The Neigbourhood House Model
At VNHSC, we aim to support newcomers in becoming engaged, contributing membersof their new communities. We do this by holding space for them to shape and inform community life, not just as individuals but as an active part of the wider collective. Our work aligns with both federal and provincial settlement goals, ensuring newcomers receive the support they need while also offering opportunities for them to give back to the community.
Our Growth and Success
In 2022, leaders from six founding members of the VNHSC—Little Mountain
Neighbourhood House, Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House, Kiwassa NeighbourhoodHouse, Collingwood Neighbourhood House, Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House, and South Vancouver Neighbourhood House—came together to collaborate and improve our settlement services. This collaboration led to the successful addition of two more neighbourhood houses—Gordon Neighbourhood House and Marpole
Neighbourhood House—into the consortium.
As part of this expansion, the VNHSC developed new shared programs and supported action-learning projects, focusing on enhancing the skills and knowledge of staff working with newcomers and deepening consortium wide efforts and collaboration on specific programs identified, e.g. Language Enhanced Employment Program, Restorative Circles. By strengthening our collective capacity, we can continue to provide the holistic, equity-focused settlement support that Vancouver’s diverse population
deserves.
A Hollistic Approach To Settlement Services
Each neighbourhood house within the VNHSC reflects and responds to the unique needs of its local community, ensuring that every program or initiative is tailored to the people it serves. Neighbourhood houses take a holistic approach to settlement, considering the whole person, the whole family, the whole neighbourhood, and the entire community. Rather than just offering specific programs, we provide the tools, knowledge, and support to empower individuals to improve their quality of life, build leadership skills, and contribute to their community. At VNHSC, we believe that personal growth comes from the opportunity to both give and receive support. Our approach nurtures self-reliance, fosters community leadership,and creates a sense of belonging for everyone involved.
Building Stronger Communities
The VNHSC is committed to promoting collaboration, communication, and mutual support across Vancouver’s neighbourhood houses. Together, we work to ensure that everyone—whether they are newcomers or long-time residents—has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. By continuing to foster strong relationships and shared initiatives, we create more vibrant, inclusive communities where everyone is empowered to make a difference.