We’re Officially a Living Wage Employer!
At Options for Sexual Health, we’ve always believed that our commitment to care should extend beyond our clients and communities—it should include our staff as well. Over the past year, our team has engaged in reviewing and improving our compensation practices, guided by one clear goal: to ensure that everyone who works here is paid fairly and sustainably.
We’re proud to share that this work has paid off, literally and figuratively! Options for Sexual Health is now officially certified as a Living Wage Employer by Living Wage BC.
What Does It Mean to Be a Living Wage Employer?
A living wage reflects the real costs of living in a community. It’s calculated based on what two working parents with two children need to cover essentials like rent, food, clothing, transportation, childcare, and a small savings cushion for unexpected expenses like illness or an emergency. Earning a living wage means that workers can meet their basic needs and participate fully in their communities without constantly worrying about making ends meet.
You can learn more about the living wage and how it’s calculated by visiting Living Wage BC.
Why We Chose to Make This Commitment
As a nonprofit organization, we know that our incredible team, whether in clinics, classrooms, or offices, are the heart of our mission. They are the reason that sexual health care and education are accessible and inclusive across BC. For years, many in the nonprofit sector have done this work for wages that fall below market levels, often out of sheer dedication to their communities.
But as inflation has risen and the cost of living continues to climb, we recognized that commitment and passion alone aren’t enough to sustain our people. Becoming a Living Wage Employer is our way of acknowledging the value of our staff and ensuring that they are supported in return for the essential work they do.
This certification is not just a milestone; it’s a reflection of our values. We believe that caring for our team is part of caring for our community. We’re proud to stand with other Living Wage Employers across BC who share this belief and are working toward a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
Thank you to our staff for everything you do, and for inspiring us to do better, together.