Local Community Groups
printer friendly versionThe Arthritis Society recommends that people living with arthritis should become involved with their local arthritis community group. Community groups provide contact with other people who have similar needs and are coping with similar problems.
Community groups are comprised of local volunteers who provide support for people with arthritis within their community. They are affiliated with The Arthritis Society and help to provide information about arthritis, research, medications and surgeries, as well as information on current issues related to arthritis care and treatment. Many groups are also instrumental in providing programs and services and/or raising funds for arthritis programs. The meetings may feature visiting speakers, panel discussions or social events.
Some community groups may attract people with arthritis:
- In the same geographical area
- Within similar specific-disease groups
- In the same age specific group
Community Groups are located at the moment in:
If your community group is not listed above and you are interested in becoming involved in your community or are seeking information please contact the appropriate person for your area.
Campbell River Community Group
Please contact the Regional Office at 250.519-4000 for information on
arthritis programs and services or if you are interested in being an educational
contact in the area.
About us
The Chase Community Group serves the areas in and around Celista, Chase, Falkland, Kamloops, Pritchard, Salmon Arm, Sorrento, Tappen and North Shuswap.
The Chase Community Group is made up of dedicated volunteers. New members are always welcome.
Events and activities
Monthly meetings:
Second Tuesday of each month (except for July & August). 7:00 p.m.
Meetings are held at the Illahee Lodge on Wilson Avenue.
* Please note that meetings in December and January are dependant on the weather.
* Please note that meetings in June and December are mostly social events.
Display tables
One of the group’s regular activities is a display booth every weekend during September in the local post office, drug store, and two grocery stores. If you know of a new opportunity or would like to help out, please contact the group.
Public forums
Free public forums are held to provide people with arthritis in the community with information and support.
Contact
For more information on the Chase Community Group, please contact Bea Mason at 250.679.3803.
Hang Tough Coquitlam Community Group
The Coquitlam Community Group serves the areas in and around Burnaby, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody.
The group is also known as the "Hang Tough Arthritis Support Group". The group features visiting speakers, sharing circles, and social events. The most current information about research, medications or surgery is regularly highlighted. "Tea" is also always a part of the meetings. Hang Tough is very active in supporting the mission of the Society. The members work very hard to have their voices heard locally, provincially and nationally.
Events and activities
Monthly meetings
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
First (non-holiday) Monday of each month (except January, July and August)
Nancy Bennett Room, Poirier Library
575 Poirier Street
Coquitlam, BC
Contacts
For more information on the Hang Tough group, please contact Delia Cooper at 604.464.2890 or delia_cooper@telus.net.
Cowichan Valley Community Group
About us
The Cowichan Valley Community Group serves the areas in and around Duncan, and Lake Cowichan. The group consists of many dedicated members involved in supporting families, friends and caregivers of people with arthritis. They are working together to provide information about the latest medications and therapies.
The group is involved in advocacy initiatives and public education activities that help to increase awareness about prevention strategies and the impact of arthritis.
Events and activities
Monthly meetings
1:00 pm
First Monday of every month
St. John's Anglican Church Hall
This is a support group meeting attended by over 50 people. Guest speakers and general members of the public are encouraged to attend.
There are no meetings during July or August or on a holiday Monday.
Local newsletter
The Arthritis Connection", which includes a listing for disease specific support group contacts.
Exercise programs
Exercise programs sponsored by the Cowichan Valley Community Group are land (Joint Works) and water (Water Works) based reconditioning.
Contact
For more information on the Cowichan Valley Community Group, please contact Jan Norwood, President, 250.748.2481, email jan.norwood@telus.net
About us
Creston is located in the beautiful Kootenays. The Creston Community Group serves the area in and around Boswell, Canyon, Creston, Erickson, Kitchener, Listser, Rykerts, Sirdar and Wynndel
The Goals and Objectives of the CCG are two-fold:
a) to raise public awareness of The Arthritis Society and the CCG
b) to help persons with arthritis by providing them with timely information
Events and Activities
Monthly meetings from September to May each year, on the second Thursday of each month, from 2:00 to 3:30 P.M. at the Pioneer Villa care facility.
Creston Community Group Library
The group maintains a library with information on arthritis.
The Welcome Wagon Connection
The group distributes brochures to Welcome Wagon, an organization which welcomes new residents to the area.
Contact
For more information on the Creston Community Group, please contact Ed Lowe at 250.428.9952 or edlowe@kootenay.com.
About Us
This rural community is located south of Mara Lake, on the banks of the Shuswap River. With the support of Desiree Roell, this group provides support to those with arthritis, particularly Sjogren's Syndrome, in Salmon Arm, Sicamous, Enderby, Armstrong and Vernon.
The group's goals are to:
- Raise awareness about arthritis
- Help persons with arthritis become better informed
- Exchange practical information, and
- Develop a strong network where people in the community can help each other.
Events & Activities
The group will participate in community awareness activities such as community health fairs and educational opportunities. The group also meets on a monthly basis, although a regular time and place are still to be determined.
Contact
Desiree Roell
Phone: 250.838.9378
Fax: 250.838.0125
Email: desiree_roell@hotmail.com
A volunteer is available in the Grand Forks and Boundary area to assist with providing support to those living with arthritis and raising awareness. The area covered includes Grand Forks, Rock Creek, Midway, Greenwood and Christina Lake.
Support Group Meetings and Socials are held two to three times per year in conjunction with Lupus Support Meetings. Meeting dates, times andlocations are informal, set throughout the year. Call Shawna for more information at 250.442.4276, or by email at shawnaschuh@lycos.com.
Volunteer(s) participate in community awareness activities such as fallfairs. To have a volunteer at your event, or if you would like to volunteer for The Arthritis Society, contact Shawna in Grand Forks or Trudy Battaglio, Regional Coordinator with The Arthritis Society, Interior and Okanagan, at 250-868-8643 (Kelowna) or by email at tbattaglio@bc.arthritis.ca.
Community Contact
Shawna Schuh
Phone: 250.442.4276
Contact
Shirley McCaffrey
Phone: 250.554.3336
Email: gst_mccaffrey@telus.net
We help you find the information you are looking for:
Trained volunteers are available to assist you in finding the right information/service/program to help you with your arthritis.
Our library includes books and magazines, VHS, CD and DVDs on arthritis and wellness-related topics, which can be borrowed for up to three weeks at a time. Throughout the year, we offer public forums and workshops. Topics have included Understanding Arthritis, Chronic Pain Management, Exercise, Joint Protection, Medications, and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Periodic newsletters give up-to-date information on services within the Central Okanagan.
Staff and/or trained volunteers speak to groups, workplaces, organizations or businesses. Talks or displays can be tailored to specific needs and times. No fee, but donations to the Society welcome.
We provide Educational Programs
The Mind and Body Connection
The Arthritis Society is presenting a series of emotional support programs including:
- Managing emotional changes such as depression, fear and anger.
- Effectively communicating with family, friends, co-workers and medical team
- Stress management strategies to reduce pain
Whether you are just diagnosed with arthritis, or have been struggling for years, arthritis takes its toll on you both physically and emotionally. Learn how you can better manage your arthritis with the help of a social worker, specializing in pain management.
The series of workshops are taking place on February 24, March 10 and 24, from 10am to 2:00pm, at the Kelowna Arthritis Centre, 150A - 1855 Kirschner Road, Kelowna. To register please call 250.868.8643, or email tbattaglio@bc.arthritis.ca.
*The Arthritis Society, BC and Yukon Division acknowledges the financial assistance of the Province of British Columbia to support this program.
Take Charge! Early Intervention for Osteoarthritis (OA)
This weekend workshop is designed for baby boomers experiencing early signs and symptoms. Topics include understanding OA, adapting exercise and activities, protecting joints, medications and supplements, managing pain and stress, nutrition and weight management (Fee: $35.00 includes manual). Program is presented by four professionals - a Rheumatologist, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist and a Nutritionist.
Arthritis Self-Management Program
Six-session program (2 hr/wk) facilitated by trained volunteers who, themselves, have arthritis. Helps you understand arthritis and how to better manage your symptoms. (Fee $25 includes cost of book).
Inflammatory Arthritis Education Course
Developed by the Mary Pack Arthritis Program, this four-session program is facilitated by a physiotherapist. Learn about inflammatory arthritis, treatment principles, hand exercises, pain management, exercises, protecting joints, saving energy, management of fatigue and sleep. The course is offered monthly on the first two Tuesdays and Thursdays of each month. Fee: $25. Requires a doctor’s referral. Referrals may be faxed to the Kelowna Arthritis Centre at 250-868-0779.
Fibromyalgia Management Program (FM)
Developed by the Mary Pack Arthritis program, this eight session program is facilitated by a physiotherapist. Learn about understanding fibromyalgia, pain management and coping skills to improve your quality of life. Fee: $30. Requires a doctor’s referral. Referrals may be faxed to the Kelowna Arthritis Centre at 250-868-0779.
We partner with other arthritis services offered at the Centre
Physiotherapy
A private practice Physiotherapist with arthritis management skills is located at the Kelowna Arthritis Centre. A broad range of treatment techniques are offered, including education and self management skills to help deal with arthritis. Phone Stuart Kircher at 250-718-9099 for an appointment.
Arthritis Exercise Classes for the Less Active Person
Led by an arthritis physiotherapist, this exercise class is geared toward those who are unable to keep up with the pace of community based exercise programs because of their arthritis. Offered 3rd and 4th Thursday of each month 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Drop In Fee: $2.00 per session. No registration required but participants are encouraged to phone 250-868-8643 to ensure space is available. Maximum class size is 12.
We liaise with and support Wellness and Support Groups in the Okanagan
Kelowna – “Lunch and Learn” Arthritis Club Meets 3rd Monday of every month (September - June) from noon – 2:00 p.m. Different speakers each month. $2.00 donation covers cost of lunch.
Kelowna Arthritis Fellowship: This social support group that meets at the Capri Mall food court every Wednesday afternoon 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Call Eileen 860-4869.
Sjogren’s Support Group: (Enderby) Meets periodically. Call Desiree at 250-838-9378.
Lupus Support Group: Meets the second Thursday of each month. Contact Jackie 868-3540 or email Abe at abrehamm@shaw.ca
Fibromyalgia Support Group: Meetings are informal. Generally held on 2nd Tuesday of each month at 1:30 p.m. Call Anne 250-762-6651 for more information.
We offer meaningful Volunteer Opportunities
We provide many opportunities to help those living with arthritis. Volunteer orientation sessions are held monthly. Call 868-8643 to register. Training and support provided for all positions.
Example of Positions Available:
- Kelowna Arthritis Centre Volunteer
- Educational Program Volunteer
- Arthritis Self Management Program Facilitator
- Public Speaker / Facilitator
- Wellness/Support Group Leader
- Health Fair Representative
- Fund Development Supporter
- Joints in Motion Team Member
- Other: assist with advocacy initiatives, materials distribution, graphic design, fundraising and events assistance.
Volunteers must provide references and sign a Letter of Confidentiality.
For More Information, please contact:
Trudy Battaglio
Regional Development Coordinator, Interior/Okanagan
The Arthritis Society, BC and Yukon Division
150A 1855 Kirschner Road, Kelowna V1Y 4N7
Tel: 250-868-8643
Fax: 250-868-0779
Email: tbattaglio@bc.arthritis.ca
About us
The Langley Community Group or "Elder Statesman" of the community groups, serves the areas in and around Langley.
The founder of The Arthritis Society was Mary Pack, a Langley school teacher. In 1962, Mary arrived in Langley to show a film on arthritis to a group of local residents and this resulted in the forming of the Langley Branch of the Arthritis Society.
Recognizing the need for treatment for arthritis, the Society supplied the first physiotherapist at the Langley Memorial Hospital.
The Langley Community Group has a very long history with The Arthritis Society. The group has been working to educate and bring programs to the local community for 40 years.
This dynamic group is active in every aspect of arthritis awareness and has recently focused its efforts on fundraising to help support the new Fraser Arthritis Centre.
To find out more, please visit the group’s website at www.langleyarthritis.com.
Contact
Visit the Langley Community Group at:
Fraser Arthritis Centre
Unit 110, 5769 - 201A Street
Langley, BC V3A 4H9
To find more information about the Langley Community Group, please contact Vickey Kidd at 604.514.9902 or langarth@telus.net. The group’s fax number is 604.514.0434.
Langley Arthritis Support Group Meetings
When: Third Monday of each Month
Time: 1:30pm
Location: Langley Seniors Centre, 20605 51B Avenue, Langley
Contact: Grace Unger at 604.464.1545
Langley Fibromyalgia Support Group Meetings
When: Fourth Tuesday of each Month
Time: 12:30pm
Location: Fraser Arthritis Centre Boardroom, Unit #110, 5769-201 A Street, Langley
Contact: Donela Haynes at 604.576.7685 or by email at silverani@yahoo.com
Abbotsford/Mission Community Group
About us
The Abbotsford/Mission Community Group serves the areas in and around Abbotsford, Agassiz, Chilliwack, Cultus Lake, Deroche, Mission, and Sardis.
An annual fee of $10.00 will be requested to assist the group with expenses. The Chilliwack Community Group is no longer in operation however please contact Lee White at 604.792.4427 if you would like to learn about The Arthritis Society's ASMP-Arthritis Self-Management Program or Healthier Living with Fibromyalgia programs.
Events and activities
Programs
Please contact the group for details on programs such as Aquafitness.
Fraser Valley Community Resources Guide
The group has put together a “Community Resources Guide” for people living with arthritis in the Fraser Valley region. The guide includes topics such as local government contacts, pharmacy delivery services, medical and care facilities, financial assistance and treatment. To order a copy of the guide or find out more, please contact the Abbotsford/Mission
Community Group.
Monthly meetings
7:00 pm
First Thursday of each month
Mission Memorial Hospital
Conference Room #1
7324 Hurd Street, Mission, BC
Typically, there are no meetings in the summer months.
Contact
For more information on the Abbotsford/Mission Community Group, please contact Heather Thompson at 604.826.9773 or hthompson64@hotmail.com.
Please contact the Regional Office at 250.519.4000 for information on
arthritis programs and services or if you are interested in being an educational
contact in the area.
About us
The North Shore Community Group serves the areas in and around North Vancouver and West Vancouver.
The group works very closely with Lion’s Gate Hospital’s Arthritis program and plans to partner with the hospital to hold a public forum on arthritis in the near future.
Events and activities
Monthly meetings
2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Fourth Wednesday of each month
Auditorium, Lions Gate Hospital
North Vancouver, BC
The North Shore Community Group meets every month at the Lion's Gate Hospital. They bring in speakers to talk about various topics related to arthritis. The public are welcome to attend and get involved.
The North Shore Community Group is looking for volunteers to assist with the planning monthly meetings. This would involve booking speakers, confirming room bookings and other administrative responsibilities. If you are interested, please contact Judi on 604.985.7360
Contact
For more information on the North Shore Community Group, please contact Judi Coles at 604.985.7360 or the Arthritis Answers Line at 1.800.321.1433
About us
The Osoyoos Community Group serves the areas in and around Bridesville, Cawston, Keremeos, Okanagan Falls, Olalla, Oliver, Osoyoos, and Rock Creek. Activities primarily focus on monthly support group meetings.
Support Group
The Support Group meets the third Monday of every month, 1:00 p.m. at the Health Centre in Osoyoos (except July and August). Meetings frequently include speakers e.g. pharmacist, physiotherapist.
Contact
For more information on the Osoyoos Community Group, please contact Ruth Brill at 250.495.3554.
About us
The Powell River Community Group serves the areas in and around Powell River. We are currently looking to rebuild our Group and increase services and support for those with arthritis in the local area.
Contact us
For more information on the Powell River Community Group, please contact Shona Reid, Regional Development Coordinator at 604.875.5002 or by email at sreid@bc.arthritis.ca
About Us
The Prince George Arthritis Support Group provides support for people affected by arthritis in and around the Prince George area.
Monthly Meetings
When: 3rd Wednesday of each month (except July and August)
Where: M.P.R Room at Studio 2880
Guest speakers will be attending upcoming meetings to discuss the following topics:
January 19 - Physiotherapy
February 16 - Reflexology
March 16 - Acupuncture (TBC)
April 20 - Armchair Pilates
For more information, please contact Pat Coutts at 250.563.6608
Arthritis Self-Management Program (ASMP)
The Arthritis Self-Management Program is a six-week course on arthritis self-management. Please contact Nancy Roper at 1.800.321.1433 for more information on courses in Prince George.
About us
The Quesnel Community Group serves the areas in and around Quesnel.
Contact
For more information on the Quesnel Community Group, please contact Edith Nicholls at 250.747.8550 or jackedie@shaw.ca .
The Arthritis Society also has contacts in:
Burns Lake Support Group:
Mildred Howett at 250.692.0077
About us
Due to low attendance, the Richmond Community Group is no longer holding monthly meetings. If you are interested in helping to rebuild this group or are looking for information on programs and services in the Richmond area, please contact the Arthritis Answers Line (below)
Contact
Arthritis Answers Line: 604.875.5051 or 1.800.321.1433 or by email at info@arthritis.ca
About us
We are not currently holding meetings.
Please check back here for updates.
About us
The Surrey Community Group was formed in June 1992. The group focuses on providing support and education to persons with arthritis. We are pleased to have attended numerous community events over the years and many members are active advocates for The Arthritis Society. Please contact us if you would like to join this dedicated and dynamic group! At the moment we have moved to an inactive state due to a lack of volunteer leadership. This is for an indefinite period and could change once a new leader is found.
We maintain a telephone membership list. If you would like to have your name and phone number added to our list, please contact Dixie Mogg at 604.581.6658. Our voluntary yearly membership fee is $10.00 for individuals and $15.00 for couples.
Events and activities
At present there are no regular meetings planned, but we may hold some in the future.
Requests for Speakers:
Upon request, one or two of our members will come out to local businesses, societies, seniors complexes, churches, etc. to give educational talks. all Brenda at 604.576.9294 to make a booking.
We support local Arthritis Society events and the Fraser Regional Arthritis Center. Information on these events can be viewed at www.arthritis.ca/bc.
Contact
For more information on the Surrey Community Group, please contact Brenda Stubbs at 604.576.9294 bstubbs@telus.net or Dixie Mogg at 604.581.6658 nanadixie@shaw.ca.
Our Motto....
There is Hope and There is Help!
Events and Activities
Mary Pack Art/Cards
The group manages production, sales and distribution of artwork created by Mary Pack, the founder of The Arthritis Society. Click here to view samples and to order high quality cards featuring art by Mary Pack.
Bluebird Gift Shop
Located in the Vancouver Learning Centre, this volunteer run gift shop sells a selection of basic adaptive equipment.
In addition, the shop carries:
A limited selection of educational books and videos
Gift items, including Mary Pack cards
Snacks and beverages
All proceeds benefit The Arthritis Society and no GST is charged.
For more information on the Bluebird Gift Shop, please call 604.875.4111 extension 66167.
Monthly meetings
10:30 am to 12:00 pm
Fourth Tuesday of each month (except July and August)
3rd Floor
Mary Pack Arthritis Centre
895 West 10th Avenue
Vancouver, BC
Annual meeting
The annual meeting is usually held in April.
Contacts
For more information on the Vancouver Community Group, please contact Ann Gabrielson at 604.322.8877
2:00 pm
First Friday of each month (except July and August)
People Place
3402 - 27 Avenue
Vernon, BC
The Vernon Arthritis Support Group meets regularly and some meetings feature speakers on topics such as disability pensions, physiotherapy and travel.
Our mandate is to provide information and support for individuals and their families who have or are affected by arthritis. The Vernon arthritis community group serves the communities of Vernon, Coldstream, Lumby, Armstrong, and surrounding areas. The Arthritis Support Group is made up of dedicated volunteers. New members are always welcome.
Our goals are to:
- Help persons with arthritis become better informed so they can better manage their arthritis
- Raise awareness about arthritis, by participating in various activities including community health fairs and educational opportunities
- Exchange practical information
- Develop a strong network where people in the community can help each other.
For more information on the Vernon Support Group, please contact Hilda at 250.542.3550 or Carolyn at 250.542-6333 or Vernon Disability Resource Centre 250.545.9292, fax 250.545.9226.
About us
The Victoria Community Group is located at the Victoria Arthritis Centre. The group serves the southern tip of Vancouver Island in and around Victoria.
The Victoria Arthritis Centre is located at:
2680 Richmond Road
Victoria, BC V8R 4S9
“Joint Ventures” - Is the quarterly newsletter published by the Victoria Community Group. For a $12 annual fee, you can become a Member and receive a subscription to this newsletter. It publishes the latest information on arthritis-connected activities, classes and programs in Victoria. Click here for our membership form then print it off and mail with your membership fee to The Arthritis Society.
Events and activities
The Victoria Learning Center - The Arthritis Society has a library in Victoria, offering the latest books, videos and audiocassettes on loan both to clients of the Victoria Arthritis Centre and to the public in the Greater Victoria area.
Visitors to the Learning Centre can:
- View videos
- Read and borrow books on a variety of arthritis and wellness related topics
- Access the Internet
For more information about the Victoria Learning Centre, please call: 250.519.4000, or send an e-mail to alyle@bc.arthritis.ca
Arthritis Self-Management Program (ASMP)
The Arthritis Self-Management Program is a six-week program designed to help people take a more active role in managing arthritis and learn ways to cope with chronic pain. Click here to find out about upcoming classes in Victoria.
Pain Management Seminar (taken from ASMP series)
A FREE two hour seminar on how to manage and take control of the chronic pain of arthritis. Click here to find out about upcoming sessions.
Take Charge! Early Intervention for Osteoarthritis Program
This program targets early intervention and is best suited for those aged 40-65 who are just beginning to experience the first signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and who have not previously taken the various classes and workshops given by Arthritis Centre staff. Click here to find out about upcoming sessions.
Joint Replacement Education
For anyone awaiting orthopaedic surgery, these classes should be taken as soon as possible for better preparation and improved post-op recovery. Offered by health care professionals in three sessions spaced over three weeks, covering important topics such as changes to a joint affected by osteoarthritis, guidelines for safe and effective exercises, joint protection, medications and healthy eating, pain management techniques. There is no charge but registration is required. Classes are held on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Tuesday morning of the month from January to June and from September to November. Call 519.4000 for more info.
Victoria Community Group Contact
For more information on the Victoria Community Group, please call 250.519.4000 or send a fax to 250.598.1900. If you are interested in volunteering, please call 250.519.4000/2 or email jpainter@bc.arthritis.ca
White Rock - South Surrey Community Group
About Us
The White Rock – South Surrey Community Group has served the areas in and
around White Rock and South Surrey since 2000.
Activities
The group meets second Tuesday of every month at 2:30 p.m. (except July and August)
Crescent Gardens Retirement Community
1222 King George Hwy
South Surrey (next door to Aston Pacific Inn)
After the summer break, this group may not be able to continue in September without additional help.
Volunteer needed:
Secretary/Treasurer-Duties: one-page notes of meetings only, Treasurer duties are minor.
Speakers - volunteer also needed to obtain speakers of interest for some monthly meetings (about 8 per year).
Contact
For more information on the White Rock/South Surrey Community Group, please contact Audrey Beckwith, Co-Chair, 604.541.0830, e-mail: ambeckwith@shaw.ca