After breaking her arm in 2018, Elizabeth McIllfaterick discovered Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House and became its Volunteer Coordinator. Recognizing newcomer children’s educational needs, she established a Saturday Homework Club. Her experience inspired her teaching career, highlighting MPNH’s lasting impact as a community where everyone belongs, contributes, gives, and receives support.

For 13 years, Oficina Curumim has helped Brazilian-Canadian children preserve their language, culture and heritage through Portuguese-based learning, arts and celebrations at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House. Founded by Brazilian parents, the program also fosters community connections among families, strengthening cultural identity and ensuring Brazilian traditions continue across generations in Canada.

Varouj Gumuchian helped establish Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House’s Men’s Shed, creating a welcoming space where men build skills, friendships, and community through shared projects. A retired architect and lifelong community builder, Varouj values the Shed’s role in fostering connection, supporting mental health, reducing loneliness, and keeping participants engaged, curious, and young.

ReUseTech BC values its partnership with Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House, supporting newcomer families through refurbished laptops and digital skills workshops.

Together, we helped Spanish-speaking caregivers navigate school technology, communicate with teachers, access important information, and stay connected to their children’s education.

Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House Daycare provides children with a warm, engaging, and supportive environment. Experienced educators build strong relationships, guide behaviour, and ease transitions to kindergarten. Families value the daycare’s caring community, activities, traditions, and parent friendships. Anna and Jeff hope more families can experience the same trusted, nurturing opportunities.

After moving from Singapore to Vancouver following his wife’s death, Michael struggled with grief, loneliness, and starting over. Volunteering at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House transformed his life. Through Tech Café and Tuesday lunches, he connected with seniors, shared his skills, and discovered purpose. Michael now champions community, connection, diversity, and belonging.

Flavours of Hope and Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House built a collaborative partnership supporting newcomer women entrepreneurs through Dream Cuisine. By sharing space, expertise, and community connections, they help women develop food businesses while fostering belonging and leadership. The partnership demonstrates how nonprofits can overcome limited resources through cooperation, mentorship, and shared community impact.

Daniel and Livia found warmth, trust, and community at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House during the pandemic. MPNH became a second home for their sons, Ben and Felix, providing caring, attentive childcare and family support. Through meaningful relationships and personalized care, MPNH helped raise their children and connect the family to their community.

Romy’s six-week temporary job at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House became a 13-year career filled with meaningful connections and community impact. She supported youth, families, seniors, and newcomers, including helping children fundraise for a Disneyland trip. Through shared adventures and challenges, Romy built lasting memories and hopes MPNH remains the neighbourhood’s welcoming “living room.”