NEWS & STORIES

Check out what is going on here at Venture Training!

CELEBRATION DAY 2022

July 21 was a special day as it had been 2 years since our last Celebration Day. Staff and program participants descended on Paddlewheel Park for a delicious lunch, dancing and fun times. Ryan, our Executive Director, manned the dunk tank and there was no shortage of volunteers throwing softballs to get Ryan wet. We had a photo booth and Tony, our resident DJ got everyone moving.

Thanks to Vernon Fire Rescue Services for coming by to show off their trucks. A special thanks to our Venture Connections staff who organized the event. Thanks as well to all staff who assisted on event day!

ENDERBY OUTDOOR POOL

The outdoor pool in Enderby is one of our favorite excursions for both our staff and program participants. Whether it by shooting hoops, floating on a noodle, participating in a water pistol fight or just hanging out with friends, the pool is the place to be!

ALAN BROOKS NATURE CENTRE

The Alan Brooks Nature Centre has been great for educational outings, so some of our participants have volunteered there. They are caring for some newly planted native plants along the hiking trails to ensure they are well established for the months ahead.

PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT

One of the new programs at VDACL is the Community Inclusion Program. The CI Program began in late 2021 and has grown quite quickly throughout 2022. Some people need support to get out and participate in their local community in a meaningful way. The CI program can help individuals take part in community activities outside of their home. Activities could include learning a new skill, joining a social event, or participating in sports or recreation activities. Shannae Smith is the coordinator of the CI Program. Shannae and her staff Jamie, Chris, Sheryl, Wade and Lori do a great job of helping all that use the program connect to the community.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

At our Senior Staff meetings each month, we take nominations for "Employee of the Month." The winner is then drawn randomly as it is impossible to choose one over the other. Winners receive a $50 gift card to the store of their choice. Here are recent nominees and recipients:

Recipient: Jamie W. (pictured)
Nominees: Christine O. / Kathy D. / Helma B. / Donna N. &
Karen Y.

Recipient: Berna P.
Nominees: Bonnie S. / Michelle P. / Ishmail I. / Helma B.

Recipient: Helma B.
Nominees: Michelle P. / Ed B.

VENTURE CONNECTIONS TRIP TO NAKUSP

This spring, a group of individuals participated in a weekend, overnight road trip to Nakusp hot springs. They took in the picturesque scenery, through the Kootenays, rode the Arrow Lakes ferry and explored the quaint community of Nakusp. While in Nakusp participants explored a local artisan market, shops, walking trails, and dipped in the natural hot springs.  A big thank you to the staff who made this trip a memorable experience for the participants.

BROCCOLI SALAD RECIPE

Ingredients:

  • 5-6 Cups Broccoli Florets
  • 1 Cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese - Shredded
  • 2/3 Cup Dried Cranberries
  • 1/2 Cup Crumbles Bacon
  • 1/2 Cup Salted Sunflower Seeds
  • 1/3 Cup Red Onion - Diced

Dressing Ingredients:

  • 3/4 Cup Mayonnaise
  • 1/4 Cup Sour Cream
  • 1 1/2 Tablespoons White Wine Vinegar
  • 3 Tablespoons Sugar
  • 1/4 Teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 Teaspoon Pepper

Our Venture Connections program has a cooking group that prepares a different meal each week for the staff and participants in the program.

Preparation:

  • Combine salad ingredients in a large bowl
  • In a separate, small bowel, whisk together dressing ingredients until smooth
  • Pour dressing over broccoli combination and toss well
  • For best flavour, refrigerate for an hour before eating
  • Keep refrigerated if not consuming right away