Nicole, a team member at Chilliwack Community Inclusion (CI) since 2019, is a shining example of Bethesda’s core values: relationships, inclusion, stewardship, Christian-centred, sanctity of life, self-advocacy, trust and integrity. Through her dedication and compassion, Nicole helps build meaningful relationships within the community, fosters a sense of belonging among participants, and demonstrates stewardship by supporting each person’s personal growth. Her daily work reflects her Christian faith, setting a warm, welcoming tone for everyone. This story looks at how Nicole brings these values to life every day.
Each day at CI services follows a carefully planned schedule of activities selected for the week. The day begins with a time of devotion and prayer once the participants arrive, setting a calm and welcoming tone for everyone. From there, CI support workers like Nicole, coordinate with each to make sure people get to where they need to be that day: bowling, swimming, going to a community seasonal event, like the tulip fields in the spring, or the corn maze in the fall, Circle of Friends, go-karting, hitting golf balls at the driving range, playing bingo, going to the movies, ferry trips to a local island, and many other activities. One of Nicole’s favorite aspects of her job is the variety of experiences she gets to share with the participants, immersing them in the community and building meaningful connections along the way.
Nicole (right) enjoying a walk on the promenade at White Rock with others from Chilliwack Community Inclusion. Having fun out in the community and showing the world our sameness despite our differences, is one of the things she loves about her job at CI.
Listening to Nicole describe her work, her enthusiasm shines through. She deeply cares for the people she supports, cherishes her team, and loves bringing participants into the community. “We do get a lot of people looking our way as we are a big group of fun people with different mobility types. We have wheelchairs and walkers and lots of excited talkers! So we definitely turn some heads!” She talks about the opportunity it presents when people approach them with friendly greetings or questions. They welcome these – as long as people are respectful. She says, “ It’s nice to show people that we go out and have a good time like everyone else. That’s my favorite part—showing the world that we’re all the same in many ways, even though we’re different. It’s so fulfilling to be out there together, having fun, and letting people see us laughing and enjoying life.”
At Chilliwack CI, activities are often done as a group, fostering close relationships among the participants. These bonds can grow into deep friendships or simply teach them to understand and accept others, even those who challenge them. “When we’re together as a group, you learn quickly that everyone is unique, but we accept and care for each other like a little family—right down to the occasional bickering in the back seat of the van,” Nicole laughs. “Because we do so much together, they learn to work things out and build real connections.”
Seeing the participants’ growth is a constant source of satisfaction for Nicole. She says, “They’re so open to trying new things and really eager to learn. They’ll even take advice on how to hold a golf club or press the gas and brake while go-karting. We have a 3 wheel bike at CI and everyone takes turns riding it. Fears have been overcome! The other day, they were go-karting, learning to operate the controls—things like that give everyone such a taste of independence.” This also brings peace to their families, who feel reassured knowing their loved ones are not only safe but also forming meaningful relationships and having fulfilling days.
One story that sticks with Nicole involves a new participant whose mother was thrilled to see her son feel safe enough to join in and even make a new friend. Although there’s a considerable age difference between the two, they’ve discovered shared interests and a growing confidence in each other. “Now when B*** arrives in the morning, he greets everyone—a new routine for him. And J** will go up and fist bump him. It’s a small thing, but it’s also a big thing because they’re building friendships, and that’s really heartwarming.”
Lesley, Nicole’s manager, has only praise for her dedication and warmth. “You can see her genuineness—it’s like she exudes how much she cares for the people she supports.” Nicole’s attentiveness and genuine care make her interactions meaningful, creating a space where participants feel truly valued. This reciprocal care shines through in the way they respond back, each connection strengthened by mutual respect and love.
Each day is a new adventure at Chilliwack Community Inclusion
Bethesda operates five community inclusion services within the Fraser Valley where more than 120 people with diverse abilities are supported to find friendships and to live as full and self-directed lives in 8 quality of life areas. Staff in all positions are encouraged to align with and demonstrate the values of Bethesda in their work: relationships and inclusion, stewardship, Christian-centred, faith-based, sanctity of life, self-advocacy, trust and integrity.
