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NEXUS Community Support Society
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News & Events

Stay up-to-date on upcoming events and informed on our latest news!

NEXUS ConneX
Newsletter

Connecting Our Community

Stay connected to all the wonderful things happening at NEXUS and in our communities through NEXUS ConneX.

Posted: June 19, 2026

Blog Post

By: Nexus Community Support Society

We’re Looking for New Board Members!

We’re looking for passionate, experienced professionals to help shape the future of NEXUS Community Support Society. As one of the...

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Posted: June 11, 2026

Blog Post

By: Michaela Robinson

NEXUS WoodWorX at the Creston Farmers’ Market

NEXUS WoodWorX participants are heading to the Creston Farmers’ Market, and we would love to see you there! Join us...

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Posted: November 26, 2024

Blog Post

By: Nexus Community Support Society

Join Our Board!

We’re looking for passionate, experienced professionals to help shape the future of NEXUS Community Support Society. As one of the...

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Posted: June 28, 2024

Blog Post

By: Nexus Community Support Society

NEXUS Welcomes New COO Sarah Jacklin

We’re thrilled to announce the appointment of Sarah Jacklin as our new Chief Operating Officer (COO)! Sarah brings a wealth...

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Posted: August 29, 2023

Blog Post

By: Nexus Community Support Society

We’re Adding to the Family!

We are excited to announce that starting September 1, the Windermere District Social Service Society (WDSSS) will formally join NEXUS...

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Posted: May 15, 2023

Blog Post

By: Nexus Community Support Society

Bee House Workshop

Last week, in a collaborative effort with Wildsight and students from Mount Baker Secondary School, we hosted an inspiring workshop...

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NEXUS Community Support Society

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NEXUS Community Support Society

Land Acknowledgment

At NEXUS, we acknowledge and honour the traditional, ancestral, unceded, and unsurrendered lands of the many diverse Indigenous Peoples whose lands we live, work, and play upon. With heartfelt gratitude and respect, we recognize that our offices, services, and programs are located on the territories of the Ktunaxa, Secwépemc, Syilx, Nlaka’pamux, Sinixt, and Tsilhqot’in Nations, and are home to 8 Chartered Métis Communities. We deeply respect the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of all Indigenous Peoples.
NEXUS Community Support Society

Contact Amy Deschamps

NEXUS Community Support Society

Amy Deschamps

Executive Assistant, Finance

Amy joined the organization in November 2024 as an Administrative Assistant and transitioned into the role of Executive Assistant, Finance in June 2025. After 20 years in the service industry, she brings strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a collaborative approach to her work. Amy has a strong aptitude for working with data, streamlining processes, and using analytical tools to support efficient financial and administrative operations.

Community

L.I.F.E

in Cranbrook & Creston

L.I.F.E. services are a person-centred program dedicated to helping individuals lead active, fulfilling lives through community connection and personal growth. It is designed for those who want to be more involved in their neighbourhoods, develop new skills, and pursue their personal aspirations with confidence and independence.

We prioritize a highly flexible approach that adapts to the unique rhythms of each person’s life. Rather than a fixed schedule, supports are tailored to align with an individual’s specific goals, interests, and community commitments. Whether you’re pursuing a hobby, attending a local event, or building a career, we meet you where you are. By focusing on what matters most to you, we ensure you have the freedom and support to build a good life on your own terms.

We focus on four key pillars:

  1. Learning: Building new skills to increase independence and lifelong growth.
  2. Inclusion: Becoming an active participant and visible member of the local community.
  3. Friendship: Cultivating meaningful, natural relationships and social networks.
  4. Employment: Pursuing rewarding work or volunteer opportunities that provide purpose.

Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

Get in Touch

File a Complaint Online

Filing a complaint with NEXUS is a serious matter and will be responded to accordingly. Please kindly provide us with some information below so we can help resolve this matter as soon as possible.

Before now, have you made anyone at NEXUS aware of your concern(s)?(Required)
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    We take all complaints seriously and may require time to investigate the matter further. If this is an immediate health and safety concern, please call 250.426.7588, otherwise, you can expect to hear back from us within five (5) business days.

    Community

    Cycling Without Age

    in Cranbrook

    The Cycling Without Age movement started in 2012 in Denmark, when volunteer cyclists started getting nursing home residents out on the road with trishaws. These trishaws allowed elderly people with limited mobility to get back on bikes and experience the thrill, fun, and freedom of riding.

    Pilots Wanted

    In Cranbrook, we have our own chapter of Cycling Without Age. We’re always looking for pilots who can operate trishaws with elderly companions. Volunteers must be safe riders who observe the rules of the road, and fit enough to operate a trishaw, which is effectively a modified rickshaw.

    Book a Trip

    If you would like to schedule a ride — or if you’re interested in becoming a pilot — email cwa@nexussupport.ca for details!
    Email Now
    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Deana Rismondo

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Brenda Olivares

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Dora Fruin

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Karen Jorgenson

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Elaina Englesby

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Steven Parker

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Michaela Lewis

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Brittany Wake

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Sarah Jacklin

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Contact Brandon Arnett

    Contact Brandon Arnett

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    Work

    Supportive Employment

    Cranbrook, Creston, Revelstoke

    Supportive employment provides individualized support to help you find and keep a job that’s right for you. These services are designed to support your success at work, based on your strengths, interests, and goals.

    What We Offer

    If you’re looking for a job that fits you, our team can support you to find and maintain meaningful employment in the community, no matter your level of experience or training.

    Support may include help connecting with employers, on-the-job coaching once you’re hired, and advocacy around your rights and responsibilities at work.

    When you find the right fit, you can build confidence, develop lasting connections, and contribute in meaningful ways within your community.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Work

    Employment Readiness

    in Cranbrook

    Employment readiness services offer training and hands-on experience to help you prepare for work in the community. These supports focus on building your skills and confidence so you can move toward employment that fits your interests and goals.

    What We Offer

    If you want support to get ready for a job, we can work with you to build the skills and experience you need. This may include skill development, workshops, and one-on-one training, based on what works best for you.

    Our goal is to support you to find meaningful, lasting employment in the community that reflects your interests, strengths, and preferences.

    Our team can support you along the way by helping you, for example, to develop a resume, prepare for interviews, build communication and presentation skills, and feel confident and comfortable in your work role.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Community

    Homemaker Services

    in Cranbrook & Kamloops

    Homemaker services provide flexible, in-home support for adults who may need help with daily tasks at home. These supports are designed to promote your comfort, well-being, and independence, and are tailored to your individual needs.

    What We Offer

    Homemaker services can include support with:

    Personal Support

    Help with everyday personal care, such as bathing, grooming, dressing, taking medications, preparing meals, and support with eating.

    Housekeeping

    Help keeping your home clean and comfortable, including light cleaning (such as dusting, sweeping, and taking out garbage), making beds, and doing laundry.

    These services are meant to support you to live safely and comfortably in your own home, while respecting your choices, routines, and independence.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Community

    Community Inclusion

    Cranbrook, Invermere, Creston, Revelstoke, Kamloops

    Community inclusion support helps you build relationships, try new things, and feel a stronger sense of belonging in your community.

    What We Offer

    If you want to meet new people and build meaningful connections, we can support you to explore your interests and connect with others in ways that feel right for you. Together, we focus on building skills, growing friendships, and finding activities and places where you feel welcomed and included.

    Support is shaped around what matters to you, helping you feel more confident, connected, and involved in your community.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Community

    Personal Support Initiatives

    in Cranbrook

    Full-service, wrap-around supports to help you grow in all aspects of your life, from connecting with new friends to developing new skills.

    What We Offer

    Do you need a wide variety of supports to meet your potential and connect with your community? Our Community Connectors can help you grow in every part of your life, whether it’s learning to do the laundry or make a new friend.

    We’ll help you create a safe, meaningful, accepting, respectful and trusting environment for developing the skills you need to live life to the fullest.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Community

    Outreach Support

    in Cranbrook & Creston

    Outreach support offers flexible help in your home and community to support your independence and help you work toward what matters to you.

    What We Offer

    If you want support that meets you where you’re at, we can work together to create a plan that reflects your goals. The focus is on building life skills and helping you feel more connected to your community.

    Support is provided in a way that feels safe, meaningful, accessible, respectful, and trusting. You are supported in setting your own goals and moving toward them at a pace that works for you.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Live

    Low Income Housing for Seniors

    in Creston

    Live in a safe, well-maintained building especially for seniors in need of affordable housing.

    What We Offer

    Are you aged 55+, living in Creston, BC, and in need of affordable housing in a difficult housing market? We operate a ‘rent geared to income’; safe, well maintained apartment building called Rebekah Manor where you could make your next home. Located near the Creston Hospital and the Creston Activity Centre, it offers a laundry facility on site, an elevator, and a large activity room that can be reserved.

    Rents are affordable, as per BC Housing guidelines; Eligibility is based on BC Housing’s Housing Income Limits (HIL’s) that can be found on the BC Housing website ( www.bchousing.org ). For more information or to obtain an application, please email: info@nexussupport.ca Make yourself at home!

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Live

    Stepping Out

    in Cranbrook

    Try out living independently (with daily support to make the transition) in an apartment for six weeks, to find out if you feel ready to live on your own.

    What We Offer

    This is a unique opportunity for you to temporarily experience independent living on your own in a supported environment. As your independence grows, a natural next step is to move into your own place. But taking this step can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming.

    This program allows you to live in your own apartment for up to six weeks, with support to develop the skills you’ll need. You’ll learn how to use transit, shop for groceries, plan meals, cook, budget, and maintain your apartment. By the end of the six weeks, you’ll know whether taking this step is right for you.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Live

    Supported Independent Living

    in Cranbrook & Creston

    Customized support to help you get the most out of living on your own.

    What We Offer

    Are you interested in living on your own, while also getting the support you need to truly thrive? We can help you to build your independence while also giving you whatever daily support you need to maintain a happy, healthy lifestyle – on your own terms.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Live

    Staff Supported Living for Children & Youth

    Cranbrook, Invermere, Creston, Revelstoke, Kamloops

    Customized in-home and community support for children and youth with a range of medical conditions, motor abilities, and cognitive and behavioural needs.

    What We Offer

    We provide in-home and community support for children and youth with various medical, motor ability, cognitive and behavioural needs as well as complex and often traumatic pasts. This round- the-clock support focuses on improving quality of life, providing equal access to community resources, and developing therapeutic relationships.

    We create personalized care plans tailored around each individual’s interests and goals. A caring, safe, judgement-free, and individualized home environment and participation in local events can help each individual to live life on their own terms.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch

    Live

    Staff Supported Living for Adults

    Cranbrook, Invermere, Creston, Revelstoke, Kamloops

    Round-the-clock support from trained employees in a nurturing home designed to support you in your journey through life.

    What We Offer

    Our fully staffed homes provide round the clock care to individuals with developmental disabilities. These are small homes in the community that are safe, inclusive and nurturing places to live.

    In these homes, you will be treated with dignity and respect. Our trained staff will provide you with the freedom to make your own choices. Our mission is to inspire you to fulfill your dreams and goals and to celebrate all of your successes with you.

    Reach out to learn whether this service is right for you and your family.

    Get in Touch
    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Deana Rismondo

    Program Director

    Deana is a compassionate and experienced leader with over 20 years in public and non-profit health. Throughout her career, she has been known for bringing people together, mentoring teams, and supporting individuals and families with dedication and respect.

    She has held leadership roles with Connective Support Society, Interior Health, and Alberta Health Services, where she contributed to strengthening services, fostering partnerships, and leading day-to-day operations.

    Deana’s background as a Registered Nurse shaped her person-centered approach and commitment to making a difference in people’s lives.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Brenda Olivares

    DIRECTOR OF STAFF SUPPORTED HOMES

    Brenda has been a dedicated member of NEXUS Community Support Society since 2021, beginning her journey as a casual Support Worker. Over the years, Brenda has advanced within the organization, serving as a Team Lead in 2022, a Program Manager in 2024, and assuming the role of Program Director in 2025.
    Throughout her time at NEXUS, Brenda has focused on building strong, trusting relationships with individuals, staff, families, and health professionals in the Creston community. Known for her calm and collaborative approach, Brenda thrives in high-pressure situations and is deeply committed to fostering a supportive, person-centered environment for both the individuals we serve and the teams that support them.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Dora Fruin

    Director of Administration & Program Supports

    As Director of Administration & Program Supports, Dora oversees efforts to streamline internal processes, ensuring that our services remain of the highest quality and that our programs are well-prepared for future success. She manages daily administrative functions, ensures compliance with Occupational Health and Safety standards, and handles accreditation processes. With over 15 years of experience within our organization, Dora brings a deep and versatile understanding of NEXUS and its operations. Dora’s ability to manage complex tasks and her commitment to operational excellence contribute significantly to NEXUS’ ongoing success.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Karen Jorgenson

    Chief Human Resources Officer

    Karen joined NEXUS in 2025, bringing over six years of experience in the social services sector. A Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR), Karen now oversees the HR team, providing strategic guidance and support across the organization. Dedicated to streamlining internal processes and enhancing operational efficiency, Karen is equally committed to fostering an inclusive and positive workplace culture where every employee feels valued and empowered.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Elaina Englesby

    Director of Staff Supported Homes

    Elaina, who has extensive experience in the social service sector in British Columbia and Alberta, joined our Senior Leadership Team in 2019 as the Director of Quality Assurance. Her background includes a range of capacities in staffed residential services, from direct service delivery to leadership. In recent years, she has specialized in policy development, occupational health and safety, and accreditation. In Elaina’s previous role as Director of Administration, she oversaw all administrative, health and safety, accreditation, and continuous quality improvement processes. In early 2023, Elaina accepted the Director of Staff Supported Homes role, where her experience and expertise will continue to drive our commitment to providing the best care and support to those we serve.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Steven Parker

    Director of Community-Based Services

    Steven joined the team in 2007 and has worked in various programs, including Employment Services and Community Inclusion. He served as Supervisor of Vocational Services in 2014 and Manager of Community Inclusion and Employment Services in 2018. In 2020, he was promoted to Director of Operations, where he worked with program managers and supervisors to enhance service delivery, staff development, and program growth. In early 2023, Steven accepted the Director of Community-Based Services portfolio, overseeing the array of high-quality services our organization offers.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Michaela Lewis

    Senior Executive Assistant, Executive Office, Board, and Organizational Communications

    Michaela is the kind of person who keeps things moving—often behind the scenes, but always at the centre of how NEXUS functions day to day. As Senior Executive Assistant supporting the Executive Office, Board, and Organizational Communications, she brings a calm, proactive presence and a sharp eye for what needs to happen next. She keeps priorities clear, information flowing, and governance processes steady—making sure nothing slips through the cracks.

    She plays a key role in connecting the dots across the organization, helping ensure decisions, communication, and follow-through are aligned and intentional. Whether she’s navigating complex logistics or supporting sensitive work, Michaela shows up with consistency, care, and a strong sense of accountability.

    What grounds Michaela’s work is her experience starting on the frontline. She understands the heart of what NEXUS does because she’s lived it. That perspective continues to shape how she approaches her role today—supporting the organization in a way that stays connected to people, purpose, and impact.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Brittany Wake

    Chief Financial Officer

    Brittany joined our Leadership Team in 2019 as part of our finance department. She has a passion for accounting which shines through in the work she does. Brittany continues to learn how unique and diverse the Social Service Sector is. She works alongside our Program Managers and other Admin staff to ensure our payroll and finance practices meet the needs of our employees and our organization at large. She continues to streamline and modernize our processes so as to meet ever demanding time constraints.
    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Sarah Jacklin

    Chief Operating Officer

    With nearly 15 years of experience in the non-profit sector, Sarah brings expertise that is instrumental to our ongoing efforts in supporting communities throughout the region. Overseeing daily operations, she provides strategic guidance and collaborates closely with our Directors to ensure the highest quality of service delivery across our sites in BC’s Interior. Sarah’s strong background in human resources, labour relations, and program management, combined with a deep commitment to fostering an inclusive organizational culture, makes her an excellent fit for this pivotal role.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Brandon Arnett

    Chief Executive Officer

    Brandon joined NEXUS in 2009 and has been deeply committed to the organization’s mission ever since. Over the years, he has held several key roles—including serving as the Society’s first Manager of Human Resources and Labour Relations—helping to strengthen internal systems and support a growing team.

    On January 1, 2019, Brandon became Chief Executive Officer, marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s evolution. Since stepping into the role, he has focused on organizational development, long-term sustainability, and meaningful community partnerships. His leadership has guided NEXUS through two major amalgamations: first in 2021, uniting the Cranbrook Society for Community Living with the Creston and District Society for Community Living, and again in 2023 with the Windermere District Social Service Society. These transitions expanded the organization’s capacity and enhanced support for individuals across multiple communities.

    Under Brandon’s direction, NEXUS has grown significantly—broadening its service area beyond the Kootenays into the North Okanagan Shuswap and the Thompson Cariboo regions. This expansion reflects his commitment to strengthening the social safety net and ensuring high-quality, person-centred supports across BC’s Interior.

    Brandon works closely with the Board of Directors to guide NEXUS’s strategic direction and champion continuous improvement. From 2019 to 2025, he served on the BC CEO Network Board as Vice-President, President, and Past President, helping advance leadership development and sector-wide advocacy across the province. In 2025, he was elected to the Board of Directors of the BC Non-Profit Housing Association, where he contributes to provincial efforts to expand affordable housing and strengthen non-profit housing providers.

    A passionate advocate for social services, Brandon actively collaborates with leaders and partners to improve sector practices, promote equity, and strengthen communities. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors with his family. Brandon is also a proud member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and envisions a future where all people experience belonging, dignity, and inclusion—an aspiration that continues to guide his leadership and community work.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Renee Lytle

    Director

    Renee Lytle is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in financial oversight, strategic leadership, human resources, and corporate governance. She is known for driving sustainable, values-based growth and fostering strong organizational cultures across both for-profit and non-profit sectors.

    She has been the Chief Financial Officer at EB Horsman & Son for over 28 years and during her tenure has provided strategic and financial leadership, ensuring sound governance and high-impact solutions. She has been recognized for cultivating a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and continuous improvement while navigating complex business environments.

    Beyond her executive role, Renee is an active board leader. In addition to NEXUS, she currently serves on the Atira board and has previously held key positions with the Electro-Federation Canada (EFC) and Seniors Come Share.

    Renee holds the ICD.D, MBA, CPA, and Family Enterprise Advisor designations, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and strong governance expertise.

    Renee is deeply committed to building inclusive communities and is excited to bring her passion and experience to NEXUS.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Teresa Lee

    Director

    Teresa Lee is an inclusive designer and educator who is passionate about creating communities and services where everyone can thrive. Her career began on the front lines, supporting individuals with autism and developmental disabilities—an experience that continues to shape her values and commitment to inclusion.

    Today, Teresa works in the BC Government, helping to design public services that are more inclusive and person-centred. She also runs an independent consulting practice, where she supports organizations in applying inclusive design to their products, services, and strategies.

    Teresa holds a Master of Design in Inclusive Design from OCAD University and has taught in the program. She is a member of the Technical Committee developing the Design and Delivery of Accessible Programs and Services standard with Accessibility Standards Canada, contributing to national efforts to reduce barriers in how programs and services are delivered.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Corinne Tansowny

    Director

    Corinne has an extensive background in independent living administration and occupational health, and serves as liaison between our Board of Directors and Management staff. Motivated by her joy of working with all members of our community, Corinne also commits her time to volunteering with the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary and the Columbia Valley Christmas Bureau.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Helen White

    Director

    Helen’s advocacy for inclusion began with active roles in local, district, and provincial parent advisory organizations. After several years as an administrative assistant for an international mining company, she returned to university to become an elementary teacher, working with several children on the autism spectrum. Before retiring, she pursued a Master’s Degree in Leadership Studies. Helen served as a director with the Creston and District Community Living Society for two terms and joined NEXUS following the amalgamation of the two societies.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Chad Jensen

    Treasurer

    After graduating from the University of Lethbridge, Chad joined New Dawn Developments as President. Under his leadership, the team has grown New Dawn into the largest residential and commercial construction company in the East Kootenays. Named BC’s Residential Construction Person of the Year in 2011, Chad remains President and CEO of New Dawn Developments and his continued passion for the industry has resulted in numerous individual and organizational awards across British Columbia.

    Chad believes in giving back to the community and New Dawn is involved in donating money and time to many non-profit organizations in the region. Chad has been a member of the board of directors with NEXUS since 2004. Chad has also volunteered on the various Canadian Homebuilders Association boards and committees, City of Cranbrook Board of Variance and Kimberley Alpine Ski team board of directors.

    Interests when not working or sleeping include skiing, golf, billiards and most watersports.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Laurie Goodlad

    Vice-President

    Laurie is a dedicated Director for NEXUS Community Society, and has a passion for wanting to make a positive impact within our community. Laurie believes that being engaged and volunteering enriches your life and rewards you with so much personal growth and development. Laurie has served our community by volunteering with many organizations; she is the past President of the Cranbrook Rotary Club, past President of the Cranbrook Hospice Society, and Director of Communications for the BC Senior Games. Laurie is also a REALTOR® serving the Cranbrook and Kimberley area.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

    Joanne Thom

    President

    For more than 30 years, Joanne has been a valued member of our board. She currently serves as Board Chair and has held many different positions since the early 1990s (then Cranbrook Society for Community Living).

    Having joined the board as a mother and successful businessperson, Joanne has been a strong advocate for the organization. Her expertise and passion for the cause have been invaluable assets to our organization.

    In addition to her role on the board, Joanne is heavily involved in Special Olympics at the local, provincial & national levels as a coach & regional coordinator. Currently, she sits on the Special Olympics British Columbia Board.

    NEXUS Community Support Society

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