Collaboration at the core: how arc programs builds stronger communities
“Collaboration is our first value, and it is at the heart of everything we do,” says Candice Henriques, CEO of arc programs. “We believe in decentralized decision-making and shared responsibility, recognizing that the best solutions come from listening to many voices and working alongside partners in meaningful ways.”
It is an approach that runs deep in the organization’s culture. arc programs supports children, youth, adults and families across the Okanagan and West Kootenay regions, and Henriques says the work only succeeds when it reflects the needs, ideas and strengths of the community itself.
“We want our services to be shaped not just by our organization, but by the communities we serve,” she says.
Partnerships rooted in community
That commitment shows in the sheer number of partnerships and committees in which arc programs plays a role. The organization is active in a long list of community tables, from youth action and job development groups to situation tables, substance use committees, early years partnerships and national networks.
“We not only participate but also take on leadership roles,” says Henriques. “For example, we co-chair the Central Okanagan FASD Awareness Committee with the YMCA and are currently coordinating the launch of the West Kootenay FASD Awareness Committee. These roles demonstrate our commitment to advancing awareness, education and collaborative care strategies for children, youth and families across regions.”
arc programs’ CYSN Central Okanagan Family Connection Centre (FCC) embodies this spirit of connection. The centre hosts gatherings, workshops and learning opportunities designed to bring people together across sectors. This year, through its Community Screening Series, the FCC partnered with lead agencies in the Okanagan to host educational sessions in its Gathering Place.
“These sessions provide accessible opportunities for staff, families and community members to come together, learn and strengthen connections around shared issues of concern and care,” says Henriques.
The Federation’s role in connection
That openness and willingness to share is also what Henriques values about being part of The Federation of Community Social Services of BC.
“The Federation plays an essential role in supporting these efforts,” she says. “As members, we benefit from its province-wide advocacy, sector-wide learning opportunities, and the solidarity it fosters across organizations. The Federation amplifies our voice, connects us with colleagues across B.C., and strengthens our ability to build equitable and inclusive systems of care.”
Leadership lessons
For Henriques, leadership is also about humility. When asked for advice on what to give to new or emerging executive directors in the sector, she returns to the theme of relationships.
“Lead with humility, curiosity and deep listening through relationships within the community,” she says. “This work is complex and requires both courage and compassion. Surround yourself with people who are passionate, knowledgeable and willing to challenge you.”
She also highlights the importance of being open about uncertainty, something she wishes she had embraced earlier in her career.
“One piece of advice I wish I had received earlier is to embrace vulnerability as a strength,” she says. “Being open about what you do not know and where you need support creates space for genuine collaboration and innovation.”
Looking ahead
That belief in openness and connection is guiding arc programs into the year ahead. The organization is setting ambitious goals for 2025 and beyond, with a focus on staff wellness, reconciliation initiatives and strengthening services for children, youth and families.
“Our goals for the next year focus on advancing wellness and holistic health for our staff, deepening reconciliation initiatives with Indigenous partners, expanding our reconciliation efforts by establishing a Reconciliation Committee, fortifying our prevention and early intervention services, and advocating to stabilize and sustain funding systems,” says Henriques.
Advocacy, she adds, will be key not only to support arc programs’ initiatives, but also to ensure the wider social services sector remains strong and sustainable.
“We invite the community and other organizations to support these initiatives by partnering with us, sharing their expertise, and joining us in advocacy for equitable access to services in our regions and across British Columbia,” she says. “Together, we can continue to remove barriers and build communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging and hope.”
At the heart of it all
At its core, Henriques says, the work is about collective impact. Bringing together organizations, families, staff and communities to build systems that are fair, inclusive and adaptable.
“Collaboration is not just something we do,” she says. “It is who we are.”
If you are a member of the Federation, liked the article and want to see your organization featured in this series, send an email to giovani@fcssbc.ca.