Who We Are

Mission Statement

A not for profit society whose vision is creating compassionate and knowledgeable communities that work together to prevent Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and to support individuals and families living with FASD to reach their full potential.

Organization - History and Background

In 1993, citizens from the community of Maple Ridge, B.C, began a coordinated and strategic process to address the issues of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. This grassroots-based group implemented their community action plan, which resulted in the creation of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Society of British Columbia (formerly the known as the Greater Vancouver Fetal Alcohol Society). This not for profit Society was incorporated in March 1999 and is recognized for tax-exempt status as a registered charity.

Clear goals formed the basis of our Board:

Educate our community about FASD
Secure funding for prevention and support services
Provide support / advocacy that will lead to empowerment of individuals and families
Form a Children's Play Group
Advocate for healthy public policy
Form a "Learning About Your Disablity" Group for Youth

Outcomes

The establishment of Fetal Alcohol Warning Sign By-laws
Five highly successful community conferences
A local office holding a FAS Resource Library
Numerous presentations to schools (students, teachers, PAC meetings), colleges, service organizations, foster parents associations, city council meetings, probation services, teen prenatal classes, aboriginal groups, and others
Media coverage in local newspapers, and on radio and television
Participation in regional and provincial planning meetings to address FAS
Supporting individuals / parents / professionals through consultation and advocacy
Assisting other communities to develop FAS teams through education, resources and mentoring
Establishment and operation of The Asante Centre for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome*, a diagnostic, assessment and family support centre for FASD that uses a multidisciplinary team approach.

*The Asante Centre received its initial funding through the Ministry for Children and Family Development and has been in operation since 2000, helping all those affected with FASD and their families throughout British Columbia. See our key services. Many benefactors have generously supported the work of the Centre. We are extremely proud of the expertise we have in our community and the strong commitment from renowned experts in the field.