AVI Health & Community Services Nanaimo

06/04/2026

Curious about our gender-affirming sewing group? Come check it out: drop-in Wednesdays 6-9pm.

06/04/2026

Setting up our info table at today's Nanaimo Youth Pride Walk.

06/04/2026

06/04/2026

Pics from today's work party. Everything is growing like a w**d.

06/03/2026

Every Tuesday is Taco Tuesday at AVI Nanaimo. It's not what you're thinking. Folks are encouraged to nominate the SpecTACOular colleague of the week. The slips are drawn at random from a box at our morning staff meeting and the recipient gets two handmade tacos for the week.

This week, I was the lucky 'winner'. After more than 32 years with AVI (in various roles) I'm winding down to retirement at the end of the summer. I feel fortunate to work with such a great crew.

06/02/2026

My name is Eden (she/her) and I am a 6th year undergraduate at Vancouver Island University. I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology, and a certificate in Addiction Studies. I completed a Psychology practicum placement at AVI where I acted as a Support Worker, Outreach Worker, Community Gardener, and Researcher.

I researched the correlation between overdose effects and respiratory depression/hypoxic brain injuries. I am currently completing a bachelor’s degree in Political Studies and doing a Political Studies practicum placement at AVI in which I will be writing a policy brief about safe supply and witnessing.

In my free time, I like to play piano, sing, read, be outside in the sun by the ocean or river, and be with my friends!


AVI has provided me with the opportunity to socialize with a community I had little experience with, and gain practical knowledge about what I spent years studying in university. AVI has solidified my understanding of the importance of individualized, person-centred care, and its incredible outcomes. I am looking forward to continuing my work at AVI, and hope I can offer a unique perspective to my work.

05/30/2026

Hi, my name is Malakai (they/them or he/him). I'm a practicum student in my second year of the Social Services Diploma, entering the Bachelor of Social Work at VIU.


I've been drawn to social work by my experiences as a nonbinary transperson, as well as supporting loved ones navigating mental health and substance use struggles as marginalized people. This has shaped my values of self-determination, harm reduction, and anti-oppression.


In my own time I love to be in nature, read, cook, collage, and linocut print.


I'm grateful to be doing my practicum in AVI's outreach and education program. I learn so much from those I work alongside and the community members I meet. I hope to bring some creative energy into the projects I take on while here. Thank you for reading!

05/21/2026

Hi, I’m Sean (he/him). I bring lived experience to my work, having struggled with drug use from a young age. After many years in the trades, I’d like to change paths and am currently completing my diploma in Addictions and Community Service Work. I'm doing my practicum with AVI's outreach program.

For the past few years I’ve been working casually in outreach, supporting people in our community. I’m passionate about meeting people where they’re at and helping those who want to make positive changes in their lives. Whether it’s just having a real conversation or connecting someone to the right resources, I believe everyone deserves support without judgment. Looking forward to connecting with more people in Nanaimo!