Fernanda Gonzalez taught herself to make flan during pregnancy, turning her passion into Sweet BelliMo, a Latin American dessert business. Through Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House’s Women in Motion program, she gained skills, confidence, and community support. Selling successfully at the Christmas Market, she continues growing her business while inspiring other newcomer women entrepreneurs.

Kate’s connection with Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House began 40 years ago through a free youth leadership program that made her feel welcomed and accepted. The experience inspired a lifelong career working with children, shaped family connections, and ultimately led her back to the neighbourhood house movement, where she now serves as a childcare director with deep gratitude.

After feeling isolated during the pandemic, Cora visited Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House and was welcomed with kindness. Inspired, she began leading multicultural workshops that brought seniors together through music, dance, and cultural traditions. Her programs reduced loneliness, built community, and fostered intergenerational and intercultural connections, proving small acts can transform lives.

Andrea Hoces Maldonado found a sense of home at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House after immigrating from Chile. She became a volunteer, built lasting friendships, and now leads zine workshops encouraging reflection, storytelling, and community. Andrea believes small acts of creativity and kindness can bring people together, and hopes the neighbourhood house continues nurturing those moments.

Helen describes Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House and settlement worker Lynda Truong as helping her navigate complex paperwork, immigration, divorce, and raising three sons, including one with autism.

Beyond practical support, she values the kindness, cultural understanding, and sense of belonging she has found, and hopes future newcomers receive the same welcome and care.

Jocelyne joined Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House as Executive Director in 2006, guiding the organization through financial challenges while honoring its history. She championed collaboration, helping volunteer initiatives, youth leadership, and partnerships flourish. Lasting achievements included programs like Oruguitas Latinas, youth civic engagement, and the community-built parklet. Her leadership left a legacy of connection, inclusion, innovation, and community capacity.

Wendy joined Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House after becoming a mother, beginning with Family Drop-In programs before losing her voice unexpectedly. Transitioning to childcare and preschool, she discovered her passion supporting children’s development, especially those with diverse abilities. Wendy hopes MPNH continues expanding inclusive, welcoming programs that strengthen families and enrich the community.

Mariana immigrated from Argentina to Canada in 2016 and quickly embraced community volunteering. Through Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House, she improved her English, gained mentorship, launched community projects, secured employment, started a business, and became a mentor for immigrant women. Her journey reflects the power of community, leadership, resilience, and giving back.

Cam began volunteering with Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House’s Family Literacy Outreach Program while pursuing his PhD at UBC. Paired with an Afghan refugee family, he adapted lessons to their everyday goals, making learning practical and personal. The experience transformed both the family and Cam, reinforcing the power of community, connection, and meaningful volunteer relationships.