It was 2022 when Nancy Milliken first heard about the Habitat for Humanity project on Piercy Road in Courtenay. Habitat’s mission is to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope — a mission to which Nancy connected. So, wanting to show her support, she approached her friends Wendy Smith and Louise Smiley about raising funds for the project.

Nancy had heard of Cookie Walks – popular in communities across Canada, Europe, and the United Kingdom – and thought the idea might be a perfect fit. The friends approached their church, St. George’s United, which warmly offered the use of its hall. And what began as a simple act of kindness has quickly become an annual event that brings people together for something both sweet and meaningful.

Raising Dough for The Anchorage

In 2024, with the Habitat project complete, the friends turned their attention to another vital initiative: L’Arche Comox Valley’s new housing project, The Anchorage. Located at 1560 Grieve Avenue in Courtenay, this new capital project will create 16 mini-homes in a village-style setting, along with a shared amenity space for people with developmental disabilities.

L’Arche is a non-profit that’s been part of the Comox Valley since 2000. Known as a place of belonging, it invites people with and without disabilities to build community together. L’Arche is widely recognized for creating vibrant, welcoming homes where everyone is valued.

“When Nancy and Wendy approached us to raise funds and awareness for the The Anchorage,” says Lynda Brosko, L’Arche Comox Valley Community Leader and Executive Director, “we were excited because it’s partnerships like this – small and large – that make meaningful change possible.”

When asked what they like most about organizing the Cookie Walk, Wendy and Nancy exchange a look and a laugh, “Well, we do love cookies,” says Nancy, “maybe a little too much.” Wendy nods, “Don’t leave us unsupervised!” Their lighthearted banter makes it clear that while they’re driven by compassion, they’re also fuelled by sugar, community spirit, and a shared joy for holiday fun. 

“It’s about supporting people in our community – our neighbours,” Wendy adds. “When we work together, we produce more than baking – we build belonging.”