Words & Photos Beacon Community Services
For over 50 years, Beacon Community Services has been a vital thread in the fabric of Southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands – providing care, connection and critical support to people of all ages. From young people experiencing homelessness to isolated seniors and families in crisis, Beacon has always stood as a beacon of hope.
Now, as Beacon celebrates its 50th anniversary, the organization is looking ahead with a renewed call to action: the Be a Beacon of Hope campaign. At its heart is a powerful new video series that brings the community face-to-face with the realities – and the resilience – of those served by Beacon every day.
The three-part video series features inspiring and moving stories that span the human experience. We see youth finding safety and direction after homelessness, families receiving much-needed support during the challenging early years, and seniors rediscovering connection, mobility and purpose.
“The demand for our services continues to grow,” says Tricia Gueulette, CEO of Beacon Community Services. “This campaign is not only a celebration of our history – it’s an investment in our future. With strong community support, we can help even more people in need.”
This year’s campaign has also inspired remarkable generosity within the business community. Tecnet Canada Inc., a local company, has committed to matching the first $10,000 in donations. An anonymous donor has stepped forward with an additional $5,000 match, further amplifying the campaign’s momentum.
This kind of partnership reflects a deep-rooted spirit of care and collaboration across the region. “Over the decades, we’ve witnessed firsthand how Beacon lives up to its name,” shares Matthew Van Heyst, CEO of Tecnet Canada Inc. “Their tireless work creates real, lasting change, and we’re proud to help amplify their mission.”
Beacon Community Services began in 1974 with a small group of dedicated volunteers. Today, it operates with 300 staff and 600 volunteers, offering services from youth housing to family support, senior transportation, meals, counselling and more.
As the organization marks this milestone moment, the Be a Beacon of Hope campaign reminds us that collective action and shared compassion can build a brighter future for all.
www.beaconcs.ca/light-the-way
