Stories
Read About Our Work
Communitas Achieves “Exemplary” Accreditation Standard
“We have used just about every superlative in the dictionary.” This was how one of our peer reviewers responded at our final accreditation meeting in June. For the third time, Communitas has achieved “exemplary” status from the Council on Accreditation. We are both proud and grateful! Read our story to see what else was said and how our new CEO, Matt Dirks, responded!
Driven by a Love for Humanity
Peter grew up with a holistic understanding of the word “philanthropy” and strives to bring that into his life in terms of both serving and giving. Find out why he chose to donate to our recent Drive to Thrive campaign!
Ending Well
“God often tells me the end but not the beginning, so I walk by faith,” says Karyn Santiago. Karyn came to Communitas in much the same way that she is now leaving it: in response to God’s call to an ending. She finishes her time with Communitas this week. Check out her inspiring story!
Taste and Tour Brings Community Together
The offices at Communitas in Campbell River were abuzz with activity as people from the community gathered to share good food and drink and learn more about our work in their community!
Spring Into Action A Success
From April 1st to May 31st, the Communitas family was on a virtual journey around the world, moving along the 49th parallel. We walked, ran, hiked, snow-shoed, cycled, gardened, paddled-boarded, mowed lawns, did yoga, worked out at the gym, and more! We did it alone and together, with family and friends, in all kinds of weather. And we got prizes along the way! Check out all the details in our story!
Coming Full Circle
Linda and Svitlana both began their careers with Communitas at a specific home living option in Abbotsford. Over time, they moved on to other homes but recently found themselves back on the same property where they began – but in different homes! Confused? This story will make everything clear!
Becoming Strong
Arnad might be what one would call a “gym rat” – a title he wears with pride. Arnad has been going to the gym for 25 years and with each visit, he’s becoming stronger!
Maintaining a Career of Care
“Make if safe. Make it practical. Make it pretty.” For the last 14 years, these three steps have been the goal for every project that Arny, our maintenance coordinator, has been involved with. As he retires, we reflect on his career of care.
Becoming a Support Worker
When Saori first came to Canada, she was drawn by its geography. She ended up staying because of the people! Eventually, Saori became a Support Worker with Communitas. Check out her amazing journey!
COMMUNITAS ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF NEW CEO
The board of directors of Communitas Supportive Care Society has announced the appointment of a new chief executive officer, Matt Dirks, effective June 1, 2025. This appointment comes after a comprehensive search conducted by Nelson/Kraft and Associates Inc. “We are very pleased with the outcome of this search,” says Kathy Doerksen, board chair. “We look … Continued
Community Inclusion Helps Shawn To Thrive
Shawn has been part of Communitas’ Community Inclusion services for many years and Wendy is one of his CI workers. Wendy has supported Shawn as he maintains a popular window-washing business in Campbell River. Wendy is retiring this month and she’ll miss the laughter they share regularly. Check it out!
Unmasking Mental Health
The journey towards mental wellness has had many ups and downs for Lacey, but she has found the support she needs through Communitas.
Becoming an Artist
Whether it’s a street scene, a landscape, or something from her imagination, Linda’s paintings show that she is a skilled artist. What’s interesting is that she didn’t become an artist until after she experienced a brain injury.
Becoming Present in the Here and Now
One of Gail’s life goals is to become more present, focusing on the here and now. She’s working on her physical strength and also her mental health. Find out how she is achieving success!
Becoming Independent
Learning to navigate public transit has given Kevin and Michael a new sense of independence, allowing them to get to activities without having to rely on others. It’s a skill they say everyone should learn!
Life-long Passion For Cooking Has Its Rewards
Kerry remembers his grandfather’s kitchen in Ontario with fondness. His grandfather trained cooks for the Canadian Armed Forces. But what Kerry remembers is the warmth and wonderful smells coming from his grandfather’s kitchen at home. Being French Canadian, his grandfather always had a pot of split pea and ham soup or baked beans on the … Continued
Becoming Connected
After Winni graduated from high school, she felt like she’d lost connections with her friends and teachers. It made her a little bit sad. But rather than wallow in sadness, Winni decided to be pro-active. She set a goal for herself to find a way to reconnect with the people she misses. She chose to … Continued
Becoming A Coder
Owen always enjoyed playing video games – so much so that he decided he’d like to try his hand at creating his own game. Owen is Becoming a Coder!
Who Are You Becoming?
Our theme for 2025 is “Becoming”. Find out how we’re going to explore this theme this year!
Taking A Chance Pays Off
Although people encouraged him to try work in the social services sector, Colin was very hesitant, unsure if he was suited for the work. He decided to take a chance and discovered that he loves the work. We are so glad he did!
Communitas Staff Publishes Compelling Novel
Writing and publishing a novel is a huge achievement and we celebrate with Communitas support worker, Million Abraha, for doing just that!
Communitas Uses Grant to Support Mental Wellness
A grant from Bell Let’s Talk has enabled Communitas to support people living with mental health challengs in a unique way.
Bringing Service and Skills Together
Joyal’s experience, his skill set, and his heart for service all found a home when he came to work for Communitas
