Sara and Ann - 50 Stories for 50 Years (Story # 7)
When Sara entered Grade 11, Vancouver’s fast-paced semester system left her overwhelmed. Her Physics and pre-calculus classes were moving quickly, and despite her best efforts, Sara just needed more time to learn new concepts and use complex formulas.
Sara’s mother, Ann, began looking for tutors. She discovered that many private tutors and tutoring agencies do not offer in-person sessions. Ann knew in-person sessions would be most effective for Sara, and although Sara willingly attended online sessions, Ann sensed Sara’s confidence and motivation were fading.
A referral from Sara’s school counselor led Ann and Sara to Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House. What they found was far more than a drop-in study space – it was a learning lifeline. MPNH’s free Homework Club pairs students with dedicated, skilled tutors for one-on-one and small group support. Sara worked with Mischa, a university engineering student who took the time Sara needed to understand difficult concepts and learn new study skills.
“He explained things even better than her classroom teacher,” Ann says. “In a room of thirty students, it’s impossible to give that individual attention. Here, it’s the entire focus.”
What truly sets MPNH apart is its staff’s deep dedication. When the Homework Club closed one Saturday morning for a community holiday event, program coordinators refused to let Sara fall behind. They reached out to tutors, arranging 2 special weekday sessions to keep Sara on track – even during their own final exams and holiday breaks.
“I couldn’t believe they went out of their way like that,” Ann says. “It showed how deeply invested they are in every student’s success.”
Today, Sara continues attending Saturday morning sessions for pre-calculus 12, easily switching between tutors as university volunteers graduate. But the impact extends far beyond report cards. Many students in MPNH’s Homework Club are newcomers to Canada, figuring out an unfamiliar education system alongside academic pressure.
“It’s helping so many newcomer families,” Ann observes. “They’re building confidence, catching up, and finding community—all in one safe, welcoming space.”
Ann is more than happy to do the 20-minute drive to MPNH every Saturday so Sara can maintain her connections with MPNH’s Homework Club. Ann says that Sara “leaves the house worried and anxious, but comes back smiling, finally understanding the material.”
With a younger daughter now entering high school, Ann hopes MPNH’s Homework Club remains a cornerstone of educational opportunities for all students for years to come.
Story written by Carrie Keen through an interview with the participant during her practicum placement at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House.
50 Stories for 50 Years at MPNH is a collection of meaningful stories that celebrate the lasting impact our Neighbourhood House has had over the years. These stories come from long-time participants, families, youth, volunteers, community members, and regular visitors whose lives have been touched, supported, or transformed through our programs, services, and connections at the House.
