Meet Our Primary Team
Chris Rafuse CTRS, BSc-TR, DRV
Executive Director
Lisa Williams HBSW, IALC
Community Education &
Program Development Manager
Our team at Brain on Wheels Rehab Society is passionately committed to advancing brain health and supporting individuals at every life stage. Each member brings a wealth of expertise and a deep sense of empathy, ensuring that our approach is both innovative and compassionate. We dedicate ourselves to continuous learning and improvement, keeping abreast of the latest research to provide the highest quality of care. This unwavering commitment drives us to empower our community through education, prevention, and personalized interventions, fostering a path to lifelong cognitive wellness and independence.
Areas We Currently Serve
The Cowichan Area
We service the Cowichan area, located on Southern Vancouver Island, encompassing a region centered around the city of Duncan, BC.
Including the communities of:
Ladysmith, Chemainus, Crofton, Maple Bay, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Malahat, Lake Cowichan, Youbou, Honeymoon Bay, Nitinat, and the Gulf Islands.
At Brain on Wheels Rehab Society, we are proud to serve our local communities with dedication and care. As we continue to grow, we are committed to expanding our reach to support even more individuals in enhancing their brain health and achieving independence. Our aim is to bring our innovative programs and compassionate support to new areas, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Stay tuned as we journey to extend our services beyond current boundaries and make a positive impact on even more lives.
Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge with respect that we are on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded lands of the Coast Salish Peoples and recognize The People of the Warm Land, The Cowichan Tribes First Nation, on whose beautiful land we work, live and play. We raise our hands in gratitude to the Quw'utsun, Malahat, Ts'uubaa-asatx, Penelakut, Stz'uminus, Lyackson, Ditidaht, and Pacheeddaht Peoples for welcoming us and allowing us to call their land home. We commit to walk gently with thoughtful consideration for the seven generations that came before us and the seven generations to come.
The Six Pillars of Brain Health
The Six Pillars of Brain Health are:
- Sleep
- Nutrition
- Physical Exercise
- Cognitive Stimulation
- Stress management
- Social Connection
These pillars represent lifestyle factors that significantly impact cognitive function and overall brain health. By focusing on these areas, individuals can proactively support their brain health and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Together We Thrive!
Proud Members of:
- Duncan Chamber of Commerce
- Volunteer Canada
- Canadian Therapeutic Recreation Association
- British Columbia Therapeutic Recreation Association
- American Therapeutic Recreation Association
The Brain Mobile!
Introducing The Brain Mobile! This uniquely designed vehicle, resembling a brain, is our innovative way of bringing educational programs and resources directly to the community. With The Brain Mobile, we aim to make learning accessible and engaging for everyone. Here’s how we roll out our programs:
- On-the-Move Education: We deliver interactive sessions and workshops no matter where you are in the Cowichan Area.
- Community Engagement: Catch The Brain Mobile at local events, where it transforms into a hub of learning and excitement.
- Hands-On Learning: Experience our programs through fun, educational exhibits and demonstrations.
We’re excited to connect with you and spark curiosity across neighborhoods!
