Press Release – Helping Young Minds Climb Higher

View the PDF version here.

June 3, 2025 – This month, LDS – Learn. Develop. Succeed. (formerly the Learning Disabilities Society) is raising awareness and funds in support of neurodivergent children and youth through its inaugural RISE to the Top event at Grouse Mountain on June 15—a community fundraiser to expand access to learning support through its Bright Futures Bursary Fund.

One in five people has a learning or brain-based difference—such as dyslexia, ADHD, autism or other related challenges—that affects how they learn and communicate. Yet many families still face long waitlists, unaffordable costs and limited access to the support learners need to succeed. LDS is working to change that—by breaking down barriers and building inclusive pathways to success.

Through one-to-one instruction, early intervention and inclusive group programs—offered both in person and live online—LDS empowers children, youth and adults to build the confidence, skills and independence they need to thrive, regardless of financial circumstance. All programs are grounded in a research-informed approach designed to meet each learner’s unique strengths and needs.

The LDS Bright Futures Bursary Fund is LDS’ core financial assistance program, sustained through fundraising and community support. It ensures that families who may not qualify for government or third-party funding can still access LDS’s individualized supports. In 2024, more than 75% of LDS families drew from our Bright Futures Bursary pool, helping reduce barriers and expand access for many hundreds of learners across British Columbia.

RISE to the Top brings that impact to life—not just as a fundraiser, but as a call to action.

“We know how transformative the right support can be—but too often, families are left navigating complex systems with limited resources and few accessible options,” says Rachel Forbes, Executive Director, LDS. “RISE to the Top is a chance to come together, raise critical funds and highlight the need for inclusive, equitable learning support. It’s a celebration of neurodiversity—and a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we invest in every child’s potential.”

The event brings that mission into motion. Participants can take on the Grouse Grind or ride the gondola, joining the community at the top—where food, prizes, family-friendly activities and Canada’s first Neurodivergent Wellness Fair featuring community organizations, resources and inclusive supports will be waiting.

By joining RISE to the Top, community members aren’t just reaching the summit—they’re helping to break down systemic barriers and build a future where every learner has the opportunity to succeed.

The event is open to all ages and abilities. Participants can register individually or as part of a team, and are encouraged to fundraise in support of their climb or ride.

Media interested in covering RISE to the Top onsite on June 15 are welcome. Please contact Sara Jane Walker at SaraJane@ldsociety.ca in advance to coordinate access, interviews and onsite participation.

To learn more, register or donate, visit ldsociety.ca/rise-to-the-top.

About LDS – Learn. Develop. Succeed.
LDS – Learn. Develop. Succeed. is a nonprofit charity that empowers children, youth and adults with learning differences to build the confidence, skills and independence they need to thrive. Founded in 1970, LDS delivers research-informed, individualized education programs both in person and live online. LDS is committed to ensuring that high-quality learning support is available to all learners—regardless of financial circumstance. Visit ldsociety.ca.

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Media contact: 

Rachel S. Forbes
Executive Director, LDS
604.345.9129 mobile
604.873.8139 office
ED@ldsociety.ca

Sara Jane R. Walker 
Senior Manager, Communications, LDS 
604.873.8139
Sarajane@ldsociety.ca 

LDS is a community of dedicated professionals who write collaboratively. We recognize the contribution of unnamed team members for their wisdom and input.