Umbrella Society – Meet Our Team

Adriana is a recent graduate from UVic where she combined her love for science and her love for people in a combined degree of Biology and Psychology. To round it out, she added a minor in Ethics. In her studies and life experience she discovered many gaps in research, studies, and funding, particularly in mental health & addiction. This inspired a desire to work in the supportive recovery field.

When not working at Umbrella, Adriana works in food & beverage at a golf course (where she is also working on her golf game). Adriana also enjoys running (she’s training for a half marathon!), cheering for the Oilers, and hanging out with her cat, Vida.

Alex was born in Ontario and has spent his life living between there and Vancouver Island. With a professional background in electrical and trades, he is excited to transition over to the supportive recovery sector. An avid sport fan, Alex spent his high school years playing football and rugby. With a strong background of lived experience including family trauma, Alex is keen to connect with people and empower them.

When not at work, Alex enjoys gardening, baking, walking his dog or simply being outside and working with his hands.

Eentha Munothlea (Alycia) Tun itsun ‘utl’ Quwutsun – My name is Alycia and my traditional name is Munothlea which represents a geographical tie to the lhumlhumuluts area (Green Point) and to my te (grandmother) late Sally Gray.

I am First Nations from Quwutsun (Cowichan).

I am a recent graduate of the Indigenous Family Support program, and I am currently taking the Indigenous Studies program at Camosun.

In my free time I absorb every minute with my daughter and adventure these beautiful lands we have the privilege of living and learning on in the Lekwungen, WSANEC, TSAOUT, and Songhees territories.

I chose to work alongside The Umbrella society to bring my education and lived knowledge back into community.

I look forward to walking this journey alongside you.

Huychq’a – thank you!

Alyssha is originally from Manitoba, where she learned how challenging it can be to access services for recovery and mental health. She is excited to be working for Umbrella so she can use her lived experience to help others navigate the system. Alyssha works from her heart; she always has compassion and love for the people she supports.

Alyssha is currently a social work student at UVIC and once done, she plans to continue working with people who use substances. During her free time, she reads books that will further her path of learning on social issues and advocacy.

She also enjoys listening to music or podcasts and going to the gym

Amy’s personal recovery led her to pursue a career helping others. She completed her Mental Health and Addictions program at Camosun and immediately applied for a position with the Umbrella Society.

Amy is grateful for the support that she has received and the opportunity to connect with others on their journey.

Away from work, Amy enjoys spending time with her son, reading, and being outdoors.

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.

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.

Autumn is a compassionate and empathetic individual who deeply understands the importance of providing safe spaces for at risk people in the community. She hopes to work directly with youth to come up with positive programming allowing them to reconnect with things they are passionate about. As someone who has battled with mental health in the past, Autumn truly knows what it is like to need extra support. This first hand knowledge and experience has inspired her to assist others who are now struggling. She sincerely believes that everyone deserves a chance to succeed.
In her spare time Autumn enjoys expressing herself through art, designing and sewing clothing and composing music. Autumn feels grounded while in nature.

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!

Bruce credits his remarkable recovery to Umbrella Society. Their hands on, humanistic approach to helping those who choose recovery was instrumental in his growth.

When the opportunity to give back presented itself, he jumped at the chance. His personal experience, empathy, compassion and interest in seeing others succeed make him an asset to Umbrella’s team.

He volunteers for VPWAS during the week as a receptionist, with peer support being a large part of his days there.

In his spare time, Bruce loves to paint, sing, get out in nature to take photos, and make people laugh. In his mind he can still dance like a 20 year old.

Cale has recently found his home on the West Coast after a spending his 20’s serving with the Canadian Forces. After overcoming mental health challenges on is own path, He is very excited to begin a new chapter that will be spent supporting those in their own journey through addiction or towards mental wellness.

When Cale is away from work he can be found diving in the ocean, running or spending quality time with a Border Collie named Margaret.

Carly is currently enrolled in the criminal justice program at Camosun College and is on a co-operative education program with Camosun and Umbrella. She is a huge nature lover and all appreciates all creatures big and small. Mostly she spends her time caring for her pets which are two dogs, a crested gecko and a pac-man frog. Carly also enjoys spending time outside with friends.

Cherie is a caring and empathetic individual who is happy to be helping those in her

community struggling with mental health and addiction issues.

In her free time Cherie enjoys nature photography, reading, baking, and spending time

with her family and much loved dog.

Cheryl was born and raised in Victoria and has always been passionate about helping others. She is currently in her last year of the Bachelor of Social Work Program at VIU. She uses her passion for helping others and a person-centred approach to empower individuals on their recovery journey.

When not working, Cheryl enjoys hiking and camping with family and friends. She also loves working on her creative side making art projects out of clay.

Originally from Manitoba, Cheyenne has travelled 8 years ago to find her home here in British Columbia. She loves to hear everyone’s story, making connections everywhere she goes. She enjoys the natural beauty of the province, including the hot springs and many paddleboarding places the province has to offer.

Christine is currently completing her MA in Counselling Psychology at the University of Victoria. She is passionate about working with adults who find themselves stuck in negative behavioural, cognitive, emotional, and relational cycles. Her style is warm, non-judgmental, and sincere. Christine’s goal is to help her clients better navigate life’s challenges by promoting self-awareness, self-compassion and resilience.

Outside of work, Christine enjoys lifting weights, trying new recipes, listening to podcasts, going to comedy shows and exploring the island with her partner.

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.

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.

For the last 10+ years, Dottie has been fortunate to work in the mental health, addictions and supportive recovery field. Being engaged, ready to help and encourage others with compassion and kindness makes Dottie a perfect addition to the Umbrella/ICM team as casual backfill.

You will also find Dottie’s bubbly personality on Tuesday evenings when she hosts the Gratitude Group.

Dottie loves being mom to her two adorable kids, cooking, music and live theatrical productions. One of her favourite quotes is “Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise” Les Miserables.

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.

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.

Hazen has long been a fan of the work Umbrella does. Umbrella’s purpose and goals deeply aligns with his personal views as a mental health and addictions advocate. He is thrilled to be working with the ICM Team, using his skills to connect with people and enhance his deep sense of community.

Away from work, Hazen enjoys art, photography, music and connecting with nature.

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.

Originally from Calgary, Alberta from a background in the drywalling and painting trades, Jackson experienced substance use and homelessness as a youth and through recovery had many trials in detox’s and rehabs. Jackson excited to finally have a job where he can share his past openly and bring that knowledge of lived experience into his work life to support and help others in their journeys and recovery.Outside of work Jackson enjoy camping, fishing, and any time spent outside in nature.

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.

I have lived in Victoria for 22 years!

It has been a dream of mine to work in addictions and mental health since becoming clean and sober. I love people and believe everyone needs compassion, empathy, and love in their lives no matter what.

In my spare time I love being with my beautiful family as well as my passion is playing darts competitively.

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.

Kaija believes that there is no one size fits all when it comes to recovery and understands how difficult it can be to access related resources. By helping individuals navigate the system and providing peer support she wants to empower others on their own recovery journeys. Currently, Kaija is working on her joint Biology/Psychology bachelor of science at UVIC. Through this scientific lens, she aspires to learn more about the intersection between mental health and substance use and the future of treatment for affected individuals. In Kaija’s free time she likes hanging out with her cat Felicity, daydreaming, illustrating and wandering around outside rain or shine.

Kailee found her passion for mental health and substance use services during her bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University. After finishing her degree, she made the move to beautiful Victoria and is excited to be making a positive impact within the community.

In addition to her commitment to working with those dealing with mental health and addictions, Kailee loves spending time outdoors exploring the island in her jeep, named Elliot (after her favourite poet T.S. Elliot).

Kate hails from Alberta and is happy to be part of the island community, using her social work background and person-first approach to support folks on their individual journey. She loves to laugh and will find ways to put a smile on someone’s face, whether a silly song or compliment will do the trick.

When she isn’t working, she’s spending time by the sea or in the woods, or making up musicals with her partner.

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.

Kiran‘s connection with Umbrella began in 2008 as one of the original group of peer outreach workers, later moving on to work with Island Health in mental health case management and finally on an intensive case management team for folks with substance use challenges. Kiran assists our Executive Director with grant writing and various fundraising opportunities.
She currently splits her time between Victoria BC and Rome, Italy where you can find her working in her vegetable garden, and trying to do as much travelling as possible.

Kreag has a natural ability to relate to people from all walks of life. He wears his heart on his sleeve and believes that everyone deserves acceptance, understanding and to be heard and supported. Connection drives Kreag, and that is fundamental to his being. He draws on his lived experience with addiction and mental health struggles, along with his education in Addictions and Community Health, to help him empathize and effectively support the people around him. Kreag believes without the support of Umbrella Society during his recovery journey, he would not be on the path he is today!

In his down time Kreag enjoys hanging out with his friends, cooking great food, and adores cuddle time with his two cats while watching true crime documentaries.

Krista is passionate about sharing her experience, strength and hope and is committed to helping others in their journey in kind and understanding ways.

Krista has lived in several different cities across Canada throughout her life and has gained much knowledge about the beautiful country we live in and is very grateful to reside in Victoria.

Krista enjoys catching up with her son, family and friends, spending time with her horse named Dude and outdoor activities like hiking and swimming.

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.

Through Laura’s lived experience with addiction coupled with her education from Camosun College’s Mental Health & Addictions Program, she brings compassion, empathy, and knowledge essential to supporting others in this helping field. Laura understands and appreciates the importance of meeting individuals where they are at while honoring each and every person’s own beliefs and values in order to deliver an authentic and respectful client-centered approach.

Laura was born and raised in Victoria, BC, is a proud mother of two boys, and in her spare time, takes every opportunity to enjoy the City and surrounding outdoor spaces in the company of her family and friends.

Lilly has just finished her psychology degree at UVic and wants to now put it to use and gain hands-on experience with the mental health community. She aims to help unlearn biases and stigmas and is passionate about mental health through her own lived experiences from her childhood. She hopes to pursue further education later in her life within this field once she has gained enough experience within the community. In her free time, she loves reading, specifically Sarah J Maas, and hiking throughout Vancouver Island.

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.

As a Juno-nominated musician, Luke has been fortunate enough to travel the globe with various artists while experiencing numerous other cultures. Along with these great experiences, he has also had an intimate look at an industry that often overlooks mental health and substance use issues. This is a driving force behind Luke’s passion to advocate for those who may be having trouble finding the help that they need.

Luke draws from both professional and personal experience when it comes to working through issues related to substance use and mental health. He believes in a trauma-informed approach, meeting people where they’re at, and providing a safe and non-judgmental space for his clients.

When Luke isn’t working with others to achieve their goals through outreach, he is likely making music, playing shows, reading, hanging out with his family, running, or spending time on Hornby Island.

Lyca graduated from Foundation House to Potter House. This sweet girl is a rescue dog and, is the most loving, sweet dog who greets every resident with kisses and a wiggly butt.

Lyca spends Monday, Wednesday and Friday’s at the Umbrella office making sure all the staff take their breaks, and that their breaks include a walk for her!

Matt has experience helping others within the community and abroad. He spent 10 years as a medical technician in the Canadian Armed Forces, working with BC Ambulance during that time.

Matt enjoys using his skills and empathetic nature to deescalate crisis situations. He takes pride in fostering relationships with new people within the community.

Matt, in his spare time, enjoys playing volleyball, off-roading, running and hiking.

Born and raised in Victoria, Max has worked in a variety of different fields. His lived experience and strong empathy for others motivated him to pursue a career in outreach services. Max finds the opportunity to provide trauma informed care and support to his community as a deeply rewarding experience.Outside of work, you can find Max at the local disc golf course, spending time with his loved ones and enjoying the natural splendor of the outdoors.

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.

Nic enjoys cooking, learning, helping others and sharing knowledge. In his free time he likes to play guitar, read, spend time in nature, and hang out with friends.

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.

Ola believe it’s important to have a mix of professional and personal experiences that inform the work he does. He has worked in diverse settings including supporting neurodiverse clients, and providing parolees with vital skills they can use on their journey from a life dominated by substance use, crime, and incarceration, to a healthy, fulfilling life in the community.

Ola has an outgoing, warm, and empathetic demeanour. He understands the importance of equitability and works hard to ensure that his work is anti-oppressive, unbiased and healing centred. Ola strives to create a safe and welcoming place for the sharing and unpacking of everyone story, by pursuing collaborative and strengths-based explorations of client’s concerns.

When not working, Ola enjoys spending time with his family and taking time to focus on his personal growth.

Phaedra is a textile artist originally from Nelson BC, who uses art as a tool to assist with her own mental heath and recovery She believes that recovery isn’t linear and is different for everyone, and cares deeply about helping others discover their own methods of healing and empowerment.

Phaedra first became passionate about recovery while working and living in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, and witnessed the impact that addiction had in both the community and the lives of close friends.

In her free time she enjoys baking, gaming, building miniatures, and spending time with her partner and 2 dogs, Olive and Georgie.

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.

Ross struggled with addiction through most of his adult life before finding hope and support through the recovery community and Umbrella. Ross believes that his lived experience and compassion can be an asset to those still struggling. With plans to further his education in the field, Ross looks forward to trying to make a difference.

In his spare time, Ross enjoys spending time in nature, playing sports, and most importantly spending time with the love of his life, his daughter.

Sarah is a compassionate advocate driven by her own lived experience and is embarking on a transformative journey from Respiratory Therapy to the dynamic field of Mental Health and Addictions. Having recently completed the Interprofessional Mental Health and Addictions Diploma at Camosun, Sarah is committed to utilizing her skills and lived experience to connect with individuals, break down stigma, and offer unwavering support.

As a long time local, Sarah has always been passionate about making the city she loves the best it can be. When given an opportunity to support and connect with individuals struggling with substance use, Sarah leapt at the opportunity.

When not at work, you can find Sarah out exploring with friends and her dog or at home making delicious food with her family.

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.

Sharlene devotes her time to helping all walks of life, from those struggling with addiction to animals large and small. When Sharlene joined Umbrella in 2008 she started doing outreach and admin, and in 2016 she moved into the role of Executive Director.

When she needs to unwind, Sharlene harnesses the power of 80’s hair bands, enjoys baking cookies, loves traveling, and spending time with her two independent and adventurous adult daughters.

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.

Bio Coming Soon

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.

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.

Tara has her BSc in Psychology and recently graduated from the Interprofessional Mental Health and Addictions program at Camosun. She draws on her empathy and lived experience with mental health and family trauma to help others recognize their unique wisdom and abilities; inherent worth; and intrinsic rights to human safety, well-being, and dignity. Tara is dedicated to bringing awareness to the importance of cultural competency, safety, and humility within our current mental healthcare system.

In her free time, she loves photography, collecting vinyl records, cooking for her friends and family, and practicing yoga.

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.

Tiolu has a passion for her career and helping people. She is optimistic and empathic and loves to help and listen. Her strong belief in possibilities and love for children is an attribute that makes her unique in her own way.
She spends her free time loving her family, cooking and watching movies.

Zack cares deeply about bringing a great amount of patience and empathy to every interaction he enters. As both a recent graduate of a Psychology Undergraduate degree with Honours from the University of Victoria, and a lifetime learner, Zack has been able to build an understanding of human behaviour that accepts everybody exactly where they are at, and allows him to see the emotions and needs beneath the behaviours we all engage in. He is passionate about increasing community empathy, making him a great fit with the Umbrella society.

In his spare time, he loves to connect with nature, others, and himself.

Our Team

Adriana

Transitional Housing

Adriana

Transitional Housing

Alex

Casual

Alex

Casual

Alycia

On Leave

Alycia

On Leave

Alyssha

Casual

Alyssha

Casual

Amy C

On Leave

Amy C

On Leave

Amy J

Transitional Housing

Amy J

Transitional Housing

Angi

Casual

Angi

Casual

Ari

Office Dog

Ari

Office Dog

Ashley K

Casual

Ashley K

Casual

Ashley R

ICMT

Ashley R

ICMT

Autumn

Transitional Housing

Autumn

Transitional Housing

Blake

Program Manager

Blake

Program Manager

Brae

Casual

Brae

Casual

Brianna

Manager of Finance & HR

Brianna

Manager of Finance & HR

Bruce

Transitional Housing

Bruce

Transitional Housing

Cale

Transitional Housing

Cale

Transitional Housing

Carly

Casual

Carly

Casual

Cherie

Indigenous Outreach Team

Cherie

Indigenous Outreach Team

Cheryl

ER/PES

Cheryl

ER/PES

Cheyenne

Kings Lane

Cheyenne