Chilliwack Hospice Society is celebrating a deeply meaningful recognition of its longest-serving staff member, Director of Programs Lucy Fraser, whose 22 years of service to the Society and wider Chilliwack community were honoured through the Chilliwack School District’s Honouring Our Elders Legacy Portrait Project.

Friends encircle Lucy Fraser (seated) at a family tea social in the school library following the Honouring Our Elders ceremony. Photo courtesy of Coletta Holmes.

Fraser was recognized during a Family Tea Social at G.W. Graham Secondary School on Monday, Jun. 15, where a portrait created by student artist Taliyah McLeod was unveiled before family members, friends, students, educators, Indigenous community representatives, and local leaders.

The morning began with drumming and singing by G.W. Graham students, followed by opening remarks from Donna’Lee Irwin, an Indigenous Enhancement teacher with the Chilliwack School District. McLeod then unveiled her portrait of Fraser, with personal remarks shared by Fraser’s close friend and Chilliwack Hospice Society volunteer Elaina Wugalter.

The gathering also honoured Elder Violet George of Ch’íyáqtel (Tzeachten), whose portrait was created by student artist Lilah Gerrits, followed by remarks from Loren Muth on behalf of George’s family. Muth, a Ch’íyáqtel Band Council member, also addressed those gathered, alongside City of Chilliwack Mayor Ken Popove, Assistant Superintendent Dave Manuel, and G.W. Graham principal Chuck Lawson. A lunch reception followed in the school library, continuing the opportunity for conversation and connection across generations and communities.

Throughout more than two decades with the Society, Fraser has helped shape and expand grief and bereavement support in Chilliwack while advocating for people whose experiences are too often overlooked, stigmatized, or excluded from conventional systems of support. Her commitment extends beyond individual service delivery to public education, volunteer development, community outreach, and efforts to reduce barriers for people affected by social and systemic inequities.

Portrait of Lucy Fraser by student artist Taliyah McLeod. Photo courtesy of Sue Knott.

As director of programs, Fraser’s responsibilities span one-to-one support, program development, volunteer training, public education, and group facilitation. Her work includes supporting people grieving deaths that may be sudden, traumatic, complex or stigmatized, including deaths by suicide or homicide, deaths from drug poisoning, and fatal workplace incidents.

She also supports people experiencing grief related to pregnancy and infant loss, including miscarriage, abortion, and stillbirth. Across these areas of practice, Fraser has helped create spaces where people can speak openly about grief experiences that may be misunderstood, minimized, or difficult to discuss elsewhere.

Her approach has also taken grief support beyond traditional office and program settings. Fraser has provided outreach to people in correctional settings, treatment and recovery environments, shelters and other community spaces, recognizing that grief is not experienced separately from poverty, housing insecurity, substance use, incarceration, trauma, or other circumstances that can create barriers to support. That willingness to meet people where they are has been a defining part of Fraser’s work.

The Chilliwack School District developed its local project through collaboration between its Indigenous Education Department and school art teachers, with support and guidance from the original Honouring Our Elders Legacy Project established in northern B.C. at Smithers Secondary School.

The original project was created to build understanding and support reconciliation through art and relationship. It brings students into a process of listening, learning, and portrait-making that connects generations and communities. The coordinating team behind the original project was recognized through the British Columbia Reconciliation Award, a partnership of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and the BC Achievement Foundation. Government House describes the initiative as one intended to bridge divides, deepen understanding, and engage reconciliation through art.

Taliyah McLeod (left) and Lucy Fraser stand beside her portrait. Photo courtesy of Sue Knott.

At the heart of the project was also a relationship between a student artist and the person whose story she was entrusted to represent. Through McLeod’s portrait, Fraser’s years of service have been interpreted by a young artist and made part of an enduring public display at G.W. Graham Secondary School. The district has confirmed that the portraits will remain permanently displayed at the participating schools alongside plaques sharing information about those honoured.

Fraser’s portrait will stand as a lasting recognition of a community contribution that continues every day — in quiet conversations, in circles of support, in volunteer learning, in public education, and wherever someone grieving needs to know they do not have to walk alone.

On April 16, Chilliwack Hospice Society joins organizations across Canada in recognizing Advance Care Planning Day and encouraging people to think about, talk about and document their wishes for future health and personal care.

Advance care planning helps ensure that if a person cannot speak for themselves, even temporarily, the people closest to them and the health-care team understand what matters most to them.

Advance care planning is not only for older adults or people who are seriously ill. It is for everyone. It is a process of reflecting on your values, wishes and priorities, choosing who could speak on your behalf if needed, and sharing that information before a crisis happens. This year’s national message asks an important question: If Not You, Who? If Not Now, When?

What is advance care planning, and why does it matter?

Advance care planning gives people the opportunity to consider what matters most to them before decisions need to be made under pressure. It can help reduce stress for loved ones, support clearer communication, and guide care that reflects a person’s values and wishes. ACP Canada says it is never too early to begin these conversations.

“Advance care planning is one of the most practical and compassionate things we can do for ourselves and for the people who may one day need to speak for us,” said Deanna Fedorkew, community education manager at Chilliwack Hospice Society. “These conversations can be hard to start, but they matter. When people take time to think about what is important to them and share those wishes clearly, it can reduce stress and uncertainty during some of life’s most difficult moments.”

Why more people need to start the conversation

Recent national polling suggests many people in Canada understand the value of advance care planning, but fewer have taken the next steps.

According to the 2024 Advance Care Planning Canada national poll infographic, 82 per cent of people in Canada believe recording their wishes would help take pressure off loved ones, and 77 per cent agree that having an advance care plan makes them feel relieved. The same poll found that eight in 10 people believe society needs to be more open about talking about illness and death.

At the same time, the poll points to some of the barriers people face. Fifty-seven per cent say thinking about a decline or sudden change in health brings out negative emotions. Nearly half, or 47 per cent, say they do not know where to find information or advice about advance care planning. The poll also found that 43 per cent of people think the best time to plan for future health and personal care needs is while they are healthy.

“We want people to know they do not have to navigate this alone,” Fedorkew said. “Advance care planning is not about having every answer immediately. It is about starting the conversation, learning what options are available, and making sure your voice is known.”

Free workshop this July

To support people in this work, Chilliwack Hospice Society will host its next free, two-part advance care planning workshop on Tuesday, July 21, and Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Chilliwack Hospice Society, 7112 Vedder Road.

These sessions are designed to help participants better understand advance care planning, reflect on their wishes, and begin having meaningful conversations with the people they trust.

“It is one of the most important gifts you can give your loved ones,” Fedorkew said. “Having a plan in place can ease the burden during stressful times and help ensure that future care reflects your wishes.”

A digital option for planning at home

For those who would prefer to work through the process on their own, ACP Canada also offers the Advance Care Planning Digital Guide. Developed in partnership with Thrive Health, the guide helps people think about what matters most to them and document wishes for health and personal care online. It also includes tools to securely store and share preferences with loved ones and sends yearly reminders to review the plan.

Free community education throughout the year

Throughout the year Chilliwack Hospice Society hosts a variety of in-person and virtual educational workshops and presentations for the community. Topics may include advance care planning, financial and legal matters, self-care and wellness. Educational workshops are provided for free thanks to the generosity of individual donors and businesses in our community.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.

Sources and additional resources

Readers who would like to learn more or review the original materials can visit:

• Advance Care Planning Day – ACP Canada
• Advance Care Planning Digital Guide – ACP Canada
• Advance Care Planning Canada national poll infographic (2024)

Held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Evergreen Hall, this year’s Hometown Hoedown for Hospice welcomed a sold-out crowd of 250 guests, a record for the event. Proudly presented by Century Plumbing & Heating, the evening was filled with high-energy fun, generosity and down-home country charm as sponsors, donors, volunteers and supporters came together from across the community.

Guests enjoyed a delicious barbecue dinner, games, a lively Dessert Dash, a 50-50 draw and a particularly successful online auction featuring more than 100 items generously donated by local individuals and businesses. With bidding from both event attendees and supporters across the community, the auction played a major role in this year’s record-breaking result.

The celebration also featured a surprise line-dancing flash mob by DanceFixx and live music from the Dusty Boots Band, whose mix of country and rock kept the dance floor full well into the evening.

“This year’s Hometown Hoedown for Hospice was a wonderful example of our community coming together in support of a cause that touches so many lives,” said Sue Knott, executive director of Chilliwack Hospice Society. “We are deeply grateful to every sponsor, donor, volunteer and guest who helped make this record-breaking evening possible.”

Chilliwack Hospice Society extends sincere appreciation to all event sponsors, auction and Dessert Dash donors, volunteers, professional service providers and community supporters for their generous support of this year’s Hometown Hoedown for Hospice.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.

PECSF is the BC Public Service’s employee-led workplace giving program, and since 1965, it has helped raise over $50 million for charities across the province. We are honoured to be a current donor choice charity and to be among the many organizations empowered by this meaningful initiative.

During the 2024 campaign, 6,191 donors from across B.C. contributed more than $2.63 million through PECSF — an extraordinary accomplishment made possible by the dedication of more than 1,000 volunteers who canvassed, coordinated, and championed the cause within their workplaces.

The portion of these funds directed to Chilliwack Hospice Society helps us provide compassionate care and free support services to individuals and families in our community who are impacted by dying, death, and grief. Every donation makes a difference — helping us continue to offer programs for children, youth, and adults, from one-on-one grief support to community education and hospice volunteer training.

We are incredibly thankful to the employees who chose to support our work through PECSF, and to the volunteers who made it all possible. Your care and community spirit are making a real impact right here in Chilliwack.

To our friends in the BC Public Service: if you are considering supporting us through the PECSF program, we invite you to select Chilliwack Hospice Society as your charity of choice. Your donations directly support people in our community when they need it most.

To learn more about the PECSF program and how to give, please visit their website.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.

Due to the widespread power outage, Chilliwack Hospice Society will be closed on Thursday, March 12 and Thrifty Boutique will continue regular business operations.

The safety and well-being of our clients, customers, volunteers, staff, and the broader community are our top priority.

Chilliwack Hospice Society

The following programs and services are affected:

• Supportive Walking Group (cancelled)

One-to-one grief support sessions will be rescheduled. If you were scheduled to attend a program or appointment, a member of our team will contact you directly.

Thrifty Boutique

• Donation intake will continue as scheduled from 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
• Regular store hours will continue as scheduled from 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

We recognize that grief, caregiving, and support needs do not pause because of the weather. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we prioritize safety and care for our community.

The next update will be shared on Friday, March 13 at 7:00 a.m., or sooner if conditions change.

Updates will be posted on chilliwackhospice.org and official Chilliwack Hospice Society channels.

Please take care and stay safe.

Although this tragedy occurred outside our community, we recognize that news of a school shooting can affect people deeply, including children, youth and adults here at home. Events like this can bring forward fear, grief, anger and confusion. These reactions are natural. It is important that we speak openly, listen with care, and make space for one another’s feelings.

At Chilliwack Hospice Society, we walk alongside individuals and families who are grieving the death of someone they love. In moments of sudden and traumatic death, compassionate, steady support matters. We encourage families to check in with one another, to have age-appropriate conversations with children, and to reassure them about their safety while acknowledging the reality of what has happened.

If you or someone you know needs additional support, the following resources are available:

• 310-Mental Health Support: 310-6789 (no area code required in B.C.)
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
• Foundry BC: FoundryBC.ca

In times of tragedy, communities show their strength through compassion, presence and care. We stand in solidarity with the people of Tumbler Ridge and hold space for all who are grieving, injured or impacted by this horrific act.

If you would like to contribute an item or a cash donation to purchase an item for our online silent auction, please contact Sharilyn Jackson, Event Manager, at (604) 795-4660 or email sharilyn@chilliwackhospice.org. Thank you!

As donations are confirmed, we will update the following list:

• Abbotsford Canucks
• Algra Bros.
• Amazing Co.
• Arts Club Theatre
• Ascend Fitness & Lifestyle
• Banter Ice Cream
• Barn Country Bar, The
• BC Lions
• B Fit Personal Training
• Blenz Coffee
• Bozzini’s Restaurant
• Chilliwack Boxing Club
• Chilliwack Chiefs
• Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre
• Coast Chilliwack Hotel by APA
• Cottonwood Centre
• Cultus Lake Golf Club
• District 1881
• Earls Kitchen & Bar
• Elements Chilliwack Casino
• Excel Martial Arts
• E-Exit Chilliwack
• Fluxx CycleHouse
• Forest Echoes Cabins
• Fountain Tire
• Frankie’s Italian Kitchen
• FYidoctors — Chilliwack
• Gary Baars PREC
• Good Taco
• Greystone Dental
• GridZone Games
• High Hopes B & B
• House of Comedy
• H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
• Ironside Design Manufacturing
• Island Tan (Hocking Ave.)
• J. Adam & Sons Ltd.
• Jack’s Cycle
• Jacqueline Tait Notary Public
• Jiffy Lube
• Kelly/Carlos O’Bryans Pub
• Ken’s Tire & Wheel
• Kumsheen Rafting Resort
• Longfellow’s Furniture
• Major League 2 Taphouse & Sports Pub
• Men In Kilts
• Old Spaghetti Factory, The
• Oxygen Yoga & Fitness
• Pink ‘N Blue Kidz Clothing
• Prism Studio
• Quesada — Cottonwood
• Rebalance Rehab
• Royalwood Golf Course
• Smooth Effects Chilliwack
• Stó꞉lō Gift Shop
• Sue Knott
• The Keg
• TNT Hay
• Twisted Roots Salon
• Vancouver Art Gallery
• Vancouver Bandits
• Vancouver Canadians
• Vancouver Warriors

Updated as of March 6, 2026.

The safety and well-being of our clients, customers, volunteers, staff, and the broader community are our top priority. Please consult the City of Chilliwack website and DriveBC.ca for current weather advisories and road conditions before travelling.

Updates will be provided as necessary.

Chilliwack Hospice Society will be operating with modified services on Monday, December 15, and Thrifty Boutique will continue regular business operations.

The safety and well-being of our clients, customers, volunteers, staff, and the broader community are our top priority. This decision has been made with care and consideration for current weather and road conditions.

Chilliwack Hospice Society

The following programs and services are affected:

• Coffee & Compassion Drop-in Grief Support Circle (cancelled)
• Relaxation Program (continuing as scheduled)
• Celebrate A Life at Minter Country Garden (continuing as scheduled)

One-to-one grief support sessions with some staff members will be rescheduled. If you were scheduled to attend a program or appointment that is to be rescheduled, a member of our team will contact you directly.

Thrifty Boutique

• Donation intake will continue as scheduled from 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
• Regular store hours will continue as scheduled from 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m., weather permitting.

We recognize that grief, caregiving, and support needs do not pause because of the weather. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we prioritize safety and care for our community.

The next update will be shared on Tuesday, December 16 at 7:00 a.m., or sooner if conditions change.

Updates will be posted on chilliwackhospice.org and official Chilliwack Hospice Society channels.

Please take care and stay safe.

Due to inclement weather conditions, Chilliwack Hospice Society will be closed on Friday, December 12 and Thrifty Boutique will continue regular business operations.

The safety and well-being of our clients, customers, volunteers, staff, and the broader community are our top priority. This decision has been made with care and consideration for current weather and road conditions.

Chilliwack Hospice Society

The following programs and services are affected:

• Holiday Movie Matinee: The Family Stone (cancelled)
• Family Movie Night: Elf (cancelled)
• Celebrate A Life at Minter Country Garden (continuing as scheduled)

One-to-one grief support sessions will be rescheduled. If you were scheduled to attend a program or appointment, a member of our team will contact you directly.

Thrifty Boutique

• Donation intake will continue as scheduled from 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13.
• Regular store hours will continue as scheduled from 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13, and from 10:00 a.m–4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 14, weather permitting.

We recognize that grief, caregiving, and support needs do not pause because of the weather. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we prioritize safety and care for our community.

The next update will be shared on Monday, December 15 at 7:00 a.m., or sooner if conditions change.

Updates will be posted on chilliwackhospice.org and official Chilliwack Hospice Society channels.

Please take care and stay safe.

The holidays don’t have to be perfect

We can feel pressure to create meaningful, joyful celebrations. Yet even when everything appears perfect on the outside, grief may still show up. Allow yourself to be present as you are, without expectations or self-judgment. Some days will feel heavier than others — that’s normal.

Be intentional and open to change

Traditions can bring comfort, but they can also feel painful when someone is missing. Ask yourself: What is the heart of this tradition? Connection? Faith? Memory? Generosity? Consider adapting old routines or creating new ones that reflect where you are now. Meaning can evolve over time.

Practice saying no

Grieving takes emotional, physical, and mental energy. If your schedule feels overwhelming, give yourself permission to decline invitations or step away from activities that feel too demanding this year. Prioritizing what matters most protects your energy and well-being.

Plan time for yourself

Quiet time, rest, reflection, or simply stepping away from a gathering can make a big difference. Scheduling breaks or building in slower days may help you cope when the season feels busy or emotionally charged.

Reach out for support

Grief can feel isolating, even when surrounded by others. While family and friends may be supportive, you may also benefit from connecting with trained grief support volunteers or professionals. Chilliwack Hospice Society offers free, one-to-one grief support as well as group programs. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

Make room for both grief and joy

It is common to feel complex emotions: sadness, gratitude, longing, laughter, love. Some people worry that enjoying the holidays means they are “moving on” or forgetting their loved one. Joy does not erase grief. Both feelings can co-exist, and both are valid.

Honour your loved one in meaningful ways

Finding gentle ways to remember your loved one can offer comfort. You might:

• Cook a favourite recipe
• Display a special ornament or keepsake
• Light a candle
• Share stories with people who are comfortable listening
• Create a private ritual just for you

There is no right or wrong way to grieve someone you miss.

You are not alone

The holidays can be tender, painful, meaningful, or bittersweet, sometimes all at once. Be gentle with yourself as you move through the season. Consider visiting us for Celebrate A Life at Minter Country Garden or Thrifty Boutique, attend our Holiday Movie Matinee on December 12, or participating in our Coffee & Compassion Drop-In Grief Support Circle, December 15. You’ll be in good company.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.

Thrifty Boutique curated an impressive display for the Vintage Barn Market, Oct. 31–Nov. 2.

We kicked off spring with our Closet Cleanout for a Cause on Earth Day, April 22, inviting the community to clear out their closets and drop off pre-bagged textiles to help “fill the truck.” Volunteers worked tirelessly to keep clothing and fabric out of the landfill, and every pound recycled helped fund the compassionate programs and services of Chilliwack Hospice Society.

Just a few weeks later, Evergreen Hall was filled with flair, fashion, and community spirit for our 7th annual Fashionista Fashion Show on May 10. With record-breaking ticket sales and more than 300 guests, volunteers, and models in attendance, the evening was a resounding success — raising vital funds to support hospice care, bereavement support, and education in our community.

Summer brought one of our biggest events of the year — the National Thrift Shop Day Celebration Sale on August 17. Shoppers lined up early to enjoy 50% off everything in store, with 466 customers purchasing 2,718 items in a single day. The celebration was a joyful reminder of the power of thrifting to build community, promote sustainability, and sustain local hospice programs all year long.

This fall, Thrifty Boutique brought its signature style to the Vintage Barn Market at Christmas 2025, held October 31 to November 2 at Chilliwack Heritage Park. The Thrifty team curated a festive display of vintage décor, fashion, and holiday treasures that inspired shoppers to “shop with purpose.” It was a wonderful opportunity to meet new faces, share our story, and celebrate sustainable giving during the holiday season.

Our work has also been recognized beyond the shop floor. Thrifty Boutique was proud to be nominated for Inclusive Employer of the Year at the inaugural Inclusive Employer Awards – Fraser Valley East on October 28, hosted by WorkBC, Rotary at Work, Inclusion Chilliwack Society, and Bethesda. The nomination acknowledged our commitment to creating a welcoming, accessible, and inclusive environment for volunteers and staff of all abilities. We were also honoured to receive a nomination for the Community Impact Award at the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards, to be held January 31, 2026.

As we look ahead, the team at Thrifty Boutique extends heartfelt thanks to our incredible volunteers, donors, and shoppers. Your continued support ensures that every purchase, every donation, and every act of kindness helps Chilliwack Hospice Society provide compassionate care and support for individuals and families in our community.

Thrifty Boutique offers an upscale thrifting experience while supporting the Chilliwack Hospice Society. Shop with purpose and explore our collection of quality clothing, accessories, home décor, books, and more. With new items added daily, there’s always something unique to discover!