At PLAN, we believe families are the heart of every community. Through our programs—Family Network, Family Circles, One-to-One Connections, and Storytelling—we empower families across British Columbia and beyond to connect, learn, and build a secure future for their loved ones.
Whether it’s through virtual gatherings with the Family Network, local meetups with Family Circles, personalized support via One-to-One Connections, or sharing impactful experiences through our Storytelling initiatives, PLAN offers flexible, meaningful ways to support families no matter where they are on their journey.
For families outside of British Columbia, we partner with family-led organizations around the world to extend these opportunities globally, ensuring every family can access the tools and community they need to thrive.
Family Network
Planning for the future requires courage, resilience, and the right support.
While workshops and resources are valuable, they are only part of the solution. Families often need ongoing guidance, encouragement, and a sense of community to navigate this process.
At PLAN, we believe that:
- Families with shared experiences are the best resources for one another.
- Every family is unique, and our support must be flexible and tailored to meet their individual needs.
The Family Network offers families across British Columbia a way to connect, learn, and receive support—no matter where they live.
How the Family Network Brings Families Together
Each month, the Family Network hosts facilitated online gatherings that provide families with a safe and welcoming space to:
- Reflect on what it means to build a good life for their loved ones
- Share stories, practical tips, and resources from lived experiences
- Form meaningful relationships with other families navigating similar journeys
By meeting families where they are—whether in remote communities or urban centers—the Family Network ensures that no family feels alone in their journey. It’s a lifeline for connection, guidance, and the comfort of knowing others are walking alongside you.
Family Cirlces
From the Lower Mainland to Vancouver Island, the Interior to the North, Family Circles bring families together in communities across British Columbia. These welcoming gatherings provide a space to share experiences, build friendships, and find support.
What to Expect
Family Circles are informal and relaxed, with no set agenda. They are all about connecting, sharing stories, and finding a sense of belonging in a supportive community.
Where and When
Circles take place several times a year in local spaces such as coffee shops, libraries, or family homes—wherever families can gather comfortably.
Who Can Join
Everyone is welcome! Parents, caregivers, extended family, friends, and even paid support workers are invited to attend. While families are encouraged to participate in Circles close to home, all events are open to anyone across the province.
PLAN is dedicated to fostering connection and belonging for families throughout B.C. Interested in starting a Family Circle in your area or learning about our Family Network Partnership Program? Let’s work together to build stronger communities. Contact us at hello@plan.ca to get involved.
One to One Connections
Families in British Columbia are as diverse as the province itself. Some prefer smaller, more personal connections. PLAN works to facilitate these relationships across the province, helping families find a connection that feels right for them.
Whether it’s inviting another family over, meeting at a local park, connecting online, or simply sharing a phone conversation, these one-on-one interactions create a sense of belonging, even in the most remote areas.
Sharing Stories
At PLAN, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling. Every family’s journey is unique, and sharing these stories not only uplifts others but also highlights the resilience, creativity, and love that shape our communities. Through our storytelling initiatives, we:
- Celebrate the voices of families navigating the complexities of disability and future planning.
- Amplify lived experiences to inspire connection, empathy, and understanding.
- Showcase the impact of personal support networks and community building.
By sharing stories from families across British Columbia and beyond, we shine a light on the profound ways people support one another, create opportunities, and build a brighter future for their loved ones.
Discover how storytelling connects and inspires by visiting plan.ca/stories.
PLAN’s Family Support and Leadership programs provide families with the guidance, tools, and community connections they need to create a future of belonging and shared care for their loved ones with disabilities.
- The Family Network fosters virtual spaces where families connect, learn, and share experiences.
- Family Circles offer local, in-person opportunities to build lasting relationships within their communities.
- One-to-One Connections provide space for deeply personal and meaningful exchanges.
- Storytelling celebrates and amplifies the lived experiences of families, inspiring connection and solidarity.
These programs reflect the belief that we are strongest when we are connected, and that true well-being comes from relationships where care, dignity, and mutual support are at the center.
Together, we can create a future where every person is valued and every family feels supported in their journey.