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Pride 2025

Yesterday, Umbrella staff marched in the annual Victoria Pride Parade for the second year. We had a new group of folks, and it was great to see so many people out celebrating. We had some awesome friends and family join too - special thanks to Mikala for her amazing energ...
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Community Fun – OPS Softball with Josh and Sean

Working in the addictions and menta health field can be hard. Taking time for fun and to be physically active are important acts of self-care, and by taking care of ourselves, we are better able to take care of others in our community. Yesterday, staff at Our Pl...
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Community Resource Highlight: Victoria Pride Society

As a proud community partner, we’re continually inspired by the work of the Victoria Pride Society (VPS)—a cornerstone resource for 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Greater Victoria. More than just the vibrant parades and joyful events that mark Pride Week, VPS works year-round to ...
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National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21)

Tomorrow is National Indigenous Peoples Day! Umbrella gratefully and respectfully operates on the traditional and unceded territory of the Lekwungen speaking peoples. We invite you to join us in acknowledging and celebrating the rich history, culture, and importance of th...
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Recovering Out Loud: Metallica’s James Hetfield

At Umbrella Society, we’re inspired by people and programs that create space for honest conversations about recovery. One powerful example came recently from Road Recovery, a non-profit supporting youth through music and mentorship. Backstage at the JLM Dome in Syracuse,...
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Stelly’s Secondary School Presentation

Last week, Evan and Rebecca had the honor of delivering their fourth presentation of the year to the Grade 12 students at Stelly's Secondary School. The school’s Health and Wellness Day program, which has run throughout the year, featured a variety of topics, from gambli...
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REES Presentation

Shae and Wendy from REES came to present to Umbrella staff last week about their casual labor pool and in-reach model for supporting clients in accessing income assistance and PWD. Our staff greatly appreciated the presentation, and we built valuable connections. REES al...
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Gratitude to Big Brothers Big Sisters: A Heartfelt Thank You

Umbrella is collaborating with several non-profit organizations in the Victoria area, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, who kindly donated stuffed animals for the pets at our various sites. The animals and residents absolutely loved them! We’re grateful for their gene...
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Celebrating the Completion of the Umbrella Women’s Group’s

The Umbrella Women’s Group cohort has completed another transformative 6-week journey of recovery! Congratulations to all the attendees for their dedication and resilience. We are incredibly grateful to our amazing sponsors—our Angels —for funding this important program...