BDSBC Business Plan 0

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COMMUNITY ENDORSEMENTS
“I was so excited to find the Bipolar Babe website while doing some research for 'programs in
our community' specific to some of the students I work with in an alternate high school setting.
We are excited to work with Andrea and welcome the Bipolar Disorder Society, specifically the
bipolar babe project into our school.
Josy Renaud, Student Advocacy Teacher
Pacific Alternate Secondary School
“As a youth outreach worker dealing with marginalized youth and at times parents, I consider
the Bipolar Babe programs for youth to be excellent efforts as it encourages youth to discuss
mental health issues and will help bring us to the day when our kids will discuss mental health
issues freely.”
Jim Henry - Register Clinical Counselor, Mental Health Liaison Worker
Youth Empowerment Society
“As a high-school teacher, I witness students struggling with many forms of marginalization.
Bipolar Babe teaches us healthy ways to support people living with mental illness. Andrea is
enthusiastic, educated about the issues, and shares a powerful experience living with mental
health difficulties.”
Kristy Bignell, Teacher, Belmont Secondary
“The bipolar babe programs are a great way for youth to learn about mental illness. The
society’s web site and other resources make the information fresh, accessible and relevant to
youth. Andrea’s passion and positive energy shows us what is possible when we can overcome
stigma and face mental illness with humanity, knowledge, and compassion.”
Manuela Bizzotto, Youth Mental Health Clinician
Westshore Child and Youth Mental Health
“I am writing in support of Ms. Paquette’s endeavor to fight stigma against mental illness as she
herself has first-hand experience of stigma given the nature of her illness. She is quite tenacious,
able, and a passionate individual. She has a solid educational background, organizational
experience and she has devoted considerable effort to the bipolar babe project. I believe the
project will make an impact locally and nationally.”
Dr. Wei Song, Psychiatrist, VIHA
“I predict that the society’s Bipolar Babe project will succeed! Andrea courageously shares her
experience of mental illness as a way of dispelling myths and educating people of all ages. Her
message is particularly relevant to youth and their awareness is key to ending stigma and
discrimination.”
Cindy Player, Chair
University of Victoria’s Mental Health Task Force
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Strategy 2010+
CONTENTS
Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................... 1

The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC and the Bipolar Babe Project .............................. 2
Andrea Paquette, President, BDSBC ....................................................................................... 3
Board Members .............................................................................................................................. 4
Background
Bipolar Disorder ......................................................................................................................6
Facts .......................................................................................................................................7
Treatment ...............................................................................................................................8
Patient Perception ...................................................................................................................9
Public Perception .................................................................................................................. 10
Our Concept ..........................................................................................................................11
Programming Priorities
The Bipolar Babe Project.........................................................................................................11
‘Stigma Stomp’ Classroom Presentations ................................................................................ 12
Bipolar Babe Workshops and Presentations:
An Intimate View into the World of Mental Health................................................................ 12
‘Teens2Twenties’ Peer Support Group ................................................................................... 13
Additional Programs in Development .......................................................................................... 14
Strategic Planning
The Process ........................................................................................................................... 15
Participants and Evaluators..................................................................................................... 15
Strategy, Timelines and Accountability ................................................................................... 15
Organization Development
Board of Directors and Advisory Board ................................................................................. 15
Provincial Incorporation & Charitable Status........................................................................... 15
Marketing Plan
Communications – The Public Need ...................................................................................... 16
Fundraising – Paying For It

Building a Shopping List ......................................................................................................... 17
Community Fundraising:
Individuals ............................................................................................................................. 17
The Professions ...................................................................................................................... 17
Corporate .............................................................................................................................. 18
Foundations ........................................................................................................................... 18
Government ......................................................................................................................... 18
Events .................................................................................................................................... 19
Major Gifts............................................................................................................................. 19
Planned Giving....................................................................................................................... 19
Sponsorship............................................................................................................................20
Donor Recognition.................................................................................................................20
Building a Team: Volunteers – The Community Essential

Recruit, Train, Assign, Recognize and Retain .......................................................................... 21
Administration
Accounting ............................................................................................................................22
Operating Policies ..................................................................................................................22
Insurance ...............................................................................................................................22
APPENDICES
Resource List .........................................................................................................................23
Revenue Requirements ..........................................................................................................30
Bipolar Babe - Activity in the Community ..............................................................................32
BDSBC Letterhead and ‘Stigma Stomp’ Rack Card .............................................................33,34
Further Appendices Available Upon Request:
Focus Group Notes, Board background & details, Certificate of Incorporation, and
Letters of Endorsement.
1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In early 2009 a group of dedicated volunteers developed a website to help
people reduce the stigma of mental illness, particularly for Bipolar Disorder.
The project was launched with great success with the creation of
www.bipolarbabe.com in March 2009.
In the fall of 2009 the growing Bipolar Babe project produced a successful
fundraising event in cooperation with the non-profit organization, the
Victoria Events Centre.
The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC was incorporated with a solid six

member Board of Directors in January 2010.
A series of professional and peer meetings have created a Strategic Plan.
Primary program areas have been established:
 The Stigma Stomp program, which has been successfully tested in the
school system and launched December 2010;
 Teens2Twenties, a support group program for youth dealing with
Bipolar Disorder – to be launched February 2011; and
 Public Education program for parents, employees & educators are
already underway.
The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC attained charitable status in August 2010.
A fund raising strategy, program material and volunteer development, and a

full communications program is underway.
The primary leader in this process is Andrea Paquette, who herself manages
Bipolar Disorder.
Additional information, public and school bookings, sponsorships and

donations are welcome at any time.
2
The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC (BDSBC) and the Bipolar Babe

Project
The mission of the Bipolar Disorder Society of British Columbia (BDSBC) is to

reduce the stigma of mental illness through educational presentations and hands-on work
in the community. The organization’s spokesperson and President is Andrea Paquette,
also known as ‘Bipolar Babe’; she is a mental health educator and lives with bipolar
disorder.
The bipolar babe project launched its website

www.bipolarbabe.com on March 14, 2009. In less
than one year, the success of the project has led to
the development of the Bipolar Disorder Society of
British Columbia. We share vision and working
relationships with organizations such as:
 British Columbia Schizophrenia Society

 The F.O.R.C.E Society for Kids’ Mental Health
 Youth Empowerment Society of BC
 The Umbrella Society – A Mental Health and Addictions Resource
 The Greater Victoria Child and Family Counseling Association
 The REES program at the Cool Aid Society
 University of Victoria (UVIC) – Mental Health Task Force
The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC is a new non-profit organization

incorporated in January 2010 and holds great promise for aiding the
local, provincial, and national mental health community. The
Bipolar Disorder Society of BC has designed programs providing
awareness about mental illness in hopes of eliminating stigma,
discrimination and unwarranted fears of this condition. BDSBC will
embark on conducting the ‘Stigma Stomp’ classroom presentations,
Bipolar Babe Workplace Workshops, ‘Teens2Twenties’ Bipolar Peer
Support Groups, among many other mental health-based programs
planned for 2011 and beyond.
3
Andrea Paquette, President, BDSBC
Andrea, also known as ‘Bipolar Babe’, has an inspiring story about

living with Bipolar Disorder.
She is dedicated to facilitating ‘stigma free’

conversations around the issue of mental illness
throughout the community and is particularly
excited to now be sharing her personal story with
youth in the classrooms.
Andrea initiated the bipolar babe project in May

2009 and with the development of a dream, she
grew the project and she is now the President of
the Bipolar Disorder Society of British Columbia,
founded in January 2010 with a solid Board of
Directors, a growing Advisory Board and many
professionals.
Andrea is currently completing a Masters Program at the University of

Victoria in the area of political science and mental health. She holds a
double major degree with a coop work experience component.
She has worked professionally in the BC government in the areas of

mental health and addictions, social development and education. She
has also been employed in project and issues management.
She ran for the nomination for Member of Parliament at the age of 26
and her next steps subsequent to her diagnosis led her to South Korea
where she taught English to children and became a University English
Professor.
She accepts her illness as a ‘cursed’ gift and feels grateful for her
survival. During her presentations Andrea encourages others to
believe that no matter one’s challenges, they too can truly live an
extraordinary life.
4
Board Members
Andrea Paquette, President, BDSBC

Andrea enjoys igniting the conversation around mental
illness as she has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder for
the past seven years. Andrea possesses extensive BC public
service experience in project and issues management in the
Ministries of Health Services and Social Development. She
also has experience as a teacher and University Professor in
South Korea where she spent two years healing after her
initial diagnosis. Andrea has a passion for charitable activities
and has worked for many causes organizing fundraising
events. She finds positive outlets and therapy in painting,
writing and poetry.
Rachel Lariviere, Vice President, BDSBC

Having close friends and family members affected by mental
illness, Rachel was touched by Andrea’s invigorating drive to
create awareness and dialogue on a subject which many
people have misconceptions or would prefer to ignore
entirely. After contributing to the highly successful ‘Bipolar
Babe’ fundraiser and seeing first-hand how profoundly such
events can make a difference in people’s lives, Rachel
offered to help create the Bipolar Disorder Society of BC.
Rachel has a background in Hospitality Management and
currently owns and operates Rivers Relocation; helping
individuals integrate into the Victoria community.
Robin Holden, Treasurer, BDSBC

Robin has worked with organizations focused on Mental
Health, Abuse and Addictions for all of his professional life.
In addition he has worked with countless charities,
international NGO's and Governments. Robin’s particular
skills are in situation assessment, facilitation, strategic
planning and market planning. He was attracted to the
Bipolar Disorder Society because the disorder is so much
misunderstood, and the opportunity for reducing the stigma
of mental illness in students, families and the broader
community is essential.
5
Gurpreet Randhawa, Secretary, BDSBC

Gurpreet is currently completing her final year of a Bachelor
of Commerce program at the University of Victoria with the
hopes of attending Law school. In addition to being a full time
student, she also works part-time in the financial industry and
enjoys volunteering for various organizations in the
community. When she first heard about the Bipolar Babe
project she knew she wanted to be involved and contribute in
any way possible. There is a stigma attached to many people
living with the bipolar disorder and she wants to help educate
youth so they stop labelling those affected, and base their
judgments about an individual on who they are as a person,
not what mental disorder they may have.
Danielle Hobbs, Director, BDSBC

Danielle was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at a young age
and she has always felt passionate to seek ways to bring
awareness to the issue. Due to experience in life and work,
Danielle is a strong voice for people with mental health issues
in the workplace. Having a keen interest in mental illness
advocacy, she was passionate from the get-go about the
Bipolar Babe project and being an active part of the BDSBC.
She applied her talent and expertise to create the very popular
Bipolar Babe website. She brings a wealth of technical and
media marketing skills to the table and she is actively working
to help spread awareness via the vessel of communication
most popular with today's youth - digital media.
Gordon Harper, Director, BDSBC

Gordon is a social activist and an advocate for those who
struggle with substance use issues. He is Executive Director of
the Umbrella Society for Addictions and Mental Health, and
has served on many regional committees and initiatives
concerned with the interconnected issues of addictions,
mental health and homelessness. In 2009, he was honoured
by being named ‘Unsung Hero’ in recognition of his tireless
work on these concerns.
6
BACKGROUND
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression, is a brain disorder that results in

extreme changes of mood, energy, and affects one’s ability to function. Although
research has greatly increased our understanding of why someone may develop bipolar
disorder, there is no clear answer to the precise cause.
There is evidence to suggest that bipolar disorder is the result of abnormalities in the way
some of the nerve cells in our brain communicate with each other. When there are
problems in the functioning of these neurotransmitters, the communication system in the
brain can be disrupted.
The cause of bipolar disorder is not unlike other chronic illnesses.

For example, with heart disease a person may inherit the risk or
predisposition to develop high blood pressure or heart disease.
Scientists believe that bipolar disorder is the result of interplay

between genetic and environmental factors. Bipolar disorder may
run in families, but not everyone who has a family history will
develop the disorder. Studies show that if a person has a family
member with the illness, only 15 to 30% will eventually develop
the illness.
Many illnesses such as bipolar disorder can be managed effectively with a treatment plan
and a willingness to accept the illness, which is often a very difficult thing to accomplish.
The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC feels that it is important to educate as many people as
possible, especially youth, about the facts of mental illness because it is through
awareness that we are able to create open, comfortable conversations and ‘stomp out
the stigma’ that prevents many people from seeking help or understanding.
Stigma is the use of stereotypes and labels

when describing someone and it is often
attached to people who suffer from
mental health issues. Stigma around
mental illness exists in the world because
of a lack of understanding and knowledge,
but many are eager and curious to learn
about mental illness, especially our youth.
The Bipolar Disorder Society perceives
youth as blossoming and open to
conversation around mental health as they are still forming their opinions and ‘mental
health attitude.’
7
Facts
The number of people that have bipolar

disorder is 1% of the total population of
Canada. This equals to approximately
333,000 or the entire population of Victoria,
British Columbia.
 Proper medical treatment and good support enables people with bipolar disorder
(more than 75%) to maintain gainful employment.
 Bipolar disorder does not discriminate amongst gender or ethnicity.
 The average age of the onset for bipolar disorder is in late teens to early twenties.
 Distressed with extreme mood swings of emotion, people can turn to drugs and
alcohol to manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder, only to add further pain to
their lives – and troubling consequences. Research has shown that up to 60% of
people with bipolar disorder are vulnerable to having substance abuse problems,
if not treated effectively.
 Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, it can be professionally treated and
managed. More than 40% of patients with bipolar illness can expect full and
complete recovery with proper management while 50% may expect a very
marked reduction in symptoms.
8
What Can We Do?

All of us have times when we feel sad,
depressed, anxious or angry. We might even
have a series of bad days, where we think
that nothing will ever go right for us and the
world is against us.
For many mentally ill people, these feelings

do not go away.
Treatment
How is bipolar disorder treated?

 Education
 Substance Abuse Treatment (if necessary)
 Medication and medication maintenance
 Psychotherapy
 Peer Support – Internet, support groups, friends, etc.
 Families and caregivers
 Psychiatric Teams
 Electro Convulsive Therapy (ECT)
 A chosen course of alternative treatment
 Personal planning -- a balanced and healthy life including workload, exercise and
nutrition.
The answer lies in education, empathy and acceptance. If someone seems very
emotional, down or upset it is important to show compassion and understanding and to
encourage them to seek help.
Sufferers can take comfort in the fact that they are not alone and that there is hope. The
first action someone can take is talk to a person that they trust, such as their family
practitioner, and/or call a local crisis line.
9
Patient Perception
 Suicide accounts for 24% of all deaths among Canadians aged 15-24 and 16% of
all deaths for the age group 25-44.
“Having bipolar disorder has been a very difficult journey and there was a time when I
felt disabled by the crippling lows to the point where I could not make myself
something to eat and if I did then I was unable to taste my food. There was a time
when I swallowed an entire bottle of pills to end the suffering but luckily I lived.”
 Diagnosed individuals often view themselves as if they are damaged and there is a
kind of internal stigma that is perpetuated with the outside stigma displayed in our
society.
“As an undiagnosed teen I felt alone - as if I

really didn't belong anywhere in the world. I
knew I was depressed but there was something
else that just wasn't right. At times my
thoughts would race and nothing made sense.
I felt broken, different, strange and too
ashamed to talk about it or seek help.”
 Often the one who suffers with bipolar will suffer alone due to the stigma
attached to obtaining a diagnosis.
 There is often frustration in getting help due to lack of direction and long wait
times.
 It seems people only get the necessary help once they have attempted suicide or
another crisis situation takes place. In some cases, by this time, it is too late.
10
Public Perception
 Stigma exists in our world and often makes the subject of mental illness 'strange' or
difficult to talk about. Many people who have a mental illness feel shameful and
devastated.
 Stigma is a harsh reality for people who have mental health problems because it
prevents them from enjoying a normal and productive life.
 In fact, many people are so uncomfortable with the stigma associated with mental
illness that they would rather suffer in silence than get the help that they need.
Here are a few of the most common

misconceptions about mental health
problems:
* Mentally ill people have a weak
character.
* Mentally ill people are potentially
dangerous.
* People with mental illness should just
“snap out of it”.
* Mentally ill people are violent.
 The media has only further fueled our distorted beliefs about mental health issues.
Frequently, characters on television and in the movies that have a mental illness
are depicted as dangerous, unpredictable and violent.
 We can learn a lot from the stories of other people who have survived with
mental illness and this is key in creating understanding and empathy.
 The purpose of the Bipolar Babe project is to create conversations free of stigma
that will encourage people to have hope and be inspired by the possibilities that
life offers.
11
Our Concept
The mental health field is a vital part of our society. One in five Canadians have a
mental illness. Since these conditions usually appear in a person’s youth, the need for
resources for this age group is imperative.
The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC has designed programs providing awareness about
mental illness in hopes of eliminating stigma, discrimination and unwarranted fears of this
condition. Society believes that early diagnosis and treatment is essential to sustain a
healthy and productive life.
Programming Priorities
The Bipolar Babe Project

The Bipolar Babe website www.bipolarbabe.com is a popular tool for educating
youth about mental health. The website encourages users to post their stories, questions
and thoughts on the bipolar babe FORUM and BLOG, which has become extremely
active. The website averages a steady 1200 hits per month with the highest charting
point marked at 2500 coinciding with the month of the Bipolar Babe Benefit event in
November 2009.
Bipolar Babe has hosted various workshops including the recent South Island Training
Initiative (SITI) Conference 2010 and has presented to the Cool Aid Society’s REES
Mentorship Program, the University of Victoria’s Mental Health Task Force, the South
Island Child and Youth Mental Health, the FORCE Society for Kids Mental Health, the
Young Parents Support Network, the Salvation Army, and youth mental health clinicians
and health care professionals. Andrea has also educated and assisted families and friends
of those who have a mental illness.
The Bipolar Babe project has been showcased by numerous

media outlets such as the CFAX afternoon show with Dave
Dickson, People First Radio – Columbian Centre Society
Nanaimo, and nationally on CBC radio where Andrea discussed
mental health education and the reality of living with bipolar
disorder.
12
‘Stigma Stomp’ Classroom Presentations
The Stigma Stomp presentations benefit youth grades 7-12.

The 50 minute presentation takes place in a classroom
setting and includes:
 Powerful images that provoke and peak interest
around mental illness and stigma.
 Andrea’s personal story of managing and living
with bipolar disorder and eventually additional
presenters.
 The conclusion includes sharing the mental health
map, providing direction for youth wanting to seek
help, followed by questions.
The Bipolar Babe ‘Stigma Stomp’ presentations provide a window into the life of
someone that has a mental illness.
Andrea has had great success in connecting with youth through her presentations with
her energetic style and interactive approach. Many youth identify with Andrea as they
perceive her as a ‘big sister’.
She has piloted the program at various schools such as Pacific Secondary’s Alternative
School and SJ Willis Secondary School in Victoria, BC. BDSBC will train others with
similar experiences to effectively deliver the program.
Bipolar Babe Workshops and Presentations:
An Intimate View into the World of Mental Health
As the spokesperson for the ‘Bipolar Babe’ project,

Andrea Paquette facilitates thought provoking
conversations about mental health.
She encourages participants to assess their own views

and explore their knowledge around mental illness,
challenging them to explore the topic of stigma in a
comfortable and open environment.
A significant portion of the workshop includes Andrea sharing her intimate personal story
about being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, the impacting events preceding and
following the event and her experiences that led up to her recovery. Andrea’s workshop
aims to be thought provoking, interactive, and most of all valuable. Workshops are
13
tailored for different audiences including workplace educators, youth, people in social
work, parents, and the open community.
‘Teens2Twenties’ Peer Support Group
The ‘Teens2Twenties’ Bipolar
Peer Support Group will be a
place of comfort and
understanding before, during
and after the highs and lows
caused by bipolar disorder
become overwhelming.
The goal is to create a safe and comfortable place to visit and participate with peers who
have bipolar disorder in a 90 minute session once per week.
Andrea Paquette and the team will facilitate stigma free conversations with students
about living with a mental illness.
The group will be encouraged to share their own stories, concerns, and experiences with
each other, to create an environment for healing and self expression.
A key objective of the project is to emphasize each individual’s strengths to empower
them to make choices that will better their lives through self care, self-esteem and lifestyle
choices including the misuse of medication, drugs and alcohol.
14
Additional Programs in Development
 Employee Education and Support

Help employers to assist their employees and their families understand and deal
with mental illness, a huge contributor to the loss of staff time and productivity.
 Bipolar Babe: Hospital Visits

A member of the Bipolar Babe team will visit a new friend in emergency or while
hospitalized upon request.
 Bipolar Teen-Talk Hotline

Teen to teen chatting as a resource phone for people with a mental illness.
 Mentoring Program
Partnering a teen with bipolar disorder with a stable and experienced individual
who also has bipolar disorder.
 Bipolar Babe Presentation Evenings

BDSBC will host a speaker to present on a mental health topic and promote group
participation.
 The Bipolar Babe Chat Program

A program that provides education and assistance to those affected with bipolar
disorder including friends and families of the individual affected.
 The Bipolar Babe Children’s School Presentations

In the future, Bipolar Babe will attend schools and discuss mental health and
stigma with young school aged children as many younger youth are being
diagnosed with a mental illness.
 Parents and Teachers Program

Andrea and others will attend schools and make presentations to teachers and
parents about the reality of living with a mental illness to better understand their
children and their students.
 Bipolar Babe Training Programs
15
The BDSBC realizes that they cannot depend on Andrea Paquette alone to make
presentations and workshops, so the society plans to train additional individuals
to deliver their programs throughout British Columbia.
16
Strategic Planning
The Process
 We have collaborated with many mental health, educational and community
professionals, in a variety of venues to set focus.
 To date, we have established basic priorities:
o Increase public understanding of the community, family and economic
challenges of mental illness.
o Use the evolving Stigma Stomp program to reach students, educators,
families, government and employers, so they are able to learn and be
responsive to those faced with the challenges of bipolar disorder.
o Establish the Bipolar Disorder Society of BC as a registered charity, in order
to fund the vitally needed educational programs.
o Participants and Evaluators

 As the Society evolves, there is a constant stream of individuals lending their
names, resources and expertise. The list is appended.
o Strategy, Timelines & Accountability

 As programs become established, there will be a specific timeline for detailed
implementation, with designated launch in September 2010. Key elements will
include:
o Program development & implementation, starting in Victoria in May 2010
o Charitable Status application, to commence May 2010
o Research into additional community support and resources, ongoing
o Establishment of a long term funding program, Spring-Summer 2010
o Liaison with related and supporting organizations, ongoing.
 We expect a full and detailed timetable to be in place by June 1.
 Several test presentations have been made to date, with very positive results.
Organization Development
o Board of Directors & Advisory Board
A founding Board of Directors has been established and is meeting monthly to
deal with the evolution of the Society.
 An Advisory Board is under development and includes:
 Dr. Mary Kaye Nixon, Child Psychiatrist
 Doug Sprenger, President, CUPE 951
 Cindy Player, Chair of the Mental Health Task Force, UVIC
o Provincial Incorporation
 Bipolar Disorder Society of British Columbia has been incorporated under
the Societies Act of BC on January 15, 2010.
o Charitable Status
 The Board has agreed to attain charitable status under the Income Tax act,
and has begun the process with the Canada Revenue Agency.
17
Marketing Plan
It is important to understand that marketing

for community organizations must be a
combination of communication, volunteers
and fund raising.
 Communications – The Public Need

Building a volunteer team of communication professionals who will
establish an ongoing plan with timelines and accountability.
This includes:
 A media strategist
 Website and social marketing advisor
 Graphic arts specialists
 A professional photographer
 Front line print & electronic media professionals
 Print & production specialists.
Building communication with the media and the public with a

focused message.
 Clear approach to media relations
 Database of resources: i.e. people involved
 Concise and consistent materials
 Volunteer training
 Website & Social Marketing
 Electronic Newsletter
18
Fund Raising – Paying for it
Several individuals and organizations have

volunteered to help. The goal is to gather a
solid team while awaiting charitable status.
It is important to know that many
donations can be received in the meantime
in many ways, and we intend to pursue
them over the summer of 2010.
Building a Shopping List

 Those who fund charities are very responsive to the idea of purchasing
a commodity. “You get this result at this cost.”
 To support our success, we have built a “shopping list” of projects we

believe are fundable, in a range of activity, at a range of cost.
Community Fundraising:
 Individuals
o Individual donors and families represent 87% of the non-
government donations in Canada. Because they are the most
affected by Bipolar Disorder, they will be the ones who will
choose to assist the cause.
o This must be done very selectively and with great discretion,
mostly through personal contact and referral.
 The Professions
o The mental health, educational and other professions will be key
in helping our potential supporters invest in education and
understanding of Bipolar Disorder and other mental illnesses.
o Once we are known, they can provide financial support and
referrals to others who need assistance, as well as offer
education opportunities or provide funds.
19
 Corporate
o The business community needs us.
o They have employees or families of employees with Bipolar
Disorder or other mental illnesses.
o This results in a huge loss of staff time, working relationships and
productivity.
o We will approach employers with the opportunity to have a
speaker for an informal employee group, with appropriate
referral for staff who require assistance.
o In return, we will ask the employer to invest in the future of
their employees and their business by investing in the Bipolar
Disorder Society of BC.
 Foundations
o These organizations are approachable for support at any time,
although they often have specific timetables.
o Many can be approached while waiting for charitable status,
while family foundations will need the promise of a tax receipt.
o We are able to provide a tax receipt complimentary of working
with the Umbrella Society for Mental Health and Addictions.
o Again in this case, foundations require a specific project to fund,
and rarely pay for the concept.
 Government
o Government departments and agencies continue to respond to
programs that are for the public good, especially those that can
deliver results at a lower cost than they can provide themselves.
o We are prioritizing a list of appropriate potential funders and
will approach them on a carefully planned basis, with specific
projects in mind.
20
Events
The awareness of the society was publicly
launched with a highly successful fashion, hair
and art gala held at the Victoria Event Centre in
November 2009. A second Bipolar Babe
Benefit event was held in September 2010.
Events, when properly managed, have the

benefit of raising money and awareness
simultaneously.
It is the intent of the Society to receive the

receipts from two special events per year, one
in the fall, repeating the past experience and
one each spring.
These will be dependent on utilizing BDSBC’s high capacity volunteers and

contacting focused sponsors.
 Major Gifts
o As we progress, there will be a focus on major gifts from
individuals, families and private supporters to help build the
education programs.
o These may come at any time, and are usually because of
relationships built with individuals.
 Planned Giving
o Also known as Living Gifts, Planned Gifts are usually one time
donations from someone who has been affected by what we
do.
o This can come in the form of bequests, insurance & annuities,
trusts and gifts of property.
o As the Society matures, we will actively pursue this potential in
order to help create long term funding.
21
 Sponsorship
o Businesses and individuals often sponsor specific projects or

events, with promotional value in mind.
o We will selectively offer such visibility on a case by case basis,
when the values of the sponsor are consistent with the Society’s
values.
 Donor Recognition
o Every donor has a personal agenda.

o They give because they believe in what we are doing.
o Sometimes they want recognition, sometimes they will not.
o We will work with every donor to make sure that their wishes
are respected.
22
Building a Team: Volunteers –

The Community Essential
The primary objective is to establish

needs. What do we need people for?
What talents do we need? What
time commitment will they have to
make?
We already know we require people for:
o Opening doors for the educational program

o Communications development
o Advisory Board
o Fund Raising
o Special Events
This is expected to evolve on a constant basis and will be posted on

our website and other media.
Recruit, Train, Assign, Recognize & Retain

When an individual offers to volunteer, we will interview them with a list of
opportunities in mind, to create a good fit.
 We will describe the role, the time commitment and the personal
opportunities.
 We will educate them in Bipolar Disorder, the Society, their role and
anything else they wish to learn.
 We will assign them a task that is fitting with their interest, resources
and commitment.
 We will recognize them personally, in a fashion appropriate to their
involvement and personal interests.
 From this, we will encourage them to take on a similar or larger role
in the future.
 We will encourage them to involve others.
23
Administration
o Accounting
 System & Policies
 Banking arrangements have been made with the Bank of Montreal.
 An electronic accounting system is in place, with bookkeeping
responsibilities assigned to the Treasurer and the President.
 Budgets & Projections

 In concert with application for charitable status, a full budget for the
current year and projections for the next two years are being
established.
 This, of course, is dependent on program development and
establishment of fund raising programs.
o Operating Policies
 A statement of Operating Policies has been accepted by the Board.
o Insurance
 Once the overall program design and charitable status are in place, we will
obtain General Liability plus Directors & Officers Insurance.
24
APPENDICES
Resource List
The development of the Bipolar Disorder Society of BC has relied on the
leadership, ideas and outstanding support of many individuals and
organizations.
Strategic Plan Team

Last First Title & Email Phone Notes
Name Name Association
Early
Childhood
Educator, Involvement,
mother of son 250-381- but perhaps
Bisgrove Tara with bipolar isladybug@shaw.ca 0177 small requests
Child and
Youth
Intake/Mental Excellent
Health contact and
Clinician, helpful -
Westshore getting
Child and speaking
Youth Mental events for
Bizotto Manuela Health Manuela.Bizzotto@gov.bc.ca 250.391.2270 babe
Psychiatric Dedicated and
Munn Helen Nurse helenmunn@gmail.com 250 6611974 reliable
Excellent
Resource - is
Andrea's
sponsor for the
Chair, UVIC Teen2Twenties
Mental Health (250) 721- Support Group
Player Cindy Task Force cplayer@uvic.ca 7007 at UVIC
Volunteer -
passionate -
Bipolar writing stories
Disorder page for
Sadd Roy Survivor h_roysadd@yahoo.ca 250 812-1615 website
Dedicated
Schnerch Patrick Author pjschnerch@shaw.ca 250 381-6405 volunteer
25
Professional Supporters
Last Name First Name Title and Association Notes

Community Relations
Alan Rycroft Cool Aid Society Supportive
Axon David Psychiatric Nurse VIHA Psych nurse
Has offered to get

Berg Dawn Teacher at Westshore babe into schools
Bignell Kristy Teacher in Sooke District
President - Young
Bissett Phil Entrepreneurs Society
Guidance Counselor,
Cox David Spencer School
Photographer, event
D`Silva Veronique organizer
Has gotten babe a
speaking event
Project Coordinator -
Young Parents Support
d'Archangelo Margo Network
New friend - may
help
President - Social
Davies Terri Networking Company
Executive Director -
Dean Mitzi Pacific Services
Political Candidate for
Desouza Troy ESJF
Owner - Website Has put banner on
Dobbie Don Developer site
Case Manager - Babe’s psych nurse
Vancouver Island Health
Dobko-Walsh Daphne Authority (VIHA)
Babe’s doctor – very
Dr. Song Psychiatrist - VIHA supportive
Member of the
Fleming Rob Legislative Assembly
Mental Health Project
Manager - BC
Green John Government
26
Director - FORCE Society Babe has presented

Hansen Lisa for Kids to her kids
Executive Director -
Umbrella - A Resource for
Mental Health and
Harper Gordon Addictions
Youth Outreach Worker -
Youth Empowerment
Henry Jim Society
Kennedy Michael President - CAFCA
Twitter, big networker in
Lacouvee Janis Victoria -social networker
Founder - HALO
Larson Haley Networking
Victoria City Councilor,
Lucas Philippe City of Victoria
Wants babe to
present to troubled
MacDonald Pamela Youth Probation youth
Maxwell Victoria Mental Health Educator
Wants me to speak
to nurses in the Fall
and for BDSBC to
Coordinator - Nursing have a nursing
McLeod Diane Practicum at UVIC student
Chair - Innovative Have presented to
Mitchell John Communities.Org ICO
President - Crystal Meth
Monsour Don Prevention Society
BC Campus Project Very supportive
Morrison Johnny Coordinator -CHMA
Mental Health Team
Worker - Phoenix
Morrison Mary Services
Guidance Counselor -
Renaud Josy Sooke School District
Savoie Denise Member of Parliament Possible supporter
Tahmasebi Christina Youth worker - YMCA
Teghtsoonian Kathy Professor at UVIC
Director, Health and
Van Hermert Jenneke Housing Co-op
President and
coordinator - Volunteer
Tara, Bonnie Victoria
27
Volunteers
Last Name First Email Telephone Notes
Name
Ahmadi Renee FB contacted babe
and very keen
Ashdown Mathew gratidudem@gmail.com Has shown great
support
Baird Mel FB Make-up artists
benefit volunteer
-reliable
Bates Jenessa jbate@pcfsa.org Shows great
respect and
interest in
project
Beal Clive 250 383-0936 Wants to
volunteer -has
mental illness
Bisset- Phil Philip.Bisset- 250 882-2200 networking and
Covaneiro Covaneiro@investorsgroup.com small tasks
Burke Julia juliaburke110@hotmail.com 250 419-1356 Mother of teen
girl with bipolar -
interested in
road map
Colonnello Renee FB Presented
interested
d'Archangelo Margo margo@ypsn.ca 2508938503 Has gotten babe
a speaking event
- a potential
volunteer
Daku Jenna and FB works in field and
Zeke very passionate
about cause
Davies Jen Hairgardensalon@gmail.com 250 384-7494 events in
collaboration
Devi Malti MALTI@LUCULENTINC.COM Freelance
photographer
and graphic
designer
Dezwart Teresa FB Friend and
respect for
project
Gibson Lizy FB Son has BP - has
offered help but
shown little
interest
Glover Ali ali.glover@live.com 250 514-3747 very interested
28
Hamilton Jerianne jeriannehamilton@shaw.ca 250 2940852 Has done

volunteer work,
good friend
Hargrave David FB He has bipolar
disorder and
seems keen to
help.
Hoffman Michael FB requested Has shown great
support
Katzer Rob FB requested good friend -
keen person all
around
Lambert Dwayne FB Bipolar babe pic
model from
Sooke
Markus Julia jamuseme@gmail.com 250 507-5758 marketing - small
tasks
Martin Joseph josephmartin@shaw.ca Offers help in
many regards $
Métis Alicia FB Very keen -
seems reliable
Morriss Brad FB requested Has shown great
support - need to
confirm
Munn Helen helenmunn@gmail.com 250 6611974 dedicated and
reliable
Osselton Scott FB Bipolar babe pic
model from
Sooke
Pannu George Pannu19@hotmail.com Volunteered on
the BBB - has
agreed to
volunteer
Peerless Yukari FB requested Volunteered on
the BBB – has
agreed to
volunteer
Player Cindy cplayer@uvic.ca 2507217007 Excellent
Resource - is
Andrea's sponsor
for the
Teen2Twenties
Support Group at
UVIC
Pratt Jessica makeup artists
benefit volunteer
–reliable
29
Quesnelle Amy amyeq@shaw.ca very reliable-

camosun student
and has bipolar
Quesnelle Phil Phil.Quesnelle@osiss.ca father of Amy
who has bipolar -
reliable
Reynolds Ellen ellenandcharlie@gmail.com Volunteered on

the BBB - has
agreed to
volunteer
Sadd Roy h_roysadd@yahoo.ca 2508121615 Volunteer -

passionate -
writing stories
page for website
Schaffer Jessica FB Event planner
Snerch Patrick FB Committed

volunteer
Souza Lisa FB Supports project
Swadron June juneswadron@shaw.ca 2503852205 Has bipolar,

writer, friend and
reliable
Urlatcher Carl FB Bipolar babe pic

model from
Sooke
Valade Jon jon@ideazone.ca John`s son has
bipolar disorder
Winters Tasha FB 2507449417 makeup artists
benefit volunteer
-reliable
Zermend Josh vijetijshzed@hotmail.com Has offered to

volunteer
Zykova Klava klavaz@gmail.com Makeup artists
benefit
volunteer-
reliable
Sergei FB Shows great
respect and
interest in
project
30
Bipolar Disorder Society

Revenue Requirements - Based on March 31st Year-End
Past Year Actual Current Year Budgeted Next Year

Proposed
REVENUE
Gifts:
Individuals 15000.00
Corporations/businesses 12000.00
Other registered charities 3000.00
Grants:
Municipal
Provincial 5000.00
Federal
Other
Fundraising
Organization's Own 5100.00 10000.00
Others, on behalf of Organization
Donations/Individual/Corporate 800.00 6000.00
Other/In Kind
Sale of Goods, Services, Use of Assets

Client / User Fees 2000.00
31
TOTAL REVENUE 5900.00 53000.00 0.00
EXPENDITURES
Charitable Activity
Direct Fundraising 1800.00 2500.00
Payment to Fundraisers 8000.00
Expenditures: sale of goods, services, use of
assets
Political activities
Program Development & Delivery 600.00 25000.00
Management & Administration
Salaries, Wages, Benefits 3750.00
Consultation 6000.00
Accounting & Legal
Occupancy Costs 2000.00
Supplies & Equipment 330.00 2000.00
Equipment & Furnishings 1000.00
Office Supplies & Services 190.00 1000.00
Transportation & Travel
Evaluation costs
Advertising, Printing & Publications 470.00
Other / In Kind (specify)
Training
Product for sales (e.g. ENP)
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 3390.00 51250.00 0.00
Net Revenue 2510.00 1750.00 0.00
32
Bipolar Babe – Activity in the Community
Organization Type of Presentation Date

Cool Aid 1 hour presentation to mentors in a June 2009 and May 2010
Society/Umbrella Society mentor/mentee program (30)
– REES Program
Young Entrepreneurs’ 40 minute presentation (10) November 2009
Society
Innovative 30 minute presentation (10) November 2009
Communities.Org
Westshore Youth 1 hour presentation (15) March 2010
Collective
South Island Child and 1 hour presentation to Westshore (35) March, 2010
Youth Mental Health –
mental health
professionals
South Island Training 2 hour workshop to youth mental March, 2010
Initiative (SITI) - health clinicians and health care
Conference professionals (30)
Independent Bipolar Babe 2 hour workshop to various members March, 2010

Workshop of society, many of whom have a
mental illness (15)
Saanich Rotary Club 30 minute presentation to Rotarians April 2010
(30)
The FORCE Society for 30 minute presentation to youth part April 2010
Children’s Mental Health of the FORCE organization (15)
Salvation Army 30 presentation to people in April 2010
need/homeless (25)
Young Parents Support 1 hour presentation to young mothers April 2010
Network (15)
University of Victoria’s 40 minute presentation to University May 2010
Mental Health Task Force of Victoria workers and other
professionals (15)
Phoenix Mental Health 1 hour Meeting to gather information May 2010
Services for BDSBC’s classroom material (5)
Pacific Alternative 10 slide presentation and 40 minute June 2010
Secondary School oral presentation (15)
SJ Willis Alternative 10 slide presentation and 40 minute June 2010
School oral presentation (25)
33
University of Victoria 1 hour presentation to nurses (20) September 2010

BC Government Panel Member – Disability (40) November 2010
Pacific Secondary School – 2X 10 minute slide presentation and November 2010
Alternate Technology 40 minute oral (60)
School
Other: Meet people out
of hospital, meet other
diagnosed people for
advice, e-mail
counsel/friendship,
provide support groups,
34
BDSBC Letterhead
35
BDSBC ‘Stigma Stomp’

Rack Card
36

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Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................... 1

Fundraising – Paying For It

Building a Team: Volunteers – The Community Essential

The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC was incorporated with a solid six

A series of professional and peer meetings have created a Strategic Plan.

Primary program areas have been established:

The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC attained charitable status in August 2010.

A fund raising strategy, program material and volunteer development, and a

Additional information, public and school bookings, sponsorships and

The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC (BDSBC) and the Bipolar Babe

The mission of the Bipolar Disorder Society of British Columbia (BDSBC) is to

The bipolar babe project launched its website

 British Columbia Schizophrenia Society

The Bipolar Disorder Society of BC is a new non-profit organization

Andrea Paquette, President, BDSBC

Andrea, also known as ‘Bipolar Babe’, has an inspiring story about

She is dedicated to facilitating ‘stigma free’

Andrea initiated the bipolar babe project in May

Andrea is currently completing a Masters Program at the University of

She has worked professionally in the BC government in the areas of

Andrea Paquette, President, BDSBC

Rachel Lariviere, Vice President, BDSBC

Robin Holden, Treasurer, BDSBC

Gurpreet Randhawa, Secretary, BDSBC

Danielle Hobbs, Director, BDSBC

Gordon Harper, Director, BDSBC

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression, is a brain disorder that results in

The cause of bipolar disorder is not unlike other chronic illnesses.

Scientists believe that bipolar disorder is the result of interplay

Stigma is the use of stereotypes and labels

The number of people that have bipolar

(more than 75%) to maintain gainful employment.

 Bipolar disorder does not discriminate amongst gender or ethnicity.

if not treated effectively.

marked reduction in symptoms.

What Can We Do?

For many mentally ill people, these feelings

How is bipolar disorder treated?

“As an undiagnosed teen I felt alone - as if I

Here are a few of the most common

The Bipolar Babe Project

The Bipolar Babe project has been showcased by numerous

‘Stigma Stomp’ Classroom Presentations

The Stigma Stomp presentations benefit youth grades 7-12.

Bipolar Babe Workshops and Presentations:

An Intimate View into the World of Mental Health

As the spokesperson for the ‘Bipolar Babe’ project,

She encourages participants to assess their own views

‘Teens2Twenties’ Peer Support Group

The ‘Teens2Twenties’ Bipolar

Peer Support Group will be a

place of comfort and

understanding before, during

and after the highs and lows

caused by bipolar disorder

have bipolar disorder in a 90 minute session once per week.

about living with a mental illness.

each other, to create an environment for healing and self expression.

A key objective of the project is to emphasize each individual’s strengths to empower

choices including the misuse of medication, drugs and alcohol.

Additional Programs in Development