Community Involvement in Vernon

Strong communities are built by people who show up. 

As a proud Vernon City Councillor, I’ve found some of my most rewarding experiences in local charity involvement, volunteer work, and community engagement initiatives that truly make a difference in people's lives. 

Community leadership extends beyond Council meetings; it thrives wherever people unite to tackle challenges, support one another, and bolster the community well-being through affordable housing initiatives and other collaborative efforts.

Over the years, I have been involved with initiatives focused on affordable housing initiatives, homelessness, and poverty reduction. These community engagement initiatives have also included youth development, seniors supports, food security, and mental health and recovery, all aimed at enhancing community well-being and ensuring community safety. My local charity involvement in education and public awareness allows me to stay connected to the real challenges and opportunities facing Vernon residents every day as a Vernon City Councillor.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING INITIATIVES: 

Not-for-Profit Housing Action Team (2017 - Present) 

ANTI-POVERTY: 

Camp Okanagan Outreach/Liaison Team (2010 - Present) 

COMMUNITY SAFETY: 

Harwood Block Watch (2015 - Present) 

Partners in Action (2009 - Present) 

FOOD INSECURITY: 

Emergency Food Action Network (2014 - Present) 

YOUTH: 

North Okanagan Early Years Table (2018 - Present) 

These community engagement initiatives contribute to community well-being and highlight the importance of local charity involvement. As a Vernon City Councillor, I am committed to supporting these vital programs.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING INITIATIVES: 

Social Planning Council of the North Okanagan, Board of Directors (2012-2018) 

Homelessness Strategy Committee (2010-2018) 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT INITIATIVES: 

Sexual Assault Services Committee (2009 - 2022) 

BC Bad Date & Aggressor Reporting Committee (2022) 

Centerville Neighbourhood Council (2013-2015) 

High Risk Domestic Violence Committee (2009-2011) 

Harwood Neighbourhood Council (2008-2013) 

ADDRESSING FOOD INSECURITY: 

Starfish Backpack Program (2021-2022) 

Vernon Upper Room Mission, Board of Directors (2015-2016) 

COMMUNITY WELL-BEING: 

Opioid Crisis Response Committee (2019-2020) 

Okanagan Recovery Day Committee (2011-2017) 

Harm Reduction Strategy Committee (2010-2018) 

Women’s Second Stage Addictions Recovery Committee (2010-2011) 

Access to Local Detox Services Committee (2010-2011) 

Community Dental Access Steering Committee (2009-2010) 

SERVICE CLUBS INVOLVEMENT: 

Kalamalka Rotary (2010-2018) 

SUICIDE PREVENTION INITIATIVES: 

Suicide Prevention Committee (2010 - 2013) 

LOCAL CHARITY INVOLVEMENT: 

United Way Donation Committee (2013-2014) 

As a VERNON CITY COUNCILLOR, I am committed to these initiatives to enhance our community's overall well-being.

I believe public service begins with community service, which is essential for fostering community well-being. Whether participating in fundraising events, supporting local organizations, engaging in local charity involvement, or volunteering my time alongside community partners, I remain committed to helping build a community where everyone can thrive through affordable housing initiatives and meaningful community engagement initiatives. The lessons learned through such community involvement often provide valuable perspectives to inform better public policy and stronger local decision-making as a Vernon City Councillor.

Local government is ultimately about people and fostering community well-being.

The relationships built through community engagement initiatives help create stronger partnerships, improve understanding, and ensure that decisions are grounded in residents' lived experiences.

These connections continue to shape my work both inside and outside of City Hall, as I strive to support affordable housing initiatives that serve our community.

I believe that Community Members become Community Leaders when they are engaged with their community and actively involved in local charity involvement.

If you want to get involved in your community but are not sure where to start, feel free to email me. 

You may be interested in getting involved with specific arts or sports associations, volunteering or donating to a local charity, or perhaps you want to apply for a committee operated by the City of Vernon.