Amanda
Board member
Amanda
Board member
Amanda has a background working in substance use and mental health with non-profits, health authorities and the provincial government providing direct service, policy, research and leadership. Her work has focused on substance use and mental health, violence, trauma, and FASD prevention. Amanda is currently working for InsideOut Policy Research as a senior associate providing research and writing services.
Amanda first came across Umbrella while working as an alcohol and drug counsellor in the community and has admired its ability to grow while retaining its core values. As someone in recovery herself, Amanda appreciates the important contribution Umbrella makes with its dedicated and skilled staff providing impactful services and supports for people struggling with substance use issues. She is excited and grateful to have the opportunity to contribute as a board member.
When not working, Amanda loves hiking with her dog, being active, and spending time with her husband and adult son. She is also teaching herself how to knit (badly) and loves reading.
Guy
Board member
Guy
Board member
Guy has over 30 years of experience working in the public service in the UK, Vancouver and here in Victoria. In that time Guy has worked in a variety of sectors including economic development, fisheries, agriculture and transportation. The last ten years he spent with the BC Ministry of Health managing major outsourcing contracts. Guy retired in 2020.
Guy has a long term interest in the challenges of those facing issues related to mental health and addictions. Guy was previously a board member and seeing all the impressive work that Umbrella has accomplished, he is excited to be returning to the board.
Guy is married with two adult children, a ten year old son and a puppy. He loves hiking and being out on the water any chance he gets.
Jeff
Board member
Jeff
Board member
Lois
Board member
Lois
Board member
Lois is the Manager of Healthy Communities for Island Health, with a long career in social services. In this role, Lois supports a team of staff to contribute to a wide range of health promotion initiatives. She has previously worked in providing employment and social supports for individuals with mental health issues and developmental disabilities, and also spent several years with BC Housing, contributing to the set up of new shelters and supportive housing sites during the pandemic. It was during this time that Lois gained a deep appreciation for the work of the Umbrella Society. Outside of work, Lois enjoys gardening, hiking with friends, visiting the Gulf Islands, and spending time with her large, extended family. She is also a proud mother, wife, sister, friend, and foster mom.
Wendy
Co-Chair
Wendy
Co-Chair
Wendy has a social work background and has spent her career working in the social sector, including ten years as a substance use and mental health clinician. It was during this time that she first encountered Umbrella. She is inspired by how much Umbrella has grown over the years and the amazing range of supports offered by the dedicated staff. She is really honoured to be part of his organization.
Wendy currently works as Executive Director of child welfare policy for the provincial government and can be found on her off time gardening and sailing around the gulf islands with her wife and her son.Bengy
Co-Chair
Bengy
Co-Chair
Bengy has over 30 years experience in Real Estate appraisal and Taxation. Having retired a few years ago, he began to look for ways to give back to the community in which he has lived virtually his whole life. Umbrella Society was a natural choice to make a difference and honour the lives of his friends and family members that have been impacted by substance abuse and mental health issues.
Bengy is happily married with three adult children. He is an avid cyclist and most days he can be found riding the many beautiful areas in our city.