When people of all abilities are supported to lead, create, and give back, the result is powerful—not just for them, but for everyone around them.
At a small but vibrant community inclusion (CI) program in Langley, something remarkable is taking shape.
It started with a conversation—one rooted in purpose and generosity. Staff and the people supported at the program were talking about how they could give back to their community. That’s when someone remembered the Langley Christmas Bureau.
Last December, the Bureau had opened a gift donation office in a vacant space across the street. It wasn’t a permanent location—just an available storefront—but it made a lasting impression. A few people from the CI service had bought gifts from the money they had saved from recycling, and donated the gifts to the Bureau. Months later, the memory stuck. The idea that they could do something, however small, to make someone else’s Christmas a little brighter had stayed with them.
"They recognized that there are families in Langley who aren’t as fortunate when it comes to having gifts under the tree. Each person here contributing in their own way is helping to brighten someone’s Christmas—and they’re proud of that. It allows us to teach life skills and the importance of generosity."
And from that memory, an idea grew:
What if we hosted a Christmas in August Craft Fair—and donated the proceeds to the Christmas Bureau?
Since then, Langley Day Services has come alive with activity and excitement. The people we support—alongside their staff—have been planning, crafting, baking, and dreaming. Handmade ornaments, painted stones, bookmarks, beadwork, cookies, and other treats are being lovingly prepared. At the crafts fair, there will be games on the lawn, a hot dog sale, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere where community connection can flourish.
Their enthusiasm is unmistakable. On the day of our visit, as staff were showing us some of the items already prepared, Diane pulled out a bag of frozen dog biscuits that Emma had made a few weeks earlier. Emma’s face lit up with pride and excitement. Diane explained that Emma had stopped making biscuits a while back, but because this cause is so special, she was happy to contribute in what she knew was a meaningful way.
Each week, the crafts are accumulating, and watching each person express genuine ownership in what they’ve created is something special. It’s clear this is more than just an event—it’s theirs, and they can’t wait to share it.
Creating with purpose: each stitch, bead, cookie, and brushstroke is part of a bigger story of inclusion and impact. When we visited Langley Day Services, the room was alive with community spirit as people poured their creativity and energy into every handmade item.
Beyond the crafts and fundraising, this event is also a valuable chance for people supported across our various services to come together for a few hours of social connection. With regular gatherings like Circle of Friends on pause for the summer, the craft fair provides a relaxed, inclusive space where people can meet new faces, reconnect with familiar ones, and enjoy fun activities together. It’s an important reminder that social belonging is a vital part of wellbeing—and this event celebrates and strengthens those connections.
It’s about empowerment.
It’s about people being seen as contributors—not just participants.
It’s about remembering that inclusion means giving everyone the opportunity to make a difference.
As planning continues, there’s a clear sense of purpose and joy. For many, this project has been a bright point in the summer—a chance to do something meaningful, and to do it together.
This is what real community inclusion looks like. When people of all abilities are supported to lead, create, and give back, the result is powerful—not just for them, but for everyone around them.
When people are included, communities flourish.
And when people are empowered to give, they remind us what it truly means to belong.
Join Us for Christmas in August!
If you’re nearby, we’d love for you to come experience the joy and creativity behind this event—and show your support for the people who’ve worked so hard to make it happen.
🗓️ Monday, August 5
🕙 Time: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
📍 Langley Canadian Reformed Church, 21804 52 Ave, Langley
🌭 Hot dog sale
🎯 Lawn games and activities
💵 Cash only
🪑 Bring a lawn chair and stay awhile!
