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COMMUNITIES SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES

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IGNITE 2024 Raising a $100,000
for vulnerable and at-risk youth in Nanaimo

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The Value of Friendships (And Why Less Is More)
August 23, 20240Comments
Understanding Grief: A Journey Through Loss
July 22, 20240Comments
Perspective on Conflict
July 3, 20240Comments
ABOUT US

Dreams of Uniting Communities to Create Change

Where It All Began

Our story begins with a vision of uniting communities to create awareness, break down stigma, and give back on our own terms. It all started with Mariel Anderson, whose diverse journey through life revealed a universal truth: no matter how varied our backgrounds, we all share a profound need to belong, to be seen, and to be heard. This realization ignited a passion for bridging gaps and creating impact through connection.

Inspired by this experience and her own walk with mental health, Mariel embraced the challenge of creating something bigger—something that could bridge divides and foster a sense of belonging for all.

And so, Foundation for Artistic Expression (F.A.E.) was born from this vision: a nonprofit dedicated to changing the mental health narrative by bringing people together, celebrating diversity, and making a tangible difference. Join us as we continue this journey, inspired by the belief that every individual deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.

Welcome to our story. Welcome to F.A.E.

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The GAIN Group values the standard of each individual working within our dealer group and every client’s point of contact. We have established a set of clearly defined values that are communicated to each individual employed within our dealer group. This will assist our staff in aligning their personal values with our organization’s values and with that serve our cherished clients to the highest standards.
MISSION
GAIN Group, unlike any other, is a diverse group of companies that work together to deliver unique and exceptional automotive ownership experience on Vancouver Island, one of Canada’s world-class destinations.

We strive to achieve the highest quality of craftsmanship in all areas of our expertise. We are passionate about the incredible automobiles we are able to represent and the opportunities of sharing this with our clients and the community. We promote an environment built on trust in all facets of our organization. Trust is not something that can be demanded but rather, it has to be earned. We endeavor to share our successes with our local community by supporting the arts, sports, festivals, families and children in need, fundraisers, Vancouver Island hospitals, foundations and more. We strive to be the best within our industry and set benchmarks for others to follow.

We strive to be the most efficient in all we do in every department and position. Time, for many of our clients, is the true luxury and we treat their time with the utmost respect and urgency.

The root of our dealer group derives from a dealership founded in 1967. Till this day, we employ a handful of those employees who have been committed to this company for more than 30 years. What are even more significant and impressive are the clients of the dealerships who have been loyal to us for that same duration of time, if not more.

We are committed to represent our brands, our dealerships and our dealer group with excellence. We not only compare our level of excellence within the automotive industry, but look to the leaders in many other industries to match or better the best of the best.

There will never be discrimination towards gender, age, or disability in our dealer group. This is applicable to both employees and clients without any exception. We continuously strive for constant improvement and to plan a future that will further benefit all involved. Everyone within our organization will participate in continued training and coaching to ensure they have all the knowledge and tools required to serve our clients.

All employees within our dealer group will be held to this value: honesty. It must be part of all interactions, presentations and communications between employees, clients, manufacturer representatives and the communities we live in.

We are passionate about the incredible automobiles we are able to represent and the opportunities of sharing this with our clients and the community.

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Save-On-Foods is known for customizing its stores to best suit the needs of the neighbourhoods in which they operate. In each community, we listen to locals and provide the services they’re looking for. Save-On-Foods supports Western Canadian food producers by carrying more than 2,500 locally-made products from more than 2,000 local growers and producers.

Supporting local communities is the foundation of the Save-On-Foods brand. Combined with our supplier partners, team members and generous customers, Save-On-Foods has donated more than $30 million to children’s hospitals, and contributes $3 million in donations to food banks across Western Canada each year. Save-On-Foods is committed to Going the Extra Mile for our neighbours in every community we serve, every day.

In 2018, we had a goal: eliminate our food waste by 50% by 2025. We achieved that in the summer of 2019.

Today our store-wide program is diverting 91% of total food surplus away from landfill; providing charities, food banks, and local farms with much needed edible food.

OUR MISSION

A commitment to conservation
Save-On-Foods continues to uphold our commitments to address our environmental impacts, while seeking new opportunities to expand how our actions can positively impact and improve the natural environments we depend on. Our customers raise important questions and bring forward local, provincial, national and even global opportunities for our company to make a difference. We listen and take action to do our part to help preserve our planet.

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Diversity and inclusion are part of our fundamental values that help us support our customers, colleagues and communities. From our hiring practices to our accessible building designs, we’re working towards maintaining a welcoming, barrier-free culture for everyone.

Change is a fact of life. It can renew our perspective of the world or how we act within it. While change helps some of us get ahead, it can leave others behind. To help create the conditions so everyone has the chance to succeed in a changing world, TD is targeting C$1 billion by 2030 towards community giving in four areas that support change, nurture progress and contribute to making the world a better, more inclusive place.

That is the TD Ready Commitment.

At TD, we know that we can only thrive when the communities around us thrive, and that building a more sustainable and inclusive future is critical for both our communities and for our Bank. The TD Ready Commitment is a true embodiment of TD’s purpose in action.

Based on internal and external research conducted in 2018, we identified four areas that we call the Four Interconnected Drivers of Change – Financial Security, Vibrant Planet, Connected Communities and Better Health. When they are addressed together, they can help people feel included and able to reach their goals in the future.

As part of our goal to help people feel a sense of belonging in their communities, TD supports Arts and Culture events, initiatives and organizations across North America that amplify diverse voices.

In that spirit, we are proud to support Asian Heritage Month, Indigenous National History Month, and Black History Month programming that features individuals and initiatives that contribute to the fabric of Canada where we live, work, and play. We celebrate the achievements of those that shape our story as Canadians and inspire the next generation of future leaders.

Our goal is to bring people together through shared experiences to help foster connected communities. That’s why we support events and initiatives that give people opportunities to get involved in their communities.

In a time of uncertainty, TD is committed to supporting community programs that help people who are vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation to build meaningful connections in their local community.

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The Nanaimo NightOwls baseball team prioritizes the mental health of young players for several key reasons. Firstly, mental health directly impacts an individual's performance on the field. A player's emotional and psychological well-being greatly influences their focus, motivation, and overall game performance. Secondly, these young athletes are at a critical developmental stage, and nurturing their mental health not only supports their athletic careers but also shapes their overall well-being as they grow into adulthood. Additionally, promoting mental health awareness and support creates a positive team culture, fostering resilience, communication, and empathy among players. This, in turn, contributes to a more supportive and cohesive team environment, which is vital for success both on and off the field. Ultimately, caring for the mental health of young athletes is essential for their personal growth, athletic development, and the overall success of the team.

We also believe that supporting mental health initiatives in our own community that walk with the vulnerable youth on our own turf is vital to the betterment of this city and those within it.

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The Westmark story starts with our Founder and President, Chris Lundy.

A passion for construction runs in the family, with his grandfather being a steel fabricator, and his uncle a European-trained cabinet maker. From an early age, Chris started working with the tools and developed an affinity for the industry. In his school career, he turned his focus towards business, building on his existing foundation of construction industry expertise.

Vancouver Island Construction Management Company for over 35 years.
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Once graduated, Chris united his practical skills and enterprising knowledge to incorporate Westmark Construction in 1988. Now Westmark Construction is a major construction management company with an operating range that extends beyond Nanaimo through Duncan, Parksville, Qualicum and up into the Comox Valley. Westmark employs highly skilled real estate development engineers, along with enough staff and local resources to offer new home building, commercial construction, custom home building, design-build services and general contractor services all the way to Port Alberni, Tofino and Ucluelet on beautiful Vancouver Island.

OUR MISSION

To create vibrant, healthy communities by building purposeful spaces, providing opportunities for people to learn and grow, and fostering long-term relationships with our construction partners and clients.

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Foxy Box is more than a laser hair removal and waxing company, we think of ourselves as in the mental health field as well because we prioritize mental health and body image for various reasons. Firstly, these services are deeply connected to one's self-perception and confidence. By offering hair removal solutions, the company aims to support individuals in feeling more comfortable and confident in their bodies, positively impacting their self-esteem. Secondly, the company recognizes the significant psychological impact of societal beauty standards and the pressure to conform to these ideals. By promoting a positive body image and mental well-being, they aim to empower individuals to embrace their uniqueness and feel more comfortable in their own skin. Lastly, by fostering a supportive and understanding environment, the company hopes to alleviate any potential anxieties or insecurities related to body image, ultimately contributing to the overall mental wellness of their clients.

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The RetreatBoss Promise
To help Retreat Leaders become internationally recognized Retreat Success Experts through professional training and support.

Where they can then deliver quality planning and execution of retreats, such that it will enhance their client’s personal and professional journey of inspiration and transformation by creating unforgettable experiences and profitable retreats.

Their story:
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Founder of RetreatBoss, Catherine Kontos, is a firm believer in the power of retreats. In 2012, she started a business as a retreat planner to guide clients in curating transformative experiences they would never forget. They have helped thousands of guests experience memorable and transformational journeys in the last decade. Today, RetreatBoss is an award-winning retreat company and a go to reference for the retreat community.

Their Winning Approach

With the focus on providing the best business and transformative strategies for creating an impactful retreat, RetreatBoss is dedicated to helping you from day one and throughout the entire retreat planning process! Their team of experts will inspire new ideas, fresh approaches with their out-of-the-box thinking skillsets that can't be found anywhere else. The team provides every tool imaginable, all while building a community of retreat leaders that high-five one another with their wins.

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The Jim Pattison Group was founded in 1961 by Jim "Jimmy" Pattison on three fundamental core values, Integrity, Quality and Customer Service. As an operating division, Pattison Media also values Accountability, Collaboration and Innovation.

We embrace an environment where equity, diversity and inclusion are cultural norms. We take a collective responsibility to create an environment where everyone feels included, respected, and comfortable to bring their whole self to work.

That's why we value our partnership with the Canadian Center for Diversity and Inclusion. As a proud Employer Partner, our Mission is to be more inclusive,  free of prejudice and discrimination, to generate awareness, dialogue and action in all of our workplaces.  Our goal is to ensure diversity is embraced as an asset, not an obstacle.

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The Jim Pattison Group was founded in 1961 by Jim "Jimmy" Pattison on three fundamental core values, Integrity, Quality and Customer Service. As an operating division, Pattison Media also values Accountability, Collaboration and Innovation.

We embrace an environment where equity, diversity and inclusion are cultural norms. We take a collective responsibility to create an environment where everyone feels included, respected, and comfortable to bring their whole self to work.

That's why we value our partnership with the Canadian Center for Diversity and Inclusion. As a proud Employer Partner, our Mission is to be more inclusive,  free of prejudice and discrimination, to generate awareness, dialogue and action in all of our workplaces.  Our goal is to ensure diversity is embraced as an asset, not an obstacle.

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Mosaic Forest Management is a timberlands management company. We are passionate about sustainable forestry and about giving back to the communities where we live, work and play.
The Mosaic land base spans across beautiful Vancouver Island. Beyond generating strong economic returns, we manage our private forest lands to protect the cultural values of our Indigenous partners, provide sustainable forest stewardship and environmental services, and offer a variety of recreational opportunities, scholarships, and donations to our neighbouring communities.

Notable Achievements:

The first forest company globally to achieve certification of its land base by the Carbon Trust (including Scope 1, 2, and selected Scope 3 emissions)

A founding member of Canada’s Digital Technology Supercluster representing our commitment to advancing innovation in the forest sector.

The first forestry company in Canada to be certified under the globally recognized SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative) over 20 years ago

The first forestry company in BC to achieve Progressive Aboriginal Certification from the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business

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The Jim Pattison Group was founded in 1961 by Jim "Jimmy" Pattison on three fundamental core values, Integrity, Quality and Customer Service. As an operating division, Pattison Media also values Accountability, Collaboration and Innovation.

We embrace an environment where equity, diversity and inclusion are cultural norms. We take a collective responsibility to create an environment where everyone feels included, respected, and comfortable to bring their whole self to work.

That's why we value our partnership with the Canadian Center for Diversity and Inclusion. As a proud Employer Partner, our Mission is to be more inclusive,  free of prejudice and discrimination, to generate awareness, dialogue and action in all of our workplaces.  Our goal is to ensure diversity is embraced as an asset, not an obstacle.

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The Jim Pattison Group was founded in 1961 by Jim "Jimmy" Pattison on three fundamental core values, Integrity, Quality and Customer Service. As an operating division, Pattison Media also values Accountability, Collaboration and Innovation.

We embrace an environment where equity, diversity and inclusion are cultural norms. We take a collective responsibility to create an environment where everyone feels included, respected, and comfortable to bring their whole self to work.

That's why we value our partnership with the Canadian Center for Diversity and Inclusion. As a proud Employer Partner, our Mission is to be more inclusive,  free of prejudice and discrimination, to generate awareness, dialogue and action in all of our workplaces.  Our goal is to ensure diversity is embraced as an asset, not an obstacle.

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SERVING NANAIMO SINCE 1959

At Green Thumb Nurseries we believe in providing exceptional customer service and supplying the best quality plants possible.  Founded in 1959 at its current location, Green Thumb Nurseries has grown to provide plants to customers from Vancouver Island, the gulf islands, the lower mainland and beyond. Over this time we have experienced many trends and experimented with new varieties allowing us to improve the selection we provide to our customers.  We have been able to test many of our varieties thoroughly and for that reason we are continuing to grow much of the same product as we did years ago only updating existing options with those we have assessed to be better or unique. 

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Ever been inside a hotel that was so characterless that it could have been in any city in the world? You can bet it wasn’t a Coast Hotels property. We pride ourselves on creating experiences that are authentic, unique and reflective of the destinations in which we’re located – whether that destination is in the middle of a city or on the side of a mountain.

Of course, a Refreshingly Local™ experience is just part of what awaits you at Coast Hotels. You’ll also be treated to award-winning service and thoughtful amenities like free in-room wi-fi and triple-sheeted beds. And if you join our Coast Rewards program, we’ll sweeten the deal even more, with exclusive Member-Only Rates and tons of great perks.

our company
Coast Hotels Limited, a fully owned subsidiary of APA Hotel Canada, Inc. owns, manages and franchises properties in cities large and small, as well as in resort destinations throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Yukon, Alaska, Washington, California, and Hawaii. As one of North America’s fastest-growing and one of Canada’s largest hotel brands, we owe our continued expansion to our commitment to exceptional service, prime locations, value and guest satisfaction. Coast Hotels is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with a satellite office in Seattle, WA.

our mission

Coast Hotels delights guests with friendly service and refreshing stays through a network of unique hotels in North America.

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our mission

To grow our network of unique hotels, creating brand preference, happy ambassadors, and a competitive return on investment.

our promise

At Coast Hotels we provide a stay you can trust, by delighting guests with friendly service and a Refreshingly Local™ experience at a network of unique hotels.

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Service Loop Electrical & Electricpreneur Secrets - The Electrician Podcast, catering to electricians, recognizes the importance of mental health for several key reasons. Mental well-being significantly impacts an electrician's performance, safety, and productivity on the job. The nature of their work often involves high-pressure situations, requiring focus and attention to detail. By addressing mental health, the coaching company aims to improve stress management, resilience, and overall well-being, fostering a healthier and more effective workforce. Additionally, prioritizing mental health creates a positive work culture, enhancing communication, teamwork, and job satisfaction among electricians. Ultimately, by supporting mental health, this coaching company seeks to improve not only the individual performance of electricians but also the overall success and reputation of the business, and their personal lives so they are able to be present and connected to themselves and their families.

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Mariel’s tagline is ‘See the Light, Be the Light’ encouraging others to see the light in this world, the good, the love, the energy, and be a light in the world. Living by 4 rules in her life, everyday she works hard to leave a positive impact wherever she goes. Respect yourself, Respect each other, Respect your environment. and BE KIND.

By the age of 27 Mariel had already spent time being an elite athlete, obtaining her B.A. in Counseling, experienced multiple traumatic experiences of her own, had 7 friends who committed suicides, 8 that were murdered due to gang violence, 8 that overdosed, and she was becoming a single mom.

Mental health became a passion of Mariel’s, and through some ‘trial and error’ career choices, she finally stepped into combining her passion, purpose, and heart for service. Tired of watching the mental health stats for her country rapidly decline and losing people left, right, and centre due to it, she decided to do something about it.

For 6 years in Vancouver, Mariel ran her company (Spectrum Events) using venues such as TELUS World of Science, XY, Backstage Lounge, & The Metro. Each one of the events raised awareness and donated its profits solely to give back to the community.

Over the next years of mentorship, experience, as well as the pandemic, it became clearer to Mariel that the way to make the largest amount of intentional impact on the mental well being of Canadians was to start a nonprofit that could create platforms across the country, as well as a podcast that focused on mental health.

Thus, Foundation for Artistic Expression and ‘Probably Important - Inside Conversations, Out Loud’ - The Podcast were born.

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After spending most of her working life in industrial accounting and reaching her career goals, Donnie was looking to shift gears and start focusing on positive change. After spending a few years on self improvement and healing, it was time to start extending her reach and making a positive impact in her community.

When approached to join the amazing team at F.A.E and learned about the organization, she was thrilled to see how well it fit with some of initiatives she was already working on. Donnie is looking forward to applying her skillsets to help F.A.E reach its goals and change the world one individual at a time.

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What started out as self-educating due to circumstances, a spark emerged for Allison that became a passion for serving members of her community. She took this opportunity to immerse herself in education surrounding neurodiversity, mental-health and co-morbid conditions. She also gained a deep understanding of what life is like for individuals and their families to navigate multiple community resources to have their needs met.

Allison has been dedicated to creating awareness to not only the needs of individuals who are faced with diversity but also breaking down the stigma that surrounds it. She has worked in various communities with a range of age groups who have experienced trauma, mental health challenges and a need for life skills.

Not only is she passionate about supporting members of her community through education, providing resources and support, Allison is a mother of two brilliant young adults, one of whom is a member of the LGBTQ+ community and she has experienced first-hand what benefits come from having community inclusion and support.

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Suzanne started her career in fashion design working for some of Canada's top brand names until her creative focus changed to work behind the camera. Currently she works as a photographer shooting street style outside of the major Fashion Weeks as well as starting her own glamour portrait photography studio.

After working on the large scale fundraiser in 2022, she fell in love with the platform and cause. Using her skills, experience and leadership qualities to run the photography team has become a beloved way to give back to her community.

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Proud father, partner, and Master Electrician with a business addiction. Clay has a fire burning for seeing individuals and teams rise through challenges to reach new levels of achievement. His passion for business strategy, marketing, and leadership provides energy & influence to those that get to work with him.

Clay is also passionate about personal development and helping youth overcome the many challenges that he experienced firsthand. His story begins as a troubled youth, full of trial & error; a high school dropout, eventually spending his 19th birthday in a youth corrections facility before becoming a young father and designing a life far prouder than the trajectory he was on.

Clay has become a beacon of hope & prosperity for electricians all over North America in his current full-time occupation, ‘Service Loop Electrical” (www.serviceloopelectrical.com), an international training firm that helps Service Electricians develop their premium service, business strategy, repeatable sales, and organic marketing.

In addition to providing support as a team member to F.A.E, Clay intends to develop a young service worker program to support at-risk youth with proven transferrable service skills that will also help home service businesses find the workers they need to sustain their market demand.

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Catherine Kontos is more than just a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness—she's a fellow traveler on the path toward understanding and healing. As a Personal & Professional Empowerment Mentor, Founder of RetreatBoss, TEDx/Inspirational Speaker, and Author, Catherine's journey has been shaped by a profound understanding of psychology and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

Having spent three transformative years immersed in art school, Catherine discovered the transformative power of creativity. This fusion of artistic intuition and strategic thinking allows her to connect with people on a deep level. It's a connection that's vital for successful event coordination, bringing volunteers together in a shared mission.

Beyond her professional roles, Catherine's entrepreneurial spirit and psychology degree have equipped her with a unique ability to think creatively and innovatively. Yet, what truly sets Catherine apart is her unwavering compassion and dedication to improving mental health support for individuals and families. As a wife and mother, she knows the value of nurturing relationships and fostering a sense of community.

Catherine's story goes beyond her career achievements. She's been a driving force behind impactful global movements, advocating for the reunification of families and witnessing the positive influence on government policies at the federal level. A breast cancer survivor, Catherine's journey through illness has transformed her into a philanthropist, actively participating in causes that ignite global change.

Having worked with individuals facing addiction, schizophrenia, and burnout, Catherine understands the complexities of mental health and the urgency for change. Her involvement on the board of directors is a testament to her unwavering commitment to creating a society that prioritizes mental health, offering hope, healing, and empowerment to all. In Catherine Kontos, you'll find a friend and advocate, someone who knows firsthand the transformative power of compassion and connection.

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Being involved in  F.A.E. is of paramount importance to a board treasurer with Dejan's background. Having embarked on a distinguished career within the BC Public Service, with roles in finance and project management, Dejan brings a wealth of experience and insight into the intricate dynamics of British Columbia's regions. His tenure as the Director of Business and Finance at the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General not only sharpened his financial acumen but also deepened his commitment to community involvement and enhancement.

As the Budget Manager for the Ministry of Attorney General, Dejan's ability to assess the province-wide impact of ministry programs and support regional initiatives through strategic financial analysis is a testament to his strategic foresight and dedication to advancing public welfare. Moreover, his extensive volunteer and board experience, including roles as Treasurer for a Strata corporation and a church in Burnaby, reflects his unwavering dedication to community service and stewardship.​

With a Master’s in international Banking and Finance, a Bachelor's in Business Administration specializing in Finance, and a PMP designation, Dejan is well-equipped to leverage his comprehensive expertise and educational background for the benefit of F.A.E. Canada's Board of Directors and the communities it serves.

F.A.E.'s mission to unite communities through artistic expression for accessible mental health resources aligns perfectly with Dejan's values of inclusivity, equity, and community empowerment.

F.A.E.'s commitment to creating welcoming spaces where everyone feels valued and empowered resonates deeply with Dejan's belief in the importance of mental well-being and social cohesion. By fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among individuals from diverse backgrounds,  F.A.E. not only addresses mental health challenges but also contributes to building a vibrant and healthy society. Dejan's dedication to supporting such initiatives makes his involvement with F.A.E. both meaningful and impactful, reinforcing the organization's mission to promote unity and resilience through artistic expression

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Katia approaches social media from a creative background. Diving into social media and digital art full-time over 2 years ago, her passion for connecting with others, creating art, and breaking stigmas brought her to  F.A.E.

An artist herself, Katia knows first hand how healing art can be for one’s mental wellbeing. She is honoured to support and share others' artistic expression and stories in awareness of mental health and at-risk youth.

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Elise has worked in the event production industry for many years as well as having grown up around festivals and fundraising events. Being a part of all these diverse communities has sparked a passion for working with mental health, queer rights, and the indigenous community.

In addition, Elise's experimentation throughout her youth led to an all consuming love of art, fashion, and music. These experiences have greatly influenced her career and the majority of her favourite pass times.

Combined with her passion for creating positive change her dream is to create a welcoming space for all those to feel at home. Being a part of the Change Makers team has allowed Elise to help people find their community, as well as build her own.

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Hayley started her path in theatre at 8 years old, and has never looked back. She attended the Chilliwack School of Performing Arts for 10 years, before leaving to jump into her career as a design technician.

When she’s not working, Hayley spends her time volunteering and educating the younger generation.

Hoping to inspire and spread the positive message and lasting impact art has on every human being. Hayley is excited and proud to be a part of the 'Change Makers' team, and see the impact it has on everyone involved.

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Eddy Martin Graham is a Multifaceted Artist, Early Childhood Educator and Event Producer. He has attained a BA in Visual Arts from VIU with further education in Child & Youth Care. He co-designs community events for all ages that inspire wonder and play to thrive and nervous systems to heal. He loves designing magical children’s books, courses for children and couples, audio stories, meditations and more. He lives and creates on beautiful Vancouver Island with his beloved partner Ela on the unceded territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation.

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Manuela Dominguez is a visionary Goddess who is passionate about wellness and creativity, primarily expressing her artistry through imagery and movement. Ela is a visual prayerformance artist, model, photographer, videographer, yoga teacher and event producer based on Vancouver Island. She's been shooting & editing professionally with her family business Artez Media for over a decade and has co-created many events & festivals as well as performed dance & circus arts on stages throughout BC. She currently guides yoga at multiple studios while growing Artez across the island where she lives with her beloved partner Eddy on the unceded territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Ela finds pure joy and profound meaning doing what she loves, guiding others to follow their hearts towards their own liberation of creative expression.♡

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Having recently retired from the classroom of over 3 decades of teaching, I believe that building healthy relationships at both the individual and community level, promotes life-long learning and successful futures. With a postgraduate degree in Curriculum Development and Administration I believe that building resilience into children and young adults is the best insurance against lifestyles of addiction, cycles of abuse, crime, or suicide and the resulting traumas. I also believe that artistic expression is an impactful way to build community, to process and express emotions, and to voice important perspectives. Spending a large portion of my life building stage props, designing parade floats, and community events, I love the fact that being a part of this team I get to bring my passion for both mental health and art together!

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Over the last twenty years, Josh has been exploring wellness in different ways. What started out as an attempt to understand suffering has evolved into a path of becoming present. To simplify, his lens overall could be “what is keeping us from- what best brings us to- and what allows us to enjoy the present moment”.

Josh achieved a certificate from Finding Freedom and the RE-ACT program, focusing on addiction and complex trauma, and is now a proud graduate of Rhodes Wellness College where he received his Professional Counsellor Diploma.

Launching his private practice Steady Wellness with the desire to meet the need for support, kindness and healing that is essential for All people - from All communities.

Josh plays a vital role in ensuring that all Change Makers have access and the opportunity to utilize a therapist in order to stay in alignment with their priorities of 'Health, Family, Business'

Josh is also the co-host on 'Probably Important - Inside Conversations, Out Loud', where together with Mariel, they bring to light Canadian mental health and well-being, resources, and tools. 

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As a dedicated communications student in the early stages of my career, I am honored to be a part of the F.A.E. team.

I have always been drawn to human psychology and the power that community has in building understanding and empathy towards mental health, as I have experienced first hand what the feeling of belonging and connection can provide. I was a dancer from a young age which has allowed me to discover the impact that art can have. Through movement, I have found a space to express emotions and connect with others, which is why F.A.E.'s mission to inspire through art resonates deeply with my own experiences.

I am passionate about making a difference and I strongly believe that everybody deserves access to support, resources, and understanding, especially when facing mental health struggles. By creating engaging marketing narratives and campaigns, my goal is to raise awareness and promote a culture of inclusion and compassion.

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Erin holds a BAFA in Visual Arts from VIU and is trained as an educational assistant and community support worker. She currently works for a local non profit supporting children, youth and families whom experience developmental/ behavioural challenges. She has worked collaboratively on arts and music festivals, many community events and volunteers within the community.

She is passionate about supporting positive mental health through community involvement, mentoring and facilitating others to express their individuality through creative outlets.

Erin believes strongly in creating and building non-judgmental, equitable opportunities for all. She is honoured to be part of F.A.E. again this year and looks forward to widening her networks with likeminded collaborative community connections. 

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Daralynn's journey began at just fourteen when she faced down aggressive Acute Myeloid Leukemia M2, a battle that nearly claimed her life. Summoning courage beyond her years, she confronted her diagnosis head-on, a conversation with her mother over dinner preceding a pivotal medical flight to Vancouver Children’s Hospital. Under the care of dedicated pediatric oncologists and compassionate nurses, Daralynn embarked on a grueling treatment regimen, marking the start of her fight for survival.


Following months of relentless treatment, Daralynn emerged victorious, achieving remission against all odds. Yet, her triumph was not without its challenges. Wrestling with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts amid familial turmoil and the strains of adapting to a new environment, Daralynn refused to be defeated. Recognizing the power of support and guidance, she immersed herself in camps for cancer-diagnosed youth, eventually co-founding a sanctuary of creativity and understanding in the form of a stress-free outdoor retreat.

Daralynn's commitment to advocacy extended beyond her personal journey, as she became a stalwart volunteer with prominent cancer organizations, lending her voice to motivational speaking engagements across Canada and beyond. With a firm belief in nurturing mental and emotional well-being, Daralynn champions holistic natural nutrition and serves as a beacon of hope for vulnerable youth.

Her experiences have shaped her into a motivational speaker, instilling confidence, fostering understanding, and breaking down barriers for survivors and vulnerable youth alike. From her roots in salon work and the film industry to her involvement with charities like Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Daralynn's diverse background underscores her unwavering dedication to empowering others.

In her journey, Daralynn discovered that true growth occurs when we extend ourselves beyond comfort zones, transcending limitations to embrace a world of possibilities. As she continues to inspire and uplift, Daralynn embodies the resilience and spirit of those who dare to dream despite adversity. She is so excited to be a part of the F.A.E. family in order to continue to create impact wherever she goes.

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Ever since I was young, I’d wanted to be a writer — or a superhero. As time passed, I set my sights on the former and earned my Bachelor of Communications at Capilano University. Working with FAE makes me feel like I’ve achieved both dreams. Here, I am proud to use my skills towards something as impactful as it is meaningful. As a content writer, I’ve learned that everyone has a voice — a vision. My goal is to help FAE’s team communicate theirs to the world.

The mind has exactly the same power as the hands: not merely to grasp the world, but to change it. ~ Colin Wilson

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IGNITE unites the diverse communities in the host city in order to showcase their talents and give them a platform to give back on their own terms (performing arts, sports, fashion, visual arts, production team and event team positions etc).

F.A.E. works in connection with:

Local post secondary programs for internship positions (giving students hands on experience in their area of study, supporting their growth),

Local businesses that sponsor and get involved with the mental health in their own community,

Individuals/businesses donate to the auction (giving back on their own terms), as well as the live & online auctions involve more community members who can give on their own terms while helping us raise more funds.

The funds raised go directly to supporting programs and organizations that are within that host city, working in the field of mental health and vulnerable youth.

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C4  is an annual scavenger hunt that is produced in cities across Canada

This event brings together the community in order to support local businesses.  Being a child & youth friendly event, it allows for diverse family groups to come celebrate mental health in an active and fun way. 

After groups/teams have finished their scavenger hunt the final clue leads them to an event that showcases local entertainment and vendors; as well as information booths from local mental health and vulnerable youth programs.

A portion of the proceeds are donated to Change Makers Bursary Program 

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The purpose of the CHANGE MAKERS Bursary Program is to provide financial aid to individuals who need to go to a treatment centre or therapy for any mental and/or emotional health related reason.

F.A.E. collaborates closely with treatment centres and mental/emotional/spiritual healers and practitioners across Canada (Applicants will only be placed in a treatment centre that is collaborating with us so that we are able to stand by the care and treatment they will be receiving.)

This program will have an application form on this website when the appropriate funds have been raised.

The goal is to be able to provide minimum 2 full ride bursaries/ year.

Projected to hand out first bursary in 2027

Do you want to donate straight to the CM Bursary Program? That is possible! Press the 'Donate Now' button on the main page and it will be an option!

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The  F.A.E. Treatment  Facilities will be set up within federal treatment centre standards and guidelines.

Focusing on connectedness with self, others, and nature; while educating and guiding individuals to heal and grow in a caring and safe environment.

The facilities will be multi staged centres, ensuring that there is support for each individuals unique journey to mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being.

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F.A.E. Youth Drop-In Centres

Set up within federal youth care centre standards and guidelines, these drop-in centres will focused on connectedness with self, others, and nature.

Teaching communication, emotional regulation, preventative self care, and relationship skills.

Providing a community, a place to belong, and a healthy support system.

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