordplay
International Centre for Swordplay – Learn Longsword, Rapier, Sidesword, Polearms, Mounted Combat, Archery, martial arts, axe throwing. |
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Submitting Coordination of Benefits claims via the my Sun Life mobile app
Managing your benefits is easier than ever. We’re happy to share that you can now submit Coordination of Benefits claims (COB) on the my Sun Life mobile app.
You can now submit medical-related COB claims on the my Sun Life mobile app.* Plan members can continue to make COB claims involving vision, drugs, or dental online at mysunlife.ca.
Changes like this are part of our ongoing mission to continually improve our digital experience.
What is Coordination of Benefits?
Coordination of Benefits is when more than one plan covers a person. COB lets plan members submit their claims and any remaining amounts to another plan. This allows them to get the maximum payment possible. This typically means an employee has coverage through their workplace plan and their spouse or partner’s workplace plan.
Check out our brochure that gives a step-by-step guide on submitting COB claims. This is accessible via the my Sun Life mobile app.
Tip:
Employees can learn more about Coordination of Benefits by signing in to mysunlife.ca > Benefits centre > Coordination of Benefits.
*Claims must be made for the Medical e-claim category only. Submissions for Vision, Drug and Dental categories, or changes to the COB can continue to be made via mysunlife.ca. Availability based on plan design.
Questions?
Please call Group Benefits Client Care Centre at 1-800-361-6212, Monday to Friday,
8 a.m to 8 p.m. EST.
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Ray’s Retro Friday Night Music
- Hosted by Self Advocates of the Rockies society (SAOR)
- Meets the third Friday of every month from 5:00pm – 6:00pm MDT / 4:00pm – 5:00pm PDT
- Join the group on Google Meets by clicking here or dial: (CA) +1 587-688-3336 PIN: 599 330 504#
Breaking Away from the Covid Blues with Lynnetta
- Hosted by Self Advocates of the Rockies Society (SAOR)
- Meets the third Wednesday of every month from 1:00pm – 2:00pm MDT / 12:00pm – 1:00pm PDT
- Join the group on Google Meets by clicking here or dial: (CA) +1 613-916-1823 PIN: 337 088 313#
Phone Tree
- Hosted by Self Advocates of the Rockies Society (SAOR)
- Every Thursday: 2:00pm – 3:00pm MDT / 1:00pm – 2:00pm PDT
- SAOR will be holding weekly group phone calls to catch up with friends and meet new advocates from around the province.
- To register, email j.moore@realmbc.ca or call 250-426-3393 by 3:00 pm on Wednesdays. Spots are limited to five per call so make sure to sign up to reserve your spot.
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HEALTH & SAFETY NEWS
What do you do if you or someone you’ve worked with has been injured?
All Spectrum employees are covered by WorkSafe BC. Employees who sustain an injury while performing their daily work are eligible to receive compensation from WorkSafe BC. For all accidents (whether time loss occurs or not) a Workers’ Report of injury form must be completed and returned to the immediate supervisor who will forward the form to Human Resources for processing, or the employee can return the completed form directly to Human Resources. Claims submitted into WorkSafe BC must be reported within three (3) days.
Policy 9(d): https://sscl.sharevision.ca/public/PolicyDirectory/Personnel%20Policies/P09.0.HealthWelfareBenefits.pdf
Injury/Accident Report forms can be found on our Spectrum website under Human Resources, left hand menu “Forms” or you can email hr@spectrumsociety.org and one will be emailed to you.
Reporting Helps Us To learn, grow and improve together
Accidents happen and one of the main purposes of our accident/injury reporting is to collaborate with WorkSafe BC, our teams and employees to ensure that any employee who is injured receives the proper medical care and support they may need. Our reporting process also provides an opportunity to assess our workplaces for potential hazards so we can continue to improve and determine preventative measures to mitigate future risks. Think of reporting your injury as an opportunity to help yourself and your team.
Why it is important to report an incident, even if you are feeling okay?
Even if you feel ok, there is an obligation to report potential risks or hazards to your supervisor and HR. It’s good news that you’re ok but the next person might not have that same experience. We want to ensure that we are aware of and reviewing any potential risks of injury in your places of work. We have an obligation to ensure the well-being of all employees and review and investigate any potential hazards. Please keep us informed and assist us with keeping you and our teams safe!
Most importantly remember to Take care of yourself.
Employees who take care of themselves and their own needs will be better prepared to care for others on the job.
For example:
- Don’t accept more work than you can handle.
- Recognize signs of stress and take the necessary steps to alleviate stress in your life.
- Let your supervisor know if you need assistance with something.
- Don’t place yourself or others at risk by taking on more than you are prepared for.
Enjoy your work! If you don’t, then be honest with yourself and your supervisor about it. You may need a break.
If you have any Health & Safety related questions, please email safety@spectrumsociety.org
Be Safe. Be Calm. Be Kind