HOW TO JOIN

Membership Criteria

Non-profit: Any type of not-for-profit disability-related organization for children and youth with support needs that is registered in good standing under the Societies Act for at least 2 years can be a member of the BCDC, regardless of whether they receive ongoing government funding. The 2-year requirement in meant to ensure that an organization has an established record of advocacy as well as the experience, resources, and/or expertise to meaningfully contribute to the BCDC’s mission.
Professional groups/associations: Organizations that represent professional groups and have been established for at least 2 years can also be members.
Aligned: Member organizations will be (a) aligned with BCDC’s mission, vision, values and scope; and (b) endorse and adhere to the confidentiality agreement.
Committed: Member organizations will be represented by individuals who can offer time, resources, and active participation.
Representative: Member organizations will provide diverse representation across the disability sector.

Membership Processes

Annual Review: New member nominations and applications will be considered on an annual basis in December-January as part of a strategic planning process by the leadership team that includes a review of membership capacity. Considerations for admitting a new organization will include (a) the extent to which it aligns with the BCDC’s goals and activities and (b) the need to expand the scope of current member organizations.
Nomination Process: Organizations that meet the membership criteria and that members believe will add value to the BCDC can be nominated by the existing membership. Nominations will be reviewed in light of the annual strategic plan and membership criteria and decision-making will be in accordance with the voting procedures in the Terms of Reference (ToR) document.
Application Process: Organizations that wish to join can apply. Their application will be reviewed in light of the annual strategic plan and membership criteria, and decisions will be made in accordance with the voting procedures in the ToR document.

Voting Processes

All decisions are made by voting. A unanimous vote of member organizations is required to accept a new member nomination or application (proxy votes are accepted). Otherwise, a two-thirds majority (66%) is required for a vote to pass.

For more information, please review the BCDC's Terms of Reference

Questions about membership? Contact us at admin@bcdisabilitycollab.ca.