Welcome to Fall, back to school, new beginnings, and fall gatherings! By now you may have seen the PHC flier in the Sounder outlining some of the programs we are putting on this Fall. If you didn't get a flier, please drop by our office at the Commons and pick up a copy. All of the programs promote social connections, healthy food choices and physical activity. If you have been wanting to up your wellness, have a look and sign up for an activity either on-line at https://www.phcgabriola.org/news or phone 250-247-7311. Many of the registrations are filling up fast on a first come first serve basis so don't delay!
Newsletter Update
Peter Jones who had been writing the newsletter has retired, and we are looking for a volunteer to replace him. If you like to share news and keep others informed, this is the job for you. The newsletter comes out once a month, and aside from some announcements we want to make, the subject matter will be up to you.
Please email info@phcgabriola.org if you are interested in volunteering for this opportunity.
General Updates
“Phil(up)” Our New Refrigerated Van
Thank you to BC Food Banks who provided all the funding for the purchase it's on the road. It's first day on the job at our 'Fill the Van' event, we raised $950 and over 600lbs of food. He'll be busy bringing food items that need to be kept cold over to the island from Nanaimo and delivering food safely locally.
Seniors Transportation to our Programs
Our next challenge is providing consistent transportation of participants to our seniors' programs. For many seniors, these programs enable them to age in place and provide social connections. Our contract with Island Health and grants for other programs will cover the cost of this van. We expect that both of these vehicles will expand their usages as we work with our partners on projects of mutual interest.
Data Management at People For a Healthy Community
Lastly, we are making progress with our internal technology. Having access to data and effective communications are so important as we expand our programs and service reach into the community. We are grateful to the Federal government for this Data Management grant and to all of our partners and volunteers who are working with us.
Join us now and give back to the Community
Volunteers Opportunities
Thinking about reconnecting to things that are happening across the community? Consider volunteering at PHC we need about 80 more volunteers to get us back to our pre pandemic strength. Even if you only have a couple of hours a month, or an hour a week, we can find a job for you. Whether you are interested in working with food programs, in the gardens, with school children, young families or seniors - there is a spot for you. If your skills are more administrative, we are always looking for volunteers on our Board of Directors or one of our Committees. In particular, we are looking for people with financial backgrounds, fundraising skills, Public Relations, or leadership.
Visit our website www.phcgabriola.org/volunteer for these or other volunteer opportunities or call Brenda at 250-247-7311
Upcoming Events
Dr. Suzanne Tough Workshop
Join us for a lecture and workshop hosted by PHC, the Health and Well-being Collaborative and the Gabriola Healthcare Foundation. Dr. Suzanne Tough from the University of Alberta will be presenting national research findings on Inclusion, Belonging and Mental Wellness. Following her talk, we will have small discussion groups on the implications of this research for our own health and for our community. Please try to make time to come to this presentation, you will not regret it.
Tuesday October 31, Community Hall from 12:30 - 3:00 pm
PHC Annual General Meeting
Join us for a discussion led by Dr. Tough on the meaning of her research for not for profits like PHC. This will be part of our AGM and light refreshments will be served. This will be another opportunity to hear Dr. Tough, if you are unable to come on the 31st.
Wednesday November 1, Rollo Centre from 10:00 am - Noon