Our Mission

Carol’s Light is founded on the belief each of us has something- we all share grief and light. We believe that we are better together and that with clear awareness, our light can shine.

How it began

Carol’s Light is named after Carol Vanek, who lived with bi-polar disorder. Throughout her many challenges, she found her inspiration and daily gratitude through worship and the love of family.

In September 2008, Carol was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. As her family gathered around her hospital bed, Carol looked at us and said, “The doctor has given me 3 to 6 months. What a blessing. I will have 3 to 6 months to say goodbye to all my loved ones before I go home”. To this day, Jaemie (her son) and I, are forever grateful for Carol’s words and so humbled to have seen her grace, compassion, and acceptance of her final journey. I remember Carol’s smile, her prayers, her tears, her singing and whistling, and her stories. But most of all I remember her love.

We believe everyone faces personal challenges, and through the support of community, we are better together. We welcome you on our journey.

A Letter From Deby

Our Story

The spark

Both Carol and our community showed us the meaning of grace and compassion when we needed it most. Their examples sparked a light inside of us and we founded Carol’s Light in 2020.

The growth

Thanks to our generous donors, we deliver gifts and funding to individuals in need. We partner with yoga teachers, oncology nurses, therapeutic artists, service dog trainers, and other relevant experts to serve our community.

The dream

We dream of building a community of care. We hope to help people realize their inner strength and provide meaningful resources when they are needed most. We invite you to join us in our journey.

Our Services

I Am Brave creates opportunities for people who are fighting cancer and their families to relax, rejuvenate, and experience ease in their day. A variety of services are offered, including our I Am Brave Gift Baskets
We visit senior centres, schools, airports and other areas to serve people experiencing anxiety and trauma
By working with trusted teachers, our trauma-informed mindfulness & yoga programs support people of all ages both online and in-person
Our therapeutic art classes blend wellness practices and creative expression to help participants cope with stress in judgement-free spaces
The Ryla B. Pay-it-Forward Program is committed to continually funding a minimum of $300 per year. These funds are given to a deserving individual in honor of Ryla’s kindness
Our team engages students and educators to examine how personal choices affect the environment. SOF integrates mindfulness to motivate thoughtful discussions and environmentally-conscious actions