See what November’s Vital People are doing across Greater Victoria
See stories below highlighting November’s Vital People working to make Victoria a vibrant, caring community for all.
In November, the Victoria Foundation released Victoria’s 2022 Vital Signs report. In its 17th year, the Vital Signs report sheds light on top concerns from residents and offers insight into where our community needs to improve. This year’s Vital Signs asked, “what does community mean to you?”
Sandra Richardson: The many roots of a healthy community
“But to truly thrive, we need to recognize the many definitions of community. While they may differ, there are common issues facing the capital region.” Read Sandra’s column
Project explores the connections between housing policy, design, and the connections to community
The IISAAK OLAM Foundation has been collaborating with the T’Sou-ke Nation, the District of Sooke, and other regional partners on the T’Sou-ke Housing Solutions Lab, a project focused on rethinking what sustainable and resilient housing looks like when it reflects both Indigenous and Western worldviews and perspectives. The three-year project explores the connections between housing policy, design, and the connections to community and environmental health and well-being. Read the full story

T’Sou-ke Nation chief Gordon Planes, left, and Sooke mayor Maja Tait on the beach near Siaosun, the territory’s largest village. IISAAK OLAM
Open Space Arts Society celebrates 50 years with two Indigenous exhibits
The Open Space Arts Society is celebrating its 50th anniversary with one exhibit that honours the past and another emphasizing the works of emerging Indigenous artists. While there are hundreds of non-commercial, artist-run spaces in Canada today, the Open Space Art Gallery, founded in 1972, was one of the first in the country. Read the full story

Elder in Residence Gerry Ambers, left, and Doug Jarvis in the Tide Lines exhibit at the Open Space Art Gallery. DARREN STONE, TIMES COLONIST
November Vital People Videos
Mustard Seed Food Bank needs donations and volunteers: The Mustard Seed Food Bank has been helping Greater Victoria families for decades. But with the rising cost of food, demand for help is higher than ever. Watch video
Nomad Holiday Market raising funds for the Victoria Cool Aid Society: The Nomad Holiday Market helped raise money and non-perishable food donations to support the Victoria Cool Aid Society. Watch video
Lifetime Networks Gala: After a three-year break due to the COVID pandemic, Lifetime Networks is once again holding its annual fundraising gala later this month. This Victoria non-profit support people with developmental disabilities and their families. Watch video
Turtle Pods: Homelessness is a growing problem on Vancouver Island and it’s not just in the larger centres. Smaller cities are also struggling. Turtle pods, created by Shawn Decaire who is the manager of Kwesa Place, offer safety, comfort and accessibility. Watch video
Newcomers to Greater Victoria: What does community mean to you? That was the focus of Victoria’s 2022 Vital Signs survey. And for newcomers to the island, finding community and belonging is especially important. Watch video