Tell Us Your Story. What motivated you to start your business? Why are you passionate about what you do?

Forged on five pivotal values: Authenticity, Trust, Empowerment, Collaboration and Hope— Lauren Legere, RCC & Dr. Sereena Uppal founded Latitude Wellness with a clear vision: to create a sanctuary where individuals from all walks of life can find comprehensive support for their mental health and wellness needs. The goal was to create a calm inclusive space for humans from all walks of life to lean into the best versions of themselves through preventative care addressing the mind, body and spirit. In 2020 Lauren Legere, RCC started her counselling practice in a small office space in downtown Vancouver. With a clear vision and a corporate background, Lauren knew she wanted to use her counselling expertise to connect and support individuals in high pressure professions, folks struggling with depression, anxiety, burnout, and trauma. However- Like any journey, the path has not been without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented obstacles, forcing Lauren to adapt and pivot. After being connected with Dr. Sereena Uppal in 2021, Lauren and Dr. Sereena realized they both wanted the same thing in a clinic- a safe and inclusive space for humans to find support. Inspired by the gaps in mainstream healthcare, they established a haven dedicated entirely to mental health, physical health, and well-being. Latitude Wellness, a women owned and founded clinic, was built on the foundation that every human should have access to premium, research-backed holistic healthcare. We have redefined what it means to care for individuals by offering a comprehensive range of services that address both physical and mental health. Our team of highly skilled professionals, including chiropractors, naturopaths, counselors, and massage therapists, work collaboratively to provide personalized care that meets the unique needs of each client. This integrative approach not only helps our clients achieve their health goals but also empowers them to live fuller, healthier lives.

Describe and demonstrate, including metrics, your community support. How do you support and uplift your community, and how do they show that support in return? Minimum 25 words, maximum 2500 characters.

At Latitude Wellness, we believe that wellness extends beyond individual health—it encompasses the well-being of the entire community. Our mission is not only to provide exceptional care to our clients but also to contribute positively to the community that supports us. Through various initiatives, collaborations, and services, we aim to uplift the community and, in turn, have been grateful to receive immense support and appreciation. Over the last 2 years Latitude has hosted a number of free wellness workshops in order to connect with our community and collaborate with other small businesses. In February we hosted a free "Galentines" event where we offered free pampering services, food & drinks, and the opportunity to connect with our practitioners for free consultations. Latitude Wellness also provides pro bono counselling support to indigenous communities through initiatives with K5T, FNHA, and NVHA. Additionally, we also provide pro bono support through various non profits such as Mamas for Mamas & MOM2MOM. Last year our team (and clients!) rallied together and sponsored a local family for Christmas where we were fortunate enough to provide gifts, food, clothing, & more! At Latitude Wellness, we're deeply committed to giving back to our community. We believe that wellness extends beyond our clinic walls and into the hearts and homes of those we serve. Whether it's through community outreach, supporting local initiatives, or offering accessible care to those in need, our mission is to foster a healthier, more connected community. Together, we can build a brighter future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We are passionate about making wellness accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or financial situation. Through community outreach programs, sliding scale fees, and partnerships with local organizations, we ensure that our services are available to those who need them most. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the benefits of holistic care, and we work tirelessly to remove any barriers standing in the way.

Why do you deserve to win the Business Impact award?

As leaders in our community, Latitude Wellness actively engages in initiatives that promote health and well-being beyond our clinic. We partner with local organizations, participate in health fairs, and offer educational workshops to raise awareness about holistic health practices. Our team members are encouraged to volunteer their time and expertise, and we provide opportunities for them to get involved in causes they are passionate about. This commitment to community engagement reflects our broader mission to make a positive impact on the world around us. Our mission is to create a profound and lasting impact on the health and well-being of our community. We believe we deserve to win the Business Impact award because of our unwavering commitment to holistic care, our innovative approach to wellness, and our dedication to making a difference in the lives of our clients and beyond. Our impact is not just measured by the number of clients we serve, but by the positive changes we help bring about in our community. We have created a safe, welcoming space where individuals can seek support, healing, and empowerment. By fostering a culture of compassion, inclusivity, and continuous growth, we contribute to the overall well-being of our community and inspire others to prioritize their health. Winning the Business Impact award would be a testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication that drives Latitude Wellness every day. It would recognize our efforts to create a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients and reaffirm our commitment to building a healthier, more connected community. It would allow us to continue to break down access barriers for our community, and give us the opportunity to expand to smaller communities that need support. We firmly believe that everyone, regardless of background or financial status, deserves access to mental and physical healthcare. Winning this award would mean additional support for our team, for the clients we support, and for the community we want to continue to uplift.

Tell Us About Your Culture. How are you creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome? Provide examples of leadership you show in interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, staff and others.

At Latitude Wellness, we understand that a thriving workplace culture is the foundation of a successful and sustainable organization. Our culture is rooted in the principles of holistic health, inclusivity, and continuous growth, where every team member feels valued, empowered, and inspired. As healthcare providers dedicated to the well-being of our community, we believe that fostering a supportive, diverse, and healthy workplace is not only essential for our team but also directly impacts the quality of care we deliver to our clients. We have clear policies in place to prevent discrimination, harassment, and bullying, and we provide training to ensure that these standards are upheld. We also offer resources and support for those who may experience challenges, ensuring that everyone feels secure in our workplace. We practice what we preach- which means we prioritize mental, physical, and emotional health, ensuring that our employees have the tools and resources they need to thrive; this can look like flexible work hours, mandated time off, "shutting off" at the end of the day (not taking work home), etc. This approach to workplace wellness is multifaceted, encompassing both individual support and organizational practices that promote long-term well-being. Our team also has access to the services offered within Latitude and are encouraged to utilize them. The commitment to employee health reflects our broader philosophy of integrated care and highlights the importance of maintaining balance in all areas of life. We also believe in recognizing and celebrating the achievements of our team members. From personal milestones to professional accomplishments, we make it a point to acknowledge and celebrate these moments. Within our team, leadership is expressed through collaboration and mutual support. We encourage staff to take initiative, share their expertise, and contribute to decision-making processes. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, where every team member feels empowered to lead in their area of expertise. Whether it’s a clinician sharing insights on patient care or an administrative staff member proposing a new workflow, leadership at Latitude Wellness is about lifting each other up and working together towards common goals.