51Ʒ��

51Ʒ�� and the Community Adult Learning Centre (CALC) within the Lillooet Tribal Council are building on a successful in-community program launch last year, with more Indigenous students set to begin their training to become certified Health Care Assistants in January 2026.

Last year marked the first time the partners graduated six Indigenous students through the program, the first time Health Care Assistant (HCA) program was delivered in Lillooet.

Delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills and the Ministry of Health, the HCA program was adapted by 51Ʒ�� to make health care training more accessible, closer to home. The theory, labs and practicums are delivered in the community, and the graduates can then enter the local workforce, poised to help deliver health care support in Lillooet and the surrounding area – or anywhere else in B.C.

Graduates surveyed after the program reported that they built meaningful connections with clients and that the hands-on experience was incredibly rewarding. In addition, graduates shared that the opportunity to stay in Lillooet to advance their education was invaluable.

“The first Health Care Assistant program in Lillooet demonstrated the power of community-based education,” said Yvonne LaRochelle, program director with the Community Adult Learning Centre in Lillooet. “By learning close to home, students were able to stay connected to their families, culture and community while gaining skills needed to support local health care. We’re proud to continue this partnership and look forward to welcoming the next cohort in 2026.”

The Health Care Assistant program prepares students to work as direct client care providers in a range of settings, including home support, assisted living, and acute care. By bringing the program to Lillooet, 51Ʒ�� and its partners are increasing access to education for Indigenous learners, while also responding to local workforce needs.

Last year, graduates were celebrated at a special ceremony held at the P’Egp’Ig’Lha Community Centre, where students were honoured with a traditional blanketing ceremony, cultural performances, and the presence of Elders, community leaders and family members. The event underscored the program’s deep cultural connections and the importance of equipping local residents with the skills to care for Elders and vulnerable community members.

 

The second intake of the Health Care Assistant program in Lillooet will continue to reflect the cultural values and unique needs of the community, ensuring students can thrive while preparing for in-demand careers in health care. For more information contact shalyn.larochelle@statimcltc.ca or 250-256-7523 Ext 301.

 

“The success of this program and the opportunity to welcome a new intake reflect on the power of collaboration,” said Rhea Dupuis, OC’s director of Indigenous relations and reconciliation. “By working with the Lillooet Tribal Council and other partners, including Interior Health and the Lillooet District Hospital, who provide the lab space for students, we’re able to honour community values while creating opportunities for learners to pursue meaningful careers in health care.” 

 

Learn more about the Health and Social Development programs offered at 51Ʒ�� at okanagan.bc.ca/health-and-social-development.