Our two February 6 speakers will be Lissa Alexander (below left), SOS Communications Manager, and Sarah Costen (below right), Volunteer Relations Coordinator.
Join us on February 6 to explore the history and impact of SOS in District 69. Discover how over 20 different programs and services support residents of all ages, and find out how you can get involved. You will see inspiring videos, learn about volunteer opportunities, and understand how community support enables SOS to provide essential services and build connections.
It was 1968 when a group of local folks decided that “volunteer services needed to be organized!” and they started the SOS – Society of Organized Services. They started with a single program; now they offer more than 20. Come and hear Lissa and Sarah catch us all up on this important local institution and get your questions answered. Mine is “How did your thrift store get started – and what was your business model?”
- Click here to learn more about the history of the Society of Organized Services.
About our Speakers:
Lissa Alexander grew up in the Parksville-Qualicum Beach region, graduating from Kwalikum Secondary School before heading off to see the world. She returned to the area in 2010.
Continuing her career in journalism, Lissa joined the PQB News as a reporter and became the editor of Oasis Magazine. In 2014, Lissa took on the role of Marketing Coordinator at SOS while also serving as editor of Oasis Magazine for 10 years. In 2021, Lissa became the Communications Manager at SOS.
In her spare time, Lissa enjoys spending time with her children, exploring the natural beauty of our area and embarking on personal journeys of discovery. She finds her work at SOS very rewarding, working at an incredible organization that meets needs and improves lives in the region.
Sarah Costen is the Volunteer Relations Coordinator at SOS. Originally from the United Kingdom, she has called Canada home for the past 17 years. She has a background in education and program coordination, along with a recent qualification in Business Administration.
She moved to Vancouver Island from Alberta in May 2025, and joined SOS in September. When she’s not working, Sarah enjoys getting out into nature, and exploring the many hiking, and walking trails in the local area. Additionally, Sarah loves listening to audiobooks and writing.
