BY CHRISTINE CAMPBELL, FWS
“[BCLIQUOR’s] support allows us to meet the community’s demands, and we are endlessly grateful,” says Robach. “We are able to develop more timely programming for those who need it.” Regardless of the amount, each donation shows care and a commitment to advancing inclusivity. “Each donation is a slice of hope and joy—a moment that unites us in our shared commitment to support those in need…saving lives and protecting a very vulnerable and marginalized segment of our communities in British Columbia,” he adds. “My dream for QMUNITY is that there is not a single queer, trans or Two-Spirit person living in British Columbia that has any hesitation or lacks knowledge about where to get help,” says Michael Robach, QMUNITY’s director of development. “I want everyone to know that we exist.” PARTNERING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE The “Do You Proud” campaign is part of BCLIQUOR’s broader social impact program, Multiply the Good, which supports a variety of initiatives in the communities BCLIQUOR stores serve. The partnership between QMUNITY and BCLIQUOR showcases their shared value of delivering essential services to British Columbians in need. It also exemplifies the role of
corporate social responsibility in modern society. By directing support towards vital services, BCLIQUOR reinforces its commitment to social equity and the welfare of British Columbia’s diverse communities. “As a large government business in British Columbia, [we have] the power to create meaningful change across the province, and we’re doing that by coming together as a business to show our support,” says Blain Lawson, chief executive officer and general manager of the BC Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB). The alliance with QMUNITY, for example, supports the LDB’s commitment to letting employees, customers and communities know that it stands for equity and is commited to creating safe, inclusive environments for all. Most importantly, feedback from customers and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community receiving QMUNITY’s services has been overwhelmingly positive. BCL customers appreciate the seamless donation process. Queer, trans and Two-Spirit people who previously encountered obstacles in accessing mental health and social supports are deeply grateful for the continued availability of low-barrier services. They talk about feeling empowered, which underscores the potential of these initiatives to transform not only individual lives but also the broader social fabric of communities across the province. You can continue to help foster hope and promote inclusivity for queer, trans and Two-Spirit people throughout the province by donating to QMUNITY through the “Do You Proud” campaign. Visit any BCL store in June, in celebration of Pride Month, to make your donation. In addition to donating to this worthy cause, this summer get behind brands doing their part to support the 2LGBTQIA+ community. See page 45 for just a few to look out for.
QMUNITY and BCLIQUOR are celebrating three years of partnering to enhance the lives of British Columbia’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Together, they are prioritizing the development of a genuinely inclusive environment, showing what community service providers and public organizations can do when they unite to support queer, trans and Two-Spirit people. QMUNITY: PROVIDING SUPPORT & CONNECTION Central to this initiative is QMUNITY, a front-line mental health and social services organization known for its low-barrier approach. Founded as the Vancouver Gay Community Centre in 1979, QMUNITY, as it is now known, provides free and affordable care and support services and safer spaces that meet individuals at their point of need. Every year, the organization manages over 10,000 requests, offering referrals to essential services such as housing support, tenancy rights, peer counselling and other critical resources. Its counselling programs and support groups—designed for youth, adults and seniors—provide connection and mental health support that is both accessible and free from stigma. BCLIQUOR: DOING YOU PROUD BCLIQUOR is instrumental in spreading QMUNITY’s message and raising funds through the “Do You Proud” campaign, which gives customers the opportunity to donate to QMUNITY at the till when buying products at BCL stores. BCLIQUOR makes it simple to donate to ensure that every customer at every location across the province can participate. BCL has raised over $130,000 for QMUNITY since the partnership began in August 2022.
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