LGBTQ Support Program

With the support of grant funding, our 2SLGBTQI+ Youth Program was able to offer a summer day camp series that served 37 youth throughout the summer months. These outings and activities provided opportunities for recreation, social connection, skill development, community engagement, and safe, affirming experiences for youth who may otherwise face barriers to participation.

The program intentionally combined outdoor adventure, creative expression, and community-based experiences to foster belonging, confidence, and positive peer relationships.

Throughout the summer, youth participated in a wide variety of activities, including:

By providing diverse programming, youth were able to explore new interests, challenge themselves, and engage in healthy recreational opportunities alongside supportive peers and staff.

Many participants reported that the summer program provided one of the few spaces where they felt fully accepted and comfortable being themselves. Through shared experiences, travel, and group activities, youth formed new friendships and strengthened existing peer connections.

The day camp environment encouraged positive social interaction, teamwork, communication skills, and mutual support among participants.

Many of the activities encouraged youth to step outside their comfort zones and try something new. Whether learning archery, exploring local trails, paddle boarding for the first time, or participating in community outings, youth were able to build confidence through successful experiences and supportive encouragement.

Youth were celebrated for their individuality, creativity, and personal achievements throughout the summer.

The majority of activities incorporated movement, outdoor recreation, and time in nature. Participants benefited from increased physical activity while also experiencing the mental health benefits associated with outdoor recreation, social connection, and positive community engagement.

Nature-based programming, including hikes, waterfall visits, birding activities, and beach days, provided opportunities for relaxation, mindfulness, and stress reduction.

Many families face financial barriers that limit access to summer recreation opportunities. Through grant support, youth were able to participate in activities that might otherwise have been inaccessible due to costs associated with transportation, admission fees, equipment, and supplies.

Providing free or low-cost opportunities ensured that all youth could participate regardless of financial circumstances.

A central focus of the program was ensuring that 2SLGBTQI+ youth had access to inclusive and affirming recreational experiences. Throughout all activities, participants were supported in an environment where diversity was celebrated and youth could express themselves authentically.

This sense of safety and belonging contributed to increased engagement, positive peer relationships, and overall program success.

Grant funding supported the delivery of summer day camp programming by helping cover:

The summer program successfully engaged 37 youth in meaningful recreational and social opportunities that promoted connection, confidence, wellness, and belonging. Participants experienced new activities, developed friendships, explored their community, and created positive memories in a safe and affirming environment.

The funding made it possible to offer a diverse range of experiences that enhanced youth well-being and provided opportunities for growth, exploration, and community inclusion. Through these experiences, young people were able to build resilience, strengthen social networks, and develop a greater sense of connection to both their peers and their community.

We are grateful for the support that made these opportunities possible and helped ensure that 2SLGBTQI+ youth in our community had access to a fun, inclusive, and impactful summer experience.

Thanks to the generous support of the Air Canada Community Investment Program, our 2SLGBTQI+ youth program was able to create meaningful opportunities for youth and families to connect, celebrate identity, and increase visibility and inclusion within our community. Funding supported participation in local Pride events, community outreach, and access to affirming clothing and resources for youth.

Youth participants played an active role in several community initiatives that promoted belonging, self-expression, leadership, and Pride.

One of the most significant achievements of the year was the participation of our youth and families in the first-ever Pride Parade in Salmon Arm. This historic event brought together community members, organizations, allies, and families in a visible celebration of diversity and inclusion.

Youth participants helped prepare for the parade and proudly marched alongside parents and supporters. For many young people, this was their first experience participating in a Pride event.

Impact:

The program hosted a free clothing swap at the Shuswap Children’s Association, providing youth with access to gender-affirming and self-expressive clothing at no cost.

Participants were able to browse and select items in a welcoming and supportive environment, helping remove financial barriers while encouraging self-confidence and authentic self-expression.

Impact:

During the first weekend of June, our program participated as an exhibitor at the Pride Project’s Loud and Proud event, engaging with community members and sharing information about available supports and services for 2SLGBTQI+ youth and families. We also hosted a community clothing swap during the Pride weekend events. 

Impact:

Air Canada grant funding supported the successful implementation of these activities by helping cover costs related to:

The Air Canada grant made it possible for 2SLGBTQI+ youth to participate in meaningful community experiences that celebrated their identities and strengthened their sense of belonging. Through Pride-related events, outreach opportunities, and access to affirming resources, youth gained confidence, developed leadership skills, and built stronger connections with peers, families, and the broader community.

The funding helped ensure that youth and families could participate in inclusive and accessible activities while contributing to the growth of Pride celebrations and visibility in Salmon Arm. The success of these initiatives demonstrates the importance of investing in rural 2SLGBTQI+ youth and creating opportunities for connection, affirmation, and community belonging.

We sincerely thank Air Canada for its support in helping create a more inclusive, welcoming, and connected community for 2SLGBTQI+ youth and their families.