Invisible Stories: Volunteers
The Heartbeat of Our Community
On Mayne Island, the quiet stories of creating an age-friendly community often go unnoticed. Alongside these stories are the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes: our volunteers. These indispensable individuals are the lifeblood of the Mayne Island Assisted Living Society (MIALS), ensuring our programs, services, and support reach those who need them most.
Volunteers take on many forms, each playing a vital role in keeping our community connected and thriving. Some deliver meals through the Meals on Wheels program, providing more than just food—a warm smile and a friendly check-in for seniors who may be isolated. Others offer transportation to medical appointments, help with groceries, or organize social outings, making a world of difference for individuals who want to maintain their independence.
Then there are the volunteers who work quietly in the background—those who organize events, manage programs, and provide administrative support. Their efforts might not be as visible, but they are just as essential. Without them, the services that support our community would come to a standstill.
A key area where we urgently need support is our Board of Directors, particularly in the role of Treasurer. This position is vital to the sustainability of MIALS, and we are looking for someone with financial or accounting experience who is eager to give back in a strategic and impactful way. Volunteering as a Treasurer allows you to contribute in a quieter, yet meaningful way, helping MIALS manage its resources effectively and plan for the future.
To learn more about the Treasurer position, click here.
If you or someone you know might be interested in joining our board as Treasurer, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of older adults in our community. Your contribution, though behind the scenes, will be deeply felt across Mayne Island.
New Program: Caregivers/Care Receivers Support
MIALS is proud to announce a new program, in partnership with the Mayne Island Health Centre Association (MIHCA), to support those giving and receiving care for chronic illnesses. Starting on October 24th, we will host the Care Receiver Support Group at the Mayne Island Community Centre from 1:15 PM to 3:00 PM on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. This schedule includes a time allowance for caregivers to travel to their own group, held at the same time at the Mayne Island Library.
The Caregiver Support Group, led by Meg Ferris and Nevah Eyton, will run from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at the Mayne Island Library. Whether you are a caregiver or a care receiver, these groups offer an opportunity for connection, understanding, and mutual support. Caregivers are welcome to use this time for respite or to attend their own support group.
Both groups are open to anyone on Mayne Island who is a caregiver or care receiver. MIALS can arrange transportation for participants to either (or both) groups. To arrange a ride, simply call 250-213-6191. These groups are generously funded by the Health Excellence Canada Grant.
If you are looking for more information about our programs or want to volunteer, please visit www.mials.org or call us at 250-213-6191. Together, we can continue to ensure that Mayne Island remains a compassionate and supportive place for everyone, especially those who need it most.
–Robin Poncia