From Burnout to Breakthrough: The Realities of Community Living Work with Mike

In this powerful episode of the Shining Brighter Podcast, hosts Jared Braun and Kelly sit down with Mike, a long-time leader and advocate at the Fort St. John Association for Community Living (FSJACL).With warmth and honesty, Mike shares his journey from a 14-year-old camp counselor in Ontario to a dedicated community living supervisor in Fort St. John. His story reveals the heart behind disability support work—where passion, patience, and teamwork make a difference every day.Together, they explore the real challenges and victories of building a more inclusive community:Finding friendship and connection in small townsCombating burnout and leading with compassionImproving accessibility in local spaces and workplacesSupporting staff through tough days and celebrating successesTackling service gaps in healthcare, dental, and therapy supportsThe impact of fundraising through FSJACL’s Healthy Advocates FundFrom Kelly’s advocacy for accessibility at college to community partnerships with Bailey Helicopter, this episode highlights how small actions can spark big change.Key Takeaways:Community living work is a calling, not just a job.Inclusion starts with conversation, empathy, and design.Donor support helps individuals with disabilities live healthier, fuller lives.Everyone has potential — we just need to believe and invest in it.Listen to Shining Brighter to hear how Mike and the FSJACL team are breaking myths, building inclusion, and changing lives in Fort St. John.Subscribe to support awareness, inclusion, and the power of community living.