Amanda
Board member
Amanda
Board member
Amanda has a background working in substance use and mental health with non-profits, health authorities and the provincial government providing direct service, policy, research and leadership. Her work has focused on substance use and mental health, violence, trauma, and FASD prevention. Amanda is currently working for InsideOut Policy Research as a senior associate providing research and writing services.
Amanda first came across Umbrella while working as an alcohol and drug counsellor in the community and has admired its ability to grow while retaining its core values. As someone in recovery herself, Amanda appreciates the important contribution Umbrella makes with its dedicated and skilled staff providing impactful services and supports for people struggling with substance use issues. She is excited and grateful to have the opportunity to contribute as a board member.
When not working, Amanda loves hiking with her dog, being active, and spending time with her husband and adult son. She is also teaching herself how to knit (badly) and loves reading.
Jeff
Board member
Jeff
Board member
Lois
Board member
Lois
Board member
Lois is the Manager of Healthy Communities for Island Health, with a long career in social services. In this role, Lois supports a team of staff to contribute to a wide range of health promotion initiatives. She has previously worked in providing employment and social supports for individuals with mental health issues and developmental disabilities, and also spent several years with BC Housing, contributing to the set up of new shelters and supportive housing sites during the pandemic. It was during this time that Lois gained a deep appreciation for the work of the Umbrella Society. Outside of work, Lois enjoys gardening, hiking with friends, visiting the Gulf Islands, and spending time with her large, extended family. She is also a proud mother, wife, sister, friend, and foster mom.
Valerie
Co-Chair
Valerie
Co-Chair
Valerie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in private practice. Her specialties are addiction and codependency as well as group facilitation. Valerie worked for Island Health as an addiction counsellor in the past and this is where she first became acquainted with the work of Umbrella. Valerie has been a proponent for mental health and addictions since she finished her master’s in counselling psychology in 2007. It is a privilege to join the board of an organization that does work that is near and dear to her heart. Valerie has an adult daughter who lives in Vancouver and an 18-year-old cat named Polly who rules her house!
Wendy
Co-Chair
Wendy
Co-Chair
Wendy has a social work background and has spent her career working in the social sector, including ten years as a substance use and mental health clinician. It was during this time that she first encountered Umbrella. She is inspired by how much Umbrella has grown over the years and the amazing range of supports offered by the dedicated staff. She is really honoured to be part of his organization.Wendy currently works as Executive Director of child welfare policy for the provincial government and can be found on her off time gardening and sailing around the gulf islands with her wife and her son.