Spotlighting one of our amazing team members so you can learn more about the people who help make our organization what it is. This time, we’re chatting with Stephanie San from South VancouverNeighbourhood House about her role as UX, Marketing and Communications Coordinator. “My neighbourhood house journey was first lit on a snowy winter day…
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.
Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is on September 30th. This day is a time to listen, learn, and reflect on the injustices experienced by Indigenous children in residential schools, and the lasting impacts on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities — while honouring their resilience and strength. Across our…
Skylar is a Two-Spirit Michif Person whose Kokum (grandmother) is from Ste. Madeleine, and Mooshum (grandfather) is from Duck Bay-Camperville in Manitoba. Skylar is the Team Lead for 3-5 year old, Full Day Childcare at Marpole Neighbourhood House (MNH), and his journey of transformation, both personal and within the community, has unfolded through a deep…
At the corner of Victoria and 49th Avenue, South Vancouver Neighbourhood House has stood since 1977. For decades, its neutral brick walls blended into the background, unreflective of the vibrance and community life unfolding inside. “Some participants have said that they thought our building was an insurance office and didn’t know to come in until…
From her first role at Sasamat in 2014 to now leading as Executive Director, Kristen Hyodo’s journey is one of transformation, purpose, and passion. What started as temporary move grew into a lifelong commitment to outdoor education, youth leadership, and Land Justice. Today, Sasamat Outdoor Centre thrives under her leadership as a space where young…
