Strategic Plan 2026-2029

Sep 8, 2026

In recent years, WISH Drop-In Centre Society’s capacity has been stretched thin by rising demand, limited capacity, and processes that pulled in different directions.

We needed a plan that would help align operations, support more humane ways of working, and ensure reliable program delivery for the women, trans, and gender-diverse sex workers we serve.

Reset. Realign. Rise. is our commitment to do the work differently.

This Strategic Plan marks a turning point for WISH. It honours where we’ve been and sets a clear intention for how we will move forward.

It calls us to focus on what is essential, strengthen the systems that sustain us, and realign as we move toward healthier, more resilient operations and improved experiences for participants.

Three strategic directions will guide our work from 2026 to 2029

Our Vision, Purpose and Core Commitments

When facing conditions of constant change and deep inequity, our vision and purpose guide us, reminding us of who we serve, what we stand for, and how we need to show up every single day.

Our core commitments translate these principles into action.

By sharing WISH’s mandate in accessible, inclusive language, it becomes a practical tool that shapes choices, guides development, and keeps WISH focused on the people at its core.

Vision:

Safety. Dignity. Self-Determination. For every sex worker.

Purpose:

WISH exists so women, trans, Two-Spirit and non-binary sex workers can live and work on their own terms, free from violence, judgment and rescue. We create space for safety and connection by centring street-based voices within our community.

Core Commitments:

Rights, Not Rescue

We don’t save people. We stand beside them.

Safety is the Floor, Not the Ceiling

Every program, policy, and person at WISH has to build safety.

Autonomy Always

People know what they need. We listen to them.

Centring Lived Experience

Sex workers inform decision-making.

Harm Reduction is Essential

Substance use exists, healing exists. We support everyone.

Decolonization is Practice, Not Promise

We work on stolen land and serve a large Urban Indigenous community. We build relationships with intention, respect, and accountability.

Accountability Builds Trust

Say the hard things. Own the mistakes.

Care is Collective

We approach the work, and each other, with care.

Acknowledgements

Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, experience, and insight to this planning process.

To the WISH participants who shared their perspectives with honesty and generosity, your voices shaped this Plan in meaningful ways, and we are grateful for your trust.

To our staff and management team, your dedication, creativity, and resilience, shown day after day, often in complex and demanding conditions, shows what WISH is capable of when we work together.

We are grateful for the leadership of our Executive Director, Board of Directors and Senior Leadership Team for guiding this work, supported by There Management Consulting Inc.

Finally, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for the ongoing support of our allies, donors, funders, volunteers, and community partners.

Your belief in WISH, and your consistent contributions, strengthen our work and expand what is possible for the women, trans, and gender-diverse people we serve.