Who we are

SHIFT is a grassroots community initiative based in Sooke, BC, creating inclusive, low-barrier spaces where people can gather, share food, move their bodies, express themselves, and feel a sense of belonging.

At its heart, SHIFT exists to remind people that connection is essential to individual and collective wellbeing.

SHIFT’s mission is to build togetherness by removing barriers to connection and creating welcoming spaces rooted in dignity, care, and community.

We believe that:

Everyone deserves access to food, movement, creativity, and social connection
Belonging is foundational to mental, emotional, and community health
Strong communities are built when people feel seen, welcomed, and valued
Intergenerational spaces strengthen understanding, resilience, and compassion

SHIFT programs are intentionally designed to be inclusive, accessible, and community-led, meeting people where they are and honouring each person’s humanity.

What we do:

Supporting Humanity In Finding Togetherness (SHIFT) Society exists to support people who are often underserved, disconnected, or quietly struggling.

We specifically support:

Youth

Youth who need safe, inclusive, substance-free spaces to gather
Youth who benefit from mentorship, leadership opportunities, and creative outlets
Youth who may feel socially isolated, anxious, or disconnected from community
Youth interested in learning responsibility, teamwork, and event leadership through real-world experience

How we help:

Free or low-cost community nights with meals and activities
Sponsor sports and extra curricular activities when cost is a barrier
Offer solutions when transportation is a barrier (ex. charter a bus for Mt. Washington trip, drive them to Jiu-jitsu class when no buses go there)
Youth-led dances and events with adult support
Youth leadership and entrepreneur opportunities
Creative programming (art, crafts, drumming, movement, yoga)

Families

Families facing financial strain, food insecurity, and rising living costs
Families who need low-barrier access to meals, groceries, and community support
Parents seeking safe, positive spaces for their children to socialize

How we help:

Community meals and dinners
Low-cost grocery programs focused on dignity and choice
Family-friendly events that reduce isolation and stress
An honor-based, non-judgmental approach to participation

Seniors and People with Disabilities

Seniors who may be socially isolated
People with disabilities who are often excluded from traditional programming
Individuals using mobility aids, including permanent wheelchair users

How we help:

Accessible programming (including seated and adaptive yoga)
Gentle movement, wellness, and connection-focused activities
Inclusive community spaces where all abilities are welcome

BIPOC Community Members

Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour who experience systemic barriers, exclusion, or cultural disconnection
Indigenous community members seeking spaces grounded in respect, humility, and togetherness
Individuals and families who may feel unsafe or unwelcome in traditional community programming

How we help:

Culturally respectful, low-barrier community spaces
Programming informed by reconciliation-focused values, including the Seven Grandfather Teachings
Community meals and gatherings that honour shared humanity rather than hierarchy
Leadership and volunteer opportunities that centre lived experience

SHIFT does not require people to prove identity or background to participate. Our focus is on belonging, dignity, and mutual respect.

LGBTQ2S+ Community Members

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse youth and adults
Individuals who may experience isolation, discrimination, or lack of affirming community spaces
People seeking safe, inclusive, substance-free environments where they can show up authentically

How we help:

Intentionally inclusive, affirming community spaces
Programming that prioritizes safety, consent, and belonging
Community meals, creative activities, and gatherings that reduce isolation
Opportunities for leadership, volunteering, and self-expression

SHIFT does not require people to disclose identity to participate. Our focus is on creating spaces that are safe by design for everyone.

Community Members Experiencing Isolation

People feeling disconnected, lonely, or unseen
Individuals navigating mental health challenges, grief, or life transitions
Community members who want to belong but don’t know where to start

How we help:

Regular, predictable programming that builds trust and routine
Community nights centered on food, conversation, and shared experience
Drumming circles, cultural teachings, and grounding practices
Opportunities to volunteer and contribute meaningfully

The Broader Community

Residents who want to give back, volunteer, or support others
People interested in reconciliation-informed values and teachings
Anyone seeking community rooted in respect, honesty, humility, and togetherness

How we help:

Volunteer opportunities
Donation drives and mutual aid initiatives
Community education rooted in the Seven Grandfather Teachings
Events that bring people together across age, background, and circumstance
Our Offerings:

A weekly shared meal where people can gather, eat together, and connect in a welcoming, no-pressure environment. Currently every Thursday from 5pm to 6:30. No registration required. Just show up!
Dignity based grocery share program that supports financial literacy, cooperative living, and the overall mental and physical health of every person who is a part of it. We bulk buy and fundraise to offset the cost of groceries for participating families, which translates into nutritious, predictable, and sustainable food security for families. Email sookeshift@gmail.com to sign up for our grocery program.
Donation-based yoga focused on accessibility, nervous-system regulation, and movement for all bodies and experience levels. This class is intentionally designed to serve beginners and people with disabilities including those permanently in wheel chairs, as well as experienced yogis. Currently running every Thursday, 6:30pm to 7:30pm.
An open, beginner-friendly drumming circle that invites people to explore rhythm, expression, and collective energy — no experience or equipment required.
Opportunities for youth to build confidence, skills, and leadership through creative projects, community involvement, and shared responsibility.
Together, these programs create consistent points of connection and belonging within the community.
Supports children and youth from low-income families by covering the cost of extra curricular activities such as sports, arts, and creative programs. Access is provided through trusted community referrals, ensuring dignity, privacy, and equitable opportunity.
SHIFT brings families and community together through inclusive events, trips and celebrations. From adventures at Mt. Washington and free thrift pop-ups to dances and talent shows, these experiences are designed to be welcoming, accessible, and rooted in joy, connection, and belonging.