The 2025 BC CRN Provincial Conference provided an unparalleled opportunity for community partners, network coordinators, and provincial team members to come together, share experiences, and strengthen connections across the province. For many, including Anjali Marshall, Regional Mentor for Northwest and Interior BC, it was their very first time attending a BC CRN conference. Anjali reflected, “At the Provincial Team day, I met all my colleagues and Regional Mentors from across BC for the first time in person – we had a structured and planned day of sharing and learning together and this gave me a sense of connection and understanding that Zoom could never offer me.” This gathering set the stage for meaningful engagement, addressing the common challenge of working in remote or isolated communities.
During the conference, Anjali and her colleagues spent two days collaborating with almost all CRN coordinators from the Northwest, Northern Interior, and Northeast regions. “We shared stories, learned new things, brainstormed ideas, laughed and ate together. A beautiful walk and dinner together in the evening was very special,” she noted. The structured panels, interactive workshops, and speaker sessions provided actionable strategies and fresh inspiration, equipping participants with tools they could bring back to their communities.
The network coordinators echoed these sentiments. Elaine Wiebe, coordinator of the Lakes District CRN shared, “It was so good to get together with everyone! To hear from CRN leadership and be inspired to go back to our communities. Also wonderful to meet face to face with our regional counterparts and have a chance to chat about what’s happening in our areas!!” Similarly, Elaine Storey, coordinator of the Fraser Lake CRN reflected, “I was very glad I attended the conference as it’s reaffirming to be with people who talk the same language. Many of us run a CRN off the side of our desks and because of that it can sometimes feel that we are alone in this work. Yes, we are singularly just one – but when we come together we are a part of this movement! Thank you for the opportunity.”
Lorna Penner, Regional Mentor for Northeast BC, described her first BC CRN conference as energizing and motivating. “My experience was so energizing to be connected with so many people from across the province and to be in person. There were many connections made and learning from others’ experiences plus future opportunities. The conversations at the tables and sharing from all different perspectives of work and volunteering was the best. I loved the thought-provoking speakers and panels. I can’t wait to do it all again and to share what I took away with my community. I am so grateful for this opportunity.” Her reflections highlight the critical role of education and awareness in fostering safer, more supportive communities for older adults.
Participants also appreciated the inclusive nature of the conference. Anjali noted, “Thank you for inviting us ALL from Haida Gwaii, Prince Rupert, Terrace, Kitimat, Hazelton, Smithers, Houston, Burns Lake, Fraser Lake, Vanderhoof, Prince George, Robson Valley, and Fort St. John.” This sentiment underscores the province-wide reach of BC CRN and the value of connecting urban, rural, and remote communities in collective learning, prevention, and action.
The conference not only allowed participants to learn from keynote speakers but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and peer support in community-based adult abuse prevention. Both mentors and coordinators emphasized feeling valued and appreciated by BC CRN for this opportunity, noting how the connections and insights gained will directly inform their local work. By bringing together provincial team members, coordinators, and partners from across BC, the conference strengthened its provincial community response networks through the education, awareness, and proactive prevention of adult abuse, neglect, and self-neglect.
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