Community Living B.C. encourages British Columbians to say hi and start a conversation with someone with a developmental disability in their community.
Community Living recently launched the second phase of its Start with HI campaign across social media networks, helping educate the public with posters, a webpage and online videos at www.startwithhi.ca. The video features six people with developmental disabilities who explain why the greeting matters to them.
Beginning in 2009, the Start with HI campaign aims to inspire people to be more welcoming toward people with developmental disabilities by starting a conversation with a simple greeting.
The idea came out of feedback from people with developmental disabilities who said a small act, like saying hi, has a huge impact and can help a person feel included and safer in their community.
By taking a small action – greeting someone on the street or helping them catch the right bus – people can help them and their families have a stronger sense of belonging, and feel safe and welcome in their neighbourhood.
For more information, please go to www.communitylivingbc.ca.