We are the Penticton & Area Access Society, otherwise known as The Access Centre, a registered non-profit organization dedicated to advocacy, resource and referral programs and outreach programs.

Our mission is to use action, awareness, advocacy, and equitable practice to help people navigate social systems. Our vision is that all people in our communities have equal and just access to all available support services.

What do we do? We are a Resource and Advocacy Centre for vulnerable people who are facing barriers in their lives. We have 6 programs including: Family Law, Poverty Law, Disability Advocacy, Free Income Tax Centre, RISE program (Anger Management) as well as Resource and Referral program. We essentially help people with whatever issues they are facing. 

Many people who come to us seeking information are in difficult situations. For those in crisis, the centre offers a place to be welcomed and heard, and we ensure that such people receive information on where to turn for solutions.

The Access Centre takes a leadership role in our community by identifying gaps in services and offering solutions to meet those shortcomings. A number of new programs in Penticton have been initiated by The Access Centre to meet specific needs as they arise.