SPREADING
EXPERIENCE WEST COAST WILDERNESS AT NIMMO BAY
A CHESS REFEREE’S FIGHT FOR WOMEN’S RIGHTS
Wheelchair User Becomes First to Enter the Pyramids of Giza Relaxation and Adventure in Belize Hassan Al Kontar’s Story of Seeking Refuge in Canada Türkiye and Syria: WFP Giving LifeSaving Support Countering Anti-Feminist Backlash in Ethiopia
RAYE MOCIOIU
Imagine a world where every child, regardless of background, is surrounded by books, stories and a love of reading. This is the world that Dolly Parton, beloved country music legend and philanthropist, is working to build. Every 1.3 seconds, a book from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is mailed out to a child in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, or the Republic of Ireland. Over two million free books are gifted each month to children worldwide, with one in 10 children in the USA under the age of five enrolled in the program, receiving a book from the Imagination Library every month. In Canada alone, over 44,000 books are sent out monthly. That’s a lot of reading!
“I created my Imagination Library to honour my Dad,” said Parton, the founder and namesake of the program. “He was a smart man, but he never had the opportunity to get an education and to learn to read and write. Even as a little girl, I saw how that held him back.”
The Imagination Library, launched in 1995, is the flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation (DWF), founded by Parton in 1988 to inspire children in her home county to achieve educational success and decrease high school dropout rates. In starting the Imagination Library, Parton’s vision was to foster a love of reading among her county’s preschool children and their families by giving them the gift of a specially selected, age-appropriate book each month. Over the years, the program expanded beyond her county—even crossing the borders of Parton’s home country. Today, the program spans five countries, sparking a love of literacy in children all across the globe.
“I created the Imagination Library to help inspire a love of books and reading early in a child’s life because if you can read, you can teach yourself if you have to,” she said.
A country music icon and philanthropist, Parton’s life has inspired many. Born the fourth child of 12, Parton was raised in the town of Locust Ridge, Tennessee, and recalls a childhood filled with music and love, even though money was often scarce. Reading, too, was an integral part of Parton’s early life, regardless of a lack of books to read.
“When we were little, Mama always read us stories from the Bible,” Parton recalled. “We were very poor, and it was the only book we had, but I loved hearing all those stories.”
With the Imagination Library, Parton aims to inspire a love of books and reading in children of all backgrounds, regardless of their family’s income— something she wishes she had had access to as a child.
“We would receive food and cloth scraps, which Mama made clothes from. I remember knowing we were receiving things because we were poor,” continued Parton. “I’m sure I would have loved receiving books as a little girl, but I don’t want any child to think they receive books from the Imagination Library because they are poor. Reading and books are a gift that all children should receive, and it’s something that they can share even though they may have had very different experiences in life.”
Parton’s own life experiences changed when her music career took off. She began performing as a child, singing on local radio and television programs in East Tennessee. By the time she was 13, she had recorded her first single and even appeared at the Grand Ole Opry, a milestone achievement early in her career. Her talent and natural charisma found a home in songwriting after graduating high school, and Parton’s pen brought several chart-topping hits to life. Her first country album, Hello, I’m Dolly, cracked the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and launched her career as a hit-making singer-songwriter. In the years that followed, Parton climbed the charts and worked to become a household name, writing songs that are beloved to this day, like “I Will Always Love You,” “9 to 5,” and “Jolene.” Now the most honoured and revered female country singer-songwriter of all time, Parton continues to use her success as a platform for positivity, empowerment, and giving.
Despite her father’s illiteracy, Parton has always said he was one of the smartest people she’d ever known. Like many children raised by farmers, Parton’s father had to leave school early to begin working and help provide for his family. Although he garnered a wealth of knowledge in the trades, her father carried the weight of illiteracy for much of his life. It was this disadvantage that inspired
Parton to create the Imagination Library in his honour.
“When I got this idea to do the Imagination Library, I wanted to get Daddy involved in it,” said Parton. “I wanted him to help me with that so he could take pride in that, and so he did. He got to live long enough to hear the kids call me the Book Lady—he used to love that.”
As Parton saw it, if her father was never able to learn to read, there must have been a higher calling in place for him.
“I kept telling him that everybody has a different purpose in life, and if nothing else, maybe this is why you couldn’t read and write,” she continued. “Maybe God knew a long time ago that I was going to do something that would help millions of kids and people that couldn’t read and write. So I tried to give him that pride.”
And indeed, she did. As of February 2023, over 200 million free books have been gifted since the program’s inception in 1995, and its impact is only growing. The Imagination Library operates in all 50 states with 15 statewide programs in the United States, with three more set to launch this year, and is established in every province and territory in Canada.
The basis of the program is the need for increased reading and parental bonding at an age when a child is developing at a rapid rate—studies have shown that this time is critical for future education.
Children who are enrolled from birth receive 60 books by the time they graduate from the Imagination Library, and the selection of books is everincreasing, with audio, braille, and bilingual book options available, so no child is left behind.
The Imagination Library also recognizes the need to champion Canadian content for young Canadian readers. This year, 47 of the 60 books to be sent out in Canada are published by Penguin Random House Canada and written or illustrated by Canadian authors and illustrators.
By the time Parton’s father passed in 2000, she had achieved her dream of giving him the pride of helping children learn to read.
At the time, the Imagination Library was beginning to replicate its system across the United
in Washington, D.C., a fitting tribute to her humble father. As of 2022, the Imagination Library had another milestone to celebrate: Over two million books were sent out to children each month—not just across the country but across the globe.
“Of course, I have not done this alone,” said Parton. “The real heroes of our story are the thousands of local organizations who have embraced my dream and made it their own. They raise millions of dollars each year and wake up every day with a passion to make sure their kids have every opportunity to succeed.”
For each country, the process of getting books out to readers is similar: DWF covers overhead costs and negotiates wholesale pricing for the books, while local community partners fundraise to cover the cost of books and mailing. Many communities use the Imagination Library as part of a larger strategy to increase early literacy through libraries, schools, municipalities or provinces. In Canada, Prince Edward Island and the Yukon have a shared funding model where the Provincial/Territorial Government covers half of the local cost. Large and small libraries, such as Calgary Public Library and Edmonton Public Library, offer the program to further inspire a love of reading. Newfoundland and Labrador has had tremendous growth over the past year with the help of an anonymous private donor covering 75 per cent of the local costs required.
“In the beginning, my hope was simply to inspire the children in my home county, but here we are today with a worldwide program that gives a book a month to well over two million children,” Parton shared.
Outside of the Imagination Library, Parton’s DWF champions education and empowerment—the two are often linked, after all— particularly in her hometown. In 1991, a few years after the launch of DWF, Parton started the Buddy Program, where students in 7th and 8th grade were asked to “buddy up” with another student, with the promise of
high school students in Sevier County, Tennessee, where the Foundation is headquartered, to help further their education at any accredited university.
DWF also gives out several additional scholarships, such as the $30,000 Special Merit scholarship Parton gave to a young girl in Arkansas in 2016 in celebration of the Imagination Library reaching a milestone of one million books mailed out each month. Once the recipient reaches 18 years of age in 2032, the scholarship will be $60,000. That same year, Parton established the My People Fund, which raised over $12 million for families who lost their homes in the Sevier County fires on November 28, 2016.
In 2017, following the release of her children’s album, I Believe in You, Parton donated $1 million to the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in honour of her niece, who was treated for leukemia at that same hospital. Last year, Parton returned to Vanderbilt University Medical Center with another $1 million donation, this time to help further pediatric infectious disease research.
With 51 Grammy nominations under her belt, Parton is an undisputed legend for her contributions to music, but her philanthropic contributions are just as noteworthy—not to mention creative. Her theme park, Dollywood, was created to provide jobs for local families and build a tourist attraction to generate income for the community. In 2022, Parton was one of five recipients of the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy—an honour that marks her incredible impact on the world.
From childhood literacy and medical care to breaking down educational barriers, Parton has become a source of inspiration for many, constantly using her success to bring positivity, empowerment, and giving to the world. Now, with the Imagination Library, she’s also spreading love for literacy, helping children worldwide grow and learn through the magic of reading.
“The most gratifying thing for me is doing good in the world,” said Parton. “I’m a big believer that when you are in a position to
VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s Brain Breakthroughs fundraising campaign comes to a successful close Giving back time: more time to spend with loved ones and more time to enjoy life at its fullest.
In the context of brain health, this adage has heightened meaning because an immediate intervention often saves lives or dramatically improves recovery. Philanthropists across B.C. have rallied behind VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s flagship campaign, Brain Breakthroughs , collectively giving over $40 million since 2019, making breakthroughs big and small possible to help patients with a variety of brain conditions.
One particular area to benefit from the power of philanthropy is epilepsy. Epilepsy may be one of the more common neurological conditions—affecting approximately 23,000 British Columbians. Yet it is challenging to diagnose and treat because its causes are not well understood, and anti-seizure medications do not work in approximately 30 per cent of patients, regardless of age. There is a significant social stigma attached to epilepsy, and patients struggle with mental health issues and finding their footing in society.
Brain Breakthroughs put epilepsy on the map, injecting much-needed funding into critical hospital infrastructure to improve access to diagnosis and care for so many British Columbians,” said Dr. Yahya Aghakhani, Medical Director, Epilepsy Program, Vancouver General Hospital (VGH).
VGH is the provincial referral centre for epilepsy. Patients come from across the province for expert care only available here.
“VGH transformed my life,” said Natasha Wasmuth. “After years of medication and endless neurological testing, it was the specialists at VGH who made my seizures stop. And gave me my life back.”
VGH is the only hospital with a Seizure Investigation Unit (SIU) —a critical step in ensuring the best and most tailored treatment for patients like Natasha with complex and drug-resistant epilepsy. In 2019, when
Brain Breakthroughs launched, the SIU at VGH had only two beds. Now, thanks to philanthropy, that number is twice that.
“The impact of doubling bed capacity cannot be overstated,” said Dr. Aghakhani. “We can now assess, diagnose and treat more patients than ever before, and do it in less time. Time is key when it comes to the brain because timely access to care almost always means more effective interventions, improved quality of life and more fulsome recoveries. Philanthropy has made that possible for epilepsy patients in B.C., and we are immensely grateful for our donors’ foresight and generosity.”
The journey is only beginning.
Brain Breakthroughs has created a wave effect that has seen bigger
and more frequent donations to brain health than ever before. And the impact of these donations reverberates across services and programs. Beyond technology and equipment, the campaign is boosting people and care alongside research and discovery. It is attracting, recruiting, and retaining new talent to our province. It is training the next generation of experts to ensure continuity of care. And it is generating new ideas to advance novel treatments for otherwise intractable conditions.
Thus, donors to Brain Breakthroughs broke new ground by seed funding an epilepsy fellowship program at VGH. Thanks to their giving, the hospital’s first epilepsy fellowship cohort celebrated its graduation in 2022.
Two bright young minds received highly specialized training, education and mentorship in a nurturing environment. The program is setting them on a career trajectory of growth and building additional capacity for more professionals to enter the workforce to help an increasing number of patients now and in the future.
Beyond fellowships, the larger VGH epilepsy team is going from strength to strength, bringing in a new epileptologist and a new epilepsy surgeon to expand access to vital services for B.C. patients.
The New Year also welcomes the arrival of VGH’s first 3TMRI, made possible thanks to generous gifts to the campaign. This highly specialized
technology peers into the tiniest folds of the brain and provides a visualization with extra clarity and precision in ways not possible before. Armed with such sophisticated tools, clinicians at VGH will be able to make more precise assessments, for example localizing the source of epileptic seizures with greater accuracy to inform more effective treatments.
VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation extends its heartfelt thank you to all those who rallied behind Brain Breakthroughs to make a visible transformation in the lives of so many patients across our province.
Learn more about the impact of Brain Breakthroughs at vghfoundation.ca/brain-update
Thanks to your philanthropic support, VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s Brain Breakthroughs raised over $40 million to help 1 in 3 Canadians that will be affected by a brain disease, disorder or injury during their lifetime.
Thank you for helping us achieve brain breakthroughs, big and small, for all British Columbians.
vghfoundation.ca/brain-update
technology, people and care, research and discovery, making possible:
VGH’S FIRST 3TMRI TO ENHANCE CAPACITY FOR PROVIDING MORE TIMELY AND ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS
INNOVATIONS LIKE TELESTROKE TO GIVE MORE PEOPLE ACCESS TO URGENT, LIFE-SAVING CARE
BRAIN BOLT, A NEW KIND OF TECHNOLOGY TO SAVE MORE LIVES
OTHERWISE LOST TO BRAIN TRAUMA
FELLOWSHIPS IN NEUROLOGY TO TRAIN THE NEXT GENERATION OF MEDICAL EXPERTS
A WORLD FIRST 3D BRAIN MODEL TO
FIND A WAY TO STOP ALZHEIMER’S AND RELATED DEMENTIA
ADVANCEMENTS IN ALTERNATIVE
THERAPIES FOR TREATMENT-RESISTANT
MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS
BC BRAIN WELLNESS PROGRAM TO GIVE
MORE TIME FOR LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE WITH YOUR LOVED ONES
DR. PHILIP TEAL HEAD OF NEUROLOGY, VANCOUVER ACUTE VANCOUVER COASTAL HEALTHThese are both difficult and exciting times to be a forest professional in British Columbia.
Societal expectations for B.C.’s forests are changing. How and where timber is harvested is being widely questioned and a large segment of the population wants to halt logging of all old, large trees. The role of Indigenous Peoples in forest management and ownership is rightly expanding. Forests are increasingly used for recreation, while wildfires, bugs, drought, and flooding impact forest health, the environment, and public safety.
This weighs heavily on forest professionals. By law, their job is to provide advice for using the forest in a safe, responsible, and sustainable manner.
It is also an exciting time for forest professionals because they care about forests; this is their passion, what their education, experience, and training prepared
them for. Forest professionals have university degrees or college diplomas; they have completed a two-year articling process, passed a series of licensure examinations, and follow professional standards and codes. They are part of a regulated profession like accounting, medicine, or engineering. Forest professionals are accountable and willingly subject themselves to investigation and discipline overseen by the regulator, Forest Professionals BC.
It is important to realize that forest professionals are not loggers and professional forestry is not logging. However, forest professionals do develop harvesting and other plans to ensure logging is done responsibly and meets the environmental and forestry laws the government has set.
Equally important is the fact that most of B.C.’s forests are publicly owned. This means the government, not forest professionals, decides how a forested area is to be used—for a park, wildlife habitat, harvested for
timber and wood products, water management, or often, for multiple of these uses. Currently, about 15 per cent of B.C. forests have been set aside and protected, and each year about one per cent of B.C.’s forests are harvested and then replanted.
Forest professionals see and recognize how climate change affects our forests, understanding active forest management is a form of climate action. They also understand the way wildfire was dealt with in the past no longer works in a changing climate.
Regardless of their personal views, forest professionals are required to follow the law, and keep public interest paramount when making recommendations on forest management decisions. As professionals responsible for caring for and managing B.C.’s forests, they are constantly working to find an acceptable balance between legal (government-required) and non-legal (locally desired) priorities that often conflict with each other.
Forest professionals by themselves cannot make all the changes desired by segments of the public for how forests are used. Nor are they responsible for past practices some now disagree with. But their informed voices remain vital in helping all parties understand
the ecological consequences of whatever policies and choices are introduced to meet the changing public desires around B.C.’s forests. Forest professionals are part of the solution to ensure B.C.’s forests are here for generations to come.
ALLIE MURRAY
When civil war broke out in Syria in 2011, Hassan Al Kontar was living and working in the United Arab Emirates.
After his visa expired and he refused to return to Syria due to mandatory military service, Kontar was deported to Malaysia, one of the only places at the time that would
allow Syrians to enter without a visa. Upon arriving in Malaysia, Kontar had nowhere to go and ended up living in a Malaysian detention centre for two months and inside the Malaysia airport for seven months.
Looking for a way to freedom, Kontar took to social media to share his story. Sharing daily video diaries on Twitter, Kontar’s story made its way to three Canadians living in British Columbia, who worked with the Canadian government and the BC Muslim Association to sponsor Kontar and grant him permanent residency in Canada.
Now, some five years after arriving in B.C., Kontar has become a Canadian citizen.
“Being a refugee is something I never chose, however, no matter where I go, no matter how much success I may achieve in the future, I will always be a former refugee,” Kontar shared. “Instead of fighting it, I tried to make my
peace with it, never forgot my roots, and kept reminding the world about the refugee crisis.”
To do so, Kontar released a book, Man At The Airport: How Social Media Saved My Life - One Syrian’s Story, to not only share his own harrowing story of seeking refuge but to show the power of social media and how he managed to create a new life for himself with the help of just his cellphone.
“Social media is a tool, and it’s up to us how to use it,” Kontar explained. “It could be a weapon of mass destruction, or a lifesaver. It was, for me, a desperate solution. The window to tell my story. My strategy while using it was just to be myself.”
Now, living in Vancouver, Kontar works with the B.C. and Yukon branch of the Canadian Red Cross as a Case Manager, where he works with refugees as they arrive in Canada. It’s his dream to further this career to work with the Red Cross directly
in refugee camps. It has been 15 years since Kontar has returned home to As Suwayda, Syria. When he received his Canadian citizenship in January 2023, Kontar shared the bittersweet moment on Twitter, an homage to his humble beginnings in the Malaysia airport where he would share daily videos.
“This is a day that cost me a father, a destroyed homeland, prison, persecution, tears, blood, & fifteen years of being away from my loved ones,” he wrote. “Wishing the same for every oppressed freedom fighter. Wishing the same for every refugee in refugee camps. Today is a day like no other.”
Dawning his Canadian gear and a large Canadian flag, he remembers the people left behind.
“Syria is one the oldest civilizations on earth,” he said. “Its people are proud people, who just need a little help to live again.”
Imagine your loved one needing vital medical care, life-saving surgery, or cancer care. Now imagine driving more than 200 km to access that care. That is the reality for families from North Vancouver Island and the Central Coast of B.C., who must travel four hours or more to receive medical care at Campbell River Hospital.
During moments of crisis, this travel time, combined with finding appropriate accommodation near the hospital, can contribute to increased emotional and economic stress for both patients and their families. For Hiltje and her husband David, these stressors made an already difficult situation even more complicated.
“It is part of living in the North Island; you have those challenges every time you leave town for a medical situation,” explained Hiltje. “The worst thing is when someone you love is in a critical state, and your mind is all over the place, and then you have to deal with logistical things, like where to stay, what to eat, how to pay for it all. The hotel bills started racking up.”
Campbell River Hospital serves 32 communities and is the first referral point for emergencies and illnesses, including industrial and workplace accidents, heart attacks, strokes, respiratory problems and other diseases.
The trips to the hospital, while vital, can place an immense financial and emotional strain on families, from the cost of travelling back and forth to finding
appropriate accommodations.
The Just Like Home Lodge is a 10-bedroom safe haven for patients and loved ones who have to travel to Campbell River for specialized care or procedures that are unavailable in their home communities. The lodge makes it possible for families to be near their loved ones without the added stress that comes with seeking out a place to stay and would
have made all the difference in the world for Hiltje and David.
“When David’s chemotherapy started, so did the trips back and forth to the hospital,” Hiltje continued. “Any hotel will tell you that you can’t check in before 3 p.m. and you have to check out by 11 the next morning. Booking a hotel for one night depends when your procedure is. Sometimes to save a little money, you take the chance of driving all the way back here. That can be so dangerous, especially in the wintertime. There were times when David was hospitalized that I just had to leave him there because I couldn’t afford to stay one more day in a hotel.”
Daily travel needs and associated costs experienced by patients and their loved ones seeking medical care at the Campbell River Hospital can be significantly reduced. The lodge will feature separate sleeping rooms with private washrooms, a communal living space, a shared kitchen and laundry facilities.
“What you guys are doing to create a place for North Island people to stay at while they are
getting treatment at Campbell River, it would have meant a lot to David,” Hiltje said. “ Another place to call home instead of a hotel room. There’s a lot of people who are going to be happy.”
The Campbell River Hospital Foundation is a team of professional staff and community-minded leaders who are passionately committed to inspiring, enabling and celebrating community support for Campbell River Hospital. With your support, we can help ensure that our doctors, nurses, and other critical healthcare team members have the necessary tools and equipment so you and your loved ones continue to receive first-class healthcare right here at home. With your help, we can help keep families close when it matters most.
help, we can help keep families close when it matters most. crhospitalfoundation.ca
OPPORTUNITY INTERNATIONAL unleashes the power of entrepreneurs in some of the world’s poorest countries. Through innovative partnerships, our programs enable people to expand their businesses, feed their families, create jobs and change their communities. Every minute, an Opportunity client accesses the financial tools, training and support to escape poverty and gain the opportunity to live a life with dignity and purpose.
Given the world’s unprecedented “youth bulge,” globally, more than 2.9 billion people are under the age of 25. To end poverty, we need to increase our focus on the challenges presented by the large and growing young population in
developing countries, especially in Africa. Opportunity International aims to tackle the critical barriers that prevent young people from accessing decent work and improve the quantity and quality of jobs available to them.
Our ultimate objective is to enable young people to find their way out of poverty through meaningful, dignified work, enjoy a stable livelihood and live a happy, healthy life.
The Youth Apprenticeship Program (YAP) fills the gap for disadvantaged and vulnerable youth aged 15 to 25 who are living in difficult conditions with no resources to impact their futures for the better. Many of these youth have dropped out of school because their families couldn’t afford to send them to school or they needed to support the family in some way. The YAP program strategy builds on our experience in financial inclusion, education and training by combining four broad program components to address this gap and offer realistic pathways
leading to stable livelihoods:
• Education, job skill development providing access to school education, formal and informal vocational training, short courses to help the transition from school (or out of school) into a productive workforce
• Financial services beyond core microfinance extending to youth saving accounts and loan products designed for the youth segments and Small/Medium Enterprises to facilitate economic empowerment
• Soft life skill development with a focus on financial literacy, family planning, communications, teamwork, and interview skills
• Mentoring and coaching to build confidence and resilience in disadvantaged youth
Training is provided by Trade Masters, who are selected according to strict criteria, including professional certification, a minimum of two years of training experience, a suitable work environment, and an ability to adhere to a long-term training schedule. The program participants receive expert-level training and mentoring on an established schedule in a safe environment.
Accordingly, we’d like to introduce you to Madam Belinda, a dedicated YAP Trade Master, and according to Madam Belinda, as she is affectionately called, “You simply cannot develop as a person without hands-on experience.”
Madam Belinda is a skilled beautician and trainer who specializes in makeup, manicures and pedicures, and specialty hairstyling. She beat the odds stacked against her to achieve her goals and is incredibly proud of keeping a promise she made to herself to give back to her community—she has trained 40 youth, mostly girls and young women, who have become economically active, productive, and confident young adults.
Born into extreme poverty in one of Ghana’s most marginalized communities, Belinda and her siblings faced each day with unthinkable options to earn money for food. Her father had
died, and her mother couldn’t provide for her daughters. As her dreams of an education faded beyond reach, she considered whether her life held value.
Just when it seemed all was lost, Belinda found a hero in the form of Opportunity International. Driven to succeed, she used the resources provided to achieve success and over time, she left poverty behind.
Today, Belinda is the proud owner of four beauty salons. Saying, “I do not wish anyone to experience a childhood like mine,” she was intent on paying it forward to save young women in her community from the fate she was spared.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries—developed and developing—in a global partnership. They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth. Opportunity International’s YAP program supports the following SDGs:
Pacific First Aid partners with the Canadian Red Cross to serve you in your first aid certification needs pacificfirstaid.ca
No one ever hopes to use their first aid skills and training, but when an emergency happens, it’s a relief to have it—especially when it can be the difference between saving or losing a life.
When Bryan Wong, founder and CEO of Pacific First Aid (PFA), started his business, his goal was to help young people become leaders, but his passion for mentorship started well before his business was even a daydream.
“I was fortunate to grow up with strong mentors I could rely on and role models I look up to,” said Wong. “These people are the ones who inspired me to become a mentor and role model myself—especially to young people. I combined my goal with my passion for first aid, and created PFA. Honestly, I never thought it would grow as much as it did!”
With over 15 years of first aid volunteering and training experience in the industry, Wong opened PFA in 2009 with the vision of building a company committed to providing quality safety training and supplies. In the past 13 years, PFA has scaled to a well-established first aid instructor and
training centre, a Canadian Red Cross partner, and a respected supplier to many training schools.
“Many of the youths that I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside have gone on to create their own business, attend medical school, or walk their own great journey,” Wong recalled.
“Some of them even go on to mentor others.”
Leadership skills can be developed in many ways, from gaining new knowledge through educational courses, learning on the job, or through life experiences.
PFA aims to ensure that young people are prepared to take on emergency situations with confidence, knowledge, and leadership, building a safer and stronger community for us all.
“For those interested in developing leadership skills through first aid, we are always running our First Aid Instructor, Emergency First Aid, Standard First Aid, and Emergency Child Care courses,” Wong explained. “We also offer courses geared towards youths, such as the Babysitting Course, Psychological First Aid, and other online programs.”
Preparation comes in many forms. PFA also offers first aid kits, complete with everything you might need in case of an emergency. Whether at home, at work, in your car, on a trip, or in a natural disaster emergency, you can rest assured that PFA has thought of everything so that you don’t have to.
“Pacific First Aid provided one of the most incredible first aid training experiences I’ve had. Taught all the crucial skills, checked personally multiple times to make sure my technique was accurate, simulated high pressure situations well. In comparison to my other experiences with different first aid companies, this was truly above the mark. I recommend PFA to everyone!”
—Alec Yu, former PFA student
With experienced instructors with years of on-the-job knowledge, PFA focuses on practical skills that prepare people, young and old, for any major or minor emergencies they may encounter in their daily lives.
“If there was a ‘secret sauce’ for how we succeeded, I would say that first and foremost, we are passionate about what we do,” said Wong. “We stand by what we do transparently and authentically, do our best to be personable, and offer help whenever we can. Whether it’s your very first first aid course, or your 10th, we do our best to give you the tools you need to become a confident first aider in your community.”
KIRSTEN GRONLUND, UN WOMEN
Marwa Azelmat is a digital rights expert and an activist involved with women’s rights movements and organizations around the world. At the intersection of these issues, Marwa is facing off against a central barrier to progress on both: online violence against women and girls.
NOT JUST AN INSULT
There’s a tendency, Marwa explains, not to take online violence seriously. “I keep hearing, ‘but this is just an insult,’” she says. But it isn’t. Online violence against women is part of a spectrum of gender-based violence that keeps women from exercising their full human rights, both online and off. “What happens in the offline space is really reflected in the online space,” Marwa emphasizes. “And just like […] we don’t feel safe walking on the streets, we no longer feel safe
walking on the digital streets.” When online violence forces women out of digital spaces, the consequences can be far-reaching. Targeted campaigns against women human rights defenders and journalists imperil their work—and, at times, their lives. And women’s exclusion from the digital economy has wider implications for a country’s economic development. “[Online violence against women] should be seen
as a threat to the public order,” Marwa says.
The legal system, however, doesn’t see it this way. In the eyes of the law, online attacks against women are standalone incidents. Rather than examining underlying causes and investing in prevention systems, “they just try to fix the incident,” Marwa says. And there usually isn’t much they can do in response to a complaint, anyway, since the onus is on the victim to provide proof—which a tech-savvy attacker will likely have deleted.
Today, growing anti-feminist backlash, combined with increased reliance on digital spaces, is heightening online risks for women. “Movements sustain themselves right now [in] online spaces,” Marwa says—giving anti-rights activists new opportunities to infiltrate.
This is a matter of free speech, Marwa emphasizes, and governments have a responsibility to protect against violations: “We can’t undermine [free speech] just because it’s online.”
It was Marwa’s own experience studying information technology engineering that made her realize the urgency of integrating women’s rights with tech. “I felt like the system was really structurally marginalizing,” she explains. More women in STEM is not enough, Marwa says: “At the end of the day, we have systems that have not been designed to serve women.”
So she went back to school for international human rights law, specializing in information and communications technology. From there, she started working with women’s rights organizations, helping to bridge the gap between feminist movements and the tech sector.
Protecting women’s digital rights will require coordinated action from governments and the private sector, Marwa emphasizes. But there’s a part for all of us to play.
When you see violence online, don’t let it slide—report it. Call on tech companies to collaborate more fully with civil society
organizations and the government, and make use of available forums—such as requests for public comments often made by oversight boards—to hold them responsible.
“To counter online violence at the individual level is to start by not accepting impunity,” Marwa says.
In a future without online violence, Marwa sees an online world full of women and girls getting to meaningfully connect. “Right now we have two billion women that are disconnected [from the internet],” Marwa says. “And that’s huge.”
But it’s more than a question of numbers. She imagines a new online world altogether, one not dominated by the interests of a few wealthy men: “an alternative feminist internet that works for everyone—not just women, but also gender diverse people and [other] marginalized communities.” That, she says, is the future we should be fighting for.
Spring has sprung! Cue birdsong, blooms, and a splash of colour coming to a trail near you. It’s the perfect time to get outside, rain or shine, and celebrate flora and fauna coming back to life. Here are some suggestions for flower spotting along the Trans Canada Trail in British Columbia.
CITY OF VANCOUVER TRAIL:
PINKS AND GREENS
Come spring, Vancouverites like to brag—ahem...share— about the beauty of cherry blossom season, when the city turns into a sea of soft pink. It’s such a hit that the city now features a cherry blossom festival! Enjoy a jaunt along the City of Vancouver Trail in Stanley Park. You’ll find cherry blossoms near the rose garden and Japanese memorial, just off the Trail within the park.
GREAT NORTHERN
RAIL TRAIL: GREENS AND WHITES
Set out on the Trail in the spring and prepare for green
dotted with white—from lovely thimbleberry flowers! The Great Northern Rail Trail runs from Nelson to Salmo and offers excellent hiking and mountain biking routes. The Trail follows an old railbed with minimal grade changes, making it an excellent choice for families heading out for a walk or a bike ride. Note that a section of the Trail may be closed later in the spring because of grizzly bear activity.
KETTLE VALLEY
RAIL TRAIL:
VIBRANT YELLOWS
When in the Okanagan, it won’t be hard to spot beautiful balsamroot, which grows just about everywhere. This relative of the sunflower adds a gorgeous splash of colour to the landscape. Head out on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, a cycling route that takes you from Princeton to Midway via Summerland, Penticton and Naramata. This nearly 500-kilometre-long trail
offers stunning views and epic rides through B.C.’s wine country and beyond.
COWICHAN VALLEY TRAIL: WHITES, YELLOWS AND GREENS
We’d be remiss not to mention the Pacific dogwood, B.C.’s national flower, which blooms into beautiful whites on and around the Cowichan Valley Trail. You may also spot Hooker’s fairy bells, beautiful bell-shaped
flowers that offer a mix of whites and yellows. And don’t forget the ever-present sword fern along the Trail and pretty much in any Pacific Coastal temperate rainforest setting, which adds a touch of lush green wherever you find it. The Cowichan Valley Trail runs from the connection with the Sooke Hills Wilderness Regional Trail to just north of Ladysmith, offering over 125 kilometres of walking and cycling trails.
THIS SPRING, EXPLORE THE WORLD’S LONGEST RECREATIONAL TRAIL
You can’t beat spring in B.C.! With 80 per cent of people across Canada living within 30 minutes of a Trans Canada Trail section, there’s likely to be one near you. Find your local Trail section using our map, then head outside to shake off winter and enjoy the spring blooms.
It has been said that people are innately generous. From my experience, I’m not so sure if this is true. When I meet with a new donor, I always ask this initial question, “What made you start giving to charity?” The answer is always the same: my grandmother, my parents my aunt, my neighbour. Generosity doesn’t just start suddenly when we decide we have accumulated enough; it is shaped by experiences throughout our lifetime and deeply influenced by the people around us.
“Generosity is our family lifestyle, and something [with which] you inspire the people around you,” Beni Cobaschi said. It is a mindset he first learned while growing up in Romania.
“As far as I can remember, my family was very active in the church,” Beni said. “My parents and grandparents were always giving, and our home was always open to missionaries or other visitors.” He also found another
positive role model in the youth leader at his church. “He would go out of his way to encourage and support the local youth, and he was very generous with his money,” he remembered. “It made me want to be like him.”
Beni was 15 years old when his family immigrated to Canada in 2001. “We arrived on a Thursday, and I went to church the next day to attend a Bible Study. I told everybody, ‘Hey, my name is Beni.
Do you have a job? Do you need a worker?’ On Monday I went to work with someone laying hardwood floors in a house.” At the end of the week, Beni donated his entire first paycheque to help people struggling in Romania.
That same year, Beni met his wife Diana at the local high school, where his enterprising spirit and high ideals set him apart from many of his peers. He honed his skills and incorporated his first construction company a few weeks before graduation. The business continued to grow. Diana and Beni got married.
The young couple wanted to
see more of the world, but neither felt it would be right to just spend their money on luxury vacations. They searched the web and found an opportunity that brought together their giving styles and their expertise: a trip to build houses in Mexico. That experience ignited a shared passion for short-term volunteer trips. Subsequent trips took the Cobaschis to Africa and Haiti. But they did not limit themselves to serving internationally.
The two were also keen to donate their time and resources to their local church youth group.
“We have a lot of backyard space, so every summer we set up a volleyball net and we have groups of youth coming through for barbecues, pizza, just to hang out and play,” Diana said. “It’s exhausting, but that’s also very life-giving to know we facilitated something where young people can meet together in a safe environment and spend time with their friends.”
When the Cobaschi family grew to include two children, Beni and Diana decided it was time to get their wills in order. In keeping with
their values, their estate plans included charitable donations. “Our lawyer mentioned Abundance Canada and told us about its services. We started talking about consolidating our donations,” Beni said. The Cobaschis created a Generosity Plan™ that not only addresses the gifts in their will but is also helping them reach their current philanthropic goals.
“Everybody makes financial goals,” Beni said. “They say the more money you make the more you spend, but it doesn’t have to be that way.” He and Diana have taken a creative approach to budgeting, their preference being to give more to charity when there’s an influx of income, rather than spend more on themselves.
Their lifestyle choices have allowed Beni and Diana to naturally model generosity for their children.
“When they see that we give financially, they want to contribute too,” Diana said. A couple of years ago, each of the children chose to sponsor a child their own age through an international charity. “They each committed to giving $10 a
month but they had to figure out how they would earn that money,” Diana explained. “They collected cans, they sold eggs, they did odd jobs. It is all about serving somebody else and they’ve never done it grudgingly even though they’re working for something that has absolutely no benefit to themselves.”
“You teach the generations and the people around you by how you live,” Beni concluded. “I don’t want people to say, I had a big house…I want them to say I was a generous person and I want my kids to learn from that and live out that example in the next generation.”
Beni and Diana are clients of Abundance Canada, a public foundation that helps Canadians to create simple and customized, tax-efficient, charitable gifting solutions so they can express their values through their giving. For more information about the services of Abundance Canada visit abundance.ca or call 1.800.772.3257 to speak with a Gift Planning Consultant.
We’re all looking for ways to contribute to our sustainable future while lessening our overall environmental impact. Recycling our electronics is a simple yet effective step we can all take to make a difference today, and with approximately 80 per cent of Canadians having electronics at home ready to be recycled, there’s a tremendous opportunity to make an important environmental impact that benefits us all.
For over a decade, EPRA/ Recycle My Electronics has been helping Canadians from coast-tocoast safely and securely recycle their end-of-life electronics and ensure what’s inside counts.
RECOVERABLE
RESOURCES COUNT
Our electronics are filled with resources, including plastic, glass, gold, silver and copper, all of which can be recovered and reused without losing their properties. Recycling electronics— everything from cell phones to business IT equipment—ensures these resources are recovered, recycled, and reintegrated back into the manufacturing supply chain.
Recycling these electronics saves these natural resources and reduces our overall carbon footprint.
ACCESSIBILITY COUNTS
With an extensive network of more than 2,500 drop-off locations, including return-to-retail partners, EPRA/Recycle My Electronics has made it easier and more convenient for businesses and consumers to recycle their electronics. Through the comprehensive network of collectors, transporters and recyclers,
EPRA/Recycle My Electronics operates country-wide electronics recycling programs at the local, provincial and national levels.
SAFETY AND SECURITY COUNTS
With so much professional and personal data stored on our electronics, security is a very real concern. It’s the reason process integrity is so crucial in the recycling process. For over a decade, Canadian businesses and consumers have looked for
the iconic EPRA/Recycle My Electronics leaf as their assurance of safe and secure electronics recycling management.
To ensure the security of intellectual property and personal data, EPRA/Recycle
My Electronics only works with recyclers who have been verified under the national Electronics Recycling Standard (ERS). These authorized processors must meet stringent safety protocols to protect the safety of their employees and the environment.
The Recycler Qualification Office (RQO), which EPRA/Recycle My Electronics was responsible for helping develop, audits recycler against the ERS requirements for third-party certification.
A PROVEN TRACK RECORD COUNTS
As an award-winning, industry-led, not-for-profit organization, EPRA/ Recycle My Electronics has been setting the standard for safe, secure electronics recycling in Canada for over a decade. EPRA/Recycle My Electronics programs have recycled over 1.2 million tonnes of electronics, diverting them from landfill and illegal export. Whether it’s giving residents convenient locations to drop off their electronics or providing customized, low-to-no-cost electronics recycling solutions for businesses, EPRA/Recycle My Electronics helps Canadians make a positive impact on the environment. The future is in your hands. Don’t let it go to waste.
To learn more about what and where to recycle, visit recycleMYelectronics.ca
ALLIE MURRAY
For Canadian-born Allison Lang, life as a below-knee amputee was nothing outside the norm. Born missing the lower half of her left leg, Lang lived her life like any other—until she began school and faced extreme bullying as a child, causing her to feel like an outsider in her own body.
“I think I hid my disability for a full decade,” Lang shared. “I refused to wear shorts in the hot summer months in fear someone would see my leg. I wasn’t living authentically as myself, it was holding me back from living life to its fullest. I was in complete denial that I was an amputee, and even eliminated the word disabled from my vocabulary—it made me feel like a victim.”
As Lang grew older, she discovered a passion for travel, which was sparked after she joined Team Canada’s Sitting Volleyball Team. Travelling with the team allowed her to meet other women with disabilities and showed her
that travel was something she could do with ease.
Today, she has travelled to 31 countries—and even spent three months backpacking solo.
While Lang never set out to become a role model for other
disabled people, she has created a following online for those with disabilities like herself, and built up a community where they can uplift and support each other.
“I hope to be that role model for a younger girl or boy that is
struggling to accept their body, disabled or not,” she explained.
“To be someone in campaigns and on social media embracing the body I had instead of wishing they looked like someone else. I truly believe that every body should be celebrated, we’re all uniquely beautiful.”
Her online presence led to her working as a model—recently having been one of the faces of Joe Fresh’s activewear line.
The Joe Fresh campaign allowed Lang to share her authentic self with the world, showing other disabled people that they are not alone.
“Representation of diversity is crucial; in our everyday lives we are surrounded by all sorts of people, so why not relate that to advertisements and campaigns?” Lang posed.
Sharing her experiences on how important representation is to her, Lang shared an anecdote of what working with Joe Fresh looked like for her.
“When I showed up to the
studio to model for Joe Fresh, I brought a bag of legs with me,” she laughed. “I knew I was modelling activewear so naturally I packed my running leg, because that’s what I use when I’m active. They listened to me, encouraged me to wear whichever leg I felt I would wear with the clothing I was modelling. That’s authentic. That’s depicting a true image of how my body works and what devices I use.”
When it comes to following your passion, Lang says not to limit yourself: “Do not let your disability hold you back from seeing the world. I almost let it hold me back and now I can’t imagine my life without travel.”
She shares that if you’re looking to travel with a disability, do research and read blogs from disabled travellers themselves, talk to your doctor or your prosthetist for recommendations, travel with someone you’re comfortable with, and make sure you have the accommodations and accessibility you need.
When you grow up in a landscape teeming with wildlife and nature, it’s hard not to feel a calling to care for the life around you. For Gail Martin, founder of Critter Care Wildlife Society, that calling began early in her life and was nurtured as she grew up on Britannia Beach, a small mining town on British Columbia’s west coast. With a natural talent for caring for animals, Martin made a habit of feeding the critters around her childhood home— including her favourite raccoon, who was regularly treated to peanut butter sandwiches.
As an adult, Martin’s love for wildlife grew, and the basement of home became part animal clinic, with hundreds of animals experiencing tender care in her makeshift wildlife nursery. But as Martin’s knowledge grew and bigger animals needed her help, she and her husband realized that if they were going to create a haven for wildlife, they would need bigger and better accommodations for the animals.
Within months, Critter Care Wildlife Society found a home
in Langley, in a 70-year-old farmhouse with five acres of land.
Now, over three decades later, Critter Care rescues, rehabilitates and releases over 3,000 animals each year—and is the only place in Southern British Columbia that focuses on rehabilitating native mammals. Without government funding, Critter Care relies on donations and public funding to continue their important work and expand their capabilities so that even more animals can be rescued, rehabilitated, and
released into the wild.
Year after year, Critter Care has expanded, creating temporary homes for native mammals so they can heal and be released. From otters to fawns, raccoons to bears, and more animals that many of us may never see in our own lives, Critter Care ensures that they get the help they need.
Education is also paramount to Critter Care; in its early years, Martin held educational workshops, sharing the importance of wildlife and their needs with
Donate today at crittercarewildlife.org
the general public and young children. Sparking a love of nature in children and teaching them that their kindness to the animals can make a difference became part of why Critter Care is so beloved by the community.
Now, Critter Care houses an internship program, welcoming young people from across the globe to hone their skills and interest in caring for wildlife. The internship program has reached a new landmark this year, extending invitations to
more than 25 collegiate or postgraduate students from nearly every continent, with more to come. Some interns go on to work in animal and wildlife care as veterinarians or vet techs, while others take what they’ve learned to other fields, sharing the importance of caring for animals and knowing that they helped make a difference.
As one of their core values, releasing the animals is crucial. The program focuses on rehabilitation, but the animals in their care are not meant to stay—as wildlife, their home is in the wild. The beauty of British Columbia is in the forests and lakes, mountains and streams, and of course, in the wildlife that inhabits it.
Rehabilitation organizations like Critter Care Wildlife Society are our wildlife’s only chance when they get into trouble. Your donations and support make it possible for wildlife to B.C.’s wildlife to have a safe haven. Learn more about animal care and volunteer opportunities, and donate at crittercarewildlife.org
Children are natural dreamers, a skill that is encouraged and nurtured throughout their school years. But when they leave school and begin seeking opportunities in post-secondary education, excited to make their dreams come true, they often come face-to-face with the realization that these dreams come with conditions and complexities that, for many, may not be achievable.
Tuition fees have skyrocketed over the last two decades, more than doubling since 2001, according to the BC Federation of Students. From 1990 to 2019, tuition fees across the country have increased by more than 336 per cent on average. Where average tuition fees were $2,500 in 2000, they were over $5,900 in 2019; the average cost of obtaining a degree has increased by over $13,700 in tuition fees alone. The reason for this is clear: Years of cuts and neglect have resulted in an underfunded system that makes up for funding on the backs of students and their families.
The BC Federation of Students, representing over 170,000 students at 15 colleges, universities, and
institutes in all regions of British Columbia, is calling for a change so that the next generation of students can afford to dream big. Education should be accessible to all British Columbians.
The Federation voices students’ issues and concerns to the government while conducting in-depth research to support policy recommendations. Together, students and the Federation have been actively calling for the provincial government to review their funding model for B.C.’s public post-secondary sector. It’s a big step, but one that ensures equitable funding to the province’s institutions. Increasing tuition fees and high levels of student debt can only be alleviated if the education system is adequately funded, which has statistically not been the case.
In recent years, the proportion of public funding to B.C. colleges and universities has dropped to less than 44 per cent of total operating revenue, down from more than 80 per cent in the 1980s and more than 90 per cent in the 1970s. Tuition fee revenues now make up 48 per cent of institutions’ revenue, which surpasses the amount from
government funding. This shows a massive divestment in public education for the current generation of students compared to the investment and support provided to college and university students in past decades. It’s an unequal playing field for today’s students and makes it seem like dreaming big is out of reach.
Between rising tuition fees and rapidly inflating housing and transportation costs, among other increased living costs, it’s clear that students are struggling. At the same time, wages have remained stagnant, and student financial assistance has not kept up with the increased need for monetary support. More than half of post-secondary students graduate with debt.
The future of B.C. depends on an educated, skilled workforce. Still, decades of underfunding have made it so much more difficult for young people to afford and attend post-secondary education.
Our public post-secondary education system needs to be made a priority to the B.C. government, complete with a renewed investment. With it, the government
can freeze tuition fees at current levels and establish a plan to progressively reduce fees in the future. This will not only help make life more affordable for B.C. students and their families but will also show support for a new generation of students—a new generation of dreamers.
Last April, the BC NDP announced a funding review in response to the Federation’s calls to action, a major step in ensuring equitable funding to the province’s institutions. Our goal is to continue the fight for a properly funded education system that allows students to thrive.
Kids are dreamers. They love to read and invent stories. They love to build things, take them apart, and build them back again. They take care of their stuffed animals and create imaginative games with their toys. They are our future teachers, engineers, doctors, and scientists. As we encourage them to dream big, we need to ensure that it’s not only possible but achievable for those dreams to come true. Skyrocketing tuition fees are making it harder than ever to support our students, and that hurts all of us.
It’s time to invest in our future by investing in post-secondary education. Lobbying and research are only effective when students are actively engaged in campaigns to influence the decisions and policies of the government, so it’s up to all of us, past, present, and future students, to fight for the change we want to see.
Join us and encourage your MLA to support our recommendation for an additional $200 million in annual funding to be invested in B.C.’s post-secondary system by asking them to help ensure the government’s funding review redistributes funding more equitably throughout the province.
How can we tell the next generation that they can’t afford to dream? When it comes to British Columbia’s post-secondary system, we need to fund it and fix it now. Learn more and take action at funditfixit.ca
There is nothing more challenging and rewarding than caring for an animal in need—and when it’s a black bear on Vancouver Island, B.C., the challenge triples.
Imagine finding a black bear cub alone in the forest with devastating injuries. Who do you call for help? That is where the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) comes into play.
After receiving a call about an injured animal, a conservation officer with NIWRA will arrive to assess the scene. In this particular situation, our officers were called to respond to a bear cub, whom we later named Q.B. Cub, who was found with a devastating injury to its hip.
Our team at the centre is trained to face any case that is admitted—whether it’s an injured cub like Q.B. Cub or a bird with a broken wing. Similarly, our team is full of very caring and nurturing people.
After rescuing Q.B. Cub, our veterinarian Dr. Malcolm McAdie examined the bear with the help of NIWRA’s animal care specialists. They sedated the bear and
took blood samples, which helped them determine the weight, gender, and age of the bear. Then, the team crafted a plan for the Q.B. Cub’s care, which consisted of monitoring an infected injury.
The injury Q.B. Cub sustained was extensive—but luckily, the cub broke no bones. After the team’s assessment, it was still unclear how Q.B. Cub sustained his injuries; however, injuries to wildlife often
occur from vehicle collisions.
After bringing Q.B. Cub back to the NIWRA facility, Dr. McAdie monitored his recovery. He examined the cub closely, noticing that Q.B. Cub was improving with steady antibiotics and treatment. A short while later, Q.B. Cub was deemed a releasable bear—which is always a good feeling for us at NIWRA.
Bear cubs admitted to the centre stay for at least 18 months. At NIWRA, we have three bear enclosures—a nursery, a juvenile enclosure and a pre-release openair enclosure. NIWRA has been in operation since 1985, with our mandate being to care for ill, injured and orphaned wildlife and to educate the public about wildlife and environmental issues. We admit over 700 animals a year with the hope of them returning to the wild. Nearly 95 per cent of admissions are due to humans, directly or indirectly, such as vehicle collisions, cat attacks, electrocutions or poisonings. Without the help of NIWRA, many of these animals would not survive—this is why we
have an extensive educational program, complete with school visiting opportunities, countless online learning resources, and infographics detailing important tips for supporting and saving animals in your area. Caring for bears takes a lot of dedication and money. The enclosures are costly, as is the feed, but our partners at the Qualicum First Nations Band supply us with fish for the bears. As we are not government-funded, money comes from the caring public like yourselves. With the help of generous donations and community support, NIWRA has rescued 24,850 birds and animals on Vancouver Island— and counting!
ABOUT NIWRA NIWRA, a non-profit organization, is situated in Errington, B.C. We are open to the public daily for viewing of non-releasable animals. Please visit our website at www.niwra.org to learn more about our programs, read stories about our animals, and learn how you can help care for wildlife.
Striving towards making the beauty industry a more inclusive place, L’Oréal has launched a new technology prototype, HAPTA, the first handheld, ultra-precise computerized makeup applicator. The tool is designed to uplift the beauty needs of people with limited hand and arm mobility.
“Inclusivity is at the heart of our innovation and beauty tech strategy,” said Barbara Lavernos, Deputy CEO in Charge of Research, Innovation and Technology at L’Oréal. “We are dedicated and passionate to bring new technologies powering beauty services that augment and reach every individual’s ultimate desires, expectations, and unmet needs.”
An estimated 50 million people globally live with limited fine motor skills. This makes some daily gestures, like applying makeup, challenging. Under development by L’Oréal scientists and engineers, HAPTA is a handheld, ultra-precise smart makeup applicator for users with
limited hand and arm mobility, offering them the ability to steadily apply lipstick at home.
HAPTA translates to science of touch, and incorporates technology that was originally created to stabilize utensils, which gave people with limited fine motor skills the capacity to eat with confidence and independence.
“For L’Oréal, the future of beauty is inclusive,” said
Nicolas Hieronimus, CEO of the L’Oréal Groupe. “And this future will be made more accessible by technology.”
The key to HAPTA is its combination of built-in smart motion controls plus customizable attachments that give the user an improved range of motion, increased ease of use for difficultto-open packaging, and precision application that is otherwise hard
to achieve—to help individuals
to feel confident, independent, and empowered to enjoy the selfexpressive power of beauty.
HAPTA is equipped with a magnetic attachment that allows for easy ergonomic use enabling for 30 degrees of rotation and 180 degrees of flexion. A “clicking” feature allows the user to intuitively set the intended position, stay in position during
use, and allow for the user to lock in customized settings for future use. HAPTA comes with a built-in battery (three hours to full charge) and device charging, which results in one-hour continuous use (approximately 10+ applications).
HAPTA’s levelling device will be piloted with L’Oréal-owned Lancôme in 2023, first with a lipstick applicator followed by additional makeup applications in the future.
“For years, Lancôme has sought to provide every woman with beauty solutions adapted to their needs. Beauty tech has enabled us to fulfill this mission in an even more powerful way, revolutionizing the way we develop beauty products and services and enabling greater personalization,” said Françoise Lehmann, Lancôme Global Brand President. “With HAPTA, we are going one step further by making beauty more accessible to use, because everyone should have equal access to it.”
In today’s fast-paced, technologically driven world, the importance of our youth practicing STEM education has never been greater. STEM is a unique, hands-on approach to education, combining science, technology, engineering, and math into an integrated, real-world learning experience. Enter science fairs, a platform for kids with a passion for STEM to go through the scientific process, use their creativity and imagination and receive feedback from their idols.
In British Columbia and the Yukon, 13 regional fairs are part of the over 100 fairs held across Canada for youth every year. These 13 regions are all put together by the Science Fair Foundation of B.C., the province’s largest volunteer science outreach network, supporting STEM education by inspiring curiosity through the Science Fair program. With over 1,500 science and technology educators and professionals
volunteering as mentors, judges and science fair hosts, The Science Fair Foundation of B.C.’s Science Fair Program is recognized as one of the most successful in Canada.
The foundation has just finished its innovation competition, the Youth Innovation Showcase. The competition encourages youth to explore creative ways to solve everyday challenges and to see how their theoretical solutions can become real-world change. These young innovators come face-to-face with industry and academic leaders to pitch their great new ideas and inventions, get feedback from experts in the field, and find out where a STEM career can take them.
“This is what I love—I don’t just do science because it’s a mandatory subject at school. I do science outside of school because I love it, I don’t see how you wouldn’t,” said Keanu Chan, one of the winners from the 2021 Youth Innovation Showcase.
Programs like these are essential for students wanting to pursue a career in STEM, but they do come at a cost. That is why the foundation hosts an annual fundraiser called Sweatin’ for Science, a fitness fundraiser held throughout B.C. and the Yukon. Participants commit to a month of fun, fitness challenges and peer-to-peer fundraising to
benefit youth programming and resources in the areas of science, technology and innovation.
“The goal of Sweatin’ for Science is to break barriers in access to STEM education. We are constantly working to be able to reach more young people with our programs and resources so they have the best opportunity to reach their fullest potential,” said
Madeleine Guenette, Executive Director of The Science Fair Foundation BC.
Not all youth have access to the same resources in their homes, schools, or communities to be able to pursue science, technology or innovation interests, and the goal of Sweatin’ for Science is to give the next Roberta Bondars, David Suzukis, Irene Uchidas, and Alexander Graham Bells the opportunity to realize their potential.
Funds raised support education programs and opportunities in 13 regions across B.C. and the Yukon to nurture, inspire and elevate youth. This includes financial aid opportunities for youth to develop their ideas and/or attend events outside of their home communities.
To help support these programs, sign up for Sweatin’ for Science: www.sciencefairs.ca/ sweatinforscience
HEALTHY TRANSITIONS
Growing older brings many transitions. Older adults may face feelings of isolation or loneliness that can have an impact on their mental or physical health. But these aren’t an inevitable part of aging. Increasingly, staying connected is seen as vital for maintaining mental and physical health as we age. Working together, we can address the risk by building social connections.
WHAT DO SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS MEAN?
These two terms are often found together. However, they do not mean the same thing. Social isolation can be understood as a measurable lack in the number of relationships a person has. Loneliness is more subjective and can be understood as the feeling we get when our social relationships are lacking in terms of quality or quantity compared with what we expect them to be.
Everyone experiences isolation and loneliness differently. We may not always feel lonely when we’re alone (some of us may feel happier that way), and some of us may need fewer social relations than others in order to feel connected.
However, it’s important to be aware of how we may be at risk of becoming socially isolated or lonely. It’s also important to know how the people we know— spouses, partners, friends, family, neighbours, community members, and professional care partners—may face these challenges.
As we age, we face routine life transitions that can contribute to the risk of becoming socially isolated or lonely. Some of us may face fewer family connections or the loss of a spouse, or fewer ways to connect with our communities. Transitional life events, such as retirement, the death of family or friends, or changes in living arrangements, may contribute to the risk of social isolation and loneliness among older adults. Other contributing factors can include poverty, lack of transportation, gender and sexual identity, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
Nearly half of Canadians have reported feeling socially isolated, lonely, or both, according to a 2019 Angus Reid survey.
According to the United States Centres for Disease Control, loneliness and social isolation
are associated with an increased risk of death of 26 per cent and 29 per cent, respectively. This increased mortality risk is similar to smoking 15 cigarettes a day or having an alcohol use disorder, according to a meta-analysis covering decades of studies on the issue.
For older adults, social isolation and loneliness can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as dementia, depression and functional decline. Research shows that having a reduced number of social contacts may contribute to a poorer quality of life as we age.
On the other hand, staying connected may mitigate these risks and contribute to better physical and mental health. And just as we may need to pay attention to how our bodies and minds age, we can also find opportunities to renew or find new relationships to boost our social health.
The Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health (CCSMH) has launched a new project to find ways for health and social service providers to look for and address social isolation and loneliness among older adults. The mission of CCSMH is to promote the mental health of seniors by
connecting people, ideas and resources. It is the position of the CCSMH that mental illness is not a normal part of aging. All seniors have the right and deserve to receive services and care that promote positive mental health and respond to their mental illness needs.
As part of the CCSMH’s Social Isolation and Loneliness Project, we are raising awareness of the risks facing older Canadians and the opportunities for all of us to address them. The project, funded by a private, anonymous foundation, is just one part of a growing wave of engagement that includes health professionals, community and social service professionals, researchers, care providers, and community members. For instance, the government of the United Kingdom has launched a national campaign to study and address loneliness, and in 2021 the government of Japan appointed a Minister of Loneliness. In Canada, a growing number of health, community, and nonprofit
organizations are working specifically to address social isolation and loneliness among older adults, often working with provincial and federal governments and agencies.
Social isolation and loneliness in older adults are a growing health concern that has the potential to impact everyone at some point in time. Together, we can find and share health and community resources with others, including our families, friends, care partners, colleagues, and communities.
This article’s ideas and explanations draw upon “Understanding Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Older Canadians and How to Address It” by the National Institute on Aging and RTOERO Foundation. This resource provides an excellent overview of the challenge and how we can address it.
You can learn more about the Social Isolation and Loneliness project on our website ccsmh.ca and contact us at socialconnections@ccsmh.ca.
THE CCSMH WORKS TO PROMOTE SENIORS’ MENTAL HEALTH BY CONNECTING PEOPLE, IDEAS AND RESOURCES.
JULIE MISENER*
In a country with as many climates as Canada, spring arrives at different times and in different ways, but as the days get longer and life begins to speed up, it’s the perfect opportunity to pull on your boots and get outside with the kids. Exploring signs of spring is a great way to build curiosity, problem-solving skills and creativity. Active outdoor play enhances learning and sparks insights about the physical world.
Just like breathing in the spring air often energizes us as adults, active engagement with the natural world can have a positive impact on brain development, encouraging learning and new connections, according to researchers. Studies have found that children who engage in more hands-on exploration learn more words and could develop a stronger understanding of concepts.
MAKE IT FUN
A game of spring bingo or a scavenger hunt will sharpen awareness of and appreciation for the natural world and get kids asking questions. Make a list of things to find that touch all their senses; this could include grass, raindrops, birds, mud, insects, animal tracks, etc. Give kids some tools to help them discover. A magnifying glass, a container and shovel, a bug box, or a book with pictures to help identify birds, insects, trees or flowers in your local area can empower a child to explore the outdoors. A nature journal for kids between eight and 12 can help them slow down and really enjoy nature. If you’re having trouble breaking the connection with tech, let your kids bring a phone/camera to create a video or photo journal. Encourage a focus on recording how each of your five senses tells you spring is here.
• There’s lots to see—worms after it rains, snow melting, and busy birds migrating north.
• There’s lots to listen for— bees buzzing, birds calling to each other, and frogs peeping and croaking.
• There’s the scent of wet earth, rain, and spring flowers.
• There’s a taste of maple syrup, new peas, and strawberries.
• There’s lots to feel, including warm sunshine, brisk wind, slushy snow, and mushy mud. Spring offers a wonderful, free opportunity to explore, ask questions and have fun. Unstructured time in nature allows kids to develop their own activities and approach the world in new, inventive ways that help build STEM skills that will benefit them for years. Learn more at letstalkscience.ca
KIRSTEN GRONLUND, UN WOMEN
Hanna Lemma is a women’s rights advocate and feminist researcher from Ethiopia. She is also the founder and director of Addis Powerhouse, a young women-led feminist knowledge production platform that conducts gender research and works to ensure young women’s meaningful representation in Ethiopian politics and society. In the wake of civil war, Hanna is fighting hard to prevent progress on women’s rights from becoming a casualty.
PAYING THE PRICE
Gender-based violence in Ethiopia was already endemic before the outbreak of war in 2020. But the conflict has exacerbated the problem—and reduced the political will to address it.
“Women have paid the utmost price of the war,” Hanna says. Facing heightened gender-based and sexual violence, they’re also being deprived of crucial services—including reporting mechanisms and proper healthcare for survivors. Though more
critical than ever, women’s rights have been deprioritized amidst the fighting.
Women also face exclusion from peace processes. “Instead of agents of change in reconciliation efforts, young women particularly [are] solely seen as victims of conflict,” Hanna says. Without avenues for engagement, women and women-led organizations end up unable to advocate for themselves.
In the midst of all this, global anti-feminist movements are taking their toll. Though Hanna points to digital platforms as a key mechanism for facilitating women’s rights advocacy work, access to such platforms also “heightens
exposure to the global pushback on women’s rights.”
This kind of messaging is already threatening to derail progress made by Ethiopian feminists. “While more and more women have started speaking up for their rights using apps like TikTok, more anti-women pages that promote backward gender roles and gender-based violence have also started to surface through such spaces,” Hanna explains. “Bashing feminism has become the norm.”
LIVE AND LEARN
From an early age, Hanna saw something wrong with the way she was treated. “My activism was born out of the lack of power I felt I had as a young girl on the streets of Addis Ababa,” she says. “I always questioned why I was expected to normalize catcalling and other forms of gender-based violence.”
Discovering feminism as a teenager helped her to understand the harmful systems she had already encountered: “I primarily used [feminism] to dissect and understand the patriarchal society I was born and raised in.”
It also gave her an outlet and, eventually, a sense of empowerment: “Feminist activism allowed me to cope through art and writing, and a newly found sisterhood in my community,” she says. “[It] transformed how I saw power and where I found myself in the ladder of influence.”
For Hanna, activism starts with awareness—and that means identifying the endemic sexism that serves to dehumanize women and girls on a daily basis. “We have only recognized a very small portion of our culture as ‘harmful’ so far,” she says, and that leads to the continued reinforcement of misogynistic values and traditions.
Hanna encourages aspiring activists “to read, to research, and to explore different topics—to garner a holistic understanding of the world we live in.” Apathy, she says, is our greatest enemy: We must fight to end the oppression of others just as we do our own.
She notes that activism looks different for different people. “I know that not all of us get the privilege to act visibly against inequality and violence, especially when the current social dynamic
makes us dependent on those who have capacity to dominate and punish us,” she says. But there are always ways to act: “If you are one, you can start by listening to and supporting other women and amplifying their voices.”
“Dissecting culture and the ways it is used to oppress women is the start of a new reality,” Hanna says. “We should be able to examine our shared societal values and have conversations around them.” Only then, she emphasizes, can we begin to build a better world for everyone.
BEYOND THE LIMITS
Hanna envisions a future “where we see and acknowledge the humanness in each other before anything.” Freed from gender-based violence, she sees a wealth of possibilities opening up for women and girls: “In such a world, so much of women’s lives would not be spent fearing the opposite sex, protecting ourselves, and advocating for our right to live freely. I can only imagine what we, as women, could do if gender-based violence wasn’t a constant threat to our lives.”
Haven Society’s mission is to promote the integrity and safety of women, children, youth, and families and the development of a respectful and healthy community. As a leading anti-violence organization operating from feminist principles, Haven Society will achieve this mission by providing a range of services, public education and advocacy.
Throughout the past 44 years, Haven Society has supported thousands of women and children to create strategies to live free from violence and abuse. Programs and services continue to develop in response to community needs and changing political and social climates. We have been supported in this work, this “celebration of survival,” by the dedication of employees, board, volunteers, businesses, service clubs, the United Way, churches, community groups and individuals from the community of Nanaimo and beyond. We know that by continuing to work together, we can create a safer community for everyone.
Haven Society serves women, children, youth, and families
with innovative and expanded programming, resourcefulness, and amazing community support. Haven Society also continues to provide a thoughtful perspective
within a community dedicated to non-violence and the care of all members. It takes a community to heal a community, and together we are making a difference.
Haven Society relies on gifts to serve 3,000+ women a year
At Haven Society, we believe that no one deserves to be abused. Relationship and societal violence arise from an imbalance and misuse of power and control, and prevention begins with education and awareness. Women and children are diverse and have a right to have their differences respected and supported. The community has a right and a responsibility to become involved when those rights are in danger. Violence has no place in relationships or society, but equality, mutual respect, self-esteem, and interdependence foster healthy relationships and a healthy community.
The purpose of Haven Society is to provide and maintain shelter for women of all ages who have been physically, sexually and/or emotionally abused and for their children.
With a range of programs and services, including information, counselling, crisis support and advocacy services for those who are experiencing physical, sexual, and/or psychological violence in their lives, as well as innovative programs and services
that reflect feminist principles, survivors can feel safer, stronger, and more supported.
In cooperation with other community social agencies, Haven Society also works to initiate violence prevention activities, promote public awareness of violence against women and children, and provide related services to individuals affected by violence in accordance with a commitment to diversity.
As we look forward, some of our current goals include sharing decades of knowledge and innovation through training workshops, building a new transition house and second-stage housing, and collaborating on community anti-violence initiatives for youth and families.
You can help us make these goals into reality by supporting our mission. Help promote the integrity and safety of women, children, youth, and families and the development of a respectful and healthy community. Learn more and donate at havensociety.com
Oil sands are a signi��cant contributor of carbon emissions in Canada. So we’ve teamed up to take climate action.
See what we’re doing at PathwaysAlliance.ca
“Life has its challenges, but together we can make sure no one’s left behind,” said Geoff Courtnall, Executive Vice President of the Courtnall Society for Mental Health (CSMH).
Mental health conditions are becoming more prevalent worldwide, affecting people of all ages and genders and from all walks of life. Each year, one in five Canadians experiences a mental health problem or illness. Statistics from the Canadian Mental Health Association, Victoria Foundation, and other government agencies show that 900,000 British Columbians are currently experiencing mental health or substance use problems. By age 40, about 50 per cent of us will have or have had a mental illness— which makes understanding mental illness important not only for those struggling today but also for those who may struggle tomorrow.
Founded in 2021 by brothers Geoff, Russ, and Bruce, CSMH is dedicated to improving access to life-changing community-centric
mental health services by raising funds and providing grants for essential programs and services. For the Courtnall brothers, the fight for better access to mental health services is personal. Their father struggled with depression during a time when mental health was not openly spoken about, and those struggling often did not have access to the life-saving services they needed. In his memory, the brothers have participated in various events, including hosting three Courtnall Celebrity Classic golf tournaments. They have raised millions of dollars for mental health initiatives in an effort to reduce the stigma around mental health discussions so that no one has to go through what their father did.
On top of the increase in mental health conditions and the personal toll it takes, mental health presents a sizeable economic burden. In Canada alone, the cost of mental illness is estimated at over $50 billion per year—including healthcare costs, lost productivity, and health-related quality of
life declines. Today, more than one in two struggling Canadians are not getting the mental health help they need, whether because mental health community organizations can’t meet the demand for their programs and services or because those in need face barriers to accessing those services. CSMH envisions a world where people are comfortable talking about their mental health and where help is available and accessible in every community. As Society President Bruce Courtnall says,
“Being open about our struggles allows us to find solutions.”
Through the lens of their four pillars, substance use, suicide prevention, children and youth and community integration, CSMH is dedicated to supporting organizations that help individuals get the assistance they need when and where they need it most.
“We believe that by supporting community-based organizations through our grants, we can improve individuals’ access to help in order to build healthy and supportive
networks in their community,” the brothers explained.
Thanks to the society’s donors, partners, and fundraising efforts, CSMH announced over $100,000 in grants to eight organizations offering vital mental health services in Victoria and Vancouver in its first year of full-time operations.
Canadians face many challenges, from social isolation and financial insecurity to substance use concerns, and everyone’s experiences are different. Still, there is hope—with the proper support, things can get better, and with a range of community-centric initiatives focused on providing help in many different ways, that support does exist.
“Mental health affects everyone,” said Russ Courtnall, Society Vice President. “Let’s start talking about it.”
Join the conversation today by participating in fundraising initiatives and charity events, or volunteering.
Learn more at courtnallsociety.org
Iranian chess referee Shohreh Bayat says a gesture of solidarity with female compatriots at a tournament in Iceland has caused a feud with the game’s global body and seen her kicked off a commission.
Bayat wore a “Women, Life, Freedom” t-shirt at a prestigious tournament in October, soon after protests began in Iran over the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini while in custody for breaking the strict Islamic dress code.
“I don’t think it’s normal to stay quiet about this,” Bayat, 35, told Reuters in a video interview. She is among a string of sports figures to clash with authorities over the hijab policy and express solidarity with anti-government demonstrators.
“This is a big human rights matter. I think if we stay quiet about these things, we cannot forgive ourselves,” she added.
Bayat, who was also accused by Iran of violating hijab practice at a tournament in 2020, said the International Chess
Federation (FIDE) had removed her from its arbiters’ commission after she angered its President Arkady Dvorkovich.
The Iranian said Dvorkovich asked her to change her attire in Iceland after another chess official had raised the issue. She reappeared at the tournament in a yellow suit and blue blouse: the
colours of the Ukrainian flag.
FIDE confirmed Dvorkovich had requested she not wear the shirt about women’s rights. The federation said it respected Bayat’s political activities but that she “disregarded direct instructions given to her to stop wearing slogans or mottos.”
“No matter how noble or
uncontroversial the cause is, doing activism from that role is inappropriate and unprofessional,” FIDE said in a statement to Reuters.
Tehran casts the protesters as pawns of a Western-led push to overthrow the government.
A BEAUTIFUL MESSAGE
Bayat accused Dvorkovich, a Russian deputy prime minister from 2012 to 2018, of succumbing to geopolitics.
“Iran and Russia are very united in the war against Ukraine,” she said. “When I was told by Dvorkovich to take off my t-shirt, that was the reason, probably. My t-shirt was not political at all...It’s one of the most beautiful women’s rights messages in the world.”
According to a message seen by Reuters, a senior FIDE official told Bayat she had been removed from the commission because Dvorkovich was “furious” with her.
Dvorkovich did not respond to a request for comment.
FIDE said it had not discussed any disciplinary action against
Bayat and values her as an arbiter.
Bayat lives in London, fearing for her safety after photos of her at the 2020 tournament in Russia brought criticism in Iranian state media.
Bayat said at the time that she did not agree with the hijab but that she had been wearing a headscarf during the championship’s first matches, although it had been loose and was not visible from some angles in photographs.
Since Iran’s Islamic Revolution, all women have been required to wear a hijab in public, including sportswomen abroad. Women who break the dress code can be publicly berated, fined or arrested.
Bayat was awarded the International Women of Courage Award by the United States in 2021 and has since used her platform to advocate for Iranian women.
“When I can, when there is an opportunity, I have to raise the voice of Iranian people,” she said. —Reuters
Did you know the Canadian Transplant Association (CTA) is part of a larger transplant community worldwide through the World Transplant Games Federation?
Over 42 countries have the opportunity to gather every other year for World Game events, participating in information sharing and peer connection.
The CTA is a 100 per cent volunteer-led registered charitable organization with a vision to improve the health outcomes of transplant recipients by promoting the message of post-transplant healthy living.
In 1987, the CTA was launched by a group of individuals passionate about showcasing the benefits of organ donation. Almost 35 years later, we have volunteers across the country raising awareness and creating a community for transplant recipients, donor families, living donors, and their families. We also engage with healthcare providers and other advocacy groups on matters relating to the health and overall wellness of transplant patients. The CTA is the only post-transplant community-focused group with representation across the country.
It is important to the CTA that membership be inclusive and accessible, so in 2021 we shifted to a no-cost membership model. Regardless of age, income, or involvement in the transplant community,
individuals can register for a free annual CTA membership. Our members participate in various events and activities supporting organ donation awareness, including the Canadian and World Transplant Games, National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week, Green Shirt Day and local events like Transplant Trots. Our members represent recipients across organ types and range in age, from four to well over 80 years old! The CTA also provides its members with exclusive opportunities to participate in special transplant-related seminars, celebrations and more. Members can also access research, transplant information, and other healthy lifestyle tips.
The CTA continues to look for ways to expand its reach within Canada and ensure that Canadians know the value of organ donation by sharing member stories and showcasing the healthy lifestyles recipients experience post-transplant. By partnering with organizations like The Kidney Foundation
of Canada, Canadian Blood Services, and CDTRP, as well as CST Canadian Society for Transplantation—both researchfocused and patient-supported outcome groups. The CTA hopes to continue to grow relationships within the transplant community and provide its members with greater access to information and support for its membership.
In 2022, the CTA was the proud recipient of the Logan Boulet Humanitarian Award for our collective work and collaboration on Green Shirt Day efforts and for raising awareness for organ donation. The CTA is thrilled to continue to have the opportunity to help its members demonstrate the life-changing effects of organ donation on recipients and their families and celebrate the donors who make these gifts possible. As an organization 100 per cent powered by volunteers, the CTA recognizes and appreciates the countless hours of dedication and skill shared by our volunteers to achieve the Canadian Transplant Association’s vision.
Improving the health outcomes of transplant recipients and supporting post-transplant healthy living. Learn more and donate at canadiantransplant.com
If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, worried, or fatigued, you’re not alone.
Along with our personal lives, our working lives were turned upside down during the pandemic and compounded by the effects of other factors we’re all facing. With so many of our waking hours spent at work, the challenges we experience there can significantly impact our mental health. Wherever you are in the province, the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division (CMHA BC) and CMHA branches offer services and resources that can help staff and managers rebuild organizations that are psychologically safe and healthy.
“Many of us have been profoundly impacted by everything that’s happened over the past couple of years,” said Jonny Morris, CEO of CMHA BC. “Some people faced sudden financial hardships when they lost their jobs, and others are exhausted and overwhelmed by the daily stress they deal with at work. Employers are taking notice, and we’ve experienced a surge in demand for more workplace mental health support and training as organizational leaders seek out ways to support their teams and colleagues, as well as their own mental health.”
During the pandemic, some industries’ employees were particularly hard-hit, including front-line caregivers, tourism and hospitality, and community social services workers. CMHA BC, along with branches and community partners, and with support from the Province of BC, have responded to the need for mental health support for these groups, creating customized services and support just for them.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and people want to feel heard and understood,” said Morris. “A day in the life of a chef or a waitress looks very different than that of a nurse or a
counsellor, but they all face real challenges and stresses, and need support that works for them.”
CARE FOR CAREGIVERS
We’re not designed to be in stress mode all the time, and when our stress systems get overworked, we are at increased risk for physical and mental health problems.
Care for Caregivers (careforcaregivers.ca) offers up-to-date information specific for healthcare workers, free workshops, and coping tips in a collection of quick and accessible resources to support your well-being. Topics include anxiety, resiliency, depression, social connection, and bereavement and grief. There’s also information on supporting staff and taking care of yourself as a caregiver. Get started at careforcaregivers.ca.
CARE TO SPEAK
But sometimes, you need to speak to someone who can understand what you’re going through—that’s where Care to Speak comes in. Care to Speak is a free phone, text, and chat service operated by peer supporters. It offers unbiased, confidential peer emotional and psychological help for anyone working in the healthcare or social services sector. For contact information and the latest hours, go to careforcaregivers.ca/caretospeak
BC’S HUB FOR WORKPLACE
MENTAL HEALTH
There can be comfort in community and knowing that others in your industry have been facing many of the same stresses, worries, and anxieties as you. That’s why CMHA BC, along with its partners and support from the Province of BC, created BC’s Hub for Workplace Mental Health. The Hub is a central location with resources tailored for people in the hospitality and tourism and community social services sectors. There, people can access free support and education, including the new Workplace CARE certificate. Visit workmentalhealthbc.ca.
NEED HELP BEYOND WORKPLACE RESOURCES?
• For immediate help, call 3106789 (no area code required) to connect with community-based volunteers and staff at B.C. crisis lines.
• If you are considering suicide or know someone who is, call 1-800-SUICIDE province-wide, 24 hours a day.
• cmha.bc.ca has resources, information, and links to other programs and events such as BounceBack and Living Life to the Full for adults and youth.
INFORMATION FOR WORKPLACE LEADERS
Did you know that:
• For every dollar invested in workplace mental health, the median yearly return is $1.62?
• 70 per cent of Canadian employees are concerned about the mental health and safety of their workplace?
• The total cost from mental health problems to the Canadian economy exceeds $50 billion annually?
• More than 500,000 Canadian employees per week are unable to work due to mental health problems?
HEALTH CARE, COMMUNITY SOCIAL SERVICES, TOURISM, AND HOSPITALITY: Care for Caregivers (careforcaregivers.ca) and BC’s Hub for Workplace Mental Health (workmentalhealthbc.ca) have been designed for you, too. Visit the resources above for sector-specific tools and resources you can share with your employees.
ALL OTHER SECTORS: CMHA branches offer a variety of mental health courses and training options focused on workplaces. From all-staff presentations to building specialized skills, CMHA can help ensure employees and members get the support they need. With topics such as Responding with Respect, Mental Health First Aid, Understanding Addictions, Compassion Fatigue, and customized training just for your organization, CMHA’s teams of professionals can help your organization foster a mentally healthier workplace. Contact us at workplaces@cmha.bc.ca, and we’ll help you create a training plan that fits your needs and budget.
Port Hardy’s premier First Nations destination hotel, o�fering a curated selection of authentic local Indigenous arts and culture kwalilashotel.ca
Kwa’lilas Hotel is the only Indigenous-owned and operated hotel in Port Hardy, British Columbia. Surrounded by natural beauty, the hotel is the perfect place to relax and unwind. With a variety of amenities and activities, all in sight of breathtaking landscapes, guests will feel right at home. From hiking and fishing to sightseeing and beach-going, there is something for everyone.
Kwa’lilas is a kwak’wala word used by Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw people meaning “a place to sleep.” A group of Elders chose this word in hopes that travellers and guests would find a peaceful rest after a day of exploration on the Northern Vancouver Island.
The history of Kwa’lilas goes back over 12,000 years, to when early generations of Gwa’sala‘Nakwaxda’xw people lived off the land and waters—travelling by sea between villages allowed families to practice their culture through ceremonies like feasts and potlatching.
RAYE MOCIOIU
You will find many expressions of culture and history throughout the Port Hardy hotel, including masks and designs by local artists. This is
our way of sharing our history and legends and opening our hearts to welcome you to the North Island. From the moment you enter
the lobby, you’ll be amazed by the massive custom copper art installation and other Indigenous-inspired artwork throughout the hotel. Upstairs is a large, stylish conference room perfect for business meetings and conferences.
As you settle into your room, you’ll be able to take in the natural beauty of the surrounding area, with a view of the ocean and lush forests. The hotel also features two restaurants onsite, Naxid’ Pub and Ha’me’ Restaurant. Ha’me features an Indigenous-inspired menu with traditional and locally sourced ingredients, a great way to experience the local culture and flavours.
Another way to immerse yourself in the local culture is by taking a k’awat’si Tour, a guided tour led by a Gwa’sala‘Nakwaxda’xw company that provides aboriginal cultural experiences and local eco-tourism adventures on the North Island.
If you prefer to get the lay of the
land on your own, you’ll find countless hiking trails that take you through some of the most awe-inspiring locations in the region. Chase waterfalls at the nearby Port Alice or take on the Tex Lyon Trailhead, a favourite among locals.
Make a stop at the Port Hardy Heritage Museum, where you’ll find permanent exhibits of First Nations settlers’ effects, including 8,000-year-old artifacts and relics of natural and local history. On the way back to the hotel, stop by Cafe Guido for artisan coffee, mouthwatering baked goods and lunches, and browse their selection of gifts, books, and clothing items, all in one stop!
Immerse yourself in all the beauty Vancouver Island North has to offer, and experience an unforgettable getaway that is truly one of a kind at Kwa’lilas Hotel. Gila’kasla!
Book your stay today and explore all that Port Hardy has to offer at kwalilashotel.ca
Deep in the heart of Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest, on the shore of the Pacific Ocean, lies a uniquely wild experience. Here, the hustle and bustle of your everyday life couldn’t be further away. Who needs the rumbling noise of traffic when you have the serene and soothing sounds of nature—the wooshing calm of the ocean’s waves, the whispers of the wind blowing through the trees, and in the distance, the sounds of animals foraging along the shorelines. This is what it means to feel the call of the wild.
British Columbia’s Nimmo Bay, described as Mother Nature’s Backyard, is home to once-ina-lifetime experiences. Wild adventures are their specialty, with a natural abundance of wildlife and numerous areas to explore by boat, kayak, paddle boarding, helicopter, and of course, on foot.
The resort’s wilderness lodge is the ideal place to watch
black and grizzly bears in their natural habitat ethically and safely. Expert guides certified by the Commercial Bear Viewing Association make this experience both exciting and informative.
On the waters, orca and humpback whales, long-time residents of the region, often pop up to greet visitors— whale watching is touted as an exhilarating experience not to be missed. Kayaking through the coastal islands is also available, both as a guided day trip complete with a gourmet picnic or on your own with a hot drink and a camera to capture the sights.
Paddleboarding, hiking, and helicopter rides are visitor favourites for exploring the region’s beauty from all heights and angles, and guided safari day trips will take you to remote areas as you indulge in the sights, stories, and history of the islands.
This luxury wilderness resort places a careful focus on
protecting the land it resides on. The Murray family, the founders and owners of the resort, have always strived to minimize their carbon footprint and share the benefits of living sustainably. Nimmo Bay is run by innovative and sustainable systems, like the hydropower system, fueled by streams and waterfalls and provides clean drinking water and up to 80 per cent of the resort’s power. Naturally, these methods continue in the resort’s kitchens, where all culinary ingredients are sustainably sourced and purchased from local farms. Composting and recycling are non-negotiables here; even their wastewater is converted into clean water suitable for re-entry to the environment. The resort also supports surrounding communities through tourism and education, inspiring a love of the land in all who come to stay, and funds groundbreaking wildlife research and activism. Their partnerships with local nonprofits further their mission to live sustainably: Nimmo
Bay proudly supports the Smokehouse Foundation, an organization that promotes coastal Indigenous communities and peoples living in remote areas, focusing on balancing environmental protection with infrastructure improvements.
can find in the wild. Wellness guides will lead you through parts of the wilderness that you’ve never imagined, from walking meditations to forest bathing and floating saunas to cedar hot tubs at the base of a cascading waterfall. You’re sure to return home feeling renewed and rejuvenated—and looking forward to your next adventure in the west coast wilderness.
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The section of highway between Fort Nelson, B.C., and Watson Lake, AB, plays host to a world of adventure. Known as the Serengeti of the North, part of the Northern Rockies’ attraction is the wildlife viewing possibilities—the quantity of species living in the region makes this region a nature enthusiast’s dream destination.
Located within the Aurora Oval,
this region gets spectacular views of the northern lights, a bucket list experience for travellers worldwide. As well, the Alaska Highway has always been one of the great wild corridors of North America. You’re almost guaranteed to come across wildlife during your travels in this region, from wood bison to caribou, elk, bears, and stone sheep, among a host of other
mammals and birds. Though majestic and awe-inspiring, travellers must keep a few tips in mind during their adventures through the backcountry.
INTO THE WILD
The Alaska Highway is animal territory, a natural northern wilderness where we are the guests. The animals, of course, have the right of way—creatures like the wood bison, the largest animals in North America, can weigh up to 2,000 pounds!—but in general, be sure to keep a safe distance between yourself and the wildlife you come across on your adventures. Adventurers seeking wildlife will have the best luck in the mornings and evenings when the day is at
There are also countless areas to watch wildlife while indulging in some of nature’s most rejuvenating experiences, like The Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, accessible year-round. The spring’s unique ecosystem attracts hundreds of species, including birds, mammals, and fish.
The region is also home to the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area (M-KMA), one of the largest tracts of wilderness in B.C., roughly the size of Ireland, that works to protect the natural environment and wilderness. Here, the focus is on maintaining the diversity, quality, and abundance of wildlife. Enjoy the protected area as you drive through the northern portion on the Alaska Highway or adventure deeper into nature on a hike, float plane, off-road route or horse.
of World War II and connect mainland U.S.A. to Alaska. Constructed in just eight months, building this highway was no easy feat, with soldiers and crew enduring extreme weather and working conditions.
Spanning 2,237 kilometres, every part of this Highway is steeped in beauty and history. Local Indigenous communities provided surveyors and construction crews with invaluable knowledge and experience to make this construction feat possible.
A must-see pit stop on your trip includes a tour of the Fort Nelson Heritage Museum. While visiting Fort Nelson and the Northern Rockies, immerse yourself in the history of the local Indigenous communities who have occupied the lands of northeast British Columbia for tens of thousands of years. Leave plenty of time to stop, -
© COURTESY OF KWA’LILAS HOTEL
STEPHEN GRUNDMANIS
You may find this hard to believe, but I’ve flown 1,232 times with Air North, Yukon’s Airline. Yes, I’ve tracked every flight over the past four years and have been to every one of their destinations across the territories and southern provinces.
I know that’s pretty amazing for any traveller, but there’s a good reason for that.
I’m a pilot. And I’m more than proud to call both Air North and Yukon my home. This regional airline is all about connecting the North. Up here, people matter. It’s a philosophy that plays into the level of customer service our guests rank as best-in-class. That’s because we’ve always believed flying should be fun and that the journey to and from your destination should be an enjoyable and memorable part of the experience.
When you fly Yukon’s airline, you can be assured of a genuine northern Canadian experience. We know that doing everything we can to put passengers at ease will ensure our guests feel welcome. Our flight attendants are friendly and attentive, always going above and beyond to make sure you’re safe, comfortable and content. If you need a blanket or something to eat or drink, they have that for you.
We offer complimentary meals from our own inflight kitchen. Up in the cockpit, we love the smell of the coffee and fresh-fromthe-oven cookies. We know how much our cabin guests wait for that moment as well. Yes, we serve coffee from our local roasters and Yukon-brewed beers. Our locally made Yukon beverages and menu items from our very own Red Seal Chef, Michael Bock, can’t be found on any other airline.
Our famous Yukon hospitality is at the core of the Air North experience. From the moment you step on board, you’ll be treated as friends and family. Over the 46 years since our president, Joe Sparling, first started Air North,
he’s promoted one important mantra, other than safety first: make passengers feel cared for.
Air North delivers on that promise like no one else in the industry. It’s how we’ve always done business. I can stand by that because I’ve worked in many positions at Air North before becoming a pilot, and I’ve seen a delivery on that promise time and time again.
All 400 of our employees— from check-in and cabin crew to baggage handlers—work hard to make that a reality.
It’s this attention to service and hospitality that had us recognized by Trip Advisor as Best Specialty and Leisure Airline in North America.
As a regional airline, we take pride in showcasing the best of our beautiful territory. If you’re
coming to explore the Yukon, we’ll share our stories and tips about the best places to visit. I especially enjoy Keno City. It’s a tiny mining town with a whopping population of 12. My dad grew up in the area, and we have a cabin close by. It’s quiet, peaceful, full of beautiful sights and rich with history. I also enjoy Dawson City, particularly catching a show at Diamond Tooth Gerties!
At Air North, we care, and it shows. Every member of our team is empowered to improve the customer experience where we can, to act to resolve issues and to treat travellers as you would friends or family.
I’d like to mention baggage for a minute. We understand that travellers want to pack everything they need for their adventure or bring back treasures from the Yukon. That’s why we offer two free checked bags per passenger on every flight, so you don’t have to worry about paying extra for luggage. We have very generous weight limitations, and anything extra can go cargo. Believe me; we’ve seen everything in our affordable cargo service, from bikes, kayaks
and large river canoes to harvested caribou and whole roasted pigs for a local cultural event.
What makes us unique, too, is the fact that Air North is 100 per cent owned by Yukoners, including the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation. Their investment in 2000 led to the robust jet service and affordable fares that northern fly-in communities now enjoy. Today, one in 15 Yukoners holds an equity or employment position in Air North.
Air North touches down daily at more than a dozen destinations across Canada, including Vancouver, Victoria and Kelowna, Edmonton, Calgary and Ottawa. Our newest route—Toronto-YellowknifeWhitehorse—came online last year, conveniently opening the North to international and eastern Canadian travellers. We’re a competitive and attractive alternative, even for a short hop to Vancouver from Victoria or Kelowna.
In celebration of our deep ties to the Yukon, our “Spirit in Action” sponsorship initiative is our way of supporting communities and giving back. I have
played in many Air North-sponsored squash tournaments. Our focus is on health and wellness programs, improving quality of life and providing funding for the arts, culture and sports. We’re also involved intensively with youth development and the Indigenous peoples of Canada. Recently we partnered with Canada Goose to assist in hosting a Resource Centre for Yukon First Nations, donating nearly 70 kilometres of fabric to Indigenous crafters and artisans, including the transportation of materials and partnering with local companies to physically house the initiative.
Air North truly is Yukon’s airline. We care about our guests, and we care about the North. As a pilot, every time I buckle in, I remind myself what a lifeline this airline really is—in our commitment to connecting our people and our communities—and doing it in a way that makes everybody proud. Come home to the Yukon.
Book your flight today at flyairnorth.com
Located
Vancouver
important transportation hub for the Stó:lō people. The community was given its current name when the Fort Hope trading post was
established at the location by the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1848. Today, as the meeting point for two rivers and four highways, Hope is a great “base of operations” for a vacation adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike one of the many local trails, including the new Kw’okw’echíwel Stl’áleqem (Dragon’s Back) Trail, or head east for four seasons’ worth of outdoor activities at Manning Park Resort. In addition to skiing and snowshoeing, Manning Park Resort offers telescope rentals for year-round stargazing. Thacker Regional Park provides opportunities to view wildlife, such as salmon spawning in the fall or bird watching in the spring and summer months. To the north, whitewater rafting is available throughout the summer courtesy of REO Rafting Resort. People interested in history and culture can visit one of Hope’s three art galleries, including the Hope Arts Gallery featuring local artists, the Muskwa Gallery, and the Heaven N Earth Native Art Gallery and Cultural Studio. Hope’s Art Walk
showcases the dozens of chainsaw carvings around town from the biennial carving competition. Hope is home to the Christ Church National Historic Site, the oldest church on the B.C. mainland still holding services at its original location. The Tashme Museum, which showcases the history of Japanese-Canadian internment during the Second World War, and the Hope Slide memorial site are just a few minutes away down Highway 3. In the summer, follow the path of the Cariboo Wagon Road north through the historic Fraser Canyon to visit the Yale Historic Site to learn about the Fraser Canyon gold rush, as well as Alexandra Bridge Provincial Park and Tuckkwiowhum Heritage Village. Guided Hal’qeméylem place name tours running from Chilliwack to Yale through Hope can be booked through Stó:lō Tourism. As one of the original “Hollywood North” communities, Hope has many iconic views that you may recognize from the silver screen. First Blood (1982) is the most well-known, with a
self-guided filming location tour available and many businesses with Rambo-themed offerings, such as Mountainview Brewing Co.’s First Blood Orange beer and the Silver Chalice Pub’s gigantic Rambo Burger, but Hope also features prominently in other films such as Sweet Virginia (2017) and Antlers (2021).
No vacation is complete without sampling local restaurants. From classic mom-and-pop spots to traditional chain restaurants, Hope has something to satisfy any craving. Sink your teeth into local favourites at Blue Moose cafe, or find home-cooked comforts at Pinewoods Dining Room and Home Restaurant. With so many great places to eat, these smalltown restaurants are worth roadtripping for.
From artisan shops to outdoor adventures, photo-worthy moments, and mouthwatering eats, the perfect vacation is waiting for you in the Hope, Cascades and Canyons region. For more information and to book your adventures, visit tourismhcc.ca
ALLIE MURRAY
Canadian winters are harsh— but warm weather is readily available and waiting south of the border.
Victoria House Resort & Spa in Belize is the perfect getaway for travellers looking to escape to white sandy beaches, warm weather, and peaceful relaxation. Located on the Belize island Ambergris Caye, the resort has long been a destination for travellers— receiving countless accolades, including the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award for the last 10 years.
The resort’s home of Ambergris Caye is the largest of the 200 cayes,
or islands, that dot the coastline of Belize. Located in the waters of the Caribbean Sea, just off the tip of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Ambergris Caye is a small island that packs a lot of beauty.
Similarly, Victoria House Resort & Spa is perched at the edge of the Belize Barrier Reef, which consists of the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere. Stretching some 900 kilometres along the coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras, the reef is home to biodiversity and is a must-see for adventurous divers. The resort offers exciting adventures, including snorkelling, scuba diving, aerial tours and more that allow you
to experience the beauty of the barrier reef and the wildlife that surrounds it for yourself.
“With its incredible location perched at the edge of one of the most stunning natural wonders of the world, Victoria House makes it easy to take advantage of a host of exciting water and land adventures, from diving in the Belize Barrier Reef and the Great Blue Hole, to exploring the town of San Pedro,” said Janet Woollam, General Manager of Victoria House Resort & Spa.
SIT BACK AND RELAX
A part of their namesake, Victoria House is known for its spa services. With the tranquil
beachfront location, the resort built a new facility that is set amongst coconut palms and tropical flowers. The spa makes for the perfect place for relaxation, inspiration and indulgence. With more than 36 different treatments, there are options for everyone. The facility also includes a fully equipped fitness centre that hosts yoga classes and groups.
While Ambergris Caye is known for attracting travellers seeking adventure and relaxation, the island’s largest settlement, San Pedro, is a piece of history in modern day. The town was once
inhabited by the ancient Maya and is home to an abundance of Mayan ruins.
Belize is the centre of the Maya civilization and is known to have the largest concentration of Mayan ruins in Central America—it is believed that this area of Belize may have as many as 1,300 Mayan sites still unexcavated. To make exploring the ruins easy, Victoria House offers tours of the Mayan ruins and transportation to San Pedro. Victoria House Resort & Spa is known for its relaxing island vibe and barefoot elegance throughout the resort—making it a must-visit destination for travellers looking for a tranquil escape.
mirrored on either side, ensuring you see them all. They symbolize an aspect of Mission that the community felt captured a piece
of heritage, special location, or a characteristic important to the city.
Many of the light designs tie in with the very reason tourists come to the area, and with a self-guided walking map available, visitors from near and far are encouraged to visit the downtown area to see the displays, try the exclusive “Shine Bright” drinks and eats, shop and explore all that Mission has to offer.
FROM BRIGHT LIGHTS TO REALITY
The Mountains: Designed by children’s contest winner Elizabeth Gill, a local Mission student, who loved the magic that the snow-peaked mountain vistas made her feel. We agree, Elizabeth! Stave Falls Powerhouse: This National Historic Site of Canada brings to life the history of hydroelectricity through an engaging and hands-on experience. Wander among gigantic generators and turbines and listen to the buzz of the tesla coil.
Mission Raceway Park: As the fastest drag strip in Western Canada that brings the exhilaration of sitting in the stands and feeling the heat of the jet car, screeching tires of the drifters, seeing the vintage beauty of the sports cars, and hearing the roar of the drag racing.
Waterfalls: With 12 lakes and a host of waterways including the mighty Fraser River, Mission has some impressive waterfalls such as the popular Cascade Falls, which boasts an immersive suspension bridge to get you up close and personal to nature at its most splendid.
Guitar: Celebrating the rich roots of music within the community, and the Mission Folk Music Festival, a weekend-long event that brings together the finest in folk, world, roots, and blues set against the backdrop of the Fraser Valley in July each year. Did you know Carly Rae Jepsen grew up here?
Clapperboard: Mission’s downtown and forested areas are often the leading locations for a host of your favourite movies
and TV shows. Check out the Mission Movie Moment for a self-guided tour of stores and sites that have become stars in their own right.
Salmon: Depicting part of the Leq’á:mel First Nations logo showing the salmon and sturgeon, highlighting the importance of the river to the Stó:lō (People of the River). Here we work, learn, and play within traditional, ancestral, unceded, and shared lands of the Stó:lō people, which includes Sq’éwlets, Leq’á:mel, Semá:th, Matheqwí, and Qwó:ltl’el First Nations.
Tree Cross-Section: Mission has its own Municipal Tree Farm (TFL26), with access to incredible outdoor adventure with hiking, biking, boating, horse riding, and camping within the Stave West Forest and Recreation Area.
There sure is a lot to dazzle the most disconcerting of guests, so come for the lights
two hours from at the eastern edge of the Fraser Valley, Hope is situated at the site of the community of Ts’qó:ls, an
Campbell River, or Wiwek’am, is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, within the traditional territory of the We Wai Kai and We Wai Kum First Nations in the Northern Strait of Georgia.
Sitting on the 50th parallel, it’s a city nestled in nature with five provincial parks bordering the region and Discovery Passage at the front door. With its mild year-round climate and abundant outdoor activities, Campbell River is an epicentre for outdoor experiences—whale watching, bear watching, kayaking, fishing, alpine hiking, skiing and a 28 km looping trail network that seamlessly joins city and nature together, through the forest and along the seashore.
Visitors connect with nature and are transformed by the accessibility of the ocean, quiet beaches, forests, friendly locals, and the
river of its namesake, showcasing the biodiversity and life cycle of coastal ecosystems.
MAKE TRAVEL FEEL
GOOD AGAIN
Nature is a critical part of the Campbell River, a city with a long-standing connection to the natural environment. “Towards natural harmony” to Campbell River means a strong desire and intent to gain balance between what the people in Campbell River need and what is needed to protect the surrounding natural environment.
So many of our community members take “towards a natural harmony” to heart, asking the question: Is it the destination itself or is it the people that call it home that make a place worth experiencing? We believe the latter. There are many organizations and people within Campbell River
who are taking action to improve the quality of life and to protect the environment so that locals and visitors alike can enjoy it for generations to come. We invite you to get acquainted and actively get involved with Campbell River and experience nature off the grid. Learn more at campbellriver. travel/2022/11/22/experiencenature-off-grid-and-hands-onwith-strathcona-park-lodge
WHERE THE WILD AND LIFE COLLIDE
Campbell River is the gathering place to celebrate the wild nature that recharges people who are looking for a personal and transformational experience. Visitors can kick back and enjoy the comforts of the city or challenge themselves to truly epic wilderness experiences; it’s a choose-yourown-adventure sort of place. There’s no wrong way to do it.
Campbell River is a place that invigorates people, brings them past the ordinary, and nudges them ever so slightly out of their comfort zone. No matter your ability or interests, there is something to be experienced by all.
Learn more at campbellriver. travel/discover
SLIGHTLY OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE
The Campbell River experience is authentic. That word can be overused, but in Campbell River, it is entirely accurate. What you see is what you get, and the locals embrace this mentality. The people are real. The environment is real. The place is real. Campbell River could be said to be unexpected. Getting out of your comfort zone could be interpreted as taking it one step further for no one else other than yourself, working up to a longer hike in
Strathcona Park. It may not be the steepest and longest, but it’s something different, and it’s worth every minute. Whatever ways people choose to step outside of their comfort zone in Campbell River, there are always more adventures, sights, and experiences waiting in the wings. The cold water diving is some of the best in the world, and Campbell River is considered one of the best drop zones in North America for sky diving. Salt and freshwater fishing are considered some of the most remarkable experiences on the coast due to the temperate weather, access, variety of species, and chance wildlife encounters. As you plan your travels this year, consider stepping into a place where nature and life collide, where being in nature is personal and becoming a part of a community is real. Learn more campbellriver.travel/discover
Cranberries are not only healthy and tasty but very versatile too! Raw cranberries are also quite shelf-stable and keep in the refrigerator for a month and the freezer for a year. Dried cranberries keep well for up to a year in the pantry and up to two years in the refrigerator, but you’ll never need to keep them that long with all the great recipes you can use them in. While we
often think of cranberry sauce, especially during the holiday season, and juice year-round, cranberries add zest, colour and texture to many recipes. These toasted cranberry energy bites will give you the boost you need to get out there and hike, ski, bike, dance or whatever activity keeps you healthy. While it is super easy to throw together a trail mix with some
dried cranberries, nuts, yogurt bits, and more, we think you’ll find it worthwhile to make these energy bites. It’s a creative way to use dried cranberries, lentils and flax seed in a delicious bite offering a well-balanced mix of protein, fibre and quality fats. They are sure to please!
For more cranberry recipes, visit bccranberries.com
TOASTED COCONUT CRANBERRY ENERGY BITES
MAKES 24
heat for about 5 minutes or until golden and toasted in colour. Watch and stir while toasting. Set aside.
2 Chop cranberries finely.
Ingredients
• ¾ cup (175 mL) toasted coconut flakes, unsweetened
• ½ cup (125 mL) dried cranberries
• ½ cup (125 mL) cooked green lentils
• 2 tbsp (30 mL) honey
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) melted coconut oil or butter
• 1/4 tsp (1.25 mL) sea salt
• 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) vanilla extract or coconut extract, optional
• ¾ cup (175 mL) almond meal, also known as almond flour
• 2 tbsp (30 mL) ground flax seed
• ¼ cup (60 mL) chocolate or carob chips, optional
Directions
1 Toast coconut: Place in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and allow to
3 In a food processor, place lentils, honey, coconut oil, sea salt and vanilla extract. Blend well to purée lentils.
4 Add toasted coconut and all remaining ingredients and process until the texture of thick cookie dough. If you do not have a food processor, these can also be made by stirring vigorously in a large bowl.
5 Scoop one tablespoon-sized portions of the batter and roll them into balls. Place on a parchment-lined pan and allow to set in the fridge for about an hour. If desired, garnish by rolling in toasted coconut before the energy bites go into the refrigerator or drizzle with melted chocolate after they have been refrigerated.
MATTHEW STEVENS
AND ELIZABETH BRYANT, WFP
The World Food Programme (WFP) is reaching hundreds of thousands of people in Türkiye and Syria with urgently needed food assistance, with plans to scale up sharply and support more than 900,000 people—if critical funding comes through—following the devastating earthquakes that struck along the border between the two countries on February 6.
“Thousands of lives have been lost,” WFP’s Executive Director David Beasley said on Twitter, “but our teams are on the ground.” Within 24 hours, WFP was among the communities affected, providing hot meals and ready-toeat rations.
The food being distributed requires no cooking and provides immediate relief for families whose precarious position is made worse by freezing temperatures. “That’s WFP,” Beasley added. “Lives matter. We care. We’re there.”
In Türkiye, which hosts the
world’s largest refugee population, WFP plans to provide millions of meals to quake-affected people through local soup kitchens, as well as family food packages to tens of thousands of refugees and displaced Turkish nationals. In Syria, the disaster has further complicated an acute humanitarian crisis. Estimates suggest that at least six million people have been affected by the quakes. In the first 36 hours, WFP teams were on the ground in the crisis zone providing hot meals and ready-to-eat rations to 40,000 people surviving in the bitter cold.
The country’s hard-hit northwest urgently needs more WFP food delivered swiftly—and for all parties to facilitate humanitarian access to reach all people who need support.
“One of our biggest challenges right now is not the transport, it’s not the food—it’s access,” said WFP Syria Country Director Kenn Crossley. “Some of the people hardest to reach are in places
where there is ongoing conflict. We need to be able to reach them.”
Even before the disaster hit, 4.1 million people in northwest Syria—more than 90 per cent of the population—depended on humanitarian aid. Twelve years of conflict have displaced
almost three million people from their homes and left them living in precarious conditions.
“A region plagued by years of compounding crises faces yet another one, with unimaginable loss and destruction,” said WFP Regional Director in the
Middle East, Northern Africa, and Eastern Europe Corinne Fleischer. “WFP’s strong footprint in both countries enabled us to immediately mobilize our staff, logistics capacity and partners to respond to people’s most immediate food needs.”
WFP is appealing for US$50 million to support 900,000 vulnerable people in Türkiye and Syria—including those newly displaced and thousands of refugees.
WFP mourns all the lives lost in this tragedy, including one of its own staff members.
Canada is one of WFP’s most important donors globally. Their continued support has enabled WFP to respond to the earthquakes with timely and critical injections to our life-saving response in Syria and Türkiye. WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian organization fighting hunger and building resilience around the world. In 2022, WFP worked to save and change the lives of more than 140 million people in over 120 countries and territories.
When people think about a casino, they usually don’t think about all of the ways it gives back to its community, but in Dawson City, Yukon, things are run a little bit differently. Diamond
Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall is Canada’s only not-for-profit casino, and giving back to the community is what they do best.
Canada’s first legal gambling hall, Diamond Tooth Gerties opened in 1971 and is operated by the Klondike Visitors Association, a community non-profit whose mandate includes destination marketing, community events, and community well-being. All profits from operating Diamond Tooth Gerties are reinvested in the community in many ways, including grant programs, fundraising opportunities, sponsorships, destination marketing, and wages, to name a few.
One of the larger contributions that Diamond Tooth Gerties gives each year is to the Crime Prevention and Victim Services Trust Fund, a grant program for projects that support crime
prevention and services to victims in the Yukon. Diamond Tooth Gerties has contributed to this fund since its inception in 1998, amounting to more than $2,700,000 over the past 10 years.
Another way that Diamond Tooth Gerties gives back to their community is through a Community Event Casino Program, which invites local non-profits to host events
in the space in the winter months and receive a donation from Diamond Tooth Gerties in return.
Situated on the banks of the Yukon River and surrounded by pristine wilderness, Dawson City is a popular vacation destination for people of all ages. Whether you want to experience the northern lights, the world-class hiking, or take in the nightly
can-can shows on the stage of Diamond Tooth Gerties, there is sure to be something to please everyone that visits. Money from Diamond Tooth Gerties is used to market Dawson City as a tourist destination, which helps stimulate the local economy.
When you visit Diamond Tooth Gerties from early May until late September, you’ll experience three different
performances from Miss Diamond Tooth Gertie and her Gold Rush Girls. Diamond Tooth Gertie will dazzle you with her wit, charm, and powerhouse vocals. Wowing you with high kicks and splits, the Gold Rush Girls will undoubtedly keep you captivated with their colourful skirts and hootin’ and hollerin’. With performances ranging from old-timey can-can all the way up to contemporary rock and pop, these shows will have you tapping your toes and singing along in no time.
When you walk into the 120-year-old building that houses Diamond Tooth Gerties, it’s comforting to know that the money you spend is being reinvested into the community. With the Yukon being just a short flight from Vancouver, it might be time to start planning that trip of a lifetime.
For more information on Diamond Tooth Gerties and all the other ways they give back, you can visit DiamondToothGerties.ca
The Bronze Sculpture Capital of Canada is a not-to-miss destination for B.C. Interior travellers this spring and summer, featuring art and nature in harmony.
Princeton, B.C., is a town blessed by natural beauty, with fresh mountain air, streams and lakes, wildlife and more for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Four years ago, the Princeton town council decided to enhance the area’s natural attractions with stunning art, approving the production of more than a dozen bronze sculptures featuring native animals for visitors and locals alike to enjoy.
To say the least, the project has been a hit.
“It was our number one tourism draw in 2022,” said Gary Schatz, Princeton Economic Development and Tourism Director, explaining it has attracted visitors from all over B.C. and beyond looking to experience the town, specifically visitors from the Lower Mainland.
“People are doing the day trip and taking the time to do the statue walk and just enjoy the statues and appreciate some of the artwork that we have here.”
Currently, more than a dozen sculptures are located throughout
the downtown area of Princeton, all reflecting the history, wilderness and wildlife that make Princeton unique.
They are located on an easy, accessible, roughly one-kilometre walkable loop. Visitors can lead themselves on a tour thanks to a free guide available at the Princeton Visitor Information Centre and online.
“We’ve got a little walking map that people can pick up, and the Visitor Centre also has all kinds of souvenirs and different products that are unique to the area,” Schatz explained. “It’s a great overall tourist experience.”
The self-guided walking tour is also very accessible, given the land is flat and the loop is relatively short. It’s a fun option for families and solo visitors alike, offering plenty of photoworthy moments.
Visitors will see beautiful bronze depictions of native animals like cougars, owls, wolves, foxes, and many more.
And one unique statue is known as “The Mountain Man,” depicting an Iroquois trapper in a dramatic pose atop his horse, making their way together down a steep slope.
Any previous visitors to the sculpture walk may want to stop in again—the town is adding more bronze statues in the near future.
“We’ve got a mountain goat coming, a golden eagle going in at our RV park this year. And we also have some bear cubs coming, being custom-made by an artist for us right now,” Schatz said.
Those and others will bring the total to 23 incredible statues, all of which Schatz hopes will be in place in 2023.
“It’s becoming a legitimate collection,” Schatz said.
“I’m excited about it. Hopefully, we can continue to add to that and make it a true international attraction, that’s what the goal is.”
It’s a great way to get to know the animals that call the Princeton region home. Located at the junction of the Similkameen and Tulameen rivers and surrounded by majestic mountains and wilderness, the town is a unique gem in the Southern Interior and a natural stop for many travellers heading both to and from the Lower Mainland.
“The nice part is if you’re leaving the Okanagan, and you’re going towards Vancouver, we’re the last stop for you at the
mountains. And if you’re going the other way, we’re the first stop as you come through the mountains. So we’re very conveniently located,” Schatz said.
A few of the statues are easily visible from the road through town, but others require a little hunting, which is why anyone wanting the full experience should take a lengthier stop and make sure to spot them all.
Plus, the sculpture walk meanders through Princeton’s main streets, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the town’s many local shops.
The Visitor Centre has information available on each of the sculptures, and the Town of Princeton website has a detailed interactive map with interesting facts about the animals depicted, for an educational experience.
Each statue is beautiful in its own right, and favourites vary.
“Our German tourists probably like the bears the best. The bears are big in Germany. A lot of people like the moose in front of the Visitor Centre. Same with the elk at one of our other gateways. When you ask people, you get a whole mix of opinions,” Schatz said.
Outside of the sculptures, there is plenty to explore in Princeton. Schatz recommends checking in with the Visitor Centre for ideas on enjoying the natural beauty right on Princeton’s doorstep.
“We’ve got some nice walkways along the river, we have a beautiful piece of the Kettle Valley Rail trail that people can walk along the river. We’ve got Swan Lake, a nature preserve; a lot of birders go there,” Schatz said.
“That’s one of the nice things about Princeton, is we have some very unique species of birds here and the birding community often can take advantage of that too.”
The Princeton Visitor Centre offers a guidebook that describes all of the bird species that can be spotted in the area.
Schatz added there are roughly 50 lakes in the region, popular with fishing enthusiasts. Other activities subject to seasonality include gold panning, golfing and time-travelling to the past through a visit to the Princeton Museum. Visit the Town of Princeton website, princeton.ca, to learn more about the bronze sculptures and everything else the community has to offer.
The charm of a small town close to Southern California’s most famous attractions, Simi Valley is Southern California’s best-kept secret. Located just minutes from Los Angeles, Simi Valley offers a vibrant city full of cultural diversity, historical landmarks, and beautiful rolling hills. Los Angeles International Airport, Van Nuys Airport, and Hollywood Burbank Airport are all within 65 kilometres of Simi Valley and offer easy access to Simi Valley from anywhere in the world. All major domestic airlines serve at least one of the three airports, with many offering services from all three.
Generations before protected the beautiful natural resources, the gorgeous hills, and the mountains that surround Simi Valley, California. Each entrance to Simi Valley, California, is through a greenbelt, nature corridor, or cut into a mountain. Simi Valley is home to over 80 kilometres of amazing trails reaching as far as Los Angeles. Trails range from a guided nature tour to a climb for all fitness levels. Not only
does Simi Valley offer an array of hiking trails, but mountain biking is also a popular outdoor sport. With nearly 40 million Americans now mountain biking every year, Simi Valley has become a popular destination for the sport in Southern California.
Surrounded by the Santa Susana Mountain range, the towering mountains surrounding the beautiful valley provide some of Southern California’s most picturesque rides. There are more than 15 mountain biking trails that range from easy to extremely challenging and are perfect for both beginning and experienced riders. After exploring all things outdoors in Simi Valley, California, stop into a one-of-a-kind museum set on a beautiful hilltop with stunning views of the valley.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum encompasses more than 100 acres of collections and beautiful gardens in a dramatic hilltop setting overlooking the ocean and Southern California. Imagine yourself inside the White House when you walk through an
exact replica of President Ronald Reagan’s Oval Office, complete with his preferred decor and a jar of jelly beans on the desk. You can also board and tour the same Air Force One plane that President Ronald Reagan flew more than one million kilometres in. Learn about the 40th President of the United States through the Museum & Library’s many permanent and visiting exhibitions, and stay for lunch at one of the two on-site restaurants.
Simi Valley is Southern California's best-kept secret, full of small-town charm, and is the perfect choice for mountain biking, hiking, or your next getaway.
With more than 4,000 acres of parkland in 38 parks, one performing arts centre, and two historical landmarks, visitors and residents enjoy superb amenities throughout the year. Whether you are into hiking, visiting museums, or attending a performance, you’ll find it all and more in Simi Valley, California.
Start your adventure at VisitSimiValley.com
The steps from the outside leading into the Pyramids of Giza are daunting. The entryway is steep, dark, and narrow—a feat that would seem scary to any traveller. Despite this, Barbara* descended the steps in her wheelchair, becoming the first wheelchair user to enter one of the pyramids from the outside.
Barbara, who entered the pyramids in a specially designed wheelchair gifted to her by Travel For All, is a travel enthusiast striving to defy the odds stacked against disabled travellers. Working alongside Travel For All, a global agency with its head office in British Columbia that works to assist travellers with disabilities, specific requirements, and accommodations, she has been able to travel the world with ease.
As a wheelchair user, Barbara faced adversity and complications while travelling. A passionate traveller with a goal to see the world, Barbara refused to let her wheelchair stand in the way of following that dream.
She contacted Travel For All to aid her in her travels. With their help, she’s visited not only the Pyramids of Giza, but Machu Picchu, the Galapagos Islands, and so much more.
Travel For All was founded by Tarita Davenock after she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 29. She continued to work as a social worker for five years after her diagnosis until her daily career became
difficult to manage and was suggested by her neurologist to look at a new career path.
As a passionate traveller herself who soon became a wheelchair user, Davenock founded Travel For All to support other travellers with disabilities. Travel For All understands the challenges faced by people with disabilities when travelling. Leaving the safety of what is familiar can be extremely stressful—and
the anxiety that this causes for some is a significant obstacle.
Having assisted thousands of travellers with specific requirements to see the world, the experts at Travel For All are able to make recommendations that fit every individual’s travel style and personal needs.
Similarly, Travel For All works with suppliers around the world who can provide muchneeded resources to travellers,
including those like Barbara, who was provided with a specially made wheelchair from one of their providers.
In addition to Barbara’s story, Travel For All has supported thousands of travellers over their 14 years of service. They have a variety of tours available, including cruise lines, land and tour operators, and specifically curated itineraries in a variety of locations.
Barbara booked her Egypt tour through Travel For All and was able to explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World in a personalized itinerary without having to worry about travelling in a wheelchair or what accommodations may be available to her. Travelling should be something that’s easily accessible to be enjoyed by all—and that’s a mission that Travel For All is seeking to accomplish, which is proving to be fruitful with success stories like Barbara’s.
Fresno County is made for those seeking to experience the outdoors. Spring and summer are prime times to enjoy scenic hiking trails, serene lakes, wondrous national parks and annual events celebrating the region’s agricultural roots.
HIT THE TRAILS
With some of the best hiking trails in California, Fresno County’s natural beauty is on full display. It provides steady paths for beginners or more of a challenge for experienced hikers. Wander Pincushion Mountain Trail, a 4.5 km round-trip located about 30 minutes from the Fresno/Clovis area. A favourite among locals, the short trail overlooks Millerton Lake and ends with a steep climb up Pincushion Peak to a view of Fresno and Clovis in the distance. Further up the San Joaquin River, more experienced hikers and bicyclists can trek through the grasslands of the McKenzie Table Mountain Preserve. Climb to the top of Big Table Mountain from Wellbarn Road (12.7 km roundtrip). Along the way, see blooming wildflowers and views of the river and the Sierra Nevada mountains. In Clovis, walkers and cyclists can follow paved trails across the city. The most famous is the Old Town Clovis Trail (15 km round-trip),
that’s lined with trees and leads to the charming shops and restaurants in downtown Clovis. The 12.4 km round-trip Lewis S. Eaton Trail runs through Fresno’s Woodward Park along the San Joaquin River bluffs. Enjoy a view of the river and Sierras on this trail located within the city limits.
ON THE WATER IN FRESNO COUNTY Lakeside is Fresno County’s best side. Find great lakes right in the heart of California to experience water sports, boating, or a serene day on the lakeshore. Shaver Lake is just an hour northeast of Fresno, perfect for jet skiing, canoeing, wakeboarding and more! Go horseback riding at sunset and take a tour of the land around the lake via Shaver Stables. Set sail on Huntington Lake, located further north in the Sierra Nevada. The lake is excellent for kayaking and fishing, and hosts the annual High Sierra Regatta yacht races. Find a tranquil spot and gorgeous views at Pine Flat Lake. The reservoir is a prime location for catching spotted bass, largemouth bass, catfish and trout. Take a wild ride 16 km down the Kings River in the Sierra National Forest! The Kings River Expedition Class 3 whitewater rafting trips are a thrill ride that
lead through winding channels and cold waters. Located about an hour east of Fresno/Clovis, family-friendly tours are available. Kayaking and canoe tours along the San Joaquin River are perfect for taking in the sights and sounds along the riverbank. The San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust, Inc. offer family-friendly tours that start with a nature walk to learn about the wildlife and plants near the river. River guides will then lead a canoe tour on the water. Watch the sunset in Fresno County from a kayak on the river, and then enjoy a night hike along the bank.
No other county offers you three extraordinary national parks located a short drive away. Experience unlimited breathing room when you journey to Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Drive 90 minutes outside Fresno/Clovis to find stunning landmarks and incredible views that are sure to leave you breathless. See the famous El Capitan Mountain, climb Half Dome and sit beneath the giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove in Yosemite. Sequoia National Park is a bucket
list experience. Stand beside the General Sherman, climb to the top of Moro Rock or trek through Crystal Cave in this extraordinary park home to the largest trees in the world. From roaring falls and serene lakes to magnificent trees like the General Grant and Fallen Monarch, Kings Canyon National Park is a hidden treasure that cannot be overlooked. Kings Canyon is the deepest canyon in the United States, and the park is quieter than Yosemite and Sequoia.
Rooted in its vast agricultural industry, Fresno County’s food scene is unparalleled, offering diverse cuisines made from the freshest ingredients. Fresno County’s agricultural footprint spans two million acres, producing more than 300 crops. In this heartland of farmto-fork dining, discover foods from across various cultures that make up the community. Experience unique food truck dining that has become part of Fresno County’s culinary culture, and tap into the local craft beer scene by visiting the Brewery District in Fresno and breweries across Clovis.
Forestiere Underground Gardens tells the story of a citrus farmer who spent 40 years hand-carving
his home beneath Fresno’s soil. Walk through this underground wonder to see where Baldassare Forestiere carefully designed rooms, courtyards and even an aquarium using nothing but farm tools and his imagination. In late April, strap on those cowboy boots and hang on to those hats as the annual Clovis Rodeo rolls into town. See riders from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) showcase top-tier performances and roping events at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds. The weeklong event also features parades, concerts, dances and plenty of food.
No trip to Fresno County is complete without experiencing one of many year-round farmers’ markets. Find fresh produce, artisan foods, and join in the celebration of the county’s farming heritage. In the spring and summer, hop on the Fresno County Fruit Trail, the annual harvesting of all fruits across our county. Tour local farms and pick up fresh produce right from the source.
From natural outdoor beauty to unique experiences and farmto-table dining, plan your visit to Fresno County for a different kind of California adventure. Visit visitfresnocounty.org for more information.
“I’m the only person my son has in this world, so I would not trade him for anything,” said Daniel Isadore. “I grew up in the system, so I don’t want that for Daniel Jr. because I know firsthand what it’s like.”
Daniel’s story is a powerful and poignant tale of trauma, resilience, and the search for identity.
It is a testament to the importance of healing ancestral trauma and the devastating impact of society’s failure to address stigmas and prejudices. Through his journey, we can gain insight into the ways in which we can move away from what does not work and toward what does, in an effort to resolve community issues.
Daniel was born on December 17th, 1985, in Edmonton, Alberta, the fifth of eight siblings. At the age of five, he was taken away from his mother and father and placed in a temporary foster home until his parents received treatment for their alcohol addiction. A few years later, however, his parents were once again unable to provide a safe and stable environment for their children, and all eight siblings were placed in a permanent foster home.
It was in this foster home that young Daniel’s downward spiral began. At the age of seven, he was placed in handcuffs by the police after becoming violent and expressing his desire to be reunited with his mother. He was then placed in a white foster home, where he and his siblings were forced to attend church every Sunday, with no regard for the religion they were raised with. It was here that Daniel began to act out and engage in misbehaviour as a way of coping with his trauma and anger.
As a teenager, Daniel’s behaviour led to multiple stays at the Edmonton Young Offender Centre, where he continued to spiral out of control. By 17, he had been deemed a lost cause by the foster care system and was placed in independent living. However, he only lasted a week before being kicked out with nowhere to go.
He found his way to the Boyle Street Co-op, where he was reunited with his older sister. Through her, he was able to reconnect with his mother, who was taking classes to become a Cree teacher.
“My mother was taking classes to become a Cree teacher in the only school in Edmonton that still taught students how to speak Cree, my traditional language,” said Daniel. “I wrapped my arms around my sister for the first time in 10 years. I was crying tears of joy and happiness because I finally found what I was looking for— my family. I lived with them from that day forward.”
Despite this reunion, Daniel’s peace was short-lived. To make money to survive, he continued down a path of crime and drug use, eventually landing in jail. While serving time, Daniel lost both of his parents, and he turned to drugs to cope with the overwhelming pain and grief he felt. Over the years, he continued to cycle in and out of jail, struggling with addiction and depression. In one of his darkest hours, Daniel nearly ended his life, saved only
by his girlfriend at the time. It wasn’t until he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and began to receive therapy that Daniel began to turn his life around. He learned about the importance of healing ancestral trauma and the ways in which the traumas and injustices faced by his ancestors had affected him and his entire family. Through therapy, he was able to come to terms with his past and work towards a brighter future.
During this process, Daniel welcomed a child into the world: baby Daniel Jr. Due to the child’s mother’s active drug use, Daniel Sr. and his newborn son had to find somewhere safe to live. Daniel Sr. himself needed addiction treatment but was a few months away from receiving it.
Enter Debra Abraham, the founder of the non-profit Unique Get Together Society (UGTS), who was contacted by the Ministry of Children and Family Development to aid in the situation. Debra, with the help of Indigenous organizations,
came up with a solution to prevent the removal of Daniel Jr. from his father. In just 24 hours, Debra, with the support of UGTS, was able to rent an apartment, hire 12 support staff, and apply for funding through Jordans Principle to house Daniel Jr. and his father for the next eight weeks until Daniel Sr. could enter the Willams Lake Family Treatment Centre.
“Everybody slept on the floor that first night while we waited for the furniture, except the baby in his travel bassinet,” recalled Debra. “None of us minded, especially Daniel. We were all so happy that Daniel and his baby were not separated. They would stare into each other’s eyes for long periods of time, and the love between the two was very apparent.”
The love between Daniel Jr. and his father is what makes this story so special. The two were able to stay together thanks to the efforts of Debra and UGTS. Daniel Jr. continued to be in good hands, cared for by a team of devoted professional nurses and a designated primary caregiver while
his father got the treatment he needed for his addiction.
“When you have a team like ours, the baby’s emotional, physical and mental needs are all met,” explained Debra. “‘It takes a village’ is very true. We’ve all wondered how many foster homes this baby would have gone through had he been put in that system. How many foster parents would be equipped to effectively deal with all the challenges that come with caring for trauma babies?”
Daniel Jr. was born with a club foot, a common affliction in trauma babies, requiring special care and attention. Thanks to the care provided by UGTS, Daniel Jr.’s club foot has been successfully treated. Had he been placed into foster care, there is no guarantee he would have received the treatment he needed.
UGTS is committed to addressing the long list of motivated parents who want to get treatment but have no one to care for their babies while they are in treatment. UGTS is soon opening a 55-bed treatment centre based on the teachings of the Seven Grandfathers.
“It’s about how much we’re respecting reconciliation in everything we do, and giving back that which was stolen,” Debra said of the centre.
Daniel’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of healing ancestral trauma and addressing the root causes of crime and addiction. It is a call to action for society to recognize the devastating impact of stigmas and prejudices and to work towards providing support and resources for those in need. With the efforts of UGTS and people like Debra Abraham, we can create a world in which everyone has the opportunity to heal and thrive.
Thanks to generous donations, UGTS can continue to provide these services. Donate at uniquegettogethersociety.com
