Oliver & Osoyoos, British Columbia

Building hope today.
Changing lives
in our community.

For over 30 years, Desert Sun Counselling has provided free programs, crisis support, and resources for people of all ages in the South Okanagan. You are not alone.

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Upcoming Fundraiser

Empty Bowls Kick-Off Fundraising Event

Local chefs compete for the title of Best Soup in an evening of door prizes, a silent auction and entertainment. Every ticket supports free counselling and support programs in Oliver and Osoyoos.

When Saturday, November 14 · 6–9 pm (doors 5:30)
Where Spirit Ridge Resort, Osoyoos
Tickets $75 per person
Getting there Free shuttle service available

Buy Tickets on Eventbrite

Tickets are also available at our Oliver and Osoyoos offices.

30+ Years Serving
Our Community

20+ Free Programs
and Services

2 Office Locations
Oliver and Osoyoos

$0 Cost to Access
Most Programs

What We Offer

Programs and Services for Everyone

Whether you need immediate crisis support, counselling, parenting resources, or programs for seniors, Desert Sun is here to help.

Immediate support when you need it most. Our Safe Home shelter, 24/7 Women's Crisis Line, and Youth Shelter provide confidential care around the clock.

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Confidential counselling for men and women - most programs are free, with a Fee for Service option also available. Self-referrals accepted; no waitlist referral required to get started.

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Counselling and specialized support for children and youth, including our PEACE Program for young people who have experienced family violence.

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From Circle of Security and Mother Goose to DS Cooks and Community Kitchen, we offer practical, welcoming programs for families at every stage.

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TAPS, Men's Shed, Social Meals, Better at Home, and more - helping seniors in Oliver and Osoyoos remain connected, active, and independent.

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Our Community Connector and Community Support Workers help residents navigate services, housing assistance, and resources across the South Okanagan.

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View All Programs

Who We Are

A community built on care

Desert Sun Counselling and Resource Centre has been a cornerstone of the South Okanagan since 1990. We started small and grew because our community needed us. Today, we offer over 20 programs - virtually all free of charge - to people of all ages in Oliver, Osoyoos, and the surrounding areas.

We are a registered non-profit. Thanks to the generous support of community members and funders, virtually all of our programs are free to access. Self-referrals are welcomed for all services.

“Our work is all about care. Care and believing that tomorrow really can be better than today.” - Marieze Tarr, Executive Director

Our Story

What Guides Us

Our Values

Everything we do is guided by five core values that shape how we show up for every person who walks through our door.

Compassion

Motivates us to help others with warmth and genuine care.

Integrity

We act in alignment with the values and principles we hold.

Empathy

Awareness of and sensitivity to the emotions of others.

Equity

We acknowledge differences and provide the support each person needs.

Acceptance

We start where each person is - no judgment, no conditions.

Voices from Our Community

Lives Changed

“Desert Sun was there when I felt like I didn’t have any other options. Thank you for empowering me and helping me get back on my feet. I cannot even put into words how much of a difference you made in my and my children’s lives.”

M - Safe Home Client

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