History

The Kelowna Family Service Centre Society was incorporated as a non-profit charitable society in February 1986, spearheaded by the late Dr. Frank McNair. In 1987, the organization was awarded its first contract with the Ministry of Health. The focus of the society has always been one of providing counselling and education – making a difference in the lives of individuals, families, and the community.

The agency has undergone many changes over the years from the original Park Road location in Rutland to Leon Avenue and its current location on Cooper Road. In 2019 the organization completed a rebrand to Connect Counselling & Therapy: Central Okanagan. In 2020 Connect made  the shift from analog to digital operations. The organization now offers hybrid counselling, online booking, an option for clients to access services via Crime Victim Assistance, First Nations Health Authority, ICBC, Autism Funding, extended health benefits and private pay alongside its free counselling services.

Over the last four years, Connect has been providing Somatic Experiencing Training in partnership with the Somatic Experiencing Institute (SEI) in Colorado, attracting global participants. This highly sought after trauma training has a global presence and in partnership Connect has brought over 180 students from across the global to train individuals to meet the challenges of working with people impacted by trauma. A side benefit of this training has been for Kelowna’s tourism industry as participants come to know enjoy Kelowna city. The organization was recognized by the Hyatt Hotel in Kelowna for their impact on local tourism.

Today Connect has a broad funding base, including several government ministries and community grants. The area that is served by the Centre extends from Peachland to Oyama with a total population of approximately 225,000.

The Connect is respected for its accountability to the community, responsiveness to community needs, and collaboration with other community services. It is a welcoming, safe and confidential environment.