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.
