Hi, my name is Alex and I have been a volunteer at VAC since January 2025. I joined VAC after many years of supporting my son through addiction and mental health issues.

There are many things that family members and I went through over a long period of time that I felt no family should go through. I wanted to better my understanding and joining VAC has given me the hope that I can help to improve services with my experiences. Especially for those who are accessing services as a family member or concerned other. Throughout my journey with VAC, I have been involved with the ketamine working group, surveys, early days in recovery meetings, outreach and drop ins.

Working in these areas has led me to expand my volunteering opportunities with CAVDAS, such as, the Homeless and Assertive Outreach Team and engage with the Family and Concerned Others support group. It has empowered me to strive for positive change. I thoroughly enjoy working with all the amazing people involved with VAC, they have been very friendly and supportive.