Umbrella Society – Meet Our Team

Born and raised in Victoria, Amy has worked many different jobs but her ultimate passion is helping people. Watching the transformation of this city during the pandemic, she knew she needed to be part of the change. She graduated as a Community Support Worker in 2021 and has been working in the field ever since. She is happy to be joining the Umbrella team to deepen her engagement with this community and be part of recovery journeys.

In her free time, Amy loves spending time with her family and two kitties, and playing field hockey.

Amy, a Victoria native, boasts over a decade of experience in healthcare.
Her deep passion for aiding individuals in overcoming challenges and leading fulfilling lives is evident. Beyond her career, she treasures moments with her two children, holding family values in high regard. Amy, with a rewarding recovery journey, brings a unique blend of experience, compassion, and drive to her role at Umbrella, driven by a strong sense of purpose and a genuine desire to empower others.

Angi developed a passion for harm reduction and helping others through experiencing first-hand how difficult it can be to access social and mental health resources. Angi is currently working on completing her associates degree in social work at Camosun College. She aims to become a social worker and work in the mental health and addictions field. In her free time, Angi enjoys activities that help reduce stress such as scrapbooking and going for long walks while playing her favourite rock and roll music. Angi is excited to work with Umbrella to extend the reach of social supports and pledges to work to make harm reduction and recovery accessible to all.

Ari spends her days at Umbrella’s head office where she can be found with her toy doughnuts, cuddling on everyone’s laps and watching carefully for any food that might get dropped.

This sweet girl offers licks and love to all the office staff and she will bark at any visitors to make sure they know she is the boss.

This is Ashley. And for Ashley as an LGBT person, experiencing housing discrimination and lack of mental health support was common in their youth and throughout their early adulthood. After overcoming substance dependency, Ashley decided they wanted to make an impact on the lives of LGBT youth experiencing housing insecurities, difficulties with boundaries, and facing barriers that come with trauma and addiction. They graduated with their Diploma in Addiction and Community Health in their homeland of Alberta and now that they have made their way to the island, they are excited to be working with the team here at Umbrella.

In their spare time, Ashley enjoys picking apart TV shows from the 90s, documentaries of all kinds, getting lost in nature, and (due to their busy schedule) spending time with other people’s pets

Ashley chose this career path because of her passion for helping others. Ashley’s lived experience reminds her that kindness and support are the key to recovery. Knowing that others believe in them helps people believe in themselves. As well as her own lived experience, Ashley has seen people very close to her struggle with substance use. She knows how important it is to give back by showing others empathy, love and support when they are in need.

In her off time, Ashley loves being a mom to her two beautiful kids, spending time with family and friends, music and makeup! She loves dancing in her living room, giving her kids concerts, and has a passion for makeup and helping others feel beautiful in their own skin.

Blake has been in the business of helping others for the past 20 years. Coming from a background working exclusively with youth, he brings his personal experiences and solid communication skills into the world of addictions support. Blake’s relentless optimism, empathy and caring nature makes him a good fit for our dynamic team at the Umbrella Society. In his personal life, Blake enjoys playing music, exercise, cooking, and spending quality time with his beautiful wife and children.

After being shown the way to a better life, Brae decided it was time to put her experiences to use and help those in the midst of their addictions. Brae received her education as a care worker at Camosun College and also works as a Cosmetologist. Brae is an active advocate for Transgender rights and LGBTQ issues, always looking for new ways to support her community. When not at work Brae is often very active in the recovery community, or working on her next creative project. She loves fashion, family, and all things beautiful.

Brianna recently expanded her role in the finance timekeeping department by adding the human resources portion to her work. Brianna is committed to making Umbrella a great place for employees to work.

When Brianna isn’t working or enjoying our beautiful island with friends, you will likely find her exploring the world, preparing for her next adventure and continuing her learning. Every day is a school day!

Carly is currently a student studying anthropology at the University of Toronto after completing a diploma in Criminal Justice from Camosun College. Carly had the opportunity to complete her Co-Op position with Umbrella where she was later hired. Carly’s passion to help others stems from understanding how just having one person advocating for you can make all the difference in the world. During her free time Carly enjoys spending time with her pets or exploring nature with her friends.

Cassidy grew up in a remote community in Northern BC with a substantial At-Risk Indigenous population. Since her youth, Cassidy has been engaged in outreach in her community through the local Friendship Centre. As someone who has benefited greatly from the dedicated efforts of an Indigenous Youth Outreach Worker, Cassidy is passionate about furthering this important work.

Cassidy is a member of the Aniyvwiyaʔi (Cherokee) and Chahta (Choctaw) Nations and is actively involved in cultural activities (ceremony, beadwork, drumming, singing) within the community.

In her free time, Cassidy enjoys brewing the perfect cup of tea, researching Indigenous Law, and curling up on the couch with a good book and her cat, Emi!

Born & raised in Victoria, Corey hasn’t ventured very far but is looking forward to changing that in her future. Corey loves to say she is adventurous but likes to play it safe – not much of a thrill-seeker. She has a great sense of humour and loves to tell a story and make people laugh.

Corey has spent much of her professional career working in administration and health care. Corey loves building relationships; working with clients, colleagues, and communities to improve the quality of life for everyone.

When she isn’t working, she spends time with family & friends and studying. She is pursuing her degree in Social Work.

Danielle moved to Victoria in 2019 from Toronto. Having completed a degree in Psychology and Kinesiology at York University and a diploma in Culinary Arts at Humber College, Danielle began working in a variety of leadership and people management roles. She is joining Umbrella after spending the past several years working as an HR Manager in the Hospitality and Recreation field. Danielle’s belief is that employees can deliver their best to their clients when they have consistent, supportive, and clear leadership, and she is excited to be joining the purpose-driven team at Umbrella to make a meaningful difference in her community. She’s extra motivated to get to work in a place with so many office dogs! When not at work, Danielle enjoys living an active and healthy lifestyle through hiking, dog walking, working out with her gym and fitness community, cooking, and spending time with her friends and family.

Dave has been a fan of Umbrella since first connecting in 2012. With his 25+ years of renovation and construction experience, he is always busy with the next Umbrella project. Dave brings incredible skills as well as keen insight and a willingness to share about his recovery journey that is a huge benefit to us all and we are lucky to have him.

When not at work, Dave enjoys road trips, spending time in a nature and doing home improvements.

Derek has a strong commitment to helping individuals struggling with substance use issues.

Derek’s passion stems from his own personal experiences with addiction and his subsequent recovery. Having faced his own challenges, he understands the complexities and struggles that individuals face when trying to break free from the grip of drugs and alcohol.

Derek enjoys spending time with family and friends, practicing yoga, and exploring nature. He believes in the power of self-care and healthy outlets and hobbies that contribute to overall well-being.

Emily joined Umbrella as she believes that everyone deserves dignity and respect and hopes to be a small part of the solution. Emily studied literature and book publishing in the past which encouraged critical thinking and hearing the voice behind the words. Emily is happiest gardening barefoot, cold water plunging, playing Scrabble, reading, biking and listening to the Mamas and Papas.

Erik started out in Foundation House years ago and has continued his recovery journey to include working in this field and giving back. Erik manages Umbrella’s supportive recovery houses and has an outreach caseload. Erik is a huge Calgary flames and Toronto raptors fan. He enjoys playing golf, hockey and getting tattoos. Erik’s family is most important thing in his life.

Erin is Umbrella’s go-to for all things photography. Erin is the official Umbrella photographer and you will find her behind the camera on all staff photos, our recovery day campaign and fundraising events.

When not taking pictures Erin works for the Saanich Fire Department as a dispatcher and spends her time with her husband and adorable doggy Finn.

Evan draws strength from living a sober life and attributes the support of the Umbrella Society to his own recovery. Evan is inspired by the courage of those seeking support and their willingness to open up. Evan’s greatest sense of accomplishment comes from witnessing lives being transformed while living his own wellness journey. He is a proud father of two kids and, in his downtime, can be found drumming for the band The Coast.

Heather started working at Umbrella to fulfill her passion for helping people. She has witnessed the struggles that come along with mental health and addiction and is dedicated to making a change in her community.

When Heather is not working, you can find her on FaceTime with her niece and nephews or taking her pup, Lou, on adventures!

Born 1994, Isaac graduated from University of Victoria’s Psychology program with a bachelor’s of Science. He is eager to support and assist the Victoria community with harm reduction.

Jake draws on his education, as well as his own life experience, to connect with individuals who experience addiction and mental health concerns. Jake’s empathetic nature led him to pursue a role in which he could meet individuals where they are at and offer an authentic, kind and non-judgmental approach to providing support. Jake takes pride in the importance of compassion and understanding, community supports and system navigation.

When Jake isn’t working, he enjoys hockey, golf and cooking.

Having experienced the struggle and loneliness of addiction first hand, James is excited to share his experience, strength, and hope with others. He is an active member in the recovery community and enjoys giving back and helping others. Umbrella Society has played an important role in James’ recovery and he is excited to spread hope to others that are struggling with addiction.

During his free time James can be found golfing, fishing, running, and enjoying the beautiful hiking trails Vancouver Island has to offer.

Jarret struggled with addictions and mental health for years before finding hope and support in the recovery community. Now, he has shifted his focus to share his compassion, knowledge and support to those who still struggle with substance and behaviour issues. He believes the most important step to helping others is building trust and taking the time to listen to those in need. He is very excited to join the Umbrella team and put these qualities to work.

In his free time Jarret can be found hiking in nature, volunteering or laughing with friends.

Jeff was born and bred on this glorious Island. In his early years he travelled/lived in Central America but came back to the Island.

Jeff worked years in the field of healthcare with people with disabilities and specialized in the autism spectrum. He stepped out of that field and opened up my own a successful restaurant in operation for 22 years in Victoria..

Jeff’s mental illness and substance use issues finally became too much. Jeff want to thank Umbrella Society for being there and helping him to be the person he is now, and hopes to be in the future.

Jeff plans to keep working on himself and living a healthy life that continues to have a positive impact on his mental health and relationships.

Jenni is Registered Social Worker, with a masters degree and over six years of experience in the Mental Health and Addictions field. Her therapeutic practice is informed by the wisdom of her life experience and healing journey, her education, and the generosity of her teachers, which includes all the clients she has had the honour of working with. Jenni is a humanitarian at heart with a creative approach to life. She believes that the essence of recovery lies in the return to a sense of self that makes one feel at home in their bodies and in their lives.

In her spare time, you can find Jenni painting, dancing, or adventuring through nature.

I was first introduced to Umbrella Society in 2008, and it was that worker who helped me so much that made a huge difference in my path to recovery. I have always heard of the Umbrella Society in a positive light when I was addicted and in recovery. I want to make an empathetic difference with people I met, like the worker that helped me. With Criminal Justice and Mental Health and Addictions courses from Camosun College, I hope to connect on a level that can help people on their own journey to sobriety and healthy lifestyles. In my off time, I enjoy playing my guitar and listening to music.

Josh believes every one deserves a second chance at life. He was given a second chance and for that he is very grateful for Umbrella and the services they provided him. Josh is an active member of recovery and loves giving back.In his free time, Josh enjoys going to the pool, hanging out with his son, girlfriend and family. Just recently, Josh discovered a love for arts and crafts that he wasn’t aware of.

Juliet has a background in healthcare, and she believes taking care of others is a call to serve, bringing empathy and emotional intelligence in a non- judgmental way are some ideals she will be bringing to Umbrella Society, in my spare time I love to travel, catch up with friends and just have a great time creating unforgettable memories with Family.

Kelsey has always had a passion for helping others and providing support to those that need it. After completing the Mental Health and Addictions program at Camosun College he started his first job in the field at Umbrella. He strongly believes in the power of psychosocial rehabilitation with its focus on improving multiple aspects of a persons life in order to promote recovery. Kelsey looks forward to improving lives and connecting with others as he progresses in his career. In his free time he enjoys walking his dog, going to the gym, long boarding, and spending time with loved ones.

Kiana is enrolled in the UVic’s Bachelor of Social Work program. She developed a passion for addressing mental health and addictions at a young age due to her proximity to loved ones who pursued recovery for addictions.

When not working or studying, Kiana enjoys hiking, reading, writing, and spending time with her cat Luna.

Kristine has spent most of her life in Victoria, B.C, and now resides in the Cowichan Valley. She comes to Umbrella Society with many years experience working with marginalized populations, providing peer support, advocacy and harm reduction. In her down time, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé, 4 kids and 3 miniature dachshunds.

Lance chose to start working with Umbrella because of his belief in their program and vision. With two years of recovery, he attribute much of that sobriety to the support he has received from Umbrella staff and programs over the years. Lance enjoys working with the community and believes giving back is an important way to find balance in life and recovery.

When not at work, Lance enjoys spending time with animals, video games, heavy metal music and spending time with family.

Lisa is back with Umbrella and happy to be of assistance wherever she can.

She is passionate about recovery from addiction, trauma, abuse and all things healing (think yoga, sound baths, nature, reading and fur babies).

In her spare time she has slowed down to allow for integration, self reflection and nurturing.

She loves spending time with her small family, near water, and all things self care!

Having just completed an undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Concordia in Montreal, and with his French language proficiency severely lacking, Logan decided it was time to return home to Victoria and pursue his goal of working in the field of mental health and addictions. He comes from good stock as his mother was a social worker for The Woman’s Sexual Assault Center as well as a private practice counsellor. He hopes he can make his mother proud by following in her footsteps and continuing the family legacy of providing empathy and aid to those who need it. When he is not working, he can often be found at the pickleball courts where he consistently gets beaten by retirees twice his age. He also likes country music, the NYT daily crossword, and the Toronto Raptors. Go Raps Go!

After forging her own path to recovery and accessing outpatient services, Louise was drawn to a career in addictions support. With a natural ability to connect with people, an education in Mental Health and Addictions from Camosun College, and a fifteen-year career in the service industry, Louise is a natural fit for our RAAC program. Connecting with people at their most vulnerable and being able to offer client-centered services is the most rewarding part of her work. When she’s not working, Louise looks forward to sunny, summer days watching the Harbour Cats.

Lucy is a Vietnamese person who loves to spend time with their partner and three chinchillas, read, play video games, festival, dance, and cook vegan food.

They have a fondness for dogs, bubble tea, impractical platform boots, books on true crime, making people laugh, stickers, and shenanigans.

Lucy has lived experience and considers sobriety to be their greatest achievement.

Being given the opportunity to connect with others familiar with the marginalisation of mental illness, substance addiction, and trauma is the second.

Megan first became aware of Umbrella when a dear friend got connected with Umbrella Outreach Workers who stepped in during a time of crisis. She has been interested in the transformative power of advocacy for mental health and addictions ever since.

Megan’s empathy and strength in her work stems from a lifetime of living with mental health and substance abuse issues of her own.

Having grown up in Victoria she has a deep affinity for the community she serves and finds great joy in spend her time helping the most vulnerable members of it as she continues in her own journey.

Mekayla has a strong desire to be there and help and folks needing it. She has come from generational mental health and addiction troubles and has gain the empathy for those who struggle. When not working at umbrella Mekayla also has a passion for drawing, kickboxing and her cats when she’s not working.

Misty is the quiet sweet faced girl that sits behind the reception desk and comes out when she smells food, or needs a poop!

In my past I dealt with addiction issues and had been through the ringer. Eventually I said to myself enough is enough. I was able to get in touch with an Umbrella worker and eventually got into Foundation house. That is when my road to recovery began. Now after almost four years clean I am getting back to healthy hobbies like disc golf, reading, paddle-boarding, chilling with friends and family to name a few. Writing a grattitude list and doing a meditation in the morning is huge for me. I want to thank Umbrella for giving me a 2nd chance at life. Without the help and support I don’t know where I would be.

My name is Nola. I am a registered counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC), and I have a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their challenges. I utilize evidence-based approaches to support clients in achieving their goals. I employ a respectful, collaborative, person-centred, strength-based approach, focusing on individuals’ unique strengths and resilience to empower clients in cultivating self-awareness, personal growth, and positive change. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), Certified Grief-Informed Professional (CGP), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), all with Evergreen Certification, LLC and PESI, and I am also trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). My training equips me to walk with you through anxiety, grief, anger, trauma and so on, with skill, empathy, and care. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and connecting with friends.

Oshananda has nurtured two children on the Gulf Islands and has actively participated in social awareness and community connection since 2003. She believes that societal change should stem from a foundation of love, creating an environment of safety and trust. In addition, Oshananda practices Qi Gong and Hot Jade Stone Bodywork, and has developed a skincare line named Oshun Skincare. She is dedicated to promoting global peace and cultivating a deep appreciation for both the Divine Feminine and Divine Masculine. Namaste.

Peter is a dedicated community support worker with a strong background in human rights and social services. With experience in frontline support, advocacy, and client care, Peter brings compassion and professionalism to every role he undertakes. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Rights Law and is passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Rachael is a kind person, who believes every human being deserves a fair chance. Her life experiences have helped her connect with all kinds of people and develop a none judgmental point of view. Helping others has always been very important to her and hopes her empathy and love can have a positive impact on someone who needs it.

During the week you can find Rachael at her salon, helping others feel and look their best. She loves every day of work and is grateful she is able to do something she loves. Family, friends, and sunshine are some things that makes Rachael happy.

Originally from Calgary, Rachel moved to Vancouver Island in high school. After high school, Rachel completed a Criminal Justice Diploma and immediately began working in many criminal justice related fields to gain further experience and develop relationships within the community. From a young age, Rachel has always had a very strong passion for supporting others and providing individuals with a safe and non-judgmental space to feel heard and respected.

In her free time, Rachel enjoys being active whether that is at the gym or outdoors, spending time with loved ones, and occasionally indulging in video games.

Originally from Toronto, Rebecca moved to Vancouver Island in high school. Since then she has worked in the beauty industry as a professional make up artist . She has always loved coaching others and teaching them ways to make themselves feel their best! Recovery is part of Rebecca’s personal story and she’s passionate about helping others who are struggling with addiction. She believes there is hope for everybody no matter what their story is and she is determined to help others find their way . People consider Rebecca compassionate , loyal and kind, with a love for laughter and a huge heart.

Rebecca has 2 amazingly cool teenagers who are always keeping her busy.

Sara brings a unique blend of creativity and compassion to her role, drawing from her background in film and television, as well as her personal sobriety journey. She joined Umbrella because she’s passionate about making a meaningful contribution to her community.

In her free time, she dotes on her two dogs and a cat who 100% believes she’s a dog too.

Sarena’s educational background, coupled with her personal experiences, make her a suitable individual to provide social support services to marginalized populations. Possessing a BA in Sociology from the University of Victoria, Sarena is knowledgeable in the socioeconomic barriers that exist and hinder individuals. Sarena’s understanding and awareness of intersectionality theory allows her to empathize with others, recognizing the vastly diverse and unique background each individual holds. Sarena’s genuine passion for helping others stems from her experience of a lack of support during hardship – initiating her belief that social services should be widely available and accessible, to all.

Sarena finds solace in the tranquility that nature offers. She enjoys hiking, paddle boarding, and exploring the island, alongside her adventurous puppy, and loving partner.

Scott has been enjoying building his life in recovery since his time at Foundation House. He believes in community building and always doing the next right thing. Scott draws inspiration from the enduring tenacity of people from all walks of life, living and growing together across Canada and the globe

Sean‘s journey with Umbrella began in 2019 as a resident of Foundation House. He credits a large part of his success to the services that The Umbrella Society provides. “Foundation House was a safe, supportive place where I learned new skills that were imperative to my recovery.”Sean has maintained his connection with the recovery community and Umbrella. He wanted to use the skills he’s learned to give back to the community. Sean came full circle January 2023, when he started working for Umbrella as an ICM Team member.In his spare time, Sean likes to train Muay Thai, act, and travel.

Shelagh’s background is varied with the majority of work and experiences over the past many years being in service to people. As a former Educator in an online Special Education program, Shelagh worked with an educational approach that honours children, youth, and families as they are, focusing on skills and strengths by coaching what is realistic and possible while providing them with a sense of belonging and acceptance. Having recently graduated from the Interprofessional Mental Health and Addictions program at Camosun, Shelagh hopes to connect her work and school experience as a member of the Umbrella Team.

Shelagh enjoys hiking, meditating, yoga, tai chi, and spending time with her family.

Sierra is currently enrolled in the final year of study for her Bachelor of Arts in Criminology at Vancouver Island University and is also completing an Addiction Studies Certificate. She is passionate about the application of trauma-informed approaches in the criminal justice, health care and social services fields. Her desire to learn more about substance use and mental health and to engage with opportunities that emphasize equity, accessibility and empowerment inspired her to pursue a cooperative education program (co-op) with Umbrella Society.

Outside of work, Sierra enjoys hiking, camping, macrame and spending time with friends.

I am a dedicated professional with a background in healthcare. My journey began in Nigeria, and I have been in various roles within the healthcare industry, contributing to process improvements in clinical and non-clinical settings.

My career path has taken me through roles in Clinical Research both in Nigeria and Canada as well as supportive housing programs where I bring my extensive healthcare experience to support people in need. I am passionate about helping people.

In my free time, I enjoy exploring the beautiful landscapes of Victoria, BC, and spending quality time with my loved ones as well as playing Lawn Tennis. I am passionate about using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on community health and well-being.

I am excited to work alongside the Umbrella Society, bringing my education and experience to serve our community better. I look forward to walking this journey with you all .

Stefanie was born and raised on the island. She enjoys living life in recovery for herself and her 3 beautiful children. Stefanie’s passion is to make a difference within the community by helping others find there own path on there own journey to recovery by sharing her own experience,strength and hope.

Having experienced the impact of addiction on family members, Terri welcomes the opportunity to bring her years of research and fundraising experience to support the incredible work of the Umbrella Society. There is no cause more worthwhile than guiding and encouraging individuals through their addiction recovery. Terri is honoured to play a part in helping Umbrella build a strong fundraising culture to ensure it can continue to expand and reach as many individuals as possible.

Terri enjoys exploring beautiful Vancouver Island, and connecting with nature through gardening, hiking, swimming, and paddle boarding.

Terry has a Masters Degree in Education with a specialty in Counseling. His treatment philosophy is to see the humanity behind the person seeking recovery options – not simply the problem. Terry came to Umbrella after working in counselling and recovery because he found that the Society had an approach to treatment for addictions that he could identify with.

Terry spends his downtime strolling Victoria’s waterfront.

Tina was born and raised in Victoria B.C. Coming from a background of caregiving, Tina is happy to continue putting her caring and empathetic nature to work by supporting our clients out in the community.

When Tina isn’t working, she loves to spend time with her family of humans and pets.

Zoa became involved in harm reduction and outreach work during the pandemic, after seeing the consequences of the increasingly toxic drug supply and housing crisis. With a degree in psychology and a background in working with at-risk youth, Zoa is excited to be joining the Umbrella team to help support people in our community who are struggling with substance misuse.

Outside of work, Zoa enjoys reading, cooking, and any time spent outdoors, whether that be hiking, camping, cycling, or catching a sunset.

Our Team

Amy J

Casual

Amy J

Casual

Amy R

SURF | Outreach

Amy R

SURF | Outreach

Angi

Casual

Angi

Casual

Ari

Office Dog

Ari

Office Dog

Ashley K

HammerTime

Ashley K

HammerTime

Ashley R

Casual

Ashley R

Casual

Blake

Program Manager

Blake

Program Manager

Brae

Casual

Brae

Casual

Brianna

Health and Safety Manager

Brianna

Health and Safety Manager

Carly

Casual

Carly

Casual

Cassidy

Indigenous Outreach Team

Cassidy

Indigenous Outreach Team

Corey

Kings Lane Housing Coordinator

Corey

Kings Lane Housing Coordinator

Danielle

HR Manager

Danielle

HR Manager

Dave

Contractor

Dave

Contractor

Derek

Liver Clinic | Outreach | AMCS

Derek

Liver Clinic | Outreach | AMCS

Emily

Reception

Emily

Reception

Erik

Outreach | Recovery Housing Manager

Erik

Outreach | Recovery Housing Manager

Erin

Photographer

Erin

Photographer

Evan

Manager of Strategic Initiatives

Evan

Manager of Strategic Initiatives

Heather

On Leave

Heather