Every strong community is built on care—and for over 125 years, the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) has been at the heart of that care. As a trusted not-for-profit registered charity, VON delivers essential home and community-based services that help people remain safe, supported, and independent in their own homes.
Though VON’s name might call up up images of nurses and home visits—and rightfully so—the reality is that VON’s impact stretches far beyond clinical care. It is a lifeline for isolated seniors, a source of strength for family caregivers, a provider of comfort at end-of-life, and a champion of public health and wellness. At the heart of all this work are the incredible VON staff, and volunteers.
A Legacy of Service, A Future of Compassion
VON was founded in 1897 and has since evolved into one of the most trusted home and community care providers in the country. From nursing to personal support, and seniors exercise to adult day programs, VON touches lives in deeply meaningful ways. These services aren’t just “nice to have”—they are essential. They allow people to remain in their homes with dignity, reduce strain on hospital systems, and offer families peace of mind.
The Power of Giving
VON is a registered charity. That means while some of its services receive government support, many do not. To bridge the gap, VON relies heavily on the generosity of donors—individuals, families, businesses, and community partners who believe in its mission and invest in the wellbeing of their neighbours.
Donations support program enhancement, and innovation. They allow VON to pilot new programs, purchase essential equipment, and respond quickly to emerging community needs. They also give the organization the flexibility to be person-centered—offering care that adapts to the individual, not just the diagnosis.
When you give to VON, you’re not just giving money—you’re giving moments. Moments of comfort, moments of companionship, moments of dignity. In the often invisible world of home and community care, these moments are everything.
The Volunteer Effect: Community in Action
Equally essential to VON’s success are its volunteers. At a time when many organizations struggle to attract and retain volunteer support, VON continues to be powered by the compassion and dedication of people who choose to give their time to help others. Their impact cannot be overstated.
VON volunteers are the cheerful voices making wellness calls, checking in on isolated clients to ensure they are safe and heard. They facilitate exercise classes, help run adult day programs, and offer companionship to people in their final days of life.
Every hour given by a volunteer relieves pressure on the healthcare system. Every friendly conversation reduces loneliness and depression. Every visit gives a caregiver time to rest and recharge. Volunteers don’t just support VON’s mission—they are the mission in action.
Moreover, volunteering with VON is not a one-way street. Time and again, volunteers share how the experience gives them a sense of purpose, community, and fulfillment. In a world that often feels disconnected, VON offers a place to belong—a way to make a tangible difference.
The Challenge Ahead
The demographic shift in Canada is undeniable. Our population is aging, and the demand for home and community-based care is rising rapidly. At the same time, healthcare systems are stretched thin, and costs continue to climb. In this environment, organizations like VON are more critical than ever—and more in need of support than ever.
Charitable giving is not just about maintaining the status quo—it’s about meeting the moment. It’s about scaling up services, supporting more caregivers, reaching the most vulnerable, and preparing for what’s next.
The same is true for volunteering. As older adults make up a growing portion of the population, VON will need more hands on deck—more people willing to step forward and help neighbours live well at home for as long as possible.
The call to action is clear: if we want to protect and enhance this vital layer of care in our communities, we must invest in it. That means opening our hearts, our wallets, and our calendars.
What You Can Do
You don’t need to be a nurse to support VON’s mission. You don’t need medical training or deep pockets. You simply need to care—and to act.
Donate. Every dollar helps VON deliver more care to more people. One-time gifts, monthly contributions, memorial donations, and legacy gifts all make a meaningful difference.
Volunteer. Whether you have an hour a week or a few hours a month, your time can change someone’s life. And in many cases, it may change yours too.
Spread the word. Tell your friends and family about VON. Share your experiences. Advocate for support of home and community care.
At its core, VON is about people. It’s about neighbours caring for neighbours. It’s about meeting people where they are—literally and emotionally—and offering the kind of support that allows them to live with dignity, connection, and peace.
In an era of rapid change and increasing complexity, VON remains committed to carrying out its mission: delivering care and services that make every day as full of meaning and hope as possible. This mission is only possible with the generous spirit of donors, the time and talents of volunteers, and the collective commitment of the communities we serve.
As we look toward the future, let us recognize VON for being at the heart of the healthcare system, bringing people support at home and in the community, so they can live healthier, happier lives, surrounded by loved ones.
To learn how you too can be at the heart of care, visit von.ca