About Us

Eureka Support Society (ESS) is a multifaceted resource centre dedicated to supporting adults living with persistent mental health challenges. As a federally registered charity, ESS provides educational, vocational, social, and recreational opportunities tailored to the unique needs and interests of our members.

At the heart of ESS is our Clubhouse model—a welcoming, inclusive environment where members feel safe, valued, and supported. We believe that every individual has unique strengths and talents to contribute, and together we create a vibrant community built on dignity, respect, and belonging.

Membership at ESS is open to individuals with a history of mental illness who are seeking a supportive community. Referrals are accepted from healthcare providers such as social workers, physicians, and Vancouver Island Health Authority.

Our programs continue to evolve in response to members’ interests and include activities such as mindfulness, yoga, music, art, baking, social events, and community outings. These opportunities empower members to build skills, foster connections, and enhance their overall well-being.

Eureka Support Society gratefully acknowledges funding from Island Health Mental Health & Substance Use Services, the Province of British Columbia, and the United Way Central and Northern Vancouver Island, as well as the generosity of the Estates of Paul Ryan and Dorothy Fobin Ryan. We also welcome community donations, with charitable tax receipts issued for contributions over $20. At ESS, we are more than a program—we are a community working together toward recovery, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Member’s Support Worker

Jason Kirsch

Executive Director

Pamela Podmoroff

What is a Clubhouse?

A Clubhouse is a community-based approach to mental health recovery that focuses on psychosocial rehabilitation, belonging, and empowerment. Unlike traditional treatment settings, a Clubhouse is not a clinical program—it is a supportive community where members work side by side to achieve wellness, develop skills, and build meaningful connections.
At Eureka Support Society (ESS), our Clubhouse is a vibrant space where individuals living with mental health challenges are welcomed as valued members. We believe every person has unique talents, strengths, and abilities that contribute to the success of our community.
Through shared responsibility, evolving activities, and opportunities for personal growth, our members are encouraged to take an active role in shaping the life of the Clubhouse. This creates an environment that is safe, inclusive, and empowering, where dignity and respect are central to everything we do.
Together, we celebrate individual achievements while fostering collective growth—helping each member not only maintain positive mental well-being but also thrive in their journey of recovery.

Our Philosophy

At Eureka Support Society (ESS), our philosophy is rooted in the belief that recovery is best achieved through community, belonging, dignity, and respect. These values are at the heart of our Clubhouse model and guide everything we do.

Community and Belonging
We believe everyone has a place and a role within our community. ESS fosters a welcoming environment where members are supported, valued, and connected, building a sense of true belonging.
Dignity and Respect
Participation at ESS is grounded in dignity and respect. Members are not just welcomed—they are essential to the life and success of our Clubhouse. Their strengths, talents, and contributions shape the programs, activities, and culture of our community.

Together, these values ensure that ESS is more than a program—it is a vibrant community where individuals with mental health challenges can grow, thrive, and work toward recovery in an inclusive, empowering environment.

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Our Mission

Empowerment Through Participation: ESS is a place where members are encouraged to participate actively and meaningfully. We recognize that our members are wanted and needed, and their contributions are crucial.

Evolving Activities: ESS’s activities and programs evolve based on our members’ interests and needs. This ensures that our offerings remain relevant and engaging. Examples of our activities include;

Mindfulness
Meditation
Yoga
Dance
Music
Art
Baking
POTS Program (Pass on the Savings)
Crafts
Knitting Group
Walks and Talks
Field Trips
Board Games

Our History

Eureka Support Society (ESS) began as a grassroots initiative by individuals with mental health diagnoses seeking mutual support. Inspired by the Fountain House Clubhouse Model of rehabilitation, ESS embodies the same principles of community and empowerment.

The Beginning: After five years of dedicated planning, the Eureka Clubhouse officially opened on February 8, 1992. The original location was Sutton’s Funeral Home. Members undertook most of the renovation work with the help of friends and family. The Clubhouse initially operated through fundraising and volunteer efforts. In July 1992, ESS received a government grant, and by September 1992, ongoing funding was secured from Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA).

Relocation and Growth: After a decade at the Sutton Funeral Home location, ESS relocated to St. George’s Church. Understanding the importance of a need for a permanent home, fundraising efforts began to purchase a building.

Fundraising Efforts: Kevin Aurelius launched numerous fundraising campaigns, including sales, Walk of Life walkathons, and marathons to raise funds and awareness. Grant applications and support from community businesses and individuals were crucial.

Significant Contributors: Special thanks are due to Crossroads Crisis Centre, Friends of Schizophrenia, mental health workers, and the Canadian Mental Health Assocation.

A Permanent Home: Through these collective efforts, ESS purchased a building in May 2004 at its current location on 280 4th Street, Courtenay.

Vocational Opportunities

At Eureka Support Society, members have the opportunity to build skills and gain confidence through a variety of paid and volunteer roles within the Clubhouse. Whether working in the kitchen, assisting with janitorial tasks, helping with maintenance, or supporting other daily operations, these roles provide meaningful ways to contribute to our community while developing valuable vocational experience. Participation is flexible and supportive, ensuring that every member can find a role that matches their interests and abilities. If you’re interested in exploring opportunities at ESS, we encourage you to connect with us to learn more.

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Social and Community

At Eureka Support Society, we recognize the importance of connection in supporting mental health and wellness. Our Clubhouse offers a safe, welcoming, and structured space where members can drop in, spend time with peers, engage with supportive staff, and participate in meaningful daily activities.

Members are encouraged not only to take part but also to plan, develop, and lead activities that reflect their interests and strengths. From art, music, and crafts to guided walks, board games, and community outings, our social and recreational programs are designed to:

Promote mental well-being
Reduce isolation
Build friendships and peer support
Foster a strong sense of belonging

Through these opportunities, ESS creates a vibrant community where members can feel connected, supported, and empowered.

Eureka Support Society Board of Directors

The Eureka Support Society is led by a dedicated group of local volunteers who make up the board of directors. Without their hard work the society and the clubhouse could not operate