Impact Report 2023
Our Inspiration and Looking Ahead
Dear friends of Power To Be,
We are excited to share our 2023 Impact Report, highlighting our achievements from the past year As leaders of a social impact organization, we are continually inspired by the exceptional work of our staff and volunteers, including our devoted board of directors, and the dedication and enthusiasm of our partners and supporters We truly have an incredible community. What a year! Thank you!
Our mission remains focused on building community by removing barriers and inviting everyone to explore possibilities in nature We are steadfast in our vision of creating a world where all can experience the transformative power of the great outdoors. Nature belongs to everyone, and everyone belongs in nature.
In 2023, through partnerships with more than 70 organizations, we offered a wide array of accessible and inclusive activities to 904 participants through 2,494 unique visits These activities included adaptive hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and newer offerings like shelter-building and equine-assisted learning We spent 132 days on the water and 189 days on trails Our Family Roots and Wilderness School programs
celebrated their 15th and 16th anniversaries, respectively, and reflected on their growth in that time. Our Landscape and Restoration Employment Program, in collaboration with CanAssist and other community partners, saw its first cohort graduate and advance to further education and careers
We expanded our reach beyond last year’s achievements, growing our provincial work while also making more regional and national connections This year, we spent countless hours collaborating with community partners, including Parks Canada, BC Children’s Hospital, the Capital Regional District, and BC Parks in order to advance the inclusion movement At our Prospect Lake campus, we had a significant year for research Collaborations with partners like Swim, Drink, Fish and Rocky Point Bird Observatory enhanced community understanding of our local water and birds
Two additional highlights this year came from awards. Jason Cole was honoured as the first non-profit leader to receive the Roy Group's MacGregor Cup for leadership excellence, and our Prospect Lake campus won a Capital Region Commercial Building Award in the Green and Sustainability category, making this our second building award alongside 2022’s EcoStar award
Our accomplishments are made possible by the generous support of our donors and partners Your contributions enable us to continue, expand, and enhance our work Reflecting on the past year, we are grateful for our progress and acknowledge that there is more to be done With your continued support, we will extend our inclusive reach and continue to change lives.
Please enjoy our 2023 Impact Report, and thank you for being part of our community
Dana Hutchings Co-CEO
Jason Cole Co-CEO
Ray Board Chair
Rahul
From left: Jason Cole, Rahul Ray, Dana Hutchings Cover:
Mission, Vision, and Why
Our Mission
Power To Be is driven by our mission, inspired by our vision, and grounded in our reason for why we do what we do We are grateful to everyone who has been a part of our journey and contributed to the sense of home and community that we feel and embody today.
We affirm, with respect, the unceded lands and waterways of the Coast Salish Peoples where we live, learn, and play
We build community by removing barriers and inviting people to explore what’s possible in nature
Our Vision
Everyone belongs in nature. Nature belongs in everyone.
Our Why
We believe nature can transform lives
Mitch, Ryan, and Wendy enjoy an adaptive hike in Victoria
Our Program Streams
2023 was a fantastic year for programs
Our Wilderness School celebrated its 16th anniversary, we launched our Landscape and Restoration Employment Program in partnership with CanAssist, and we led our Active Grief, Active Hope program We also introduced new wilderness activities, like shelter building and equine-assisted learning.
Thank you to our dedicated program facilitators and our enthusiastic participants, who engaged with one (or many!) of our programs this year. We are extremely proud of the work we do together, and are lucky to be able to spend so much time out in nature with our community.
INCLUSIVE ADVENTURES
Building skills and creating positive outdoor experiences by removing barriers to nature
WILDERNESS WELLNESS
CATALYST FOR GOOD
Pursuing projects for social and environmental change Our focus is flexible to fill specific needs
We offered 428 programs in total, spending 1565 5 hours in nature We spent 132 days on the water, and 189 days on the trail, with 904 unique participants 189 of our 428 programs, or 44 2% were environmental, including restoration and stewardship of animals
2,494 Participant Visits
Based on our program evaluation, 100% of respondents said they would recommend Power To Be to others.
Activities We Offered This Year:
Our Program
Outcomes Are Focused On:
→ Physical Activity
→ Outdoor Proficiency & Confidence
→ Nature Access
→ Emotional & Mental Health
→ Social Skills
→ Inclusion Understanding
→ Sense of Belonging
→ Nature Knowledge
B.C. is home to over 50,000 species of plants and animals, which is more diverse than anywhere else in Canada (bcwf bc ca) Did You Know?
YOGA
CAMP CRAFT
Experiences that nurture wellbeing and focus on personal growth
Our Community
Our adventures include everyone! With the support of our community, we provide the tools, resources, and space for our participants to discover their full potential, achieve their goals, and explore the magic of the outdoors
"On hikes, snowshoeing, in the forest, or kayaking, my heart seems to beat differently I love the sense of safety I feel on trips with Power To Be – that’s so important to me "
- Sheila, Program Participant
Needs We Support
"Power To Be has helped me to gain confidence. I remember trying adaptive paddleboarding My knees were shaking, but [I stood up] with the support of Power To Be staff surrounding me!”
- Brittany, Program Participant
Age Groups We Support
0 5 10 15 20 25
While 100% of our programs are nature access, the statistical category of Nature Access describes organizations or communities seeking nature access, like Indigenous communities, schools, youth groups, and community-service teams Support/family represents those who are supporting others on program e g caregivers, family Other describes people who sought us out for a primary reason not otherwise reflected here and where their reason represented 1% or less of the total Examples include ADHD, rare illnesses, and elder support
The Power of Progressive Programs
Through our programming, we strive to offer something for everyone From spending a few hours getting to know us at a Have A Go Day, to spending two and a half years with a tight-knit group of peers through our Wilderness School program, we offer a broad range of possibilities
It is undeniable though, that there is something particularly magical about the impact of our progressive programs – the ongoing programming opportunities that allow participants to engage with a consistent group of peers. These include Wilderness School, and the Fern, Salal, and Fawn Lily programs, which support neurodiversity and focus on nature skills, social skills, and creating a safe, supportive environment where youth can be themselves, and be celebrated for that
Our foundational Wilderness School program brings youth together for day activities, seasonal weekend trips, and multi-day spring and summer excursions through some of the most beautiful areas of Vancouver Island
At the outset of the expedition, participants often wonder, "Can I really do this?"
By the end, they know, "I can."
Often, we associate backcountry travel with physical prowess, but we sometimes overlook the significance of internal reflection, interpersonal communication, and a willingness to be vulnerable. Our progressive programs focus on a range of social and technical skills, including:
Social/ Emotional Skills
Technical Backcountry Skills
Bioluminescence Paddle
Strathcona Hike Backpacking
Elly’s Story COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
Elly’s story with Power To Be began at 13 years old as a neighbour of now Co-CEO Jason Cole, who encouraged her to apply to become a participant in Power To Be’s Wilderness School
After graduating from Wilderness School, Elly pursued paramedic school and firefighter training, and continues to serve as a firefighter to this day
“Unless you experience it, it’s hard to describe how good programs like this are. It’s incredible to think about the opportunities that exist with Power To Be.”
Elly is now entering her final year of her Bachelor of Social Work program During her program, she spent 4 months working at Power To Be as a practicum student
Of her time at Power To Be, she says, “I can say truthfully that I would not be in this position if it were not for the inspiration and support I received from my 10 years with Power To Be.”
The Wilderness School program represents the soul of what we really do –it establishes community. It offers a place where participants feel like they can be themselves, that there are other people like them.
– Mike Milner, Wilderness School Program Facilitator
I feel grateful that [my child] has continued to participate with the Wilderness School because I know she is spending time outside, learning how to navigate social interactions in a supported environment, and getting a break from both technology and her regular stresses.
– Parent of Wilderness School Participant
Witnessing the boost in confidence in kids at the end of a program compared to the beginning is incredible. It’s experiences like this that keep reminding me of the profound impact that these programs actually have
– Em McFarland Oliemans, Salal Program Facilitator
“Power To Be has played a major role in my life for many years, and will for the rest of my life.”
Landscaping & Restoration Employment Program
What began as a pilot project to empower eight young adults facing diverse barriers has grown into a vibrant community of learners, nurtured by the guiding principles of nature itself At its core, our Landscaping and Restoration Employment Program is more than an employment training initiative: it’s a holistic approach to empowerment.
One of the program’s cornerstones is its alignment with the 12 Permaculture Principles, which provide a framework for understanding the interconnectedness of ecological systems Thanks to the generous support of the CIBC Foundation and the partnership of the University of Victoria’s CanAssist Program, we’ve been able to bring this vision to life, fostering a learning environment where participants thrive both personally and professionally
Partners
CIBC Foundation
University of Victoria CanAssist Program
Hatchet & Seed
The Compost Education Centre
Satinflower Nurseries
Butchart Gardens
Horticulture College of the Pacific PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW
Goals of the Program
Technical Landscaping and Restoration Skills
Interpersonal Skills and Social Development
As of the time of this writing, 83% of cohort alumni have secured employment.
Employment
Readiness
Self-Advocacy and Confidence
Guided by two Power To Be professionals - Kallie, a compassionate leader in pursuit of a Masters in Counselling with a passion for nature-based healing, and Erin, a Certified Red Seal Horticulturist with a knack for nurturing botanical wonders - the program has flourished Together, they’ve cultivated a space where participants can root themselves in knowledge, grow in confidence, and bloom into their fullest potential
Cohort members also learned the importance of the diversity that is present in both nature and themselves, and learned how to respect native plants and Indigenous peoples.
Our cohort has travelled deep into the intricacies of landscaping, honing their skills in planting techniques, tool usage, and plant identification Yet, it’s been the intangible growth - the newfound sense of belonging, the blossoming of confidence, the nurturing of community - that truly defines this program’s success
This is the first place where I have felt that I truly belong and am accepted for who I am.
– Landscaping and Restoration Employment Program Cohort Member
Kallie
Erin
Our Volunteers
Power To Be is honoured to have an immense support system devoted to our mission and programs. In 2023, volunteers helped facilitate our programs and maintain our beautiful 78-acre Prospect Lake Site in valuable and diverse ways: keeping our existing trails in shape, building new trails, renovating the playspace, and building the pavilion all of which are key to our program development and expansion Our board members also volunteered countless hours of their time to leadership and to our mission, vision, and values.
It is this collaboration between staff, volunteers, and community partners that makes what we do possible and aids in our commitment to being responsible stewards to this land We are deeply grateful and appreciative for their commitment and enthusiasm for our shared dedication to inclusion, accessibility, environmental stewardship, and mental health and wellness
102 Volunteers
3,215 Hours
Infinite Appreciation
Our Board Members
2023 VOLUNTEERS
Gary S
Lindsay W
Anna Mae S
Debbie C
Jay S
Owen M
Elyse R
Shylayne D
Moira B
Leonhard B
Anna B
Laura W
Wendy M
Hailey F
Talia S
Nicole G
John Z
Annelise M
Lauren W
Heidi W
Pamela G
Ginny K
Jonathan F
Iris H
Lynn A
Elly C
Justin B
Elan F
Josée M
Heather M
Adam S
Milene B
Erin D
Saurabh R
Gabrielle K
Alexander T
Megan W
Tyler T
D’Arcy M
Danielle G
Lacy B
Erin H
Having the opportunity to be outdoors surrounded by others makes me feel less lonely.
– Volunteer survey, 2023
With your people, at your site, I feel safe.
– Volunteer survey, 2023
Laura O
Alex J
Diane T
Kimberleigh D
Nate D
Jackie G
Ben M
Jenna B
Brandee D
Katy W
Mariana M
Ute K
Sarah H
Stevie F
Janice M
Dee-Ann M
Abigail I
Michelle W
Jonathan W
Monique G
George V
Greg C
Liz B
Tamra F
Allison F
Anya F
Chris F
Italo F
Cindy G
Erin M
Tim C
Tania F
Dan O
Renate C
Naomi F
Savannah M
Don K
Allison G
Neil C
Trent S
Steve A
Nicole B
Luke A
Jasmin B
Hayley C
Yasuko C
Stephan D
Matteo G
Francis K
Michael R
Alex Y
Rahul Ray | Simon Bruce-Lockhart | Navdeep Gill | Lauren McNeil
Adam McLean | Andrea Carey | Alyssa Hindle | James Heth | Paul Corns
Staff Training
As life never stops teaching, our team never stops learning Throughout 2023, our staff immersed themselves in trainings, workshops, and better practices to learn new and refreshed tactics in order to allow us to see beyond our limits and explore what’s possible We honour our responsibility to continually improve on our roles here at Power To Be
Our Goals
Gain perspective and further our understanding
Strengthen our commitment to inclusion
Stay connected and in line with industry best practices
Connect with each other and the world
Never stop learning
At Dare To Lead...I learned to embrace vulnerability, tackle tough conversations, and grow from setbacks to lead bravely and authentically in a culture where people feel safe and respected.
- Jasmine Parr, Community Engagement Specialist
A few of the certifications and programs we engaged in in 2023:
Certified Lumina Spark practitioner
Certified payroll practitioner
Updated swim tests & water sports training
Anti-racism training with Chanelle Tye
Presentations on reconciliation and elder practices with local knowledge keepers and elders
MANDT trainings on reducing workplace violence
Emergency safety training
International Women’s Day workshops on effective communication in leadership
Jumpstart training on inclusion and anti-bullying
Neurodiversity training
Brené Brown’s Dare To Lead book club
Inclusive leadership training
Being surrounded by trees can help energize us, thanks to the aroma compound (terpene) pinene, which is found mainly in pine trees (hellobc.com) Did You Know?
Our 25th Anniversary
In September, Power To Be marked its 25th anniversary with two incredible events filled with laughter, music, and a sense of community spirit
On September 8th, we hosted an outdoor soirée at Prospect Lake Picture twinkling lights, delicious food, and heartwarming conversations under the open sky as we came together to raise funds in
On September 9th, the same spot was filled with activity as we welcomed our community for a day of adaptive sports, music, art, and more We even had a special ceremony of gratitude, where we reflected on the past and shared our hopes for the future One of the highlights of the day was the opportunity to contribute to a time capsule, a symbol of our journey over the past 25 years Items added to the capsule will be preserved and revealed 25 years from now, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit of Power To Be We’ll see you in 25 years when we open it!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated volunteers and community partners who made the day truly successful. Special recognition goes to the Capital Regional District, Swim Drink Fish, JB Williams, Bicycle Pizza, and Sarah Jim for their invaluable support.
Speaking of Sarah Jim, we are overjoyed to welcome her stunning mural to our Prospect Lake home Her beautiful artwork, inspired by the values of connection, respect, inclusivity, and balance, is a testament to the rich tapestry of our community.
We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to celebrate with our community, and look forward to many more years of empowering adventures together
Prospect Lake feels like home.
Participant
Hands of Friendship
When we invited the Capital Regional District, our long-time inclusion partners, to host an activity booth at our 25th anniversary, Leslie McGarry [CRD Regional Parks Cultural Programmer] suggested a powerful idea Anniversary attendees pressed their hands into paint and onto fabric that would be transformed into a button blanket Button blankets have been used in ceremonial practices of coastal First Nations since the early days of the fur trade Over several months, Leslie hand-stitched
and
this blanket as a gift to celebrate our partnership and anniversary Blue, green, & white paint symbolize ocean, lakes, forests, & peace, and Leslie incorporated buttons from her family that have been gathered over the past 25 years The handprints represent gratitude from Power To Be’s community, with two hands at the top representing the territories of the ləkʷəŋən and WSÁNEC Peoples. The blanket will be featured at our Prospect Lake site
Sarah Jim, artist at work See the finished mural on the back cover!
Partnerships & Research
Power To Be employs excellent facilitators that bring knowledge, energy, and a wealth of intangible skills that allow students to push beyond their comfort zones to connect with the outdoors.
- Community Group Champion
The power of community is felt energetically at Power To Be. Alongside our staff, volunteers, and board team, we work with service and referral partners at our Victoria and Vancouver locations, as well as local site partners and community groups to create meaningful and long-lasting connections with those who share our passion about getting everyone into nature. Our team is vast and mighty!
Site Partners Service Partners Community Groups 64
Power To Be is proud to work together with each and every one of our groups and partners, such as:
Canucks Autism Network
Habitat Acquisition Trust
Capital Regional District (CRD)
BC Parks, BC Parks Foundation
BC Children’s Hospital
CanAssist at UVic
Human Nature Counselling
Swim Drink Fish
Rocky Point Bird Observatory
Rocky Point Bird Observatory
Power To Be is proud to partner with RPBO, a registered charitable organization that seeks to influence and inform conservation and ecological management practises of migratory birds in western North America through monitoring, scientific research, and public education.
“We are thrilled to partner with Power To Be...We appreciate having this valuable opportunity to talk to people of all ages about birds and their importance in the ecosystem.”
-
Jannaca Chick, RPBO
Swim Drink Fish
Power To Be is honoured to be partnering with Swim Drink Fish, a Canadian charity organization dedicated to monitoring, restoring, and protecting local waters. Our Prospect Lake site is a new Water Monitoring Hub where Swim Drink Fish can conduct their water quality monitoring program
“Both of our organizations share the mission of belonging...This is the way forward in creating a more inclusive, just, and healthy world, where people and nature thrive together”
- Mark Mattson, Swim Drink Fish President
EPIC LEARNING
EPIC Learning Victoria is a nonprofit organization offering a blended online learning program, operating part-time here at our Prospect Lake site.
I think it’s very, very impactful... They’re learning a lot of resilience, and have the space to be creative and to grow, and develop deeper relationships with the land. It’s so beautiful to see the connection they form with nature.
- Jamie, EPIC Learning Victoria
Did You Know?
Over 100 species feed on wild salmon, including orcas, grizzlies, and eagles The bears bring the fish into the forest before eating to protect their catch from other bears, and the leftover salmon turns into fertilizer for the trees and plants (bcwf bc ca)
Our 2023 Firsts
Of all the Canadian provinces and territories,
has the richest diversity of vascular plants, mosses, mammals, butterflies, and breeding birds. (naturetrust.bc.ca) Did You Know?
First non-profit leader to win the Roy Group’s MacGregor Cup for Excellence in Leadership: Jason Cole
First Capital Region Commercial Building Award, in the category of Green and Sustainability
First time launching canoes at Tsartlip with the WSÁNEĆ Leadership Secondary School First program for female and/or queer youth: Fawn Lilies
Financials Our Financials
Distributio
Thank You
We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation and thanks to our supporters, with a special thank you for the donation made in honour of Ted and Loretta Rogers The impact created in our community would not be possible without your kind and generous contributions
