FNDC: Who are we? Who do we serve?

Family Network for Deaf Children (FNDC) is a non-profit Society (S0033351) and Federal Registered Charity (886225655RR0001) that has been established since March 14, 1995. FNDC supports parents and deaf children through workshops, quarterly newsletters, website (www.fndc.ca) and family events. Deaf Youth Today (DYT) is our summer program operated under the guidance of FNDC that provides quality recreational programs and leadership experiences for deaf children and youth. We are the only American Sign Language (ASL) enriched summer program in B.C.

Complex and Costly

FNDC manages the DYT program through donations, grants and contracted funds from the B.C. Ministry of Children & Family Development. The children in our programs are all deaf and are in need of an immersive language environment. In addition to being deaf, approximately 50% are unique/diverse and in need of mobility/feeding assistance, behavioural intervention, autism spectrum support, high risk/flight risk monitoring etc.). Since many of the children we serve are complex, we require a “one-staff-to-three children” ratio and often a one-to-one ratio.

The impact of COVID on our program

Prior to COVID, we had a long list of day camps and our Hornby Island overnight camp program, but as we know the pandemic changed everything drastically and last summer, we needed to be VERY creative in how to meet the needs of deaf children. During this chaotic time, deaf children became even more isolated and lonely. In order to provide language development, role models and social opportunities, we had to be adaptable, creative and ready for quick changes. For this upcoming Summer, we again have several options ready to go (Plan A, Plan B & Plan C) – all depending on the directives of the BC Health authorities.

In addition to providing a summer program, we began online programs (Fall, Winter and Spring) so that deaf children had social connections and language development opportunities. We created online activities including yoga, crafts, teen trivia nights, scavenger hunts and dance classes). This increased our financial need above and beyond our donations and grants. We know we are successful when the kids we serve become more confident and are proud of their deaf identity. We also know we are doing a good job when families tell us they have to say to their children “slow down, you’re signing too quickly”!

The work we do is complex and unique compared to other camps. Examples: countless hours in communication with social workers, medical support teams, caregivers and supporting mental health issues (i.e. anorexia, self-harm); finding resources for families for food banks, mental health services, sign language classes and educational placements.