Bernard’s journey with Kinsight: reflecting on our 50th and 70th
In September of 2004 – as part of our then 50th anniversary – the former Burnaby and New Westminster “NewsLeader” newspaper published a story about Bernard, a long-time Kinsight participant.
Born in 1940, Bernard’s journey began at a time when education options for people with developmental disabilities were non-existent. When Kinsight was founded in 1954, it opened the first school for children with disabilities and quickly grew its programs and services to support individuals through adulthood.
In 1959, Bernard began participating in Kinsight activities and over the years, he has been involved in a wide range of programs. When the NewsLeader profiled Bernard 20 years ago, he was working in the Gourmet Services Kitchen at Kinsight’s New Westminster location, packing and delivering food to seniors in the community, and enjoying his regular paycheques.
Fast forward to today: as we celebrate our 70th anniversary, we had a chance to visit with Bernard in his home. At 84 years old, he is retired and living in a Kinsight supported home at the George, a development in Port Moody that opened in 2021. Bernard and his roommate, Conrad, also a long time Kinsight participant, enjoy their independence and taking part in community outings and activities, including dining at restaurants throughout the Tri-Cities and more recently, celebrating Canada Day at Rocky Point Park.
The two have made their condo feel like a home, surrounded by the things they most enjoy. Bernard’s love for classic cars – especially those from the 1940s – are reflected throughout his room, from posters on the walls to model cars on his nightstand. The shelves in Conrad’s room showcase his love for Celtic and country music, with dozens of cassette tapes and CDs lined up.
Living independently is especially important to both Bernard and Conrad, who grew up during a time where institutions and segregation were the status quo. Kinsight has a long history of working with individuals who share Bernard and Conrad’s hopes and dreams. We provide housing options that reflect people’s needs and preferences – from a few hours of support a week to full support – and homes that allow people to grow older comfortably.
Creating affordable, accessible and inclusive homes remains a key priority, and we continue to partner with developers and community organizations to provide welcoming spaces such as George, the Springs and 567 Clarke & Como developments.
Bernard and Conrad have walked alongside Kinsight as we have grown our programs and services over the years, and we are honoured to share this milestone with them!