Get Involved
LDS can empower children, youth, and adults with learning differences to recognize their unique strengths and develop the tools to achieve lifelong independence, confidence, and success because of our dedicated team of education professionals, parents, generous donors, board members and volunteers.
Donate
Your support and giving allow children with LDs to build confidence, learn how to learn with their difference, and increase their chances of succeeding in school and life.
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Volunteering is about becoming involved in a meaningful way. It is about how we can do our parts to make sure all kids have equal opportunities.
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We are seeking new skills, energy and talent to continue to grow our team and deepen our impact.
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Contact Us
We believe that every individual should be empowered to achieve greatness their way.
Learn MoreOur Partners
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Educators
LDS offers resources, workshops and consultation to educators and professionals who would like to enhance their understanding of how to best serve and support diverse learners.
Learn MoreAnnual Reports
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2024 Annual Report
In 2024, we experienced a remarkable year of continued growth in outreach, our professional team, and inspiring academic and personal achievements from our dedicated learners. Thank you to all our community of families, learners, partners, and supporters for contributing your time, talent, and treasure; it is an honour to serve you and our mission!
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2023 Annual Report
2023 was another year of growing programs and outstanding achievements from our amazing students. Thank you to our expanding community of families, students, partners and supporters for a wonderful year of learning!
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2022 Annual Report
2022 was another year of growing programs and outstanding achievements from our amazing students. Thank you to our expanding community of families, students, partners and supporters for a wonderful year of learning!
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2021 Annual Report
Thanks to our growing community of families, students, partners and supporters, the year 2021 was filled with new and growing programs, outstanding achievements f rom our amazing students, and a lot of wonderful learning!
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LDS Annual Report 2020
Please see our 2020 Annual Report for an overview of our specialized programs, our students’ achievements and our charity’s progress, including highlights from 2021.
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LDS Annual Report 2019
Please see our 2019 Annual Report for an overview of our specialized programs, our students’ achievements and our charity’s progress, including highlights from 2020.
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LDS 2018 Annual Report
2018 was a groundbreaking year for LDS, as we lay the framework for future growth and sustainability. We are proud to be Vancouver’s primary non-profit service provider for children with Learning Disabilities.
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Learn. Develop. SEED!
More about our wildflower gift to learners, summer resources, and September Proudly
Neurodivergent celebration.

Neuroaffirming Summers
Summer brings longer days and opportunities for fun, but it can also be overwhelming for neurodivergent children and youth. This article explores how families and allies can create a summer experience that feels safe, empowering, and joyful—on each child’s terms.
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Breaking Barriers: A Conversation with Andrea Paquette on Ending Mental Health Stigma
In recognition of Mental Health Month, we sat down with Andrea Paquette, Co-Founder and President of the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society. A powerful advocate and changemaker, Andrea shares her personal journey with bipolar disorder and the evolution of the organization she helped build from its beginnings, focused on bipolar education, to a national force championing mental wellness and inclusion for all. In this interview, Andrea reflects on the challenges of stigma, the importance of education, and what it takes to build a truly compassionate society.
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Neuroaffirming Practices for Mental Health and Learning Differences
If you missed this live workshop, you can watch the full recording below and gain practical tools to support the mental health and well-being of neurodivergent individuals.
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Four Days of Impactful Engagement Across BC
Our team is on the move! See what our incredible team was up to May 6-9, collaborating, learning, and sharing valuable insights to make an impact across BC.
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What’s New in the 2025-26 School Year
Get ready for the 2025–2026 school year and another year of RISE One-to-One Instruction at LDS. Please review the important updates, including changes to our fee structure, facility expansion, and information systems.
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How to Access Occupational Therapy For Adults
Learn how adults in British Columbia can access occupational therapy through public healthcare, private services, insurance programs, and community supports. Discover how OTs can help with recovery, daily living, mental health, and more.
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High School Ready: Supporting Your Neurodivergent Teen
If you missed this live workshop, you can watch the full recording below and gain practical tools to support your neurodivergent teen’s high school transition.
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Enhance EDI Strategies: Embrace Learning Differences in the Workplace
If your organization’s EDI strategy does not include neurodivergence, it is time for an update. Learn how you can make your workplace more inclusive.
Learn MoreIn the Press
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– BC Business featured LDS’s new Skills for Trades: RISE to Work program and spoke with Executive Director Rachel Forbes about the urgent need for inclusive training pathways in the skilled trades. The program supports neurodivergent adults with personalized, flexible learning to help them succeed in trades careers. With over 100,000 trades jobs opened in BC in the last decade and more on the way, programs like this are key to building a stronger, more diverse workforce.
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– A compelling conversation on community support, systemic barriers to neurodivergent individuals, and success stories from LDS’ Becky Bishop, Senior Manager, Youth and Adult Programs. Becky made a special appearance on this episode of The Neurodiversity Podcast.
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– Radio-Canada a présenté un reportage de Monia Blanchet sur les défis liés à la fin d’année scolaire pour les élèves neurodivergents. Rachel Forbes, directrice générale de la Learning Disabilities Society, et Trish Schachtel, mère d’un enfant neurodivergent, y soulignent l’importance d’un soutien spécialisé pour favoriser la réussite de ces élèves. Radio-Canada featured a story by Monia Blanchet on the challenges neurodivergent students face at the end of the school year. LDS Executive Director Rachel Forbes and parent Trish Schachtel highlighted the need for specialized support to help these learners succeed.
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– Executive Director Rachel Forbes was interviewed on Mornings with Simi about the end of the school year and the ongoing need for support for neurodivergent students in BC schools. Rachel shared about the growing challenges for families, accessible assessments, and how with more specialized learning support we can see all students grow in confidence and rise to meet the challenges ahead.
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– On the Coast host, Amy Bell, interviewed Executive Director Rachel Forbes and Trish Schachtel about the end of the school year and the ongoing need for support for neurodivergent students in BC schools. This challenging and inspiring interview highlighted the growing need across the province for specialized learning support so we can see all students grow in confidence and rise to meet the challenges ahead.
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– CityNews interviewed Executive Director Rachel Forbes and Jocelyn Fernandez about the end of the school year and the ongoing need for support for neurodivergent students in BC schools. LDS is supporting hundreds of learners with complex needs across the province, and the need is growing. More support is needed so we can see all students grow in confidence and rise to meet the challenges ahead.
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– Neighbours of Edgemont, Dundarave, and Lynn Valley highlighted LDS in their June issue, showcasing our accessible programs and learner-centred approach. As Rachel S. Forbes shares, “We provide safe spaces where it’s okay to be different.” The feature also spotlights our inaugural RISE to the Top event on Grouse Mountain.
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– BC Parents highlights the available services and resources in British Columbia to support neurodivergent children. LDS is spotlighted as one of several services available for parents, guardians, and educators who want to provide the best environment for neurodivergent children.
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– Carla Ward interviews Marlo Humiski, Senior Manager, Early Years Programs. The discussion highlights the Early Risers Program, which provides early intervention in a preschool-like setting, engaging families through community partnerships and workshops. With a focus on literacy, numeracy, and fine motor skills, the program includes professional support from specialists and features QT the Robot to aid emotional awareness.
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