Shelter Movers Vancouver is a volunteer-run organization that is doing important, compassionate work in supporting survivors of gender-based violence, meeting the needs of survivors through a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive approach.
The DIVERSEcity Awards of Impact is a night to celebrate and honour the champion changemakers who support our local community.
The Strengthening Safety Award was particularly poignant for us at DIVERSEcity. We are deeply connected to our work in creating safe spaces for some of the most vulnerable in our community, dedicated to making a difference for others. Shelter Movers provides free moving and storage services to individuals and families fleeing abuse and does so while exemplifying the values of inclusion, compassion and humility.
Jessie Lehail, Chapter Director, and Shana Slater, Volunteer Services Manager, at Shelter Movers Vancouver accepted the award.
“On behalf of Shelter Movers Vancouver, thank you for this profound honour. This award truly belongs to every survivor who finds the courage to leave, every volunteer who lends their strength and every partner who amplifies our mission,” Jessie shared.
“Our team and our countless volunteers every day witness extraordinary courage as individuals and families take their first steps toward freedom,” Jessie said. “Our mission is simple yet powerful — to empower survivors of gender-based violence to transition to safety. In the face of staggering statistics, with so many experiencing gender-based violence, specifically intimate partner violence, we stand with all striving for safer, inclusive communities.”
The women ended their acceptance speech with inspiring words. “This recognition is a call to action. It strengthens our resolve in continuing this work and reminds us of the power of community in creating positive change.”
Thank you to the award sponsor, Jane Shin, former DIVERSEcity Board member, who sponsored this award in honour of her mother, Myung-Bok Lee.
Curious about the other winners? Read more about the award winners and sponsors here.