Meet Carly, she moved to Kelowna in 1994. Carly works with families who are facing mental health concerns. Her organization is known as Kindred Connections Okanagan and her goal is to work with families to create a plan for the benefit of every family member.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My daughter Vivienne because family is everything. Being with a toddler keeps me young and on my toes!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Frock and Fellow. The staff is fabulous and I always leave with a unique preloved item.
Describe yourself in one word.
Driven
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Thailand! I’ve always wanted to go and it is on our bucket list of amazing cultural experiences.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Biking! I live in the South Kelowna community and we bike all over. I hope that the new Dropbike is a huge success.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I lost all my body hair this year while undergoing chemotherapy. I learned that vanity can sometimes be a difficult thing and had to change my perception of beauty.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Daily inspiration from the staff of the Adolescent Psychiatry Unit at KGH. They care deeply and go above and beyond for their patients.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
The Fintry Queen came up to our dock and gave us glass mugs when we were children. It was so large and I was in awe!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I started Kindred Connections Okanagan in 2015 to help fill some gaps in the mental health system revolving around children and youth. Kindred allows me to go into peoples homes and meet with them where they are most comfortable. Together we come up with a plan on what is working, not working, and determine where to go from there when connecting to local resources.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
The stigma and fear around mental health.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Mission Park Greenway is a favourite.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would like to see the citizens engaging more in conversations that matter and speaking up about local issues. Creating change is most effective when people share ideas openly and with passion.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The people! Kelowna has become a city that attracts all ages, cultures and encourages diversity.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Exploring the world with my family
- Taking an acting class
- Watching my daughter grow up
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I’m a breast cancer survivor.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
www.kindredconnectionsokanagan.com
What is the name of your business/organization?
Kindred Connections Okanagan
Why did you get into/start this business?
I’m very passionate about child and youth mental health and being part of a company that can help connect families with what they need is my driving force.
What is the goal of your business?
My goal is to help a family achieve wellness. When a child or youth is impacted by a mental health challenge, the whole family unit is affected.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
I struggled to have children. You never anticipate that you will be effected by infertility. I’m so blessed to be a mother.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I’m proud of my life and my choices.
What do you always find yourself saying?
I got this.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Remember that every path has its puddle.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Brene Brown; her books provide constant inspiration.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Local businesses are like Kelowna's bread and butter. When you shop locally there’s is a tricking down effect that is great for all.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Becoming a mother.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Krista Evans Doula Services. Krista’s photography and doula skills are perfections. She is a local gem!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Love Photography and Doula Services by Krista Evans
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I’m honoured to have been nominated for this article. It is validation that the choices I’ve made are creating a buzz.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!
