In 1981, Archbishop Carney invited the Daughters of St. Mary of Providence to the Archdiocese of Vancouver to develop a catechetical program for children and adults with Special Needs. The result was Vanspec. The program offers an alternative to PREP programs for those who would benefit from one-on-one catechism classes, and now welcomes students with a wider range of needs.
Vanspec classes are led by volunteer catechists and aides who, with the assistance of the Program Director, adapt the content of each lesson and learning materials to the needs of the individual student. Vanspec is fully funded by the Archdiocese through Project Advance. An annual fundraiser supports the Summer Camp program for Vanspec students and alumni.