About
Community Health Networks
Island Health’s Community Health Networks bring together multiple partners to improve community health and wellness by catalyzing collective action to address locally prioritized social determinants of health and modifiable risk factors in a way that no one group, or sector could alone. CHNs enable a societal approach to health promotion by mobilizing the influence and resources of local leaders and partners from across sectors including local governments, local First Nations, educational institutions, Divisions of Family Practice, non-profit organizations, business sector representatives, provincial ministries; as well as the influence and action of community members from diverse backgrounds who may not be affiliated with any particular organization.
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Health Networks facilitate dialogue and understanding amongst citizens and stakeholders, build partnerships and capacity; share ideas and resources and create innovative solutions that impact the social determinants of health and work towards sustainable healthy communities. CHN’s are grounded in research, facilitate collaboration, action and connections for good health in our communities. Together stakeholders focus on prevention, wellness and health promotion, leveraging existing resources, building on community strengths and assets, generating system change and co-creating equitable and health promoting policies, programs, infrastructure and amenities.
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​NOW is one of seven Community Health Networks (CHNs) across Vancouver Island working towards sustainable healthy communities and is funded in part by Island Health.
Our History
The Naut'sa mawt Oceanside Wellness Network (NOW Network) was formed in 2023 through the merger of two community-driven initiatives: the Oceanside Health & Wellness Network, established in 2013 by the grassroots "Perfect Storm" group to bring a health centre to Parksville, and the Nanaimo Community Wellness Network, created in 2020 with a focus on decolonization, equity, diversity, and inclusion. In 2022, the Nanaimo network was gifted the name Naut'sa mawt—meaning “journeying together as one”—by Snuneymuxw Elders, reflecting its commitment to walking alongside Indigenous partners. The merger aimed to strengthen regional collaboration and resilience post-pandemic, while continuing to support geographically focused Action Tables. The United Way Central Vancouver Island manages the network, with coordination funded by Island Health.
Our Vision
Naut’sa mawt - Journeying together as one, we strive to improve health equity and wellbeing for all community members in the Regional District of Nanaimo.
The image on the right was designed by Snaw-Naw-As First Nations artist and knowledge keeper, Ćum'qwa:tun, (Lawrence Mitchell ) to represent our Network Naut'sa mawt journey. Read more here
Our Values
Collaboration – Building relationships and partnerships with integrity, honesty, transparency and having a willingness for open dialogue and sharing.
Belonging – Creating an inclusive and culturally safe space for all. All are welcome.
Respect – Honouring each other’s strengths and celebrating different voices
Courage – Taking a leadership role when appropriate, staying strong when faced with adversity, speaking up when others cannot, and being willing to listen to ideas other than our own.
Compassion -Meeting people where they are at and taking action to build equity and resilience.
Love - It equals the passion that gets us up in the morning. It drives the change that needs to happen in the world. It can move us from the status quo to making systems-level changes.
Enjoyment - Connects us. Anchors us in the community and helps us stay the course.