March is community social services awareness month; a time to recognize the vital role social service organizations play in our lives and in our society as a whole. Community social services are about creating and maintaining supportive, healthy, stable and caring communities. Castlegar and District Community Services Society is one example.
The Society is a multi-service, non-profit organization that has been providing services to the residents of Castlegar and District since 1979. Their mission is to improve the quality of people’s lives by providing assistance, counselling and support, and by working for social change in the community.
The values of the society that are the foundation of their work include the belief that preventing problems is as important as addressing them; that all persons should be treated equally and without prejudice; that all people should live free from violence; that working from strengths is more effective than simply working on problems; and that clients can reach their potential as vital members of the community.
In achieving this work, the staff provides services in a manner that is client centered, timely, well-coordinated and in a friendly environment; each person’s inherent dignity and right to confidentiality and informed consent is respected; reducing barriers and increasing accessibility to meet client needs is a goal, and forming networks, coalitions, partnerships and collaborating on a regional basis to achieve success is acknowledged.
“Every day our front line workers are helping to build a safe, healthy and caring community for all of us,” said Board Chair Roberta Hamilton. “Through our work, the entire community is strengthened through family development, counseling, parental support and intervention when needed”.
Hamilton also thanked the volunteers who assist with some programs or serve on the board of directors.
The society is located at 1007 2nd Street, across from Kinsman Park. Phone 250-365-2104. Check the website www.cdcss.ca Visit the office and become a member.