Board of Directors - Kootenay Friends of REALM
Sharron Billey
Chair
I have been involved with 2 members of my family with diversabilities, for all my life. Therefore, I say I have been involved in more ways than only family looking out for those who have been marginalized for years. I say my commitment to children and adults with diverse abilities started when I was about 8 to 10 years old.
My older brother, who some 85 years ago was never diagnosed, most likely was on the spectrum. He was the “weird kid” who was easy to pick on. He drowned at 26. He lived a life of not understanding consequence for his “actions”. He suffered immeasurable cruelties from society, family, friends, teachers, etc. He was a unique individual whom I loved beyond measure.
My second experience is ongoing to this day. However, this brother, through the wonderful work of REALM, is now living his best life. With tons of family support and REALM’s expertise he has come out of his shell in ways that none of us ever expected. We are all so proud of him. I say he has made me the saddest, proudest and happiest all in the same breath!
I remain committed to furthering the work and advocacy toward inclusion and support for all who face struggles or challenges from any sort of diverse abilities. I have been the chair of Kootenay Friends of REALM Society since inception in 2016. I intend to continue with a commitment to getting more people involved so this KFR can continue long into the future.
Respectfully submitted, Sharron Billey.
April Searle Bradley
Board Member
During the Adult Learning Program at the College of the Rockies I had met Deb Preston who was working with REALM to help create a Not-Profit Society to secure alternative sources of funding for people with diversabilities. It was through our discussions of my own experience of needing to leave Cranbrook at a time there were few services for my son and move to Alberta where there were more services. It was important for me that my son had the opportunities to learn and grow as a person. She inspired me to become a member of the Kootenay Friends of REALM so that I would have the possibilities to create more opportunities for people. As a board member I have had the chance to work with several people who also aspired to make a difference in people’s lives. Members who care about people, their acceptance and belonging in the community. We have developed friendships, passions, and a commitment to seeing people with diversabilities continue to grow to be a part of the community with acceptance. I have seen what REALM has been doing to support people in their growth towards being people who believe in themselves and are active members of the community. In the future I would like to see more people become in involved with Kootenay Friend of REALM.
Judy Hiron
Treasurer
Hi. I am Judy Hiron, celebrating 66 years.
I retired in the Fall of 2018. When I retired, I promised myself I would volunteer for 2 organizations.
The first was the community Income Tax Program – hosted by Canadian Mental Health for the Kootenays.
The second was through a series of events which led me to KFR. I was approached by Deb Preston asking if I would be interested in doing the bookkeeping for a new project KFR and REALM were developing – Java Creek Café. I did the bookkeeping from April 2019 until Covid in March 2020. During that time, I became a member of KFR.
For approximately the last 2 years I have been treasurer.
My main goal has been quite simple: do good for others.
Wanda Ross
Board member
Hi. My name is Wanda Ross. I was born in BC, and have lived all over western Canada. My professional life was with the Government of BC, where I worked in the social services field. During my employment, I came to see that although government programs are helpful, they often do not meet all the needs of the clients they are set up to help.
When I moved to Cranbrook, I came to spend time with my cousin Raymond. I saw first hand how REALM had impacted and improved his quality of life, and had aided his inclusion into the community. When Raymond’s sister Sharron approached me and asked if I’d be interested in sitting on the board of Kootenay Friends of Realm (KFR), I said yes. I believe deeply in the work that REALM does, but I know that sometimes further help is required to meet people’s needs. I feel that being part of KFR is the best way for me to accomplish this. I am enjoying getting to know both individuals who receive services from REALM and staff and look forward to being able to help many more people in the future!