Where do you go when you’re a newcomer to Vancouver looking for support? Or when you need affordable childcare close to home? What if you’re seeking a venue for a community-led cooking class? For residents in East Vancouver, Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House offers all this, and more.
The quaint, city-owned building on East Broadway is home to a variety of social programs and community services, including weekly potlucks, Aboriginal family programs, seniors services and licensed daycare.
“I would say that we’re a bit of a neighbourhood catalyst,” says Jocelyne Hamel, the executive director of Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House. “We provide services for ages zero to seniors, and for all diversities.” What makes the Neighbourhood House so special, Jocelyne says, is its focus on community engagement and its support for developing resident groups in the area.
Part of the Association of Neighbourhood Houses of BC, Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House is operated by a dedicated team of staff and about 350 volunteers. In addition to its regular programming, the organization also partners with other Vancouver groups to host special events like film screenings or community dialogues.
