For almost three decades, Joshua Dahling has been on a profound journey of personal growth and service to others. His decision to embrace sobriety nearly thirty years ago marked the beginning of a remarkable transformation that has seen him become a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals and families.

In 1998, Joshua made a pivotal choice to leave behind his career in the logging industry and relocate from Squamish to Nanaimo. Motivated by a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact, he embarked on a path of education in the human services field. Despite the challenges of being a single parent to three young children, Joshua persisted, simultaneously juggling his studies with roles at various alcohol and drug treatment facilities.

The year 2009 heralded a new chapter in Joshua’s life as he and his wife, Dr. Heather Mohan, founded LUMARA, a registered charity committed to providing essential education and support services across Canada to those grappling with serious illness, grief, and bereavement. Through their tireless efforts, Joshua and Heather have earned widespread recognition and acclaim for their innovative contributions to health care and their unwavering dedication to those in need.

In 2018, Joshua made the deliberate decision to put down roots in Port Alberni, drawn by its serene natural surroundings and abundant outdoor opportunities. For Joshua, immersing himself in nature isn’t just a pastime—it’s a source of profound healing and renewal. Whether exploring trails, fishing, boating, or even swimming in chilly waters, Joshua finds solace and strength in the great outdoors.

Joshua’s passion for serving others is deeply rooted in his own experiences of adversity and resilience. Having faced and overcome abuse, extreme poverty, homelessness, and addiction in his youth, he possesses a unique empathy and understanding of the struggles faced by marginalized individuals and communities. This first-hand knowledge fuels his unwavering commitment to advocating for systemic change and ensuring that all individuals have access to the support and resources they need to thrive.

Joshua’s lived experiences, coupled with his professional expertise and unwavering dedication to his community, make him a compelling candidate for Mid Island-Pacific Rim. His capacity for listening, empathy, and action positions him as a transformative leader poised to bring about positive change and lasting impact for the people he serves.