Partners in Community
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 our commitment to walking alongside Indigenous partners and was inclusive of all areas and First Nation communities throughout the region. The NOW Network welcomed the participation of the Gabriola Health and Wellness Collaborative in 2023, a rural and remote table serving Gabriola since 2016. 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.
NOW Network Meetings
The Naut'sa mawt Oceanside Wellness Network members meet bi-monthly month on the second Tuesday of the month from 5pm to 7pm. Meetings are held in-person with a hybrid option for those who can't attend in person. Meetings are held in Oceanside and Greater Nanaimo to ensure we have equity and allow for broader participation representation from across the region.
Network meetings focus on sharing data and stories on community identified priorities, with a focus on upstream prevention, as well as modifiable risk factors.
NOW Network members are welcome to present the work of their organization on programs and services that address our priorities.
To learn more about our meetings please contact our coordinator.
