Community Living

Sunshine Farm is Certified Organic, and uses this setting to offer Vocational Development Opportunities to Adults in the Community Living Sector.

Person Centered Philosophy

Opportunities based on interest and choice is the foundation of our philosophy, respecting the rights of the individual, and building self respect.

The farm provides a mixed setting for hands on experience with a multitude of activities. We accomatade to a wide variety of interests such as cooking classes, music classes, literacy, computer, woodworking, greenhouse, equipment operation, etc..

The educational opportunities at the farm occur in the gardens, as well as  in the various buildings (shop, barn, greenhouses, etc.). The setting is diverse, offering a chance to learn about equipment, woodworking, plants, seed collection, greenhouse work, harvesting, labelling, math skills, weighing, packaging, as well as the classes mentioned above.

Opportunities based on interest and choice is the foundation of our philosophy.  Respecting the rights of the individual, and building self respect.

These opportunities are funded by Community Living British Columbia.

Scope of Services

Sunshine Farm is a dynamic farm setting which provides services to individuals as referred by Community Living British Columbia.  This setting is on 12.5 acres of Class One Farmland in South East Kelowna located at 2225 Saucier Rd.

Referrals from Community Living British Columbia are for adults (18 years and up) who are independent and interested in developing interests and skills.  Persons attending are offered opportunities in a variety of activities designed to develop skill, self confidence, and independence.  These activities are designed to assist individuals in work towards vocational and community goals.

Sunshine Farm contract service with CLBC for 18 adults per day.

These services are offered from 9:00am to 3:00pm, Monday to Friday with the exception of statutory holidays, professional development days, and designated holidays.

The Setting

Sunshine Farm is on 12.5 acres of Certified Organic Farmland.  We use the entire property to provide diverse opportunities and activities.  This includes our accessible resource building with various work areas which include: a kitchen, an accessible washroom, several work areas, an art room, a meeting space, and a large covered deck with seating for easy access to transportation.  There are two fully equipped greenhouses, heated year round, two work shops (one woodwork and one for mechanics), another heated space with mini kitchen and bathroom in the back building equipped for various activities.

Our objective is to provide a dynamic setting which is well staffed and equipped to provide opportunities and instructions in areas of interest as identified by the individual.

All materials needed for classes are supplied by the farm, including supplies for classes such as cooking, art, wood working, mechanics, greenhouses, gardens and others as needed.

Safety equipment, instruction and supervision is provided by the farm.  The farm provides a mixed setting focusing on hands on experience with a diversity of activities.

The educational opportunities at the farm occur in the gardens, as well as the various buildings (wood shop, barn, greenhouses, etc.).  The setting is diverse, offering a chance to learn about equipment, woodworking, plants, seed collection, greenhouse work, harvesting, labelling, math skills, weighing and packaging, literacy, music, art and others as needed or requested.

For larger equipment, including ride on mowers, and tractors, supervision/instruction is mandatory for all use.

Greenhouse supplies, seeds, plants, tools, and supervision is provided by the farm.

Staffing

All staff at Sunshine Farm are experienced, motivated and qualified to provide a positive experience for all individuals that attend.  Staffing levels are kept as contracted, with on call, short notice staff available for front line and administration.

Referrals

Individuals interested in attending Sunshine Farm can approach CLBC for a potential referral.  Schedules are developed to meet the needs of the individual, and mesh with the available vacancy’s at the farm.

After receipt of a referral, we will contact the home and schedule a tour of the farm for the individual being referred and their family, caregiver and support persons identified.  At that time a decision will be made as to attendance and schedule.

A welcome package is given to new attendees, with a calendar showing holidays marked, a welcome booklet, registration form and information regarding lunch policies and guidelines.

Funding

Sunshine Farm Vocational Services is contracted to, and funded by Community Living British Columbia

There is no fee for referred individuals to attend.

Feedback

Annually stakeholders (individuals attending, home share providers, and staff) are requested to fill out and return feedback survey forms.

Expected Outcomes

Opportunities based on interest and choice, respecting the rights of the individual, and building self respect are the foundations of our philosophy.

Benefits of attending Sunshine Farm include improved self confidence and self esteem.  Fostering friendships, social development, skill development, and independence.

Skills and confidence gained at Sunshine Farm help provide the tools needed to access employment or meaningful volunteer opportunities in a the greater community.