In a world where young hearts bear the weight of trauma, Raven’s Nest is a beacon of compassion, care, and justice. With a deep-rooted commitment to youths’ physical, emotional and mental well-being, Raven’s Nest has become a powerful force in the realm of youth advocacy and trauma support for youth who have disclosed incidents of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and are entering into the criminal justice process. Through their unwavering dedication and nurturing approach, they have brought light and healing to countless young lives, guiding them on a path towards recovery, empowerment, and justice.

Holistic Youth Advocacy:

Raven’s Nest embraces a holistic approach to youth advocacy, recognizing that healing is a multifaceted journey. Their team of professionals, including caring advocates, compassionate law enforcement officers, nurturing medical staff, and empathetic mental health experts, join forces to prioritize the unique needs of each individual. By fostering collaboration among these diverse expertise, Raven’s Nest creates a unified and integrated response that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of every youth they serve.

https://youtu.be/DEqwkE6S-Xw

Creating a Safe Haven:

Within the physical center of Raven’s Nest lies a sanctuary—a haven of safety and warmth. Every detail is thoughtfully designed with the comfort of young hearts in mind. From the inviting waiting room to the interview rooms adorned with child-friendly touches, Raven’s Nest ensures that youth feel secure and at ease. The presence of plain-clothed RCMP officers during forensic interviews provides an added layer of reassurance, safeguarding the well-being and trust of these vulnerable youths. Raven’s Nest tends to emotional wounds, nurturing the spirit and fostering healing. The journey toward justice can be a long and challenging road, and Raven’s Nest works to shield young survivors from the most difficult and traumatizing aspects of that journey.

Advocates Who Go Above and Beyond:

Raven’s Nest's team of advocates is the heart and soul of the organization. These compassionate professionals are dedicated to helping youth through every step of their criminal justice journey. Whether it's providing essential information, connecting them with vital resources, or offering a listening ear, Raven’s Nest advocates offer unwavering support. They understand the importance of empathy, actively working to create a safe space where youth can share their experiences without fear of judgment or blame.

Healing Pain – Not Reliving it:

One of the key strengths of Raven’s Nest lies in its commitment to minimizing re-traumatization. The program recognizes the impact of repeated storytelling on youth who have experienced trauma. By centralizing services and bringing all resources under one roof, Raven’s Nest significantly reduces the number of times youth have to recount their stories of abuse. This approach not only helps alleviate their emotional burden but also empowers them to regain a sense of control over their lives.

Community Collaboration:

Raven’s Nest understands that addressing youth trauma requires a community-wide effort. They actively collaborate with law enforcement agencies, child protection workers, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations. By working together, they ensure a comprehensive response to child maltreatment, promote education and awareness, and enhance prevention strategies. Through public talks and educational programs, Raven’s Nest actively engages with the community to promote understanding and empower individuals to act against and work for justice against child abuse. This involves helping parents, caregivers, educators, and other youth serving adults understand the very real and present dangers of child maltreatment, including abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, online exploitation and extortion, and child-trafficking. Raven’s Nest provides guidance and support on how to discuss these topics with youth by removing shame and approaching with compassion and care.

Empowering Youth:

Above all, Raven’s Nest is driven by a vision of healing, empowerment, and justice. By providing centralized services, they offer youth the opportunity to access the support they need conveniently. The program recognizes that each young person's journey is unique, and their individual voices are valued and respected. Through unconditional support and personalized care, Raven’s Nest helps youth rebuild their lives, equipping them with the necessary tools to overcome their trauma and thrive.

Raven’s Nest is a shining example of youth advocacy making a difference on Vancouver Island. With their compassionate and caring approach, they create a safe space for young individuals to heal and find their voice. By embracing a holistic model of support, minimizing re-traumatization, educating about the modern dangers of the many forms of child maltreatment, and seeking justice through fostering community collaboration, Ravens Nest is transforming the lives of youth affected by trauma. Together, we can stand alongside Ravens Nest, empowering young survivors and ensuring a brighter future for all.

Ravens Nest is a program of Cowichan Women Against Violence Society.

For more information visit ravensNestCYAC.ca
Call: 250-606-1712
Email: intakeRavensNestCYAC@cwav.org

 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/RavensNestCYAC/

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The Cowichan Valley can now get a taste of tender, juicy and packed with flavour barbeque from The Brazen Fork. They're the Cowichan Valleys newest food truck and catering company specializing in mouth watering Texas barbeque.

Where it Started

In 2021 Kristie and Peter had a dream and the determination to make it real. Their dream was simple enough, open their own restaurant. They wouldn’t be satisfied with any old place to eat, they wanted to bring something new to the Cowichan Valley. That’s why they designed every aspect of their restaurant to create the BEST Texas barbecue north of the 49th parallel. That dream included one of the largest smokers on Vancouver Island straight from Tennessee.

You can also have them bring the magic to you with their catering services. If you want to add a little smoky flavour to a wedding or serve something different at your next company dinner, The Brazen Fork is your best source for authentic Texas style barbecue.

So Many Ways to Make Your Mouth Water

The Brazen Fork starts each day at 8 AM serving up delicious breakfast. Their $10 breakfast sandwiches are the best way to get your day started on the right foot and their full espresso bar will keep you energized.

They keep serving up their signature dishes, like beef brisket, pulled pork, and homemade mac and cheese until 7 PM (8 PM in the summer months). So there is never a bad time to visit The Brazen Fork. If you want a breakfast sandwich on sourdough piled high with pulled pork, bacon, egg, lettuce, cheese and so much more they have you covered. Or try a smoky BBQ treat like smoked chicken, pulled pork or beef brisket. With a few twists on loved classics thrown in with some vegetarian fare too.

Stay Brazen!

Kristie & Peter
Website: TheBrazenFork.com
Email: Info@TheBrazenFork.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thebrazenfork

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Kona Specialty Camp’s Unique Approach to Mental Health for All Ages

The world is more complicated and harder to navigate without knowing how to deal with the emotional and mental strain. Kona Specialty Camps takes great pride in their workshops, groups, counselling, and day camps designed to help growing minds cope and deal with their own, and others, emotions and mental stress in a healthy way.

Kona’s mission starts with, and is led by, Andee Dale! As a Registered Clinical Counsellor Andee is dedicated to not just providing a place for kids, teens, and their families to spend time, but a place and programs to help them communicate and overcome issues. And thanks to Andee’s team of incredible camp leaders, everyone who visit Kona Specialty Camp, be it for a day camp, or counselling session, feels welcomed and safe to be vulnerable and grow.

Kona’s Programs are purposeful, and jam packed with fun and opportunity! From helping young kids discover and decipher their emotions, to teaching kids healthy Social Media habits and skills. All the way to helping young adults with mental health and wellness through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and other therapeutic strategies. Kona’s Specialty Day Camps are held outside, so everyone can feel comfortable and offer unique opportunities. Campers and parents can feel safe knowing it will be on the trails, forests, and wilderness you know and love.

Andee and her team at Kona Specialty Camps are so happy to be able to bring their own brand of counselling and day camps to Cowichan Valley families. Whether you're sending your young ones to a day camp outdoors or individual counselling or a group in the office on Craig Street Kona Specialty Camps is dedicated to helping everyone in the Cowichan Valley.

Nothing speaks to Kona Specialty Camp’s success using their unique approach than parents who saw the benefits themselves. One parent of a 7-year-old said

“My 7-year-old attended Anxiety Camp through Kona Specialty Camps this past summer. It was Incredible! I had concerns that he might feel nervous about attending and not engage, but that was not the case. He quickly built trust with Andee and support staff, became engaged, comfortable, and developing friendships with other kids.”

And another parent of a 6-year-old praised Kona for the things her Son learnt.

“Andee created safety in such a warm, relaxed way. That was the perfect fit for my son. He learned a lot about his brain and loves his tool kit that he got to create for anxiety! We'll definitely be attending next summer!”

Services are held throughout the year but are always changing. Find out what Kona Specialty Camps is doing by visiting their website

www.konaspecialtycamps.com

or following them on Instagram and Facebook.
@konaspecialtycamps and www.facebook.com/konaspecialtycamps/

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Welcome To A Little Bud

The Cowichan Valley is lucky to have A Little Bud’s newest location open right here in the Industrial part of town! This warm, modern, and welcoming Non-Medical Cannabis Retail Store is their 4th location in BC and it’s now open on Allenby Rd. Must be 19 plus. They’re so excited to bring their knowledge, and outstanding customer service to the Cowichan Valley, and are ready to help guide you in finding the right product.

Magz Hedley, is taking the helm of the Vancouver Island location and is grateful to put her experience and enthusiasm to work helping everyone who comes through the doors. Magz, and her team, will exemplify everything that sets A Little Bud apart from any other non-medical Cannabis retail store; which is first and foremost their customer service.

A Little Bud takes pride in knowing the pros and cons of every product they carry; and may suggest some munchies from around the world! A Little Bud knows that your cravings NEED to be satisfied and that’s why every one of their locations includes “A Little More”!

“What’s A Little More?” Just imagine shelves stocked with colourful wrappers, and boxes with each one depicting a delicious snack! Favourites like Cap’N Crunch, Reese Peanut Butter Cups, and potato chips are easily found. Look a little deeper and you’ll find new flavours of old classics, and snacks from all around the world including the UK and Asia!

A Little Bud specializes in non-medical Cannabis, and knows the ins and outs of each of their products. So, whether you want to talk to other aficionados, or need a guide to help you through all the different price points; Magz and the team at A Little Bud are here to help you! Must be 19 plus.

If you’re in the neighborhood, visit the newest non-medical Cannabis Retail Store in the Cowichan Valley! 3050 Allenby Road, Unit 6, in Duncan or online at alittlebud.ca.

A Little Bud…warm…welcoming…knowledgeable and friendly.

Open: 9am to 7 pm Monday to Sunday
Phone: (778) 422-2655

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A Realtor® Who Knows How to Get Top Value for You!

Ian Fraser has been serving South Island families to help them successfully navigate their largest purchase or their biggest sale in their lives: Their homes. Now, he is bringing his real estate experience and moxie to Juice FM Listeners.

He spent his formative years in the Cowichan Valley. He was born in the Duncan hospital, and he graduated from Frances Kelsey Secondary in Mill Bay. He knows every nook and cranny of the Cowichan Valley and he is delighted to be able to connect Buyers and Sellers to this incredible slice of Paradise.

Ian is a family man. He and his wife Staci share a passion to help other families as they raise their two boys, Austin and Beckham.

He takes great pride in his comprehensive knowledge of the industry and areas he serves. His specialties include assisting Sellers with industry leading marketing techniques that combine Proven Strategies with the latest, cutting-edge technology to guiding Buyers through complex purchasing process, Residential Valuations, Investments and Relocation, just to name a few.

In this fast-moving market, excellent data and wide exposure are essential to help Sellers get the top value for their home. Knowing what is coming to market and what to offer is essential for Buyers to get the edge to win their new home.

Recently, the Cowichan Valley has experienced record growth and heightened levels of local and international attention. The spectacular vistas of the region and World class lifestyle options are making this an increasingly desirable place to call home.

Sellers require local and digital exposure, and this is what Ian delivers. He brings your home to market with all the latest techniques to help you get the top value you’re looking for. Potential buyers access his listing information from anywhere in the world. They can take an immersive tour of your home on their smart phone or from the comfort of their couch. This kind of digital exposure drives far more offers from National and International purchasers.

Working with buyers, Ian takes a deep dive into what life is like or envisioned to look like for you and your family. Different areas offer different advantages, schools, commute times, and lifestyles. He uses technology to assist perspective buyers from outside of the area, focusing on data and trends to secure the right home at the right value. Ian connects you with the best auxiliary services such as inspectors, lawyers, and mortgage brokers to keep you well informed and serviced at a high standard.

We asked Ian: What makes a good investment property?

“Investment starts with the basics: Location, amenities, and staying on top of trends. You want a property that is compelling in some way so you can be selling a rental agreement. Understanding the pricing of comparable rentals, and how to maximize your profits is how I bring value to your investment strategy.”

Ian Fraser’s clients equate their success to his strategy and drive:

Technology.
“Ian exceeded our expectations! We moved from Calgary to Victoria. Ian used technology for us to connect and view homes even while my husband was working overseas. When we arrived and moved in, Ian was there to show us the area, his favourite spots. Our move was made so much easier because of Ian. He has become a great friend to our family!”

Communication.
“Ian was our agent for sale of our condo. He was prompt and professional throughout the entire process of selling. He brought a team of professional photographers which helped our home to look more appealing. We were provided with the most up-to-date market information and feedback which made our decision making easier. We are very satisfied with his service and recommend Ian to anybody.”

Compassion and Patience.
“This was a long process from start to finish for me as every time I was ready to list something happened in my life. Ian was very patient with me and finally everything worked out and the house sold for more than was originally thought was available.”

Regions of Trade:
Ian Fraser’s Trading areas include Cowichan Valley, Cobble Hill, Central Saanich, Colwood, Duncan, Esquimalt, Highlands, Langford, Malahat, Metchosin, Mill Bay, North Saanich, Oak Bay, Saanich East, Saanich West, Sidney, Sooke, Victoria, View Royal.

Contact Ian Fraser with EXP Realty Today! Phone: (250) 858-8879 Email: sold@ianfraser.ca, Address: 3194 Douglas Street, Victoria, British Columbia V8Z, Canada.

Website: www.ianfraser.ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ian.fraser
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ifraserrealtor/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/

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Pest Control Tailored to The Cowichan Valley

When John Hutchinson made the journey to the Cowichan Valley back in 2015, he came to apply his skills with the biggest Canadian owned pest control company in the nation! But after 6 years of meeting great people and learning about the rich history of the area, John came to a realization… The Cowichan Valley is a unique place that deserves its own unique approach to Structural Pest Management. That’s why John is dedicated to providing that solution through Cowichan Valley Pest Control (CVPC)!

Structural Pest Management – SPM

No matter how small they are, pests can cause more damage than you can imagine. Structural Pest Management is pest control designed to eliminate the pests who live in and destroy the structure of your home’s interior and/or exterior. Some of the most common culprits are cockroaches, ants, rats, mice and more. CVPC knows all the ins and outs of dealing with the pests wreaking havoc in all the areas of your home you usually don’t think about. Protect your investment with CVPC.

Years Spent Listening to You

John spent 6 years working for one of Canada’s biggest pest control companies, and loved learning everything they had to offer. But he also loved learning everything about Duncan, the surrounding area, and the people who call it home. This one of a kind background gives John and CVPC an approach tailored to you!

Locally Based Means Local Ace!

CVPC is based between Maple Bay and Duncan, and is perfectly poised to help anyone based in Duncan and surrounding area. Whether you need residential or commercial services, as long as you’re in the Cowichan Valley, CVPC is here to provide solutions in a safe and effective manner!

It’s Not Just Extermination – It’s Protecting Your Home and Family!

John Hutchinson and Cowichan Valley Pest Control, take great pride in protecting your property from the pests looking to call it home. That’s why he’s dedicated to finding solutions that will keep your property in peak condition, while kicking out pests, and making sure they don’t come back! That means you’ll have less maintenance and a higher value when it comes time to sell! Modern pest control methods are safe, effective, and environmentally considerate.

John couldn’t be prouder to be a part of this amazing community, and will do everything they can to keep it that way! Commercial, Residential, Inspections, Treatments, and repairs are just the start to how CVPC can help you. From Chemainus to Shawnigan Lake, and everywhere in between, contact John Hutchinson at Cowichan Valley Pest Control. Online at CV-PC.ca

Website: www.cv-pc.ca
Email: covalpc@gmail.com

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Choosing the Right Pharmacy Is Important For Your Health & Wellbeing

Budget Pharmacy is the Cowichan Valley’s newest way to take care of yourself! Their staff is knowledgeable, their dispensing fees are low, and they’re independently owned. Providing the best support for your health is Budget Pharmacy’s top priority.

Passing the savings to you

Budget Pharmacy is locally owned and operated, and dedicated to helping every one in the Cowichan Valley. As an independently owned pharmacy, Budget Pharmacy’s low dispensing fee means your medication is more affordable. And Budget Pharmacy adheres to all BC College of Pharmacies regulations. You can rest assured that you’re getting high quality care! Budget Pharmacy values your health, and your wealth!

Lowest Dispensing Fee of $6.99 and Best Prices in Whole Cowichan Valley
For example: hydrochlorothiazide
Total Prescription Price for:
Apo-Hydro 25mg 90 tablets will be $9.52
$6.99 Dispensing Fee + $2.53 cost of drug
= $9.52 Final Cost
⦁ Available by prescription only. Required in all British Columbia Pharmacies

Lower Prices, Same Services

Budget Pharmacy offers tons of services. They’re well suited to Blister Packing, Compounding, Smoking Cessation, Vaccines including Flu Shots, Medication reviews, and so much more. They may be independent but that doesn’t mean a single service has been sacrificed!

Budget Pharmacy has made it incredibly easy to transfer your prescriptions. It’s as simple as calling Budget Pharmacy (250-597-7751) and letting them take care of the rest. And for new prescriptions, have your doctor’s office fax your prescription to 250-597-7752 or you can email Contact@BudgetPharmacy.ca and bring the original with you at pick up.

When it comes to insurance, Budget Pharmacy accepts all major private insurances. So, no matter your provider, Budget Pharmacy will work with them to save you as much as possible. And with direct billing the process is simple and fast!

If you needed one more reason to choose Budget Pharmacy – then Free Delivery should be it! They fill out the prescription, and bring it right to you for the ultimate convenience. Some conditions apply.

Save Your Money Without Sacrificing Service

Budget Pharmacy’s founder, Dhaval Patel, has been a pharmacist since 2012, and has always dreamed of opening his own independent pharmacy. Now his dream has come true, and he can help the residents of the Cowichan Valley with a full-service pharmacy and the lowest Dispensing fee $6.99.

Visit the Cowichan Valley’s newest pharmacy, Budget Pharmacy, at #5-301 Festburt Street in Duncan. Beside Duncan Cobbler. Parking in Back.

Call 250-597-7751 to transfer prescriptions, and for free delivery. Online at BudgetPharmacy.ca.

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Recycling Pays!

Bringing in some extra cold hard cash is easier than you think. You don’t need to be a financial guru and you don’t need to win the lottery. All you need to do… is recycle your Ready-to-drink beverage containers. Even though you don’t have to hit the jackpot, these days it might FEEL like you’ve won the lottery now that you’ll be getting TWICE as much for your non-alcoholic Ready-to-drink beverage containers that are up to 1 litre in size, like pop cans, small drink boxes, etc. (milk and milk substitute containers not included).

From 5 cents to 10 cents

In BC, the deposit for non-alcohol beverage containers that are up to 1 litre used to be 5 cents. But now, it’s 10 cents! So just by being a good citizen and a supporter of a healthy earth – you’ll now get DOUBLE the return. That’s what we call a win-win. It feels good, doesn’t it? So good, you probably want to know what else you can do to make our world a better place. There’s actually a lot you can do. Like picking up litter, reducing waste and choosing environmentally-friendly products. The easiest thing you can do… is RECYCLE.

So. What else can you recycle?

It depends on where you’re taking your recyclables. There are Island Return-It locations in Campbell River, Duncan, Esquimalt, Salt Spring, Sidney and the South Cowichan with each one accepting certain recyclables.

Duncan accepts:

⦁ Batteries
⦁ Beverage containers
⦁ Electronics
⦁ Light bulbs
⦁ Small appliances
⦁ Power tools
⦁ Paint
⦁ Smoke detectors
⦁ Grocery bags
⦁ Packaging (food glass jars-Styrofoam)
⦁ Cellphones

South Cowichan accepts:

⦁ Batteries
⦁ Beverage containers
⦁ Electronics
⦁ Light bulbs
⦁ Small appliances
⦁ Power tools
⦁ Smoke detectors
⦁ Grocery bags
⦁ Cellphones

Salt Spring accepts:

⦁ Beverage containers

Recycle. Because Today Matters!

Recycling your beverage containers feels good for your wallet. Recycling everything else feels good for the planet. Just remember that those small decisions you make can add up in a big way if we all do our part. You can be a change-maker. All it takes is choosing the right bin. Pretty simple, right? Keep recyclables out of the landfill and bring them to an Island Return-It Centre.

To learn more about what you can recycle, visit www.islandreturnit.com. They’re also proud to support local charities and community groups. So each time you recycle, that’s just one more thing you can feel good about.

A better future is possible. And it starts with your local Island Return-It Centre.

Campbell River
1580-F Willow Street

Duncan
6476 Norcross Rd

Esquimalt
935 Ellery Street

Salt Spring
370 Lower Ganges Rd

Sidney
5-10025 Galaran Rd

South Cowichan
1350 Fisher Rd, Cobble Hill

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