SOS Annual Report - 2026

SOS Annual Report

Helping Our Con1rnunity Thrive 2025-2026

Who We Are District 69 Society of Organized Services (SOS) is a volunteer-based, non-profit charity meeting the needs and enriching the lives of District 69 residents since 1968.

OUR MISSION:

To improve community through programming and provide a safety net for School District 69 residents.

OUR VISION:

A supported and inclusive community.

Table of Contents

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Messages from the Board Chair and 4 the Executive Director 5 Board of Directors 6 SOS Thrift Shop 7 Fundraising 8 Program Information and Statistics 14 SOS Podcast and Community Collaborations 15 Volunteering - Giving and receiving with SOS 16 Financial Information Condensed Financial Statements 17 Two Ways to Care. One Mission to Share

" Society of Organi�ed .

Services

18 SOS Staff Teams 19 Current Highlight- Driving a Stronger Community 20 2

SOS Biz for Good Partners

Message froill the Board Chair

It has been another exciting and eventful year at SOS and we have been working diligently on a plan to continue meeting the needs of our com­ munity. The Society's Strategic Plan identifies three essential pillars necessary to fulfill our constitutional mission and continue serving residents in need. Developed collaboratively by the Board of Directors, this plan reflects the di­ verse skills, experience, and perspectives of our Board Members working together to help guide SOS into the future over the next five years.

First, maintaining a strong financial foun­ dation remains critical to sustaining our programs and meeting increasing service demands. Through prudent stewardship, community partnerships, fundraising efforts, and donor support, SOS continues to work toward long-term financial stability while re­ sponding to evolving community needs.

Second, our dedicated em­ ployees and volunteers are the heart of our organiza­ tion. Their compassion, professionalism, and com­ mitment enable us to pro­ vide quality services with dignity and respect. Recruiting, supporting, and retaining a strong workforce remains a priority.

Finally, we recognize that while we cannot eliminate poverty or vulnerability entirely, we can provide programs and services that make a meaningful and measurable difference in peo­ ple's lives. By focusing our resources on initia­ tives that create the greatest impact, SOS strives to support individuals and families in building stabllity, resilience, and hope for the future. If you are not already connected to SOS, consider joining our caring community. ~ Andrea Manson

Message from the Executive Director

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At SOS, we continually strive to maximize our impact with the resources available to us, guided by the needs of our residents. In March 2025, we made the difficul decision to move programming out of Qualicum Commons and centralize services back at the Parksville Com­ munity Services Centre, strengthening our abil­ ity to deliver sustainable, high-quality programs.

Our commitment to Qualicum families re­ mains strong. Through our partnership with St. Stephen's United Church and the Qua­ licum Bay Lions Club, we continue to provide programming in Qualicurn and Qualicwn Bay, while also transporting students from Qua­ licum schools to Parksville to ensure access.

We are also evolving to meet changing com­ munity needs, including introducing a social pre­ scribing program for se­ niors this year to support health and connection.

Thanks to the success of our Connecting Com­ munity campaign, our Biz for Good partners, and a BC Gaming Grant, we also purchased a new bus in March 2026, ensuring access to our services.

As always, we couldn't do this important work without our volunteers, donors, and supporters.

Thank you for helping us build a health½ sustain­ able community for everyone. ~Susanna Newton

Board of Directors Andrea Manson Chair

Andrew lane Vice Chair

Andy operated a private nursing business for 30 years.

She believes in the importance of volunteerism.

Andrew worked as a manager in Human Resources and Skills Development Canada for the federal government

Bruce Anderson Secretary-Treasurer

Yvette Battistolo Director

Bruce spent 40 years worki.ng as a Chartered Accountant He believes that community involvement is essential.

Yvette enjoyed a 30+ year career ln the professional and financial services sectors.

Brenda Charles Director

Lorne Clarkson Director

Brenda worked in the health care field for the Yukon government and home care programs for 27 years.

Lorne worked in the Fire Service, and later owned/ operated a trailer sales and rental company.

Mike Cochrane Director

Paul Singh Director

Mike works in home renovation and maintenance. His aunt, Edith Chamberlayne, was a fom1ding member of SOS.

Paul is a psychotherapist with 30 years' experience in counselling, leadership, and local community service.

Bonnie Wallis Director

David Wende Director

Bonnie has an accounting office in Parksville. She has enjoyed volunt ering with several local organizations.

David worked as a lawyer focused on professional conduct and liability issues for CPAs and Engineers.

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SOS Thrift Shop

Great finds. Better planet. Stronger community SOS THRIFT SHOP SNAPSHOT • 63% of SOS programs are funded by SOS Thrift Shop • 82 active volunteers • 40 staff members • 515 household donation pickups completed

HIGHLIGHTS Displaying Clothing by size rather than colour was a big accomplishment this year.

Sizing every item requires a tremendous team effort and has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers, making shopping easier and more enjoyable.

The Thrift Shop hosted a number of fun Community Events, including two #SOST op events, that each welcomed more than 100 youth. We also celebrated 22 years at our current location with a Customer Appreciation Sale, and held another successful Thriftmas Sale in December.

OUR COMMITMENT Supporting Community: Every purchase, donation and volunteer hour helps support SOS programs and services across Oceanside.

Supporting Sustainability: With thrifting on the rise, shoppers are embracing second­ hand goods to save money, reduce waste and support a more sustainable future.

COMING UP: Extended Summer �hopping Hours SOS Thrift Shop open until 5:30 p.m. every Tuesday!

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SOS Fundraising

SOS Community Connector ready to hit the road!

The SOS Connecting Community Campaign, raising funds for our new SOS bus, brought in nearly $150,000, complementing BC Gamings $117,292 Capital Grant and surpassing expectations!

A heartfelt thank you to the individuals, businesses, and community groups whose generosity and spirit turned this vision into a vibrant reality.

The new bus arrived on March 24 and was beautifully transformed into the "Community Connector," complete with striking signage and graphics.

A festive Community Connector Bus Launch took place in June 2026, celebrating this exciting milestone with bus sponsors.

FOR�UR F

AMILl[S (�31!15k1t•liiMH®iWd-W We believe that children grow best when they feel safe, youth thrive when they feel connected, and families move forward when they know they have support. In 2026, our major campaign, For Our amilies, is raising funds to ensure that our Child, Youth and Family Programs remain open, accessible and vibrant.

The inaugural SOS Fore Our Community Golf Tournament took place on June 6, see page 19 for details. To­ gether, we are helping families thrive.

SOS Caring for Community at Christmas November 2025 Earty January 2026 Total funds raised: $295,392 Enabled local children and youth to find something special under the Christmas tree .. Families �'- and individuals received grocery store gift cards at Christmas and beyond.

SOS Program Donations ApriJ 2025-March 2026 Total funds raised: $621,822 General donations for all SOS Programs.

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Program Information Children, Youth & Families April 2025 - March 2026

Time in Comfort for Tots & Caregivers (TICTAC) A welcoming and supportive environment for early learners to play and grow emotionally and socially, while parents and caregivers take a much-needed break. Adults also access community resources.

"TICTAC single-handedly saved me. I was postpartum, hadjust moved to the island with almost no support. My mental health has improved, I am a better parent and my son and I now have lifelong friends."

Total participants: 543

Kids Movement:: Play, Express & Grow

Engaging activities promote confidence, growth and learning while staff and volunteers provide mentorship in a supportive environment.

Transportation is provided from District 69 elementary schools.

"When friends ask me to join in activities, it helps me understand that someone wants to hang out with me and my weird self" Total participants: 84

Family Night

This program strengthens family bonds and community connections by providing dinner, organizing activities, and taking care of the cleanup.

It allows families to connect with each other and build a more resilient community. "Family Night activities are very well thought out and planned, and the outings are always so muchftmfor the kids.''

Total participants: 237 8

Program Information Children, Youth & Families April 2025 - March 2026

School Night Out

A safe space for youth in grades 7-8 to express themselves, go on outings, and connect with peers through games, music, and creative arts. Staff and volunteers provide mentorship, fostering a fun and supportive environment "I love coming to the SOS because I get to hang out with my friends and the food is awesome."

Total participants: 80

Youth Open Space

A fun and welcoming space where teens in grades 9-12 can connect with friends, enjoy delicious food, play music, and get creative with art and crafts.

Supportive staff provide guidance and make sure everyone has a great time.

"What I love most about this program is getting to try activities I would not get to normally. Plus, the food is great, and I get to meet newfriends my age."

Total participants: 119

GradWear

Supporting local graduates to look and feel their best for graduation ceremonies without the high costs. The program provides new and gently used outfits, shoes, and accessories for $10.

"This is an amazing program; the volunteers are extremely helpful and made me feel so comfortable. The cost is amazing as well. It will make my prom perfect because of this program."

Total participants: 40 9

Program Information Children, Youth & Families April 2025 - March 2026

Tutoring Program

April 2025 - March 2026

Counselling Referral

This program offers professional, one-on-one assistance in Math and English for students in grades 6-12, for $5 per session. Students improve their skills in a supportive environment while enjoying light snacks. � afamily we are thrilled to see the confidence built in three ofour kids with SOS Tutoring, helping them feel more prepared and ready for their classes at school."

Total participants: 66

Provides referrals for short-term counselling for low-income individuals, and couples. Professional counsellors help residents work through challenges and develop strategies to cope, improving their quality of life.

"This program is one of the reasons I was able to remain grounded and calm.

I would not have been able to survive if it were not for counselling support."

Clients Served: 92 I Client referrals: 416

Caring for Community at Christmas

Emergency Assistance & Advocacy

Partially funded by the Government of BC.

Provides special gifts to local children and youth in low-income families.

Adults receive grocery store gift cards. Christmas stockings are assembled by local Newcomers' Clubs and delivered by SOS volunteers to isolated seniors.

"Without the program my kids wouldn'tget much during Christmas. It helps ease the financial burden ofthe holidays and ensures we have a magical Christmas."

Adults assisted: 1,1561 Children and youth who received gifts: 928 Stockings delivered to seniors: 59

Provides help in cases of hardship with essentials like food, medicine, clothing and household items. Advocacy assistance helps residents overcome financial obstacles, and promotes self-sufficiency.

"Thank you so much foryour help. I don't know how I would live without SOS. It should be modeled all over the world."

Clients served: 471 I Services provided: 1,676 I Showers provided: 434 Rent subsidies for tourism sector employees: 56

Recreation Assistance for Children & Youth

Assists with housing and supports for a targeted group of residents who are homeless or at immediate risk of homelessness.

Eligible residents receive rental subsidies.

"I would be sleeping in my van with my daughter without the assistance and support of the SOS and the rent help. I would have lost my daughter to the Ministry without the help provided to me."

Clients supported: 187 Services provided: 1,525

Low income families receive funds to help register children and youth in recreational activities and summer camps that they would otherwise be unable to afford. The program also assists with applying for provincial sports grants.

"This is sooo helpful!!! I never would have applied because I didn't think I qualified. Wow! Feeling so grateful for this help."

Children & youth assisted: 79 I Activities funded: 166 10

Program Information Adults & Seniors

Homeless Prevention Program

Funded by the Government of BC.

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Program Information Adults & Seniors April 2025 - March 2026

Income Tax

Provides assistance for low-income residents to file their taxes at no cost. SOS volunteers receive CRA training and file tax returns electronically at SOS tax clinics or over the phone.

"This program has really helped because I can't afford to pay to get my taxes done."

Clients served: 1,268 I Taxes filed: 2,091 Partially funded by the Canada Revenue Agency.

Program Information Adults & Seniors April 2025 - March 2026

Oceanside Better at Home

Supports seniors aged 65+ with a range of non-medical support services to help maintain their health and independence. Services include friendly visiting, grocery bus service, transportation to appointments, and light housekeeping, '1 am so grateful that this program was available tv me at a time when I real{y needed it {2013-2026], otherwise I would not have been able to stay in my home as long as I did."

Clients served: 2661 Services Provided: 2,748 Administered by SOS in partnership with United Way British C,olumbia and funded by the Government of BC.

Medical Appointment Transportation Service Safe and friendly transportation to and from medical appointments by SOS Volunteers.

"You guys have really gone the distance with me this year. It has been a year of tragedy, sickness and confusion. Despite the challenges, I have much to be thankful for. SOS is a big one of those somethings.''

Number of drives: 5151 Clients served: 102

Seniors' Advocacy Services

Assists seniors in finding supports and solutions through SOS programs and other resources. The program provides advocacy; helps with government forms and provides emergency financial aid for things like food and medicine. "I cried, I can't even say how relieved I am and how grateful."

Clients served: 332 I Services Provided: 982 Partially funded by United Way British Columbia and the GovemmentofBC.

Meals On Wheels

Helps residents maintain health and independence by delivering hot, nutritious meals, three times a week. The food is prepared at Arrowsmith Lodge and delivered by SOS volunteers.

"The service and all the volunteers were amazing. My parents always enjoyed the food and the people who delivered them."

Meals provided: 9,172 I Clients served: 157 12

Legal Services Support

Residents receive free assistance with Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Representation Agreements with an experienced lawyer.

"The pro-bono Will and POA service provided and the help from SOS staff was wonderful. Thank you."

Clients Served: 50 I Services Provided: 60 13

We Are Community Podcast

Giving and Receiving with SOS

Tune into a podcast all about SOS!

Take a closer look at the people, programs and stories behind SOS through he SOS - We Are Community Podcast. Join the Communications Team as they visit programs such as School Night Out, GradWear and the Income ax Program. Meet volunteers, staff and community members, and discover how SOS is making a difference for residents across Oceanside.

Scan the QR code to watch now! l!I. I.

School Night Out

SOS volunteers come from all walks of life.

While their reasons for volunteering vary, they share a common experience: The more they give to their community. the more they receive in return.

II. fI •••••••••••••••••••••••

Supporting Corn.m.unity Together Oceanside Non-Market Housing Task Force

SOS collaborates with a number of organizations for the betterment of our local residents

Youth Health Clinic

SOURCES: Community Resource Centre

Qualicum LionsQub

Parksville LlonsQub Parksville Qualicum HavenHouse St Stephen's United Church

Oceanside Colla.borative Response Committee

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Island Crisis Care Society

Forward House Community Society I

Oceanside Building Learning Together

Regional District of Nanaimo Oceanside Community Action Team

Child & Youth Wellness Action Group

Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction

Naut'samawt Oceanside Wellness (NOW) Network

United Way British Columbia

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Oceanside Homeless Task Force Island Health

Homelessness Outreach Support Team

Active Members: 1,162

Active Volunteers; 269

Vancouver Island Regional Library /

KATHIE BOCK "Never stop learn­ ing!" said Kathie Bock Although she had no background in business or ac­ Kathie counting, decided to take a chance helping oth­ ers with their in­ come taxes. More than 12 years later, she continues to volunteer every tax season.

"The benefits? I learn something new ev­ ery tax season; I assist others in completing their tax returns; I stay connected with and contribute to my community;' said Kathie.

"Plus, who can resist the challenge of a per­ plexing puzzle. And what nobler puzzle is there than a federal income tax fonn!"

AYASE LEVIRS At 17 years old, Ayase spends time on his weekends volunteer­ ing at SOS Thrift Shop.

"Volunteering has be­ come an important part of my routine," said Ayase. "It's not

just about helping oth ers, but also about personal growth, building connections, and finding satisfaction in doing something • gful" meanm Working at the Thrift Shop has helpe d him build confidence, customer service skills and workplace experience.

CELIA WESSELMAN Celia's love of sewing began in childhood.

Growing up in England during wartime, she watched her mother and grandmother carefully repair and re­ purpose clothing.

"I started sewing when I was seven," said Celia. "I remember seeing my grandma and my mom, during the war, making all my clothes. It's always interested me."

Today; she uses those lifelong skills to support youth through SOS's GradWear program doing alterations. For Celi a, the greatest reward isn't the garment itself, but the confidence it brings. "If it means the difference between being able to go to the prom with the dresses they love or not, that's what makes it worthwhile."

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Financial Information Revenue Sources Thrift Shop

Government Funds

17%

63%

Donations

Children, Youth & Families ■ Community Collaborations

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Liabilities & Net Assets: Curr ent liabilities Deferred revenue Deferred capital asset contribution Net assets

2026

2025

$621,124 978,940 261,706 480,000 2,740,748

$667,478 1,240,319 151,834 480,000 2,496,864

$5 082,518

$5,036,495

$285,194 128,291 327,173 4,341,860 $5,082,518

$322,021 79,449 148,465 4,486,560

$5,036.495

$4,708,596

$4,972,950

463,300 4,302,364 87,632

377,618 4,877,833 77.883

$(144,Z!lQ)

$(3fiQ,36�)

Initiative boosts monthly support amid growing need Two ways to care. One mission to share.

Program Exp,enses

Personal & Family Support

Statement of Financial Position Assets: Current assets Cash & short term investments - internally restricted Long term investments Long term investments - internally restricted Capital assets

Statement of Operations Revenue: Expenses: Management & administration Programming & operations Amortization & asset losses (gains) Excess of revenue over expenses

Program & Other Income

Seniors

Condensed Financial Statements

SOS kicked off2026 with an important initiative, who joined our monthly giving program or our volunteer team this yeai-;'' sai.d SOS Exe utive Volunteer. Donate Monthly, offertngresidents . two ways to care, one mission to share Director Susanna Newton.

A 2025 study in Social Science & The goal was to encourage more residents to supportSOS by becoming � Medicine found regular volunteering G rat efu I. or helping others can reduce the rate monthly donors or volunteers. By H ea rt s C ire 1 e .. . o. . bY 15 - 20'¾ April 2026, monthly giving had O f COgnttiVe agmg SOSMonthlyCivingl"rog,;lm Brenda Charles, an SOS Board member increased 6% over last fiscal year's h average. Volunteer numbers also and monthly donor, said mont ly giving increased during the 3-month campaign is a convenient way residents can provide by 24. This comes at a time when the region steady; reliable support and "it feels good." continues to grow, and so does the need for Join the SOS Grateful Hearts Circle monthly SOS programs. giving program, or fill out a volunteer inquiry "We are so grateful for the support this form on the SOS website, sosd69.com. initiative received. A big thank you to everyone

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27%

30%

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SOS Staff Teams 5 years Amanda Marrs

Thrift Shop Merchandiser Letysha Watts

Financial Controller Taylor Oriecuia Child & Family

Programs Coordinator

15 years Lianna O'Brien

Thrift Shop Merchandiser

20 years Tim McArdon

Thrift Shop Supervisor

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Nonn's Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning was a hole sponsor at the tournament. From left, Erin Wilson, Carson Rush and Malcolm Rush from Norm's Plumbing, and Riley McEachem from Ferguson Exteriors.

Driving a Stronger Cornrnunity

Inaugural SOS Golf Tournament raises money for local families SOS was thrilled to host the first Fore Our Community Golf Tournament on June 6, 2026, bringing community together for a day filled with fun and generosity.

The event showcased an incredible spirit of community, with sponsors cheering partici­ pants on at their holes and supporters enjoy­ ing dinner and music while enthusiastically taking part in the silent and live auctions.

Every contribution helped make the tourna­ ment a resounding success.

A COMMUNITY EFFORT SOS extends heartfelt thanks to the many local businesses, sponsors, and volunteers who made the day possible, as well as to Morningstar Golf Club for hosting. The level of generosity on display was truly inspir­ ing. The success of this tournament directly supports SOS's For Our Families campaign, dedicated to keeping essential child, youth, and family programs open, accessible, and

Top photo, SOS Resource Development Manager Sharon Welch MCs the dinner banquet. Bottom photos, hole sponsors Rusted Rake Brewing and Parksville Pharmasave.

vibrant in District 69.

Through these programs, SOS creates safe, welcoming spaces where young people build confidence, while parents and caregivers find community.

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Thank you to our SOS Biz for Good Partners!

What's good for the community is good for business

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For more information on the SOS Biz for Good program, call 250.248.2093 ext. 251 or visit www.sosd69.com/biz-for-good ,�,.Society of Organized Services

District 69 Society of Organized Services 245 Hirst Avenue West I PO Box 898 Parksville BC V9P 2G9 I 250.248.2093 sos@sosd69.com I www.sosd69.com I O @) Charitable Number: 107021537RR0001

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