Building Thriving Communities Starts With Us
Caroline PinheiroReflections from the May 2025 arc programs Staff Conference
On May 14 and 15, arc programs brought together more than 160 employees from across the West Kootenays, South Okanagan, and Central Okanagan for our biannual Staff Conference, held at the historic Laurel Packinghouse in Kelowna. The theme for this May’s conference was Wellness and Collective Care: Building Thriving Communities Starts With Us. This guiding principle shaped every session, activity, and shared moment throughout our two days together.
Honouring the Land and Relationships
The first day began with a Land Acknowledgement shared by CEO Candice Henriques, followed by a welcome from Krystal Withakay (spaxwawlm), a syilx artist and apprentice knowledge keeper from Westbank. Krystal has been a meaningful guide in our agency’s ongoing learning about Indigenous Knowledge, relationships, and reconciliation. Her presence and teachings helped us arrive in the space with intention and respect.
Neurodiverse Affirming Practice Through Music and Storytelling
We were honoured to welcome keynote speaker Sophie Armstrong, an internationally recognized violinist, composer, educator, and humanitarian. Sophie’s presentation, Neurodiverse Affirming Practices, wove together classical music with cellist Olivia Walsh, and lived experience. As a neurodivergent person and mother of three neurodivergent children, she offered valuable insights into how social service providers can better support families navigating diagnosis, identity, and school systems. Her talk was accompanied by a moving live cello and violin performance that brought the room to a heartfelt pause.
Wellness and DEIB in Action
In the afternoon, staff engaged in two rounds of Wellness and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging activities. With nine activity options to choose from, the sessions included yoga, pottery, a cultural district tour, bird sanctuary walk, psychological safety circle, rock painting, button making, outdoor sports, and collective reflection spaces. Staff were able to rest, recharge, and reconnect with colleagues while deepening their understanding of what collective care looks like within the workplace. We really appreciate both committees’ dedication and intention in creating and facilitating the fun and engaging activities.
CEO Reflections and Organizational Vision
On May 15, Candice Henriques returned to the stage to share reflections on organizational culture, agency milestones, and the evolving vision for the years ahead. She was joined by James O’Brien, People and Culture Manager, who presented early insights from the Employee Retention Survey and spoke to ongoing strategies that centre wellness, belonging, and professional growth for all staff. The agency also celebrated its successful 3-year CARF Accreditation, an important marker of quality and commitment to excellence across all programs and services.
“When we invest in each other’s wellbeing, we reinforce the purpose of our organization. This conference was an important reminder that thriving communities begin with staff who feel seen, supported, and connected. It takes trust to share what we need to feel stronger as a team, and I am so grateful for the relationships we continue to build internally.”
Candice Henriques, CEO, arc programs
Closing in Celebration and Rhythm
The conference concluded with a vibrant drumming circle led by Bobby Bovenzi. Staff came together in rhythm and song, creating a joyful and energizing space to close out the two days. The experience emphasized connection, collaboration, and the power of music to bring people together.
A Foundation for the Future
At arc programs, we believe that the foundation of thriving communities is a strong, connected, and supported team. This conference affirmed our commitment to nurturing workplace culture, advancing inclusive and equitable practices, and celebrating the dedication and creativity of our staff. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to gather, reflect, and honour the important work we do together.
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