The Vernon and District Association for Community Living is a fixture in the North Okanagan.
More commonly known as Venture Training, the non-profit organization has been providing services to developmentally challenged adults since 1955. Its members are seen throughout the community through efforts such as recycling and trail development.
But being an active part of the community requires money, and that is something that is always in short supply for non-profits.
That’s why the situation VDACL finds itself in with the provincial government is extremely serious. Victoria says the agency owes about $120,000 in employee benefit liabilities, while VDACL says it was never aware of a levy when it decided to withdraw from the government-selected benefits provider, and Victoria played a role in a funding shortfall by influencing rates.
It’s difficult to know who is responsible for the situation, but that’s not the point.
The potential loss of $120,000 will obviously impact VDACL’s ability to provide programs for its clients, but the costs associated with taking the government to court will also tap into limited financial resources.
It is critical that which ever party forms the provincial government after May 14 get directly involved and find a way to resolve this matter so court costs on both sides can be avoided. It should also be pointed out that VDACL is not alone. There are four other groups from across B.C. that have filed court documents and there could ultimately be 50 social service agencies involved.
All of these organizations provide valuable services and every effort is required to ensure financial resources are used wisely.
