When Larissa first heard about ICCS, she knew little beyond its reputation as a Christian organization supporting those experiencing homelessness and recovery. But after a significant move and a season of reflection, she felt called to invest in her new community—just as her church announced a need for new board members. Knowing her skills could be of value, Larissa stepped into a governance role and never looked back.
Though she doesn’t serve directly in frontline programs, Larissa’s impact is deeply felt at the board level. She has been continually inspired by the compassion and wisdom of her fellow board members and the openness to new perspectives. Volunteering with ICCS has not only deepened her connection to the community—it’s also profoundly shaped her children, who now advocate and raise funds for those in need after walking with her in a Coldest Night of the Year event.
For Larissa, the most rewarding part of her role is seeing her time multiplied through the work of ICCS’s dedicated staff and programs. “It’s humbling to be part of something that makes such a tangible difference in people’s lives,” she shares. Her experience has also opened her eyes to the complexities of supportive recovery—recognizing that true healing requires not just shelter, but care, skills training, and hope.
She encourages anyone considering volunteering with ICCS to dive in: “The people are lovely, the cause is important, and the mission is clear. Every person matters—and ICCS is one way we live that out.”
With over 14 programs operating with the support of volunteers, we provide a variety of different volunteer opportunities in both Nanaimo and Parksville, including positions supporting clients directly, supporting staff and other volunteers, but also providing support within our programs. If you are interested in joining us as a volunteer, please go to our website, www.islandcrisiscaresociety.ca/join-us/volunteer-with-us, or contact our volunteer coordinator Sara at volunteercoordinator@iccare.ca