ABOUT US

ELARA, which stands for Empowering Lives and Advancing Resource Access, is an independent initiative dedicated to helping individuals, families, newcomers, and community support workers better understand disability related programs, services, and community resources in British Columbia.

Navigating disability services can often feel confusing and overwhelming. Many people are unsure where to start, what supports they may qualify for, or how to access available resources. The project was created to make disability related information easier to understand, more accessible, and easier to navigate.

This project was founded by an individual with experience working in community based disability services and supporting people with disabilities and their families. Our goal is to connect people with reliable information, practical resources, and guidance while promoting a person-centered, strengths-based approach.

We believe in enhancing individual strengths and empowering people through choice, individuality, inclusion, and self determination.

ELARA is an independently created and managed initiative. While we welcome collaboration with community organizations, non profit agencies, healthcare providers, and government services, ELARA BC remains an independent project and is not owned, operated, or managed by any external organization.

Serving communities across British Columbia, with a primary focus on the Tri Cities and Metro Vancouver.

Services are currently available online across British Columbia. In-person community navigation support is available in Coquitlam. Support may also be available in the Tri-Cities and Metro Vancouver depending on individual circumstances. If you are located in these areas, please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss how we may be able to help.

WHAT WE DO

• Information about disability related programs and services in British Columbia.
• Resource and service navigation
• Guidance on available supports and eligibility pathways
• Educational resources and application guides
• Information for newcomers, families, and community support workers

OUR ROLE

ELARA does not replace government services, healthcare providers, or community agencies. Instead, we help individuals and families better understand available options, navigate complex systems, and identify possible next steps.

If you are looking for disability related supports and do not know where to begin, we provide information and guidance to help you move forward with confidence.

We are committed to providing clear, accessible and easy to understand information for individuals and families navigating disability services in British Columbia.

OUR VISION

Our vision is to build a community that enhances individual strengths while respecting choice, individuality, inclusion, and self determination.

As the project grows, we hope to collaborate with community organizations, professionals, volunteers, and individuals with lived experience to improve access to disability supports, strengthen community connections, and increase opportunities for practical assistance throughout British Columbia.

LOOKING AHEAD

As resources and funding become available, we hope to expand beyond information sharing and navigation support to include more personalized assistance, community based supports, and practical guidance for individuals and families navigating disability services.

DISCLAIMER

ELARA aims to provide clear and accessible information about disability related programs, services, and resources in British Columbia.

While we strive to keep information accurate and up to date, program requirements, policies, services, and eligibility criteria may change over time. We encourage individuals and families to confirm information directly with the appropriate organizations and service providers.

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or professional advice.

ELARA is an independent initiative and is not affiliated with or endorsed by government ministries, agencies, healthcare providers, or community organizations.