We provide opportunities for people to create health, wellness and connection in their lives. Cool Aid provides free recreation and wellness programs at the Downtown Community Centre, volunteer and employment opportunities at REES and the Community Casual Labour Pool, and we help people to find the resources they need. Our services are free, and community and client-driven.
At REES, we use a co-operative, recovery-based approach to help reduce isolation from community, friends and family that is often a result of mental illness and addictions. We often work with families and professionals too. Services include:
REES is open for appointments. To book an appointment, please email or call:
The Casual Labour Pool – please contact Wendy at 250-388-9296, wstone@coolaid.org or text 250-886-5476
REES Outreach 250-595-8619 or reesoutreach@coolaid.org
All other inquiries can be directed to 250-595-8619 or rees@coolaid.org
Drop in computer and phone access are Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm
We are looking for volunteers! Find out more!
| Monday: | 9 am–3:30 pm |
| Tuesday: | 9 am–3:30 pm |
| Wednesday: | 9 am–3:30 pm |
| Thursday: | 9 am–3:30 pm |
| Friday: | 9 am–3:30 pm |
| Saturday: | Closed |
| Sunday: | Closed |
| Stat. Holidays: | Closed |
Are you looking to return to the labour force or perhaps scout out your first job? The Labour Pool is here to help you connect with the right employer for your skills and availability. It’s a free service that allows you to work at your own pace. Read our workers’: Frequently Asked Questions.
The Casual Labour Pool is open for appointments. To book an appointment, please email or call:
Wendy at 250-388-9296, by email at wstone@CoolAid.org or text 250-886-5476.
The Downtown Community Centre is a gathering space for all members of the community located in the heart of downtown Victoria, 755 Pandora Avenue. The DCC offers daily social engagement and recreational opportunities at no cost to participants.
Check out our latest brochure for detailed program descriptions
Check out our monthly schedule for ongoing programs and special events
MONDAY:
Drop-In – 9am to 3:15pm
Move. Ground. Connect. – 10am to 11:15am. Drop-in class for anyone who wishes to improve strength and mobility, develop resilience and self-awareness, and enjoy a welcoming community. This is a free class where all supplies are provided.
Western Herbal Medicine Clinic – 12:15pm or 1:30pm (register or walk-in). Offered by qualified practitioners from Pacific Rim College. Compassionate consultations, personalized healing remedies and self-care practices. Free.
TUESDAY:
Drop-In – 9am to 3:15pm
WEDNESDAY:
Drop-In – 9am to 1pm
Community Arts – 10am to 12:30pm. Drop-in; art supplies provided (no program March 13).
THURSDAY:
Drop-In – 9am to 3:15pm
Move. Ground. Connect – 10am to 11:15am. Drop-in class for anyone who wishes to improve strength and mobility, develop resilience and self-awareness, and enjoy a welcoming community. This is a free class where all supplies are provided.
Peer Connections Group – 12pm to 1pm. A non-judgmental space for supportive conversations with people who share similar life experiences. Open to anyone seeking social connection and/or emotional support.
Drop-In Chair Massage – 1pm to 3pm. Focuses on the back, neck, shoulders, arms and hands to alleviate muscle tension, encourage deeper breathing, and reduce stress. Orca Dragon Healing Arts.
Every Step Counts– 1pm to 2:30pm. Drop in for a 50-minute walk or run followed by a light stretch and snack. Every Step Counts draws on movement to foster community and confidence one step at a time.
FRIDAY:
Drop-In – 9am to 3:15pm
Acupressure – 9am & 10:30am (by appointment). Chinese 5 Elements acupressure is an ancient system of touch therapy that works to alleviate stress and dis-ease by holding two acupoints at one time, resulting in the release of muscle tension. Orca Dragon Healing Arts.
Every Step Counts – 10:30am to 12pm. Drop in for a 50-minute walk or run followed by a light stretch and snack. Every Step Counts draws on movement to foster community and confidence one step at a time.
Board Games – 1pm to 2:30pm (723 Yates; please register). Register to play games for free in a supported, team environment at the Interactivity Board Game Cafe, 723 Yates Street.
DROP-IN SERVICES AND OTHER AMENTITIES
For more information on DCC programs and services, please contact DCC staff at dcc@coolaid.org or (250) 383-0076!
Check back soon for new programming opportunities!
| Monday: | 9 am - 3:15 pm |
| Tuesday: | 9 am - 3:15 pm |
| Wednesday: | 9 am - 1:00 pm |
| Thursday: | 9 am - 3:15 pm |
| Friday: | 9 am - 3:15 pm |
| Saturday: | Closed |
| Sunday: | Closed |
| Stat. Holidays: | Closed |
Every Step Counts
Every Step Counts is an innovative running and walking program at the Downtown Community Centre. It is designed for people experiencing barriers and challenges with housing, mental health, addictions and other related issues. It is positive and unique, drawing on the wide-reaching and long-lasting benefits of exercise and teamwork to foster self-esteem, confidence and energy.
Details: Join us for a walk or run as we use movement to foster community and confidence
Where: Meet at the DCC, 755 Pandora Avenue
Time: Wednesdays and Thursdays 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Cool Aid actively seeks to provide opportunities for tenants, clients, and community members to get involved in feedback and decision-making at the organization. If you are a client or person with lived experience and wish to get involved, or a professional seeking to gather information or seek advice from Cool Aid clients, please contact Nicole at npal@coolaid.org.
For an example of a client-led and created project, please see the following peer guide for new staff members at the organization: Providing Effective Support in Front Line Services
Tips and best practices for client speaking opportunities
