60th Anniversary - OneSky Community Resources

Celebrating
60 years

of care. connection. community.

A Night Under OneSky

60th Anniversary Legacy Gala

Celebrating 60 years of care, connection, and community

September 19, 2026 | Penticton Trade and Convention Centre

Our History

Since 1966, OneSky has grown alongside the people of the South Okanagan, responding to change with care, creativity, and unwavering commitment. What began as a small, community‑driven effort has evolved into a broad network of supports that spans generations.

Our story is one of listening, adapting, and prescence.
Through changing names, expanding services, and deepening partnerships, OneSky’s purpose has remained constant: clearing a way forward so everyone has the opportunity to belong, thrive, and be well. Our history is not just something we honour, it continues to shape who we are and how we serve today.

1960's

How it all began...

According to these original board minutes, OneSky, then the “Penticton and District Health and Welfare Council” had its inaugural meeting at 8pm, on June 9th, 1966.

This marked the beginning of a community‑led commitment to ensuring people had access to care and critical supports accessible in their own community.

On September 19th, 1966, the “Penticton and District Health and Welfare Association” was officially incorporated as a Society.

Exactly 60 years later to the day, we’ll be celebrating this milestone at our legacy gala.

1970's

1971

The first childcare centre opens at 397 Martin Street, Penticton.

Early childhood care became a cornerstone of OneSky’s work, responding to local families who needed high quality, inclusive spaces for their children.

1974

After much lobbying in 1974, the first accessible childcare centre opens at 470 Edmonton Avenue in Penticton. The centre would be the first of its kind in the city to support the families of children with diverse abilities.

(We recognize that inclusive language continues to evolve. This image is part of the historical record and uses language common to its era.)

1976

During this year, we become the “Penticton and District Social Planning Society”.

The name change reflected a growing role in community planning and collaboration as social needs evolved across the region.

1980's

1985

Sandra Henson (far left in photo) is hired as the organization’s first Executive Director.

Intentional leadership helped strengthen programs, partnerships, and long‑term sustainability during a period of growth in services. Sandra’s dedication is instrumental in creating the community’s first Sexual Abuse Intervention Program (SAIP) – an initiative that some in the broader community were initially reluctant to support. Because of Sandra’s courage, this program continues to provide critical counselling and support to survivors today.

1987

Our name changes to Penticton and District Community Resources Society (PDCRS).

The new name affirmed a broader mandate focused on community‑based services, inclusion, and resource sharing.

1989

Employment and inclusion programs expand with the Penticton Paper Shuffle, The Club, and HandyDART.

As large institutions closed, these services supported people with diverse abilities to participate fully in community life.

1990's

1997

Supported Child Development program begins.

This shift reflected province‑wide moves toward inclusive education, helping children and families succeed in public schools and childcare.

2000's

2002

The first Integrated Family Development program (IFD) begins.

As government services scaled back, local organizations worked together to ensure families continued to receive coordinated, relationship‑based support. The Boys and Girls Club Okanagan and the provincial Ministry of Child and Family Development become longtime partners to fill the gaps between community – a partnership that continues to today.

2010's

2012

Better at Home and Harm Reduction programs launch.

Responding directly to funders and community partners such as the United Way and Interior Health, OneSky expanded services for seniors to remain in their own homes and for people impacted by substance use and the toxic drug supply, grounded in dignity and practical care.

2014

Nqsílt Early Years Centre opens through valued partnership.

An invitation to collaborate with with three Syilx Nations (Upper and Lower Similkameen and Osoyoos Indian Bands) led to culturally grounded early years programming, centred on Indigenous leadership and shared vision.

2016

Pregnancy Support services joins the organization.

By housing this long‑standing program, OneSky expanded our support for parents and families during pivotal life transitions.

2018

We become OneSky Community Resources!

The name reflects a shared belief that everyone belongs, and that community wellbeing is built together, under one sky.

2019

Foundry Penticton opens.

Following years of advocacy, OneSky brought youth mental health and wellness services to Penticton during a time of urgent need.

Later in 2019, The Rise on Nanaimo welcomes its first tenants.

Built on the belief that lake views and dignity are for everyone, The Rise redefined affordability in Penticton through partnerships with the City of Penticton and Catalyst Community Development and bold vision.

2020's

2023

Edmonton Avenue Childcare Centre opens.

To answer the call for more affordable childcare in the city, OneSky, in collaboration with the City of Penticton and Greyback Construction, expanded access to high‑quality childcare for local families with the largest childcare facility in the area.

The Kinsmen Disability Resource Centre Society gift the historic CPR station at 216 Hastings to OneSky.

Entrusting OneSky with the care of Penticton’s historical railway station this partnership between the two organizations honoured decades of community service and shared values. More than a building, the CPR Station represents arrival, connection, and belonging, a legacy we will carry forward by preserving its history while continuing to use its space to serve generations to come.

2025

Community Inclusion expands to Oliver.

After 40 years of service, Oliver’s The Painted Chair closes, creating an opportunity for OneSky to continue providing inclusion programming in the area.

2026

Foundry expands to Summerland.

After years of outreach services, Foundry Penticton and OneSky will operate a new physical location in the heart of Summerland where youth ages 12-24, their families and caregivers will have easier access to physical and sexual health care, mental-health and substance-use supports, peer support and other social services in their own community.

What comes next is built on what has come before.

Our history will guide our next steps, continuing to shape how we listen, partner, and respond to what our communities needs are now, and into the future. With the same care and commitment that has carried us this far, our foundation continues to shape how we show up for everyone we serve.

Your support helps build what comes next.

As OneSky Community Resources marks 60 years of care, connection, and community, we invite you, our local businesses and community leaders to be part of a meaningful milestone. The 60th Anniversary Legacy Gala: A Night Under OneSky Presented by Penticton Honda brings together supporters who believe in strengthening the South Okanagan through services that support people at every stage of life.

Becoming a sponsor is an opportunity to align your organization with lasting social impact, gain visibility among community leaders, and directly support programs that help individuals and families thrive today and into the future. Together, we are working toward a collective goal of raising $60,000 to celebrate 60 years of impact.

Sponsorship opportunities are limited and available now. For more information and contact details, please see our Sponsorship Package.

Our Gratitude

Our gala would not be possible without the generosity of our sponsors. Your support goes far beyond a single evening. The impact of this event will strengthen the programs, people and communities at the heart of OneSky. Because of you, individuals and families alkie will have access to care, connection, and opportunities that change lives.

Thank you for standing with us as we celebrate where we have been and create the next chapter. We are incredibly grateful for your partnership and belief in this work.

Celebrating60 years