Neurodivergent Community Gets Permanent Home

A new community space, dubbed the 'Home for Belonging', has been officially opened in Kelowna by Autism Okanagan, providing a permanent hub for neurodivergent people and their caregivers. The space, which was donated by the Hall family, is the result of over 13 months of work, including a year-long collaboration with the City of Kelowna to rezone the property.

The 'Home for Belonging' aims to offer a consistent and welcoming environment for its members, who currently number around 1,000 people between the ages of four and 40 across the Okanagan. The organization hopes that the new space will eventually help double the number of people it serves.

Autism Okanagan offers a range of programs, including LEGO, digital arts, comics and drawing, Dungeons & Dragons, cosplay, and social groups. These programs are designed to be full-session programs, with courses typically running for two to five months, allowing participants to build relationships and routines.

In addition to programs for neurodivergent individuals, Autism Okanagan is also planning to launch a new group for parents and caregivers, providing families with an opportunity to connect and build their own community.

The journey to opening the 'Home for Belonging' was not without challenges, including a break-in during the renovation process, which resulted in the theft of equipment used for programming. However, the community stepped up to help replace what was lost, demonstrating the strong support for the organization and its mission.

## Why it matters The 'Home for Belonging' is more than just a physical space - it represents a commitment to providing a sense of community and belonging for neurodivergent individuals and their families. By offering a consistent and welcoming environment, Autism Okanagan aims to help its members build relationships, develop skills, and thrive. The organization's inclusive approach, which welcomes any neurodivergent person regardless of formal diagnosis, is particularly significant, as it recognizes the diversity of the neurodivergent community and seeks to provide a supportive space for all.

The opening of the 'Home for Belonging' is a significant milestone for Autism Okanagan and the neurodivergent community in Kelowna. As the organization looks to the future, it is clear that this new space will play a vital role in providing a sense of belonging and connection for its members.