Welcome to the Community Resources page for Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools!
We believe in the power of collaboration between our schools and the wider community to ensure the success and well-being of all our students.
Whether you are looking for support services, local organizations, or educational resources, this page offers a variety of helpful links and information to connect families, students, and educators to valuable community programs and services.
Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools shares resources and events that meet the following criteria:
- Relevant to a K-12 audience.
- Non-profit, local organizations only. (Based in Nanaimo or the Mid-Island region).
- Low to no-cost to families and caregivers.
- Event/organization aligns with the district’s commitment to a safe, inclusive and equitable learning community for all.
- The district reserves the sole discretion to determine what information is shared on this page. Postings are dependent on department capacity.
- Information shared on this page does not equal endorsement and/or support from Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools. It is for information purposes only.
Hike 4 Haven – Volunteers needed
Help direct during the Haven Society fundraiser event
The fundraiser event will take place on Aug. 30 in Bowen Park. Organizers are seeking volunteers to work in pairs along he Millstone trail to direct the walkers who are taking the accessible paved route as well as the wooded trail along the river. There are many trail shortcuts and it can get confusing for walkers as to which trail to take so we are hoping to enlist some volunteer train guides.
To volunteer, email lynnhedekar@gmail.com. Seeking volunteer confirmations by Friday, Aug. 21.
Climate Coders
This Way ONward!
This Way ONward is a job-readiness program that provides the next generation with the first jobs, mentoring, skills, and confidence they need to find their way in today’s job market.
Nanaimo Girl Guides needs volunteers!
There is currently a waitlist for girls wanting to be a Spark, Ember, Guide or Pathfinder with Girl Guides of Canada. In order to open up more units, they need volunteers!
Volunteers receive access to free trainings, mentorship and a digital program platform stocked with age-appropriate activities and meeting tools, as well as training on how to deliver activities in ways that will empower and encourage girls.
An average time commitment of 3 – 5 hours per week for unit meetings and planning is expected. Additional hours may be needed for special events or trips. Part-time roles are available if weekly attendance doesn’t suit your schedule. For any questions please contact Kate at membergrowth@girlguides.ca or apply here – www.girlguides.ca/volunteer
City of Nanaimo: Youth Art Calls
2026 – 2028 Youth Poet Laureate – Call to Youth Poets
- Deadline for Submissions: 11:59pm Pacific Time, July 28, 202
- The City of Nanaimo is seeking nominations for our next Youth Poet Laureate! Drawing on the expertise of a new generation of Nanaimo poets and the success of previous Youth Poet Laureates, the City of Nanaimo’s next Youth Poet Laureate will serve as a literary ambassador, creating opportunities for the community to appreciate strong youth voices. Candidates must be 13 to 24 years of age (youth) and reside within the City of Nanaimo.
2027 Street Banners – Call to Youth Artists
- Deadline for Submissions: 11:59pm Pacific Time, September 27, 2026
- The City of Nanaimo is seeking art from youth (ages 19 and under) for its 2026 Street Banners. This program offers artists and designers an opportunity to submit proposals for original banner artwork that will be hung in Nanaimo’s downtown area. Banners will be on display in the Arts District downtown, along Bowen Road, Third Street and other major routes, creating a vibrant visual presence.
Nanaimo Rowing Club Summer Camps
- Weekly camps offered all summer long for ages 13+
- Located at Long Lake
- Special offer when you register with a friend!
- For more information or to register, go to www.nanaimorowingclub.com
Camp Just Us
- A justice-oriented outdoor summer camp where trans and gender expansive kids 10 and under can get muddy, make friends, and be completely, unapologetically themselves – led by trans educators who care deeply about every child they work with
- Aug. 17-21, 2026
- 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
- located in Nanaimo
- sliding scale and pay what you can pricing
- Register at: tgecollective@outlook.com
2026 MVC Summer Indoor Camps
Mariners Volleyball Club
- Venue: Nanaimo Christian School
- Two weeks of volleyball camps for students Grades 3 to 8, girls and boys
- First Week: July 13 – 7; Second Week July 27 – 31
- Cost: $150 + GST + Service Fees
Pacific Sport Vancouver Island Summer Camps 2026
- Ages 4 -12 years old
- Duration: July 6 – Aug. 28 (8 weeks)
- Where: Deverill Square Park, 200 Irwin St.
- Cost: $180 per week
- Registration now open
Circus Arts Workshop
- Held by Benoit Ranger, Circus Master, and/or qualified guest instructors Catherine Joly and Michel Trembley
- For ages 5 to 16 years old
- Workshops include acts of balance, acrobats, and circus play/games, and juggling.
- Visit https://www.transporteursdereves.com/ for more info.
Royal Soccer Club Day Camps
- Ages 5 to 13
- July to August weeks
- Morning and full day sessions
- Before and after care available
Mornings starting from $165/week
Full days starting from $249/week
*Limited time, discounts vary, see website (royalsoccerclub.com).
Additional discounts for week 1 and 6 (four day weeks).
Visit website for more details.
Volunteer opportunities available as well.
Affordable Dental Care for Families
The clinic offers high-quality dental hygiene services at a reduced cost, $35 for adults and $20 for children.
This could be a valuable resource for families in your school community; particularly those who do not have dental insurance and those who are covered by insurance programs, such as the Canadian Dental Care Plan, that only partially cover their treatment costs.
Appointments are booked by calling our dental clinic at 250-740-6240 or by emailing dentalclinic@viu.ca
KidsSport Canada
KidsSport Nanaimo provides grants to help cover the costs of registration fees so that all kids under 18 years in Nanaimo can play a season of sport.
The Chapter accepts applications and administers grants of up to $400 per child, per year. Apply for a grant today.
City of Nanaimo & BC Gaming Grants
Have a look at the community and youth grants available:
- Enabling Accessibility Fund – Youth innovation component
- Enviroment
- Public Safety
- Social Planning Grant
- Community Program Development Grant