Newcomers Archives - Association of Neighbourhood Houses of British Columbia

How Volunteering Helped Tito Build Skills, Friends, and Confidence

For Tito Perez, volunteering at South Vancouver Neighbourhood House became a lifeline after moving to Canada as a refugee. Through the Food Hub program, he practiced English, gained skills, made friends, and built confidence—experience that helped him find meaningful work and a sense of belonging.

Group | Newcomers | Staff | Summer Story Series

Paying It Forward

Amy Majam’s ANHBC journey began sixteen years ago, shortly after she immigrated to Canada from the Philippines. At the time, she had enrolled in a settlement employment program at the Immigrant Services Society of BC, which she credits immensely for helping her adjust to life in Canada. Aside from assisting with her job search, Amy’s…

Building Connection in a New Country

Our next feature in the #GiveToGrow #SummerStorySeries is from Vinita Sud, a yoga teacher, passionate community member, and neighbourhood house Board of Directors volunteer who found meaning and connection at Alex Neighbourhood House. We hope you enjoy Vini’s story, told in her own words. Alex Neighbourhood House has played a pivotal role in my journey…

Impact: Newcomers & Belonging

This week’s Summer Story comes from Rap, a participant from South Vancouver Neighbourhood House (SVNH). Rap was referred to the SVNH by a friend of hers, and this is where Rap met Julie Desta, the Community Engagement Programmer at the Neighbourhood House. We hope you enjoy Rap’s story, of how she found her community and…

Group | Newcomers | Summer Story Series | Volunteer

Impact: Volunteering

Our next story comes from Avria Shier, a volunteer at Kitsilano Neighbourhood House. Originally from Montreal, Avria came to Vancouver in 1993, and has been here ever since. In 2019, a friend referred her to Kits House when Avria mentioned she was interested in volunteering. Avria went on to participate in several programs and events, including…

Impact: Newcomers & Refugees

The Next Summer Stories Series follows Ghfran Alkour and her family, and how they found a new and welcoming community at the Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House after coming to Canada from Syria. We hope you enjoy their story! When you walk through the doors of a neighbourhood house, you are met with a buzz of…

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