About IWAV

IWAV offers free programs and services to provide practical and emotional support to those directly or indirectly impacted by violence and abuse.

IWAV provides a range of housing options on Salt Spring Island, from free emergency transitional housing to long-term, independent, affordable housing.

Violence and abuse exist in the Southern Gulf Islands and we are here to help. IWAV is committed to raising awareness so that people can recognize violence and abuse, and know how to access support.

IWAV is a community organization that is trusted to provide safe, free, inclusive and confidential services.

The core of IWAV’s work is to empower others through a trauma-informed, strength-based approach.

IWAV’s services are accessible, inclusive and gender affirming.

Vision Statement

We envision community working together to eliminate violence and abuse.

Mission Statement

IWAV supports the reduction of violence and abuse in community most prevalent among women and those who experience systemic barriers.

We accomplish this by providing programs and services to those affected by violence and abuse; building community through developing and operating safe, stable, affordable housing; exploring the root causes of violence and abuse and working on prevention; partnering to achieve common goals; and advocating and educating to raise awareness.

Our Values

Collaboration. We build solutions for common goals. We help each other and create a strong sense of community. We network and actively participate in roundtables to gather data, share ideas, and create solutions.

Compassion. We are kind and caring in our work. We care about others and approach situations with empathy. We lead with empathy, ensuring that everyone feels supported.

Inclusivity. We believe that everyone has a voice and we listen. We strive for cultural safety. We create an environment that is welcoming and accessible.

Integrity. We focus on professional development and adhere to rigorous professional standards. We strive for excellence. We are accountable and conduct ourselves with the highest standards of conduct. We maintain the confidentiality and dignity of our clients. We establish clear boundaries and expectations.

Resilience. We learn from setbacks and keep pushing forward. We are resourceful: We seek out opportunities to achieve our mission.

Respect. We demonstrate respect for our clients and each other. We value and welcome diverse perspectives.

Safety. We offer a beacon of safety and hope. We provide an environment that feels safe for our clients and staff. We offer consent-based services.

We respectfully and gratefully recognize that IWAV is located in the unceded traditional territories of the Hul’qumi’num- and SENĆOŦEN-speaking peoples.