06/09/2026
Future Resident Feature: Sarah
I want to be a cartoonist," says Sarah. Sarah was born with an undiagnosed cognitive disorder, which in very broad terms means she has mental developmental issues. Today she has a regular job in a local grocery store, is an artist, an athlete, a client and mentor with the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program and a valuable member of the Whistler community. Involvement in the community helps correct societal misperceptions of intellectual disability and mental illness.
After leaving high school, young people like Sarah find themselves heavily dependent on family members. In school there is a support system, which includes aid workers and counsellors, but once they graduate some feel the support and structure falls away. Whistler is still developing the support systems these young people need to positively contribute to the community they live in. Support for employment, life skill training, and programs for supported housing needs to be considered in Whistler. People with developmental disabilities, like anyone, don’t want to live with their parents forever, they want to be with their friends and experience the world around them. They have career aspirations and dreams of a fulfilled life.
It has been suggested that Sarah move to Squamish or Pemberton where there is supported housing options. Sarah’s friends, work, social life and her sense of belonging is in Whistler. Whistler is her home.
