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WEST COAST SPEAKS HEALTH SOCIETY
Reducing loneliness through conversation
OUR MISSION
West Coast Speaks Health Society creates simple opportunities for people to talk with strangers, build connections, , promote social well-being and reduce social isolation. These initiatives help address the growing problem of loneliness and social isolation by encouraging everyday opportunities for conversation, connection, and community belonging.
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The Social Health Crisis
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Loneliness and social isolation are increasingly recognized as serious public health concerns. Research shows that chronic loneliness can negatively affect both mental and physical health, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, heart disease, and early mortality.
In Canada, millions of people report feeling lonely on a regular basis, and young people are now among the most affected.
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At West Coast Speaks, we believe something powerful happens when people simply start talking to one another. Conversation is one of the simplest ways to rebuild connection, belonging, and community.
Our Impact
West Coast Speaks programs are designed to create small moments of connection that ripple outward into stronger communities.
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In 2025, our work included:
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• 12 Meet a Stranger events hosted in Victoria cafés and community spaces
• 464 strangers coming together for meaningful conversations
• A community of 1,300+ local members in the Meet a Stranger meetup group
• 5,000+ Open to Conversation buttons distributed throughout the community
• 10 local café partnerships supporting conversation-friendly spaces
• 4 media spotlights raising awareness about loneliness and the importance of connection
• West Coast Speaks served as Lived Experience Co-Chair on a Capital Regional District (CRD) project addressing social connection and community well-being
Each conversation may seem small, but together these moments help strengthen belonging and social health across our communities.
Community Voices
Attending, and then co-hosting, Meet a Stranger did much to undo my introversion. Meet a Stranger came about at a time when I was ready to meet new people, make new stronger community connections, and to spend less time alone. For many adults, meeting new people is challenging. Meet a Stranger simplified and demystified that for me. These events reminded me that loneliness is not forever, and that new connections are possible. I shared. I listened. Mostly, I was reminded that people are the same anywhere you go: they want to feel a part of other people’s lives. These conversations build community, create bonds, and add a much-needed sense of connection.
- Jason
Meet a Stranger was a refreshing and engaging experience, bringing together 50 people in a unique setup where strangers were paired to chat freely on any topic. The beauty of the event lies in the freedom to express thoughts without fear or hesitation, knowing the person you’re talking to doesn’t know your past. It was a truly interactive session that encouraged openness, authenticity, and meaningful conversations.
- Elham
Thank you for hosting Meet a Stranger. Before I joined the event, I always felt very nervous and thought about not going. But when I arrived the place, you always greeted me with smile. It made me smile and relaxed. I could become a friendly person and get brave through the event. It was such an amazing event! I won’t forget this experience! Thank you so much.
- Hiromi