The Bridge: A Symbol of Connection and Healing

The new logo features the graceful arcs of a bridge—a meaningful symbol of connection, resilience, and transformation.

• The lower arc, solid and enduring, represents the foundation we provide—strong, unwavering, and built to support the weight of grief and transition. This symbolizes the breadth of resources and services we offer, from grief counselling to community education to palliative care support.
• The upper arc, composed of lighter segments, mirrors the unique, personal paths of those we serve. Grief is never linear; it takes unexpected turns and evolves over time. These arcs reflect each client’s journey and the compassionate care they receive as they move through grief and loss.
• The parallel paths of the arcs illustrate how Chilliwack Hospice Society walks alongside its clients; ensuring our support and resources align with their individual needs at every step. This relationship creates a safe, supportive space where clients can find the strength and solace they need.

“Our logo reflects who we are and what we do; creating connections and providing steady support during some of life’s most difficult moments,” says Sue Knott, Executive Director of Chilliwack Hospice Society. “The bridge isn’t just a symbol; it represents the journey we take together.”

Centred on Grief and Hospice Palliative Care Support

This rebrand emphasizes the Society’s focus on grief support while continuing its long-standing hospice palliative care support programs. With the addition of “Centre for Grief Support” to our name, we make our purpose unmistakably clear. We are here for the Chilliwack community, offering a safe space and tailored support for adults, children, and youth coping with grief and loss. Services are available in the hospice, hospital, care facilities, and in people’s homes, ensuring dignity and care at every stage of life.

A Palette and Typeface for Calm and Clarity

The new colour palette features teal as its primary colour, a calming mix of blue and green that symbolizes hope, balance, and peace. Mint green complements this foundation with its soft, refreshing tones, representing growth and healing. Together, these colours create a sense of tranquility and renewal that aligns with the Society’s mission.

The DM Sans font is approachable, modern, and easy-to-read, reflecting our dedication to accessibility for all ages. Its clean and confident lines speak to our professional, compassionate approach while remaining welcoming and warm—a perfect complement to the stories of resilience and care our organization represents.

A New Look for the Thrifty Boutique

As part of the rebrand, the Chilliwack Hospice Society’s Thrifty Boutique is also unveiling a complementary new look. This refreshed design aligns with the Society’s updated branding and reflects the elevated thrifting experience that shoppers have come to expect. The boutique continues to play a vital role in supporting the Society’s programs and services through community generosity.

A Local Collaboration

The new look was brought to life in collaboration with local graphic artist Camilla Coates of Ergo Design Group. Her thoughtful and creative approach helped ensure the updated branding truly reflects the mission and values of Chilliwack Hospice Society.

Growing Together

This revitalized look is part of our broader strategy to reach more people, raise awareness about our services, and ensure inclusivity for all who seek our help. Our brand reflects not only who we are today but also where we are headed—toward a future where no one in our community faces grief or the end of life alone.

“This rebrand isn’t just about a new look; it’s about ensuring that everyone in Chilliwack knows they are not alone,” says Sue Knott. “Whether you’re grieving a death or navigating end-of-life care, we’re here to help.”

Sharing the Message

The bridge in our logo is not only symbolic but also a call to action. We invite you to cross that bridge, whether by accessing our services, sharing our message, or supporting our work. Together, we can foster a community where compassion, understanding, and healing flow freely, helping everyone navigate the challenges of grief and end-of-life with dignity and care.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is here for you, every step of the way. Let’s walk this path together.

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.

While a supportive walking group had been held at Townsend Park when the Society was in downtown Chilliwack in years past, the program had not been held recently.  In January 2020 Laurie McNaught, manager of community outreach, borrowed the idea from former program manager Coletta Holmes, to begin a small supportive walking group.  The group faced several challenges during the early start-up months with the many COVID-19 restrictions but eventually managed to establish a regular walking program.  The importance of this outdoor group became very apparent when many of the other in-person group programing was not available due to COVID-19.

One group participant says, “Sometimes this [walking group] has been the only time I was able to get out of the house to be with others. I feel like the other participants understand this. This walk is a highlight of my week.”

Many members of the group have experienced the death of a loved one during the COVID-19 pandemic and have shared their mutual frustrations over not being able to gather with family members, hold a funeral or honour the deceased in traditional ways.

“When a new person joins the group, there will sometimes be a lot of tears during our walk,” says McNaught. “The volunteers are so amazing, as they listen and walk beside those who are struggling in these early days of grief. Then as the weeks go by, I notice that the conversations change to chats about life and challenges, weather, even plans for future events, and some good laughs.”

Participants are encouraged to share as little or as much as they feel comfortable about their grief. Knowing that others walking alongside are also suffering a significant loss can be of great comfort. Volunteers offer familiar, consistent smiles each week, though participants are welcome to drop-in anytime to join the walk. Bereavement clients are often referred to the walking group which complements other Hospice programs well.

Fresh air and movement can be healing for those who are grieving. The park is continually changing and so full of nature, life, and things to experience. Often observed are herons, an eagle, several kinds of ducks, Canada geese, and many songbirds. Despite seasonal changes, the Supportive Walking Group has continued through 2021 and into the current year undeterred by rain and snow. Sardis Park offers a warm, safe, and beautiful setting to share and listen to others as the lives of the bereaved grow around their grief.

A group member says, “Even though it is a short walk I am sure all the participants benefit from the walk. It allows them to share the things they do.” Another one says, “The comfort of knowing this community gathering is there for me every week is something that gives me a sense of belonging. I know my grief is welcome and it matters.”

The weekly walk begins and ends at the Chilliwack Hospice Society and, when restrictions allow, include time for a complimentary coffee and further conversation in the group programming space indoors following the walk.

Our Supportive Walking Group meets weekly on Thursdays mornings at 9:30am, starting at 7112 Vedder Road. For more information about this and other community outreach programs, contact Laurie McNaught at (604) 795-4660 or visit www.chilliwackhospice.org