Disability advocate Dorothy Alexander dies at 87 in Vernon

Isabella Dorothy Alexander, better known as Dorothy, died on October 1, 2026, at the age of 87. She spent nearly her entire life caring for and supporting people with disabilities in the Vernon area.

Born in Manitoba, Alexander grew up in the Hullcar area of Spallumcheen and attended Armstrong Elementary School. After high school, she continued her education and began a lifelong commitment to helping others.

“Dorothy Alexander was not only a remarkable advocate for persons with disabilities in our community, but also a true pioneer whose vision and dedication helped shape the services and opportunities available today.”

In 1958, she started My School, which provided education and activities for 10 children with disabilities. The program eventually expanded and relocated to what is now Venture Living’s main location on Alexis Park Drive.

Alexander was on the founding board of Venture Living, formerly Venture Training. Ryan Cucheron, the organization’s chief executive officer, called her a remarkable advocate and true pioneer whose vision shaped services available today.

During the 1960s and 1970s, she used groundbreaking approaches that challenged prevailing attitudes of institutionalization. She believed people with disabilities deserved opportunities to participate, contribute, and belong in their communities.

She also promoted reverse inclusion, bringing high school and nursing students into My School to interact with and support the children. Her obituary described her as a passionate advocate who worked to ensure dignity and opportunity for people with disabilities.