2006 Conference

The idea for The Voyage Together 2006 Family Focus Conference was based on two key concepts. The first was related to families frequently describing the experience of having a son or daughter with extra support needs as a journey they're on. Richmond, incorporated as a municipality on November 10, 1879, was built up and shaped by the mighty Fraser River and it is the river that has shaped its growth. Because the 2006 conference was held in Richmond, the Family Focus Board members wanted to incorporate a river and ocean theme into our conference. We chose the word Voyage to describe the journey of families.

The second concept stemmed from families throughout Community Living history continually acknowledging that they are strengthened by shared experiences and friendships with other families and the impact of professionals in their lives. The Family Focus Board wanted our conference to capture the theme of togetherness in our journey.

We also noted the similarities between a family's journey and an ocean voyage - the importance of building the right crew, charting a course, navigating rough waters, the joy of clear skies and calm seas, and knowing that storms, while not always predictable, are inevitable.

Here are a few of the comments made about the 2006 conference:

"Thank you for all your hard work. A wonderful, inspirational & educational event."

"It was an excellent conference and it helped me a lot. I hope this conference happens again."

"First time at conference. Sessions most informative & raised many issues for me to go home and work on with school & our community. Thank you!"

"Wow! This has been one of the best weekends ever! We've been treated like royalty! The food has been scrumptious, the welcome wonderful and the whole experience without compare! Thank you so much!"