Our Story
Vancouver Island Mental Health Society (VIMHS) is a non-profit organization that has been providing services in the Nanaimo region for more than forty years.
Our Origins
Our first program began in the 1970s when a group of concerned citizens recognized the need for safe transitional housing for psychiatric patients discharged from hospital. That group of community members, in partnership with the Knights of Columbus, founded the Columbian Centre Society, and Columbian House, our first residential facility, opened its doors to residents.
The Society’s stated purpose was to “provide both a suitable residential environment and a program which would assist people discharged from psychiatric treatment centers to make a successful re-entry into their community”.
VIMHS provides opportunities for recovery
The Columbian Centre Society became the Vancouver Island Mental Health Society in 2014. The name change reflects the Society’s continuing efforts to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness as well as an increase in programming in the Central Island. Since the establishment of Columbia House, now known as Gateway House, VIMHS programs have expanded to include additional transitional housing, supportive housing, and independent housing, two sobering and assessment centres, and an overdose prevention service.
As society changes, and mental health challenges emerge, Vancouver Island Mental Health Society will continue to provide community-based mental health, housing and harm reduction services to those in need.
VIMHS is looking forward to 40 more years of service and achieving its vision to “create a society that values all people”.
Our Mission
Vancouver Island Mental Health Society (VIMHS) supports individuals and families impacted by mental health and substance use through housing, rehabilitation, education, harm reduction and recovery services.
Our Vision and Values
We envision a society where mental health is prioritized, understood, and celebrated.
We value dignity and integrity — Everyone is worthy, honoured and respected.
We value compassion — Everyone deserves supports in their life journey.
We value belonging — Everyone is accepted, included, seen and valued.
We value community — Connection, support, and shared responsibility.
We value empowerment — We support people to discover and embrace their personal power.
Our Funding
VIMHS is grateful for the ongoing financial support from the following organizations:
