Beacon Community Services, a non-profit based in the Saanich Peninsula, has received recognition as a top family support service provider in British Columbia. The organization is a nominee for the 2025 Carol Matusicky Distinguished Service to Families Award. This honor comes from the BC Council for Families, highlighting Beacon’s strong partnership with School District 63 (SD63) and the Individual Learning Centre (ILC).
The award recognizes groups and individuals across B.C. who have made a lasting impact on family well-being. Beacon Community Services was nominated for its collaborative work with SD63 and the ILC. Together, they offer inclusive programs and wraparound support to students and families facing barriers to education and community access.
ILC principal Kelly de Klerk praised the partnership, saying it provides vital help that goes beyond school walls. “Our partnership with Beacon provides support to students and families that extends beyond the walls of our school,” de Klerk said.
Beacon Community Services began in 1974 as a small volunteer group aiming to address social challenges in the Saanich Peninsula. Today, it serves the entire South Island with many programs for children, youth, and parents. These include parenting groups, early years programs, outreach, and key worker services. The agency focuses on families dealing with complex behaviours, special needs, or suspected fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Elaine Venables, director of child youth family services at Beacon, said their work reflects the agency’s core mission. “Our work with the SD63 and ILC reflects the heart of what Beacon stands for, meeting families where they’re at and helping them access the support they need to thrive,” she said.
Venables added that the nomination is a meaningful recognition of the compassionate and collaborative work done by the Family Services team and their partners.
Beacon Community Services continues to be a crucial resource for families in the region. Their work helps remove obstacles to education and community support, making a real difference in people’s lives.
The nomination for the Carol Matusicky Award highlights Beacon’s dedication to family well-being. This award honors those who create measurable and lasting positive effects on families throughout British Columbia.
By focusing on strong partnerships and inclusive programs, Beacon Community Services sets an example for how communities can support vulnerable families. Their continued efforts demonstrate the power of teamwork in building healthier, more resilient communities.
