Who We Are

Between Friends is an inclusive organization offering quality social, recreational, and developmental opportunities to individuals with a wide range of abilities. Our programs and services are tailored for children, youth, and adults based on age and interests, with over 40% of our participants on the Autism Spectrum. We welcome everyone to join us, regardless of ability, age, gender, race, gender identity, religion, or culture.

Vision

An inclusive community where people with disabilities reach their individual potential and are recognized as valued citizens.

Mission

Between Friends provides quality social, recreation, and development opportunities so that people with disabilities can connect, grow, and belong.

Values

The core values governing Between Friends are captured in the acronym FRIENDS and guide agency activities and decisions impacting all stakeholders:

Fun – We provide opportunities for smiles and laughter with friends


Respect – We respect all people and resources


Inclusion – We focus on abilities and build community


Equity – We provide support so that everyone can be successful


No Barriers – We adapt to the changing needs of our members and strive to diminish obstacles to participation


Diversity – We create a welcoming atmosphere for all


Skills – We encourage the growth and development of everyone involved with our organization.

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Our Story

Our Team

Our Funders

FAQs

Why We Exist

Between Friends exists because everyone deserves access to social & recreation programs that enrich quality of life, but there are still many barriers to participation for people with disabilities. 

We all deserve opportunities to connect, grow, and belong in a community. 

At Between Friends, we promote social inclusion by reducing barriers to access and participation for people with disabilities. This includes providing the increased support required and tending to the various needs our members may have. Our programs are designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can participate in every activity. Our members thrive in an environment where they feel safe and well supported. The experiences they gain, both in building relationships and participating in engaging activities, contribute positively to their mental health and decreased level of isolation.

History

Between Friends has been offering social and recreational programs in Calgary and the surrounding area for close to 40 years. Through our programs, we endeavour to benefit all people and increase the community’s awareness, positive attitudes, and sensitivity towards their fellow citizens with disabilities.

Between Friends was originally established in 1970, as the Pink Pelican Club, by a group of parents seeking social, recreational, and community-based activities for their teenagers with cerebral palsy. The Pink Pelican Club rapidly expanded as programs provided a bridge for community participation.


Our Respect Policy

A safe and welcoming space is a shared community responsibility. We expect our members, parents, guardians, caregivers, and support persons to treat Between Friends staff and personnel with respect and dignity. 

Behaviors that make anyone feel unwelcome or unsafe will not be tolerated and appropriate steps will be taken to address these behaviors. Between Friends reserves the right to remove anyone not contributing to a safe and welcoming environment from current and future programs and membership.

Thank you for helping us create a community that is inclusive, respectful, safe, and kind.