About us
We are wellness advocacy group
Wellness and Advocacy Services: Promoting Social Justice, Cultural Competency, and Trauma-Informed Care Through Community-Focused Support and System Navigation
Our approach
We use a multi-disciplinary & Direction-setting approach to support inidvduals in wellness, and advocate for their social and health needs to be met appropriately.
Direction-setting vs goal setting: Direction-setting care has more space for flexibility and adjustments. It accounts for the twists and turns life offers, and allows our journey in wellness to unfold naturally. Direction-setting practices all for more ways to achieve success, and often surpass original goals.
Our Story
The Okanagan Wellness Advocacy Group was founded on the belief that true wellness extends beyond individual needs, and encompasses the collective well-being of our families, communities, and environment. Inspired by the Okanagan Valley’s stunning landscapes and diverse cultures, we are dedicated to fostering health, balance, and connection for all who call this region home.
Compassion is at the heart of everything we do. We recognize that each person’s wellness journey is unique and often shaped by challenging experiences. Our programs are designed to provide understanding, encouragement, and resources that help individuals and communities thrive together.
We believe wellness is not just an individual pursuit but a shared responsibility. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting inclusivity, we aim to create a culture where everyone can access the tools and support they need to flourish.
Compassion is at the heart of everything we do. We recognize that each person’s wellness journey is unique and often shaped by challenging experiences. Our programs are designed to provide understanding, encouragement, and resources that help individuals and communities thrive together.
We believe wellness is not just an individual pursuit but a shared responsibility. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting inclusivity, we aim to create a culture where everyone can access the tools and support they need to flourish.
Keisha McLean
Wellness Advocate & Case Worker
Meet Keisha
You cannot stand high atop a mountain of suffering souls and proclaim yourself free. Freedom is not an indivdual condition. It is collective caring. A sustained devotion. A subtle symphony of interwoven soulfulness. Freedom weeps. - Jalya John
Keisha McLean is a dedicated professional advocate and case worker with a focus on mental health, substance use, and disabilities within the vulnerable adult sector. With 8 years in the industry, and a strong commitment to trauma-informed practices and cultural competency, she empowers individuals and communities to navigate complex systems and access essential resources. Keisha’s direction-setting strategies help foster resilience and promote holistic well-being, making her a vital ally in the pursuit of equitable support and advocacy.
Aerin
Advocate & Borderline Support Worker
Meet Aerin
Shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces – Anne Voskamp
With over 20 years of experience as a Registered Nurse specializing in ICU, community nursing, and care management, Aerin brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as an Advocate and Support Worker. Passionate about empowering others, Aerin combines her lived experience with her journey of Borderline Personality Disorder and CPTSD with a compassionate, trauma-informed, and culturally competent approach to care. She is dedicated to providing holistic support and helping individuals navigate complex healthcare systems with confidence and clarity.
Victoria
Substance Use & Mental Wellness Peer Support Worker
Meet Victoria
"We can beging anew at the last moment of the day and even the last moment of our life. In one day, in twenty four hours, you have hundres of chances to begin anew."
-Thich Nhat Han
Victoria is a Substance Use and Mental Wellness Peer Support Worker with the Okanagan Wellness Advocacy Group. Guided by her own lived experience, she brings empathy, authenticity, and compassion to her work, fostering safe, nonjudgmental spaces for those navigating recovery. Passionate about giving back to her community, Victoria empowers others to recognize their inner strength, advocates for accessible resources, and works to reduce stigma around mental health and substance use.
Why a Dandelion
I have lost my smile,but don’t worry.The dandelion has it.
If you have lost your smile and yet are still capable of seeing that a dandelion is keeping it for you, the situation is not too bad. You still have enough mindfulness to see that the smile is there.
You only need to breathe consciously one or two times and you will recover your smile. The dandelion is one member of your community of friends. It is there, quite faithful, keeping your smile for you.”
~ Thich Nhat Hanh
If you have lost your smile and yet are still capable of seeing that a dandelion is keeping it for you, the situation is not too bad. You still have enough mindfulness to see that the smile is there.
You only need to breathe consciously one or two times and you will recover your smile. The dandelion is one member of your community of friends. It is there, quite faithful, keeping your smile for you.”
~ Thich Nhat Hanh