Belonging & Social Connection: What does this mean to you?

It could mean knowing your neighbours, feeling welcomed in your community, volunteering, joining a local event, or simply having a place where you feel seen, valued, and connected.

Healthy communities do not happen by accident – they grow through investing in everyday opportunities to connect and belong. When people know and trust one another, neighbourhoods become healthier, safer, more resilient, and better able to support one another through challenges and times of crisis.

As Vancouver prepares for the 2026 municipal election, neighbourhood houses across the city are inviting residents to share the issues that matter most to them. Throughout the summer, we’ll bring community voices together and share what we hear directly with mayoral and council candidates this fall.

Neighbourhood houses have always been about more than programs—they’re places where relationships grow, neighbours become friends, and communities thrive. Across the ANHBC network, we offer 476+ community programs and services that reduce social isolation, foster belonging, and create opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect.

Belonging grows when people have opportunities not only to receive support, but also to participate and contribute. Last year, 3,135 volunteers contributed more than 85,900 hours, sharing their time, skills and lived experience to help create welcoming, connected communities.

The City also has an important role to play. Through investments in parks, libraries, public spaces, community amenities, and partnerships with nonprofit organizations, Vancouver can help create neighbourhoods where people feel connected, supported, and able to participate in community life.

What helps you feel like you belong in your neighbourhood?

Share your ideas through our survey or at a participating Neighbourhood House. You don’t need to be eligible to vote to participate—everyone’s voice matters.

Your Voice. Your Vote. Your Neighbourhood.