Community Counselling Centre holding block party fundraiser

A block party in support of the Community Counselling Centre will be held today at the Connaught Youth Centre.

It will run from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and it will feature a barbecue, live music courtesy of Mike Vigano, a performance by the Pacific Spirit Dancers, a 50-50 draw and a chance to make your own mindfulness jar.

Organizers hope to raise at least $1,600 for the centre, which provides low-cost, low-barrier counselling while also giving graduate students a chance to practice their skills under direct supervision.

“We have one paid position through Northern Health, which is our director, and then we get some supplies through UNBC, but other than that, we pay everything ourselves,” said the centre’s fundraising team leader, Deanna West.

Located in the Gateway Centre building at 1811 Victoria St., the centre offers counselling to teens and adults going interpersonal, emotional, social, and life transition difficulties. Clients are charged $20 per hour but can be charged less depending on their ability to pay.

“Nobody’s going to refuse service if they can’t pay,” West said. “If it’s zero, then it’s zero, not a problem at all.”

And in case you’re wondering, a mindfulness jar is a jar filled with water and sparkles, much like a snow globe.

“You can watch the sparkles fall and it helps you to stay calm, be mindful and reset your brain,” West said. “It’s especially helpful for children, just watching the sparkles to give you a minute to pause and breathe.”

Those interested in helping out the centre can call 250-562-6696 or email counsellingccc@gmail. com.