On The Horizon - September 10, 2025
- Downtown Duncan
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
What is on the Horizon for the Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area? Read below to get caught up on the day-to-day, upcoming events, and news from Members.
Footprints Safety & Security Patrols: One Month In
Since launching August 1, the Downtown Duncan BIA’s Safety and Security Patrol Program (in partnership with Footprints Security) is already making a noticeable impact downtown.
Highlights from the first month:
Regular foot & vehicle patrols are reducing unwanted activity.
Trespassers and hidden encampments removed from business properties.
Unsecured buildings identified and re-secured before damage occurred.
Small fire extinguished before it spread.
Break-in attempt stopped before vandalism could occur.
A visible patrol presence is proving to be a strong deterrent—helping keep Downtown Duncan safer and more welcoming for everyone.
This is a shared investment in the safety, vibrancy, and success of Downtown Duncan. The
more businesses who participate, the stronger the program becomes.
If you're interested in joining the patrol program or would like more information, feel free to
reach out to Thea Hitchcock at hitchcock@downtownduncan.ca or Charles Kraeling from
Footprints at sales@footprintssecurity.com
Join the Downtown Duncan BIA Board of Directors!
We’re looking for engaged and enthusiastic members to join the Downtown Duncan BIA Board of Directors!Board commitments are minimal — just 11 monthly meetings per year held at the DDBIA office. Experience serving on a board that uses Robert’s Rules of Order is considered an asset.
There are also a number of committees you can choose to participate in, depending on your interests. Committee meetings vary in frequency and may occur monthly, quarterly, or bi-annually, depending on the committee’s focus.
As an added incentive, sitting Board members receive 25% off any of our co-advertising programs.
This is a great opportunity to help shape the direction of the DDBIA and have your voice heard on decisions that impact Downtown Duncan.
If you're interested or would like to learn more, please contact Executive Director Thea Hitchcock at or call 250-715-1700.
Coming Soon: DDBIA Social Media Co-Advertising Program
Ready to put your business in front of thousands of eyes? Our new co-advertising program will leverage the DDBIA’s large and growing social media audience to help you reach your ideal customers. With tiered campaign options starting at just $25 and scaling up to $500, you can choose the investment that fits your goals. Best of all, you’ll work directly with our expert social media manager to craft a targeted campaign that gets results.
✨ Launching soon—watch for details!
🧡 Call for Volunteers – Every Child Matters Walk
The 4th annual Every Child Matters Walk will take place on Tuesday, September 30 in Downtown Duncan, and we’re looking for volunteers to help make this important community event a success. From setup and crowd support to cleanup, your time and energy will help honour survivors and their families while bringing our community together.
If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact: Audrey George at ageorge@makola.bc.ca
Community Screening & Discussion – Penelakut: Returning to the Healing Circle
Join us on Wednesday, September 24 at 7pm at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre for a powerful screening of Penelakut: Returning to the Healing Circle.
Filmmaker Peter Campbell returns to Penelakut Island 25 years after documenting abuse at Kuper Island Indian Residential School.
This important film invites us to reflect on the lasting impacts of residential schools, honour survivors, and work together toward understanding and healing. The evening will include a guided discussion, with cedar brushing and emotional support available on site.
📍 Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St, Duncan
🔞 16+ Event
Looking for the perfect holiday gift for your team?
Duncan Dollars make a thoughtful, flexible option for employee appreciation. They’re easy to give, fun to spend, and support our incredible local businesses. Whether it’s a stocking stuffer or a staff bonus, Duncan Dollars keep holiday cheer—and shopping—right here in Downtown Duncan.
👉 Contact us today to order yours in time for the holiday season!
Free YAM Magazines for Members
We’ve received a fresh box of the September/October issue of YAM Magazine! If you’d like a copy (or a few for your shop, office, or waiting area), stop by the DDBIA office to pick them up—free for members while supplies last.
Duncan Farmers’ Market Night Markets - September 18
Cowichan Public Art Gallery's Art in the Alley - June 28 - September 13
Cowichan Valley Youth Services AGM - September 16 - Duncan United Church
Every Child Matters Walk - September 30
We encourage all members to list their upcoming events on our website at downtownduncan.ca/ddbia-events to help promote your activities and drive more foot traffic to your business. It’s quick, easy, and free to submit!
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