For over 50 years, Nanaimo Family Life Association has been helping individuals and families build healthy relationships — the heart of a strong, resilient community.
We offer personal and professional growth programs with respect, inclusion, and compassion, serving people of all ages in and around Nanaimo. Our approach helps participants recognize their strengths, make meaningful connections, and reach their full potential.
We believe in everyone’s capacity for growth, healing, and positive change.
No one is turned away for inability to pay — fees are on a sliding scale
At NFLA, our volunteers, staff, and board share one belief: healthy relationships build strong, resilient communities.
Deborah supports marginalized communities, fostering resilience, equity, and meaningful social change while staying connected to community and living a balanced, ethical life.
Cora is passionate about equitable mental health access. She loves beachcombing, baking, reading, and walks with her golden retriever.
Angela, passionate about diversity and equality, brings her Business Administration background and life experiences to support the community. She enjoys ocean views, family, dogs, and her crochet business.
Erika, with roots in Nanaimo and a background in palliative care and management, is passionate about community support, exploring nature, foraging, and creating change.
Gabby, originally from El Salvador, now calls Nanaimo home. She enjoys beach walks, connecting with loved ones, and discovering the city’s best croissants and coffee spots.
At NFLA, our volunteers, staff, and board share one belief: healthy relationships build strong, resilient communities. In addition to the staff listed here, we also have a number of excellent and compassionate staff who work in our shelters and guest services.
Jody, originally from Alberta, loves supporting vulnerable community members. As Winter Shelter Manager, she enjoys Vancouver Island’s nature and cherishing time with family and self-care.
Ardith, an administrative manager, combines her psychology background with corporate experience to support community needs. She enjoys teamwork, helping others, and spending time with pets, friends, and changing hobbies.
Island-raised, Paige is inspired by helping others grow and thrive. She's happiest camping with family, playing volleyball, catching a concert or discovering new places to explore.
Roni, from Powell River, brings customer service and medical experience to NFLA. She loves family time, exploring, and reading with her cat Charlie.
Amber joined NFLA after 15+ years in animal behavior and welfare. She loves helping people and enjoys hiking, skiing, and camping with her dogs.
Stefan, a VIU Recreation & Tourism grad, brings public and non-profit experience to TAPS. He loves Island scenery, hockey, and Netflix.
Ellis is a parent and 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate. She facilitates our peer support groups (Gender Journeys and Transcend) and coordinates our transportation and meal delivery services. Ellis enjoys gardening, reading and building community.
Luke is dedicated to supporting individuals and families in the community. Currently working towards a degree in psychology, Luke combines a deep passion for the field with a genuine desire to help others. Outside of work, Luke enjoys music, woodworking, and spending time with his cats.
AJ draws on lived experience and healthcare expertise to support seniors facing housing insecurity. He loves strong coffee, travel, cooking, hiking, and creating meaningful, positive change in people’s lives.
Born in the Middle East, I’ve called Nanaimo home since university. I love the ocean, nature, learning, and embracing life’s adventures—let’s make waves together!
Laura, with roots in Australia and the Okanagan, loves building community and supporting equality. Off work, she’s often backpacking, gardening, or curled up with a good book.
With nearly 20 years supporting marginalized individuals, mainly in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, I enjoy family time, nature, cooking, and improving my tattooing skills.
I’ve come to truly appreciate the simple comforts of life. I’m a homebody at heart—there’s nothing better than watching the sunrise with a warm cup of coffee and ending the day curled up with a good TV series. These quiet moments, surrounded by peace and familiarity, bring me the most joy.
Beverley, a long-time Nanaimo resident, holds a BA in Sociology and Global Studies. She enjoys pets, kettlebell sport, and exploring Vancouver Island.
Alicia is passionate about mental wellness and community connection. She brings diverse experience to her role and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family on local trails and beaches.
I began my journey of helping others in 2008. From volunteering at soup kitchens, to my current role of ensuring that people who need a meal, will receive a meal"
Alisa, a Prairie transplant to Nanaimo, has cleaned since her teens. She loves organizing spaces, exploring islands or abroad, researching family history, and spending time with her beloved cats.
Denisa, a nature lover with diverse experience, helps clients improve wellbeing through cleaning and organizing, while supporting self-healing, energy work, and her passion for Medicine Horses.
I enjoy working for people who need a helping hand. Serving others. When I’m not working I’m knitting, which I give to people I love and kids as well as the unhoused. Spending time with friends and learning to paint.
Originally from Australia, I bring 25+ years in cleaning with genuine care. I love family, animals, gardening, baking, and adding a personal touch to everything I do.
Whether you’re looking for support, housing help, or someone to talk to — we’re here.