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As a person with a lifelong disability (spina bifida), I have a vested interest in ensuring that all people with disabilities have access to the goods and services they need in order to live and thrive in their communities. I have a long history of participation in groups and organizations dedicated to the enhancement of the lives of people with disabilities. I served as president of an advocacy group of disabled individuals in 1981, the International Year of Disabled Persons. That same year I served on the Mayor's Advisory Committee of Disability. I am a former member of the Board of Directors of the Campbell River and District Association for the Mentally Handicapped. In 1993, I was employed with the Disability Resource Centre (formerly The Resource Centre for Independent Living) here in Victoria, acting as their Information and Referral Administrative Assistant. From February 1995 until I accepted my present position with BCANDS, I served as Community Advocate with the Action Committee of People with Disabilities, also here in Victoria. During that time, I helped many people with disabilities appeal the denial of benefits through the Ministry of Human Resources, Canada Pension Plan, W.C.B., etc. I also served as Advocate Supervisor, assisting a team of volunteer advocates. In closing, I would like to say again how happy I am to be part of this organization. I hope to do justice to the responsibilities you have entrusted in me as your Advocate. Namaste,
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Hi. My name is Jim Franklin. It is my extreme pleasure to be chosen as
the BCANDS Advocate, and to be a part of this organization, and the wonderful staff in the office.