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GVAD Town Hall

[Video Description]

Woman with dark hair pulled back, wearing a dark green shirt. Plain white wall on background.

[ASL Video Transcript]

Hello Deaf community of Greater Vancouver
My name is Megan; I’m the interim president of GVAD

Important announcement

GVAD Townhall is happening this Saturday July 26
Where: Douglas College – New Westminster Campus – Classroom S1814
Time: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

This is for you
Your Voice. Your future. Your community.

GVAD is Deaf-led and 100% volunteers-run
We are doing our best, but we cannot do this alone.

Do you want more Deaf events? Workshops? Advocacy? Community connection?

Do you want to see real change? This is your chance to share.
Share your ideas. Share your feedback. Share your hope for what GVAD should do next.

At the Townhall, we will:
Show what’s members said in the survey
Share plants for fall and beyond
Talk openly about burnout and support and show ways you can get involved.

It’s Free and is open to everyone – members, non-members, and ASL-users

You can speak for 2 minutes, or submit ideas anonymously – either way

Your voice matters

Register now- don’t wait.

If you care about our community – be there!

We want to hear from you

See you on Saturday

RSVP: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/B2Q0uCaNqS

GVAD Leadership 101 Workshop

LEADERSHIP 101 WORKSHOP

For Deafies Ages 18–40
Presenter: John Warren
Date: October 18, 2025
Location: 4445 Norfolk St, Burnaby, BC

Deaf Organizations Matter!
Our community thrives when Deaf leaders step up, speak out, and support oneanother. Are you ready to be one of them?

Join us for an empowering workshop where you will:
• Understand why GVAD and Deaf organizations are essential to our future
• Explore your leadership journey and how to get involved
• Learn what motivates people — and how to inspire your team
• Set boundaries and address harmful behaviors like crab theory and horizontalviolence
• Break down the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation

Free of charge!

Need info?Email info@gvad.ca

RSVP form: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/svvhPFQ15U

Let’s build a stronger, more united Deaf community — starting with you!

GVAD Corn Party Cancellation

[Video Description]
Blonde, shoulder-length-haired white woman wearing light pink glasses and a black shirt. Background: blue wall with a flower curtain and a black-and-white tree picture.

Transcript:

Hello everyone!

My name is Jolene, and I am the Interim Secretary of GVAD.

Not long ago, I made a vlog about Corn Party — our annual tradition. Every year, we gather, eat, laugh, and connect. It’s a fun time for everyone.
Today, I have an important update to share.

Unfortunately, Corn Party 2025 is cancelled.

Why?
Many of you gave feedback — thank you!
You asked for:

  • Indoor and outdoor space
  • A location near TransLink
  • Full accessibility for all ages and needs

The GVAD Board worked very hard. We spent weeks calling, emailing, and searching for the right venue.
But unfortunately, all suitable venues are already booked this year. We wanted to honour your feedback and provide what you asked for — and we couldn’t meet that standard in 2025.

So now, we shift our focus to 2026.

We’re starting early to make sure the next Corn Party has:

  • The right venue
  • A fun, accessible experience for everyone
  • Your feedback included

We also searched for a co-chairperson to help lead the event, but no one stepped up. If you’re still interested, please contact us at info@gvad.ca.

Thank you for your understanding.
We care deeply and are committed to meeting your needs.

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out by email.

Thank you — bye bye!

Canada Disability Benefit – BC Update & Clarification

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Presenters: Megan Milot (GVAD) & David McGregor (BCAD)
Megan:
Hello. My name is Megan Milot. I’m the interim president of GVAD.
David:
Hello. I’m David McGregor, vice president of BCAD.
Megan:
In a previous video, Cameron and I talked about the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB).
We said all Deaf and disabled people qualify. That was not fully accurate.
Now we’re here to clarify with the correct information, based on British Columbia.
David:
CDB means Canada Disability Benefit.
It’s a new federal income support for low-income, working-age adults with disabilities.
The purpose is to reduce poverty and support those who need it most.
Megan:
Applications open June 20, 2025.
You can apply through CRA’s “My Account” online or using a paper form.
If you’re interested — prepare now.
David:
To be eligible, you must:
-Be between 18 and 64 years old
-Live in Canada
-Be approved for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
-Have filed your 2023 income taxes
Megan:
DTC means Disability Tax Credit.
It’s a federal program.
Your doctor fills a form to confirm you have a long-term disability that affects your daily life.
You must be approved for DTC before applying for the CDB.
David:
Yes. If you receive provincial disability assistance (PWD) in B.C., and you are approved for the DTC, you can receive the CDB too.
The B.C. government confirmed — the CDB will not reduce your PWD payments.
You will keep both.
Megan:
You could receive up to $200 per month — or $2,400 per year.
This money is tax-free.
Even if you are working or have some income, you may still qualify.
If you earn under $10,000, your income won’t affect the benefit.
David:
No income? That’s okay.
If you have no earnings and are approved for the DTC, you can still receive the full benefit — as long as you file your taxes.
Megan:
Deaf-friendly services can help:
Wavefront Centre – Community Outreach
Email: community.outreach@wavefrontcentre.ca
Well-Being Program for the Deaf
Email: wellbeing.staff@vch.ca
They can support you in ASL to apply for the DTC and the CDB.
David:
This benefit is important for Deaf British Columbians with disabilities.
Make sure you apply if you qualify.
Megan:
If you have questions, contact GVAD, BCAD, WATERFRONT CENTRE, or WELL-BEING PROGRAM
We’re here to support you with clear, accurate information.
David:
Thank you for watching.
Please share this video with your community.
More updates coming soon. Bye.

Registered Sign Language Interpreter Job Posting – SD 83

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The North Okanagan-Shuswap School District No. 83 invites qualified individuals to apply for our Regular Interpreter Education Assistant position. This is 30 hours per week, CUPE union position, and the rate of pay is $35.49 per hour, 10 months of the year, start date September 2, 2025, with a competitive benefit package.

THE DISTRICT

In the North Okanagan-Shuswap School District, we serve just over 6800 students and 1200 staff in 24 through a variety of sites located around Shuswap Lake and the North Okanagan. We are known for strong academic achievement, a thriving trades and careers program, and a rich culture of school athletics. The school district enjoys comprehensive Local Education Agreements with each of four First Nations bands. One elementary, one middle, and one secondary school offer French Immersion. Our Strategic Plan prioritizes a “students first” focus on success, organizational efficiency, and a culture of health and wellness as our key goals.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

1. Providing interpretation of curriculum and information as presented by teacher(s) and peers.

2. Facilitating communication between Deaf or Hard of Hearing Student and others.

3. Supporting curricular and extra-curricular activities that may be outside of the timetable.

4. Preparing and/or adapting educational materials.

5. Maintaining a clear line of communication with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher regarding student and signing CEA.

6. Student supervision includes monitoring student behavior to ensure the safety of all students.

7. Communicating with students, and staff and providing information of a specialized nature in consultation with the Hearing Resource Teacher and District Administrator, Inclusive Education

8. Encouraging cooperation and demonstrating a positive influence with students to achieve social, academic, and behavioral goals.

9. Proficiency in matching modes of sign communication with needs of individual student(s).

10. Collaborating with other professionals and paraprofessionals as needed.

The above job description reflects the principle functions of the job. Other comparable or transient duties which are within the areas of knowledge and skills required by the job description may also be assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

1. Grade twelve plus a minimum of two (2) years post-secondary education in a recognized Interpreter Education Program.

2. Westcoast Association of Visual Language Interpreters (WAVLI) membership.

3. Qualified to interpret/transcribe as evidenced by a screening committee comprised of Deaf or Hard of Hearing Teachers at a paraprofessional interpreter/transcribe level.

4. Five (5) years’ proven previous work experience involving children with special needs, preferably in an education setting.

5. Knowledge and sensitivity in Deaf Culture.

6. Understanding/knowledge of the specific learning needs of student with hearing loss.

7. Proven ability to operate a computer with internet and Word Processing application.

8. Strong interpersonal skills, demonstrated initiative, flexibility and good communication skills.

9. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with all school and support services personnel involved in program delivery, often with minimal supervision.

10. Demonstrated ability to be firm and gentle in dealing with individual students.

11. Valid driver’s license.

 

THE PROCESS: Please apply on Make a Future at https://buff.ly/SjizHTE with cover letter, resume, supporting documentation.

Questions regarding this position may be directed to Tracey Ward, Human Resources Specialist, Support Staff at 250-804-7842.

 

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 83 – AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

OVAD – Deaf Night Out

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OVAD is hosting Deaf Night Out event on June 21st at 5PM!
Come out, socialize and enjoy some drinks and food!

Where?

97th Street Pub
2402 Hwy 97 North, Kelowna BC.

Any questions or concerns?
Contact: Dorothy – 250-540-4910

Thank you!

GVAD MEMBER SURVEY IS LIVE

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Poster with text and graphics on a yellow background. At the top right, there is a logo with green mountains and the words “GREATER VANCOUVER ASSOCIATION OF THE DEAF” in white on a red background. The main text reads: GVAD MEMBER SURVEY IS LIVE Below this, there is a raised hand graphic and a checkmark in a box. Next to it, it says: GVAD Members – Check your inbox! At the bottom, inside a red box, it says: NOT A MEMBER YET?
JOIN GVAD TODAY AND BE PART OF SHAPING THE FUTURE OF OUR DEAF COMMUNITY!

GET INVOLVED WITH US!

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Poster for the Greater Vancouver Association of the Deaf. At the top, there is a logo with a stylized green mountain outline above a red rectangle containing the words “GREATER VANCOUVER ASSOCIATION OF THE DEAF” in white, all-caps text.
Below the logo, large white bold text reads:
GET INVOLVED WITH US!
The poster continues with information in smaller white text:
We are looking for passionate and motivated individuals to join and support the GVAD team:
• Social Media Volunteer – Help us manage and grow our online-presence
• Join the Board as Directors-at-Large – Share your voice and make a difference in the Deaf community
• Community Representative for BCAD – Represent GVAD at the provincial level and advocate for our local community
EVENTS AND WORKSHOP IDEAS WANTED!
Share your ideas to help us plan exciting, inclusive, and meaningful events
Want to know more or join? Contact us at
info@gvad.ca

Hawaii Bingo 2025 – Flyers

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A colorful flyer for a “Hawaii Bingo” event. It features orange and teal colors with tropical elements like hibiscus flowers and palm trees.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Banquet Hall at Bonsor Recreation Complex, 6550 Bonsor Ave, Burnaby BC.

Doors open at 4 PM, and games run from 6 to 9 PM. Admission costs $10 for members and $20 for non-members, with an additional $20 for 10 bingo game sheets.

There will be 50/50 raffles, and food, chips, and pops are available for purchase.

Dress-up is optional. There is a special live and silent auction hosted by the Heritage and History Project for fundraising. Attendees are advised to bring cash. The bingo chairperson is Alexander Munoz.

For questions, contact events@gvad.ca, and for accessibility requests, contact di@gvad.ca. The event is for adults only, 19 years and older.

A colorful event poster for the GVAD Heritage and History Committee Fundraiser. The main event is a “Live and Silent Auction” taking place at GVAD Bingo on June 14, 2025, at the Bonsor Recreation Complex, 6550 Bonsor Ave, Burnaby, BC. The live auction highlights include:
– 4 nights in a vacation suite at Deep Bay, Vancouver Island
– Whale-watching day trip for two people, with an ASL interpreter
– A Deaf-ASL-themed quilt, handmade by a local CODA
The silent auction will feature various items and price levels. The poster encourages attendees to “Come and see what great deals you might catch!” It mentions that credit cards and cash payments are accepted. The funds raised will support the GVAD’s Heritage and History Project, celebrating the organization’s 100th anniversary in 2026. The poster is decorated with orange and yellow flowers and green leaves.

Hawaii Bingo 2025

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A male person is wearing a blue Hawaiian shirt with floral patterns is standing with arms wide open in front of a tropical themed backdrop.  The backdrop includes a variety of colourful flowers and greenery, along with a bamboo or wicker screen.

Above the person, there is a banner with the hashtag “#MOTHERSDAYATTHEMET” displayed.  

“Are you excited about Hawaii bingo? My name is Alexander Munoz. This is my sign name. I’m the chairperson for Hawaii bingo. When is Hawaii bingo? It’s June 14. The location and time will be shown on the bottom of the screen.

“Banquet Hall at Bonsor recreation Complex. Doors open at 4 PM. Please watch history project committee’s comment.”

Video switches to new video. A lady is wearing black shirt standing outside in front of a large busy with several pink flowers. “ Hello hello! My name is Hester Hussey. This is my sign name. I am responsible for Live and Silent Auction at GVAD ingo on June 14th. We have big surprise reward!! Please come and support us!! See you there!!”

Video switches back to Alexander Munoz . “Come here! Come here! Have fun and socialize with your friends. Maybe you can win money by being lucky. See you there! Bye.”

Wavefront Centre for Communication Accessibility’s Open House event

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The event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at 2005 Quebec Street, Vancouver.

The flyer features the Wavefront Centre logo and includes three images: one of a man at a reception desk, another of someone receiving a hearing aid fitting, and a third of two people walking outside the centre, one with a guide dog.

Highlights of the event include free 15-minute hearing screenings, presentations, door prizes, refreshments, and opportunities to meet staff and community partners.

There is a QR code to scan for RSVP, and the website wavefrontcentre.ca/events is provided for more information. The flyer ends with the message, “All are welcome. Bring a friend and celebrate a future without barriers.”

Mindful Connections: Navigating Hearing Loss and Mental Health Virtual Workshop

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Join the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association Young Adult Network on Saturday, May 24th, 2025 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. PT for a virtual workshop to explore the experience of Hearing Loss and your Mental Health – along with discussion of strategies and coping resources, interactive opportunities with your fellow Deaf and Hard of Hearing peers and much more!

Stay tuned for more exciting details on what to expect from this engaging workshop led by Felicia D’Amato, a registered licensed social worker from VCH’s Deaf Well-Being Program in Vancouver, BC.

REGISTER NOW: bit.ly/yanMCwbp.

The workshop is virtual and will be held via Zoom. The session is intended for those who live in Canada and are 18-35 years of age with Hearing Loss.

Real-time CART and American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation provided.

Please note that this is a live event and will not be recorded for playback, therefore registration and attendance is required.

 

Visual Description:

A poster for a virtual workshop titled “Mindful Connections: Navigating Hearing Loss and Mental Health.” The event is organized by the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association Young Adults Network and Vancouver Coastal Health. It features Felicia D’Amato, BSW, MSW, RSW, and is scheduled for Saturday, May 24th via Zoom. The workshop runs from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. PT and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET. It offers real-time CART and ASL services. The poster encourages exploring the experience of hearing loss and mental health, learning strategies, and coping resources. There’s a QR code for registration and a “REGISTER NOW” icon. The website for registration is provided in the post caption.

Job Posting: Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

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TEACHER OF THE DEAF & HARD OF HEARING

(CONTINUING 1.0 FTE)

School District No. 42 (SD42) meets the learning needs of approximately 17,000 students of all ages in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, and is defined by its determination to keep student learning and growth at the heart of all its decisions. With an annual budget of over $200M and over 2,000 staff, the school district provides K-12 educational services in 22 elementary schools, six secondary schools, and two alternate schools. It also provides a variety of certificate programs and relevant quality life-long learning opportunities through Ridge Meadows College and Continuing Education.

SD42 is accepting applications for a 1.0 FTE Continuing position as a qualified Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (TDHH) effective September 1, 2025. As part of our Learning Services Team, the Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing will report to the Director, Learning Services and will work as part of a team to serve K-12 who are deaf, hard of hearing or deafblind. The Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing will work directly with deaf and hard of hearing students who require assistance in their auditory, speech, language, academic, social and emotional development; have a willingness to continue professional development in order to meet the ever-changing technological and intervention needs of students who are deaf and hard of hearing; build capacity of school-based teams that include classroom teachers, support teachers, and education assistants so they may use effective approaches to inclusive education of Deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind students in the classroom; coordinate and direct services of media captioner, classroom transcriber, Interpreter, Intervener, Communication Facilitators, and Education Assistants.


The applicant will possess:

  • Graduate diploma or master’s degree in education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing or equivalent, and eligibility for certification by the Canadian Association of Educators of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing,

  • Valid BC Teaching Certificate, membership in the BC Teachers Regulation Branch, and eligibility for a TQS Card,

  • Be able to philosophically and pedagogically meet the needs of a broad range of students with varied hearing abilities and varied communication modes,

  • A valid BC Drivers License and a reliable vehicle for transportation during the workday,

  • The following skills would be considered assets; experience with cochlear implants, experience working in an itinerant teacher role, training in auditory-verbal techniques, ASL, classroom teaching experience, experience in Deafblind Intervention.


To apply, please forward your cover letter, resume, school district application form and supporting documentation to applicants@sd42.ca, quoting posting T2526-012. We will accept international applicants with a work permit. This posting will remain open until filled. The starting annual salary for this position ranges from $57,972–$106,217 with placement on the range based on length of service and qualifications in accordance with the collective agreement.

To view the original job posting, please visit Make a Future at https://buff.ly/0gGXC9Z. For more information about our School District please visit: http://www.sd42.ca/our-district

The district appreciates the interest of all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.


Our staff members are the foundation of our system. When you join our school district, you become part of a talented community of educators and support staff dedicated to enriching the lives of all students and helping them achieve success.

CALL TO ACTION: Deaf Canadians Need Direct 9-8-8 Access!

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Text. Phone. VRS.
Not enough.

We need a 4th option: Direct ASL/LSQ video calls for 9-8-8 suicide and mental health support.

  • Our mental health matters.
  • Our languages matter.
  • Our community deserves direct access.

 Sign the petition now to demand ASL and LSQ video access for DDBHH Canadians!

  https://www.change.org/p/act-now-add-direct-asl-lsq-access-to-9-8-8-mental-health-services

ASL/LSQ video below 

Youtube link: https://youtu.be/eVIxfKh_FYQ?si=o27J1EC70YWnapcJ

EN Transcript link: https://bit.ly/ENtranscript988video

About 9-8-8:  https://988.ca/

#988ForAll #ASLAccess #LSQAccess #DeafMentalHealth #CRTC #CAMH #DWCC #CAV #CanadaVRS #AccessibleCanada

Tag the following Facebook pages:
https://www.facebook.com/srvcanadavrs

https://www.facebook.com/AccessibleGC

https://www.facebook.com/crtceng

https://www.facebook.com/crtcfra

https://www.facebook.com/camhfoundation

https://www.facebook.com/988Canada