UNITED SIKHS Celebrates the Successful Launch of the Vaapsi Project in Canada
VANCOUVER, January 2025 – UNITED SIKHS is proud to announce the successful launch of the Vaapsi Project, an innovative initiative offering a personalized and voluntary one-on-one buddy system to assist individuals facing challenges with drug, alcohol, or gambling addiction.
Vaapsi, meaning “Returning to Life” in Punjabi, is designed to provide culturally relevant support for individuals struggling with addiction, with a particular focus on the South Asian community in Canada. The program is built on the core foundation of Sikhism and draws strength from its deep connection to the cultural and spiritual practices that participants hold dear. This approach offers individuals a recovery path that feels approachable and inclusive rather than alienating.
Since its launch, the program has already had a significant impact, offering comprehensive support and guidance to participants. It begins with a six-week hands-on initiative, followed by bi-weekly check-ins for the first two months and subsequent monthly check-ins, ensuring ongoing support. What sets Vaapsi apart is its commitment to creating a recovery process that is stigma-free and socially integrated, ensuring participants feel respected and included while fostering a sense of belonging in their communities.
To achieve these outcomes, the Vaapsi Project incorporates several carefully designed components. Participants receive medical support, including detailed assessments and treatment plans tailored to their needs. Meditation, in the form of Naam Simran, helps reduce stress and anxiety, addressing common triggers for substance abuse while fostering inner peace and clarity. Physical activities such as Gatka (martial arts), horseback riding, wrestling, and hiking are also integrated, promoting physical well-being and confidence.
Additionally, the project places a strong emphasis on career-building activities. Facilities such as computer rooms are provided to enable participants to engage in personal growth and skill development. One-on-one mentorship ensures consistent guidance as participants work toward achieving personal and professional goals. Support for career advancement is comprehensive, ranging from assistance with resume writing and LinkedIn networking to securing certifications and job placements. These initiatives empower participants to re-enter the workforce with
confidence and independence.
The project also includes recreational and educational activities such as field trips to museums, farms, and carpentry workshops, fostering learning and camaraderie. Motivational sessions by former participants, spiritual leaders, and professionals offer insights into overcoming challenges, karma, discipline, and career planning. Social activities, including online games and movie nights, allow participants to relax and rekindle their passions, ensuring a well-rounded recovery process.
UNITED SIKHS remains committed to expanding the Vaapsi Project beyond British Columbia to communities in Ontario, Edmonton, and Winnipeg in the near future. By doing so, the organization hopes to bring its transformative impact to a broader population, offering a structured yet compassionate approach to recovery and reintegration.
This program would not have been possible without the generous support of donors, sponsors, community leaders and volunteers who share the vision of fostering recovery and empowerment.
Special thanks to Dr. Puri from Roshni Clinic Surrey for providing medical services, SAMHA (South Asian Mental Health Alliance) for providing counseling and case management, Sikh Student Association (SSA) from Douglas University for Volunteer Support and Youth Outreach, Team Souda (Veer Kulpreet Singh and Veer Gurkirat Singh), whose tireless efforts have been instrumental in helping students recover from substance use and addiction. Their unwavering commitment and compassionate approach continue to inspire and transform lives.
We are deeply grateful to our Food Service Sponsors – Tasty Indian Bistro, Mirch Masala, and Spice 72, all based in Surrey – for providing fresh, nutritious meals daily to the program participants. These meals ensure that individuals can focus on their recovery while maintaining good health, forming a crucial part of their journey to wellness.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Veer Bikramjit Singh Sandhar, Giani Narinder Singh ji from Gurdwara Dukh Niwaran Surrey , Veer Harkirat Singh Kular and Veer Kawaljit Singh from Punjab Guardian, a renowned and trusted publication. Their generous contributions of resources and unwavering support have been instrumental in the success of the Vaapsi Project, empowering participants to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
UNITED SIKHS continues to uphold its mission of empowering individuals, fostering recovery, and promoting community reintegration through initiatives like the Vaapsi Program. By blending compassionate support with practical resources, Vaapsi aims to create a self-sustaining cycle of hope, healing, and empowerment for its participants.
For more information about the Vaapsi Program or to get involved, please contact Sukhwinder Singh, National Director – Canada at +1-778-769-3334 or visit our website at www.unitedsikhs.org.