Pacific Blue Cross members can vote daily through Nov. 24 on a $50,000 pool that includes Richmond's autism network
Members of Pacific Blue Cross can vote daily through Nov. 24 to help direct a shared $50,000 among five B.C. groups, including Richmond's autism network.
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Pacific Blue Cross members can cast one vote a day, through their member profile, for one of five B.C. organizations competing for a shared $50,000 from the foundation's Share the Care program. Voting closes Nov. 24. The vote decides how the pool is divided; each of the five groups is guaranteed $10,000 regardless.
One of the five is the Pacific Autism Family Network, based in Richmond. Its Learn4Independence and Go Group Employment programs help autistic and neurodivergent people build skills, confidence, friendships and greater independence. Learn4Independence is for autistic and neurodivergent adults, with classes Monday through Thursday at the network's Cessna Drive facility in Richmond. Participants must be able to manage basic self-care and have no history of addiction, serious mental illness or aggression.
The other four groups are Aunt Leah's, Carrier Sekani Family Services, Northern Nations Wellness Centre and Stigma-Free Mental Health Society. The foundation is marking its 15th anniversary with the $100,000 total.
Janet Andrews, chair of the Pacific Blue Cross Health Foundation Board, said in a press release that the program lets members learn more about the organizations and help shape where additional support goes.
The final allocation will be announced Dec. 1, Giving Tuesday.
How much will the Pacific Autism Family Network receive once the $50,000 pool is divided?
What share of the vote does each of the five organizations currently hold?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
