Claudia Sjoberg, founder and CEO of Pedalheads, reflects on nearly 20 years of involvement with Cedar Cottage and ANHBC neighbourhood houses. From finding support as a young parent to helping lead the vision for a new building, Claudia shares how these welcoming spaces have shaped her life and inspired her to give back personally and through the Pedalheads’ programs.
On September 21, 2024, Alex House, took part in a powerful Apology and Reconciliation Ceremony with the Semiahmoo First Nation. The event followed Semiahmoo protocols and marked a significant step forward in building an intentional relationship grounded in trust, accountability, and healing. Led by Speaker Swo-Wo Gabriel (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw), the ceremony acknowledged not only people but the land itself. For over 100 years, Alex House has operated on stolen Semiahmoo territory, and this day represented the beginning of a formal journey toward reconciliation.
Safa Abdulmalk, a Child and Youth Worker at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House, shares her journey from fleeing civil war in Syria at age eight to finding safety, friendship, and opportunity in Canada. With support from newcomer programs funded by IRCC, she learned English, built confidence, and became a youth leader representing her community nationally.
Now, due to federal funding cuts, programs that helped shape her future are being reduced or eliminated impacting youth just like her.
Stefani started at Alex House as a childcare coordinator and never imagined she could become a leader. Through mentorship, hands-on experience, and dedication, she grew into Director of Childcare, guiding a team of 50+ educators and shaping a place where children and families feel seen and valued. Her journey shows how working at a neighbourhood house can transform not just the community, but you too.
Skylar began at Marpole Neighbourhood House through a school placement and quickly found his passion working with children aged 3–5. With support and mentorship, he grew into the lead for that program, guiding young learners while continuing to develop professionally. He loves being part of a place where he can share his culture, learn every day, and help build a strong, connected community.
From feeling isolated as a queer Asian teen in White Rock to now leading LGBTQ2S+ programs and helping shape ANHBC’s strategic direction, Kiko’s journey illustrates the heart of neighbourhood house work: creating safe, inclusive spaces where young people are seen, supported, and empowered. Their story is one of remarkable growth—moving from a youth participant seeking connection and belonging to a confident youth facilitator guiding others on the same journey.
For Natasha, working at a neighbourhood house has been truly transformative. From the moment she stepped into her role at Frog Hollow, she felt supported, inspired, and part of a community that genuinely cares. The community-minded nature of the Neighbourhood House has allowed her to reconnect with her Ojibwe ancestry, grow in confidence, and share her knowledge with the youth in the programs. Every day, she sees the impact of the work, and it fills her with pride to be part of an organization that uplifts people, fosters connection, and makes a real difference in the community.
