Building relationships in British Columbia

11-mars-2010In collaboration with local Portage staff members and Portage British Columbia Chair, John McLernon, representatives from Portage’s Head Office in Montréal have been meeting and developing relationships with provincial health authorities, local law enforcement agencies, and other partners in BC. Portage has met with the Superintendent of the Vancouver Police, representatives from Coast Mental Health, as well as representatives of other community organisations. Affiliations have also been established with the BC branches of NATIONAL Public Relations Firm and with Blakes Law Firm, which provide pro bono services to Portage BC.

Portage Keremeos staff members have also been busy developing relationships and raising awareness about Portage in the region. The Admissions Officer, Lisa White, has visited social workers, community organisations, and schools in Keremeos, often bringing current residents with her to speak to the students about their life experiences and their therapy at Portage. In March she presented the Portage Program to a Narcotics Anonymous group. She also met with the Addictions Manager for Interior Health Hospitals and presented the Portage Program to the Senior Leadership Team.