Graduation milestone for Health Career Access Program in Lillooet

September 17, 2024

From L to R: Bonnie Elliott, Brianne Edwards, Amber Naziel, Krystalee Casper, Marellee Clifford, Remy Thomas, Yardley Bridges, and Deborah Chesney celebrating the students' graduation.

In a tale of collaboration and community support, a recent graduation ceremony in Lillooet became the backdrop for celebrating the accomplishments of a cohort from the Health Career Access Program (HCAP).

This joint initiative by the Lillooet Tribal Council (LTC) – Community Adult Learning Centre (CALC), Okanagan College and Interior Health marked a significant milestone for its participants who completed their education on August 9, 2024.

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Discover Lillooet's HCAP journey

Learn more about the Health Career Access Program

Discover Lillooet's HCAP journey

The journey began in the fall of 2023 when discussions between the parties laid the groundwork for offering the Health Care Assistant Program (HCAP) in Lillooet. The Lillooet Tribal Council – Community Adult Learning Centre took the initiative to sponsor students through the Health Career Access Program, while they received education stipends for the duration of their studies at Okanagan College. This partnership exemplifies a commitment to fostering local talent and meeting community health-care needs.

Deborah Chesney, an LPN Educator from Interior Health’s Professional Practice Office (PPO) HCAP team, played a pivotal role in this initiative, providing virtual orientation to the students at the beginning of their journey. She also set a strong foundation for their learning by conducting an in-person Provincial Violence Prevention Training in Lillooet in January 2024.

The culmination of this effort was celebrated on August 8, 2024, at the graduation ceremony hosted by the LTC-CALC at the P’egp’ig’lha Community Centre. Deborah, Bonnie Elliott (clinical recruitment specialist), and Taylor Munro (PPO HCAP manager), were honoured to attend the ceremony on behalf of Interior Health, extending congratulations to the graduates amidst the festive atmosphere. The event featured inspiring speeches, traditional bear dancers and a delightful lunch, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the community.

The impact of this collaboration was palpable. Interior Health has already welcomed two graduates into permanent part-time positions in home support, while three others have chosen to work casually at Mountain View Lodge. Discussions are ongoing for the remaining graduates, highlighting the program’s success in not only educating but also integrating graduates into essential health care roles within their community.

Working with Lillooet Tribal Council’s Indigenous HCAP group has been one of the most meaningful parts of my job. I’m proud to be part of a program that helps Indigenous People start careers in health care by removing barriers and meeting their specific needs. Our team felt honoured to support the Lillooet Band and to personally connect with participants. Attending their graduation and seeing their hard work pay off was incredibly rewarding.

-- Taylor Munro, Interior Health PPO HCAP Manager

This graduation ceremony stands as a testament to the power of partnerships and community-driven initiatives in fostering health-care professionals and addressing local health-care needs. It underscores the importance of investing in education and supporting graduates as they embark on meaningful careers in health care. Through such initiatives, communities like Lillooet pave the way for a brighter and healthier future.