Hi Neighbour
Be a catalyst for community connection. Connect with your neighbours and build stronger, safer, more inclusive communities for everyone.
When we create, share and work together, the fabric of a community strengthens and becomes more vibrant and inclusive.
United Way’s Hi Neighbour and Urgent Response Initiatives support talented, passionate people, just like you, who want to create opportunities that bring neighbourhoods together. We help you make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you.
See how United Way British Columbia is helping people spark positive change in their neighbourhoods.
Connecting neighbours with neighbours to
- curb social isolation and loneliness
- make neighbourhoods safer
- create healthier communities
You can do it, too!
Our Local Love Microgrants up to $1,000 can help make it happen.
It can be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street. Or as welcoming as holding an afternoon tea for newcomers, throwing a block party to support neighbours recovering from natural disasters, or building a community garden. We call these acts of local love!
Get ideas from some of the exciting projects other community members have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Community Cupboards & Little Pantries
Community Cupboards and Little Pantries are places where neighbours can take what they need for today – food and other basics – and leave what they can for tomorrow.
Community cupboards and pantries are all about neighbours helping neighbours to get the food they need when they need it. And 24-hours a day seven days a week in Delta, Abbotsford and Mission, they are making a difference for those with food needs and those with items to give.
Like all food pantries, Nick’s Nook in Delta is a volunteer-run initiative and was started by United Way BC Community Builder Cathie, in honour of her grandson to help meet food needs in that community. Today, there are four Nick’s Nook across the city. In Abbotsford, Community Builder Jasmine worked with Mill Lake Church to ensure essential food items are available to families and individuals through the Mill Lake Community Cupboard. In Mission, the Cedar Valley Community Cupboard at Cedar Valley Mennonite Church was built by a devoted team of volunteers at Tools to Empower, an organization inspiring under-represented youth and individuals through Trades and STEM-related education.
All pantries and cupboards are based on a take what you need, leave what you can” philosophy and include non-perishable food, sanitary products, diapers and more.
Afghan Tea Social
Edmonds community member, Friba, wanted to welcome newcomers from Afghanistan, so she applied for Local Love funds to create the Afghan Women’s Tea Social.
Funds were used to buy teas and light snacks, but the impact for newly arrived refugees goes far beyond a warm beverage. Women who attended the social got to share their experiences of how they arrived in Canada and about their families. The social also helped to connect them with agencies that provide housing, language and employment support, as well as counselling services.
Funds also helped create a safe, welcoming space, leading to many partnerships with local organizations that have been inspired to support their new neighbours. New Community Champions like Friba, who is from the Afghan community, get to develop leadership skills and create a sense of belonging for themselves and others helping integrate newcomers into the community.
Clayton StoryWalk
Enjoy reading and the great outdoors? A StoryWalk is an innovative and delightful way for children and adults to explore both!
A StoryWalk features laminated pages of a children’s book attached to wooden stakes that are installed along an outdoor path. As you stroll down the trail, you’re directed to the next page in the story.
Rajinder, a Clayton Heights Community Champion and a Little Library Steward, hosted the neighbourhood’s first StoryWalk at Katzie Park in August 2021, sharing the story of The Gruffalo and the second story was installed in February of 2022 at Magee Park. The materials for the first StoryWalk were purchased with a Local Love Grant and signs can be lent out to anyone in the Clayton Heights neighbourhood who would like to feature their favourite storybook in the community.
stɑl̓əw̓ Pow Wow
The stɑl ̓əw̓ Arts and Cultural Society of the Kwantlen First Nation included United Way in their first Pow Wow.
The first annual stɑl̓əw̓ Pow Wow took place at the Langley Events Centre September 16-18, 2022. The Pow Wow celebrates Indigenous culture, traditions, music, regalia and art. It preserves heritage, keeps traditional ways alive and allows people to experience the important role tradition plays and how these traditions define Indigenous culture. In preparation for this significant event, the Hi Neighbour Willoughby team partnered with stɑl̓əw̓ to sponsor and host seven workshops including rattle bag, bracelet and bannock making.
Community Builder Geraldine worked with members of the Kwantlen First Nation and the township of Langley by building critical relationships to help create an event that is respectful of cultural ways and inclusive for all. Additionally, United Way British Columbia proudly sponsors this event that shares, honours and creates new opportunities to celebrate rich Indigenous traditions and build important and lasting connections.
The second annual Pow Wow will be held in Fall 2023.
Apply for a Local Love Microgrant Today
Get up to $1,000 to make your idea happen. It just takes ten minutes.
Connect with your Community Builder
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
There are currently no Hi Neighbour communities in this region.
United Way British Columbia has been privileged to engage with Indigenous groups across the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Interior of British Columbia as we seek to build strong, healthy, inclusive communities together.
The focus has been to sit, learn, and listen to each of these unique communities and to then introduce and outline areas that United Way can support when building community-led programs.
United Way is committed to Indigenous-lead engagement that builds long-term relationships with various Indigenous groups across the province. United Way BC continues to learn from our Indigenous partners about how we can respectfully support Truth and Reconciliation.
Ashcroft Indian Band
Ashcroft First Nation has been impacted by wildfire in recent years. United Way British Columbia has come alongside to support the efforts of band members in response, recovery and building resiliency. Community engagement is vitally important to the band members’ mental, emotional, and spiritual health. We are excited to be welcomed into the community and look forward to continuing to build this valued relationship.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Bonaparte First Nation
Bonaparte First Nation has been impacted by wildfire in recent years. United Way British Columbia has come alongside to support the efforts of band members in response, recovery and building resiliency. Community engagement is vitally important to the band members’ mental, emotional, and spiritual health. We are excited to be welcomed into the community and look forward to continuing to build this valued relationship.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Boston Bar First Nation
Boston Bar First Nation has been impacted by wildfire in recent years. United Way British Columbia has come alongside to support the efforts of band members in response, recovery and building resiliency. Community engagement is vitally important to the band members’ mental, emotional, and spiritual health. We are excited to be welcomed into the community and look forward to continuing to build this valued relationship.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Cook’s Ferry Indian Band
Cook’s Ferry Indian Band has been impacted by wildfire and floods in recent years. United Way British Columbia has come alongside to support the efforts of band members in response, recovery and building resiliency. Community engagement is vitally important to the band members’ mental, emotional, and spiritual health. United Way British Columbia has provided funds for food support and gas cards for evacuees; as well as ongoing support for building a greenhouse. We are excited to be welcomed into the community and look forward to continuing to build this valued relationship.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Kanaka Bar Band
In 2015, the Kanaka Bar Band developed a vision to be a self-sufficient community. From building a turbine in the Fraser River and installing solar panels within the community, to building a community orchard, garden, and farm; the Kanaka Indian Band has become a leader in community resilience. United Way British Columbia has felt welcomed into the community while being invited to learn from and support this beautiful initiative. We have had the opportunity to fund resiliency projects in this community, including the local community food hub. We look forward to continue learning from this community.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Lytton First Nation
The Lytton First Nation has experienced many natural disasters in recent years. Short and long-term wildfire evacuations have created great challenges to community connectedness. Community engagement is vitally important to the band members’ mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Over the past year, United Way British Columbia has provided financial support to Lytton First Nation food security initiatives delivering food, non-perishables, and first aid supplies to assist in keeping community members closer to home. We are excited to be welcomed into the community and look forward to continuing to build this valued relationship.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Oregon Jack Creek Band
Oregon Jack Creek Band has been impacted by wildfire in recent years. United Way British Columbia has come alongside to support the efforts of band members in response, recovery and building resiliency. Community engagement is vitally important to the band members’ mental, emotional, and spiritual health. We are excited to be welcomed into the community and look forward to continuing to build this valued relationship.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Pukaist First Nations
Pukaist First Nations have been impacted by wildfire in recent years. United Way British Columbia has come alongside to support the efforts of band members in response, recovery and building resiliency. Community engagement is vitally important to the band members’ mental, emotional, and spiritual health. We are excited to be welcomed into the community and look forward to continuing to build this valued relationship.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Siska First Nation
The Siska First Nation was one of the first communities to open their doors to any area resident during the 2021 Lytton wildfire evacuation. They have kept their doors open providing a food hub open to any area resident, band member or not. United Way British Columbia is honoured to support this initiative and hopes to continue to build a relationship with the community and assisting as opportunities continue to come forward.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Skuppah Indian Band
The Skuppah Indian Band was one of the first communities to open a food hub shortly after the Lytton Wildfires in 2021. United Way British Columbia has been providing non-perishable supports and looks forward to engaging further with the community providing support when requested.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergency Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Skwah (Sqwá) First Nation (Chilliwack Landing)
The Skwah (Sqwá) First Nation experienced many hardships during the November 2021 flood in the Fraser Valley. Skwah (Sqwá), one of several reserves in the Chilliwack area, was cut off from supply chains when roads flooded, leaving Elders and others concerned about access to groceries, particularly because stores were running low on stock. United Way British Columbia helped mobilize resources to secure meat, eggs, and dairy from local suppliers to ensure that the fridges and freezers (that weren’t flooded) could be well- stocked to feed the Elders and the community.
Meet the team
Margaret
Community BuilderMargaret supports activities organized by Skwah (Sqwá) First Nation members, including engaging youth, adults, and Elders in cultural activities. She provides help when communities are applying to the United Way BC Local Love Fund for these activities. The Local Love Fund has financially supported the River Spirit Canoe Club for their races; materials for making ribbon skirts with 50 women from Skwah (Sqwá) and neighbouring nations; and supported the creation of hygiene and craft kits for Skwah (Sqwá) youth.
Sumas First Nation (the Semá:th people)
The Sumas First Nation was heavily impacted by the November 2021 flood in the Fraser Valley. Semá:th Lake reappeared as Sumas Prairie filled with water once again. Some properties on the reserve flooded and roads were closed off from the wider community. Area resident, Lenny, focused on checking in on family and Elders to see how they were being impacted by the flood. As a Community Builder, she continues to connect with the community with a focus on building relationships across generations.
Meet the team
Lenette
Community BuilderLenette works closely with the Sts’elemeqw Residential School Thrivers Society (SRSTS) and members of Semá:th, as well as other nearby nations. Her goal is to help heal the past and bring cultural awareness to their youth. SRSTS members, including Lenny’s mother, were once students at St. Mary’s residential school in Mission, BC. When they gather for meetings, it is a time of sitting in a Circle, sharing a meal, and talking around the table: laughter, tears, and memories are shared. Lenny attends the meetings to reflect and hold space to support the Elders. She also supports Semá:th members to apply for United Way BC Local Love Funds. The funds have been used towards the Semá:th Warriors Canoe Club and activities such as jam and Bannock making with Elders and youth.
Babich-Mill Lake
Babich-Mill Lake in Abbotsford is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community. United Way’s Hi Neighbour Initiative helps you meet them and works with you to create opportunities to make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you.
It might be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street, as exciting as building a new community garden or advocating for change on an issue that’s important to you – we call these acts of local love. And we’re here to help.
Our team is in neighbourhoods across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley working with community members to promote the health and wellbeing of our communities.
Let’s get started
Our Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 help you make it happen. See some of the exciting projects community members have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Get involved
Connect with your Community Builder and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Meet the Babich-Mill Lake team
Elizabeth Birak (Sul-ey-el)
Community Engagement SpecialistElizabeth brings community leadership and project management expertise to her role. She is passionate about people and using creative solutions to make the world a kinder, more inclusive place.
Jasmine
Community BuilderJasmine is a mother to four amazing children. She is a very active member of her community and she also facilitates grief and resilience workshops in the Fraser Valley.
Looking to get connected?
Join the Hi Neighbour Babich & Mill Lake Facebook group!
Cedar Valley
Cedar Valley in Mission is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community. United Way’s Hi Neighbour Initiative helps you connect with them and works with you to create opportunities to make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you. We call these acts of local love.
It can be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street, as welcoming as holding an afternoon tea for newcomers or hosting a block party to support neighbours recovering from natural disasters to building a new community garden.
Let’s get started
Our Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 help you make it happen. See some of the exciting projects community members have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
Connect with your Community Builder and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Meet the Cedar Valley team
Elizabeth Birak (Sul-ey-el)
Community Engagement SpecialistElizabeth brings community leadership and project management expertise to her role. She is passionate about people and using creative solutions to make the world a kinder, more inclusive place.
Looking to get connected?
Join the Hi Neighbour Cedar Valley Facebook group!
Clayton Heights
Clayton Heights is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community.
In April 2023, after almost five years, Clayton Heights, United Way BC’s pilot Hi Neighbour community is evolving. Working together, with local residents, we have supported community leadership and ownership, and strengthened vital connections through numerous community projects, volunteerism and special events.
Engagement, mobilization, collaboration, organization and sustainability were key phases of this community’s transformation to legacy.
As we step back, local residents are continuing positive community impact by leading initiatives and projects autonomously or through the Cloverdale Community Association, and initiatives like the Hi Neighbour Seniors Social have been embedded into the Clayton Community Centre.
Today, United Way BC Hi Neighbour Clayton Heights is a legacy neighbourhood. Read more about this community journey.
Looking to get connected?
Check out the Clayton Heights Little Library Stewards Facebook group!
Edmonds
Edmonds in Burnaby is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community. United Way’s Hi Neighbour Initiative helps you connect with them and works with you to create opportunities to make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you. We call these acts of local love.
It can be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street, as welcoming as holding an afternoon tea for newcomers or hosting a block party to support neighbours recovering from natural disasters to building a new community garden.
Let’s get started
Our Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 help you make it happen. See some of the exciting projects community members have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
Connect with your Community Builder and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Meet the Edmonds team
George
Community Engagement SpecialistGeorge (he/him) is a Chinese-English community organizer and cultural connector. He is inspired by how community members come together to share ideas, resources and create positive change.
Mary
Community BuilderMary’s kind personality and her vision for sharing the learnings and experiences of Edmond’s wealth of different cultures with the neighbourhood’s children, family and seniors and beyond makes her perfect for helping you create community projects and events.
Looking to get connected?
Join the Hi Neighbour Edmonds Facebook group!
Guildford
Guildford in Surrey is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community. United Way’s Hi Neighbour Initiative helps you connect with them and works with you to create opportunities to make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you. We call these acts of local love.
It can be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street, as welcoming as holding an afternoon tea for newcomers or hosting a block party to support neighbours recovering from natural disasters to building a new community garden.
Meet the Guildford team
Hala
Community Engagement SpecialistWith a background in Early Childhood Education, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and working with refugees and newcomers, Hala’s unique skills help empower others toward unity and making a positive difference. Get in touch to learn how she can support you.
Eyobel Michael
Community BuilderBefore becoming a Community Builder, Eyobel Michael was a United Way BC Future Leaders youth facilitator. A newcomer who has lived in Guildford a decade, Eyobel Michael brings empathy and understanding to his work to help area residents create a better the neighborhood. Share your ideas with him today.
Lonsdale
In October 2023, after five years, Lonsdale, a United Way BC Hi Neighbour community is evolving and is now a legacy neighbourhood. Working together, with residents, we have supported community leadership and ownership, and strengthened vital connections through numerous community projects (check out the Little Library map to see how it connects community), volunteerism and special events. Engagement, mobilization, collaboration, organization and sustainability were key phases of this community’s transformation to legacy.
Throughout our time in Lonsdale, the Hi Neighbour team heard residents express how a compilation of resources and tools for creating engaging projects would benefit community building. With input from our community partners and Lonsdale residents, we have created the Lonsdale Community Projects Guide. The guide, which is available in English and Farsi, provides residents and community leaders with a comprehensive tool for creating and implementing successful community projects. It includes:
- Success stories
- Tips on getting involved in ongoing community initiatives
- Tips for starting your own projects, including where to find volunteers, funding, how to find space, and more
Download the guide here or pick up a printed version at the North Vancouver City Library.
Want to get involved?
Looking to get connected?
Join the Hi Neighbour Lonsdale Facebook group!
Lougheed-Burquitlam
Lougheed-Burquitlam is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community. United Way’s Hi Neighbour Initiative helps you connect with them and works with you to create opportunities to make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you. We call these acts of local love.
It can be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street, as welcoming as holding an afternoon tea for newcomers or hosting a block party to support neighbours recovering from natural disasters to building a new community garden.
Let’s get started
Our Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 help you make it happen. See some of the exciting projects community members have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
Connect with your Community Engagement Specialist and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Meet the Lougheed-Burquitlam team
George
CommunityEngagement
Specialist
George (he/him) is a Chinese-English community organizer and cultural connector. He is inspired by how community members come together to share ideas, resources and create positive change.
Cher
Community BuilderCher is passionate about community, music, and teaching. With experience co-creating programs for mental health, youth, seniors, and cultural appreciation, she looks forward to helping Lougheed residents with community projects.
North Delta
North Delta is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community. United Way’s Hi Neighbour Initiative helps you connect with them and works with you to create opportunities to make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you. We call these acts of local love.
It can be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street, as welcoming as holding an afternoon tea for newcomers or hosting a block party to support neighbours recovering from natural disasters to building a new community garden.
Let’s get started
Our Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 help you make it happen. See some of the exciting projects community members have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
Connect with your Community Builder and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Meet the North Delta team
Hala
Community Engagement SpecialistWith a background in Early Childhood Education, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and working with refugees and newcomers, Hala’s unique skills help empower others toward unity and making a positive difference. Get in touch to learn how she can support you.
Cathie
Community BuilderLong-time North Delta resident and volunteer, Cathie has created and engaged her community in projects and activities that enrich and improve her neighbourhood for many years. Come join her!
Sardis
Sardis in Chilliwack is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community. United Way’s Hi Neighbour Initiative helps you connect with them and works with you to create opportunities to make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you. We call these acts of local love.
It can be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street, as welcoming as holding an afternoon tea for newcomers or hosting a block party to support neighbours recovering from natural disasters to building a new community garden.
Let’s get started
Our Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 help you make it happen. See some of the exciting projects community members have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
Connect with your Community Builder and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Meet the Sardis team
Elizabeth Birak (Sul-ey-el)
Community Engagement SpecialistElizabeth brings community leadership and project management expertise to her role. She is passionate about people and using creative solutions to make the world a kinder, more inclusive place.
Teri
Community BuilderTeri feels lucky to call Chilliwack – the traditional and unceded territory of the Ts’elxwéyeqw, Pilalt and Sema:th people – home. He is passionate about community and is a founding member of the local Pride Society and the Downtown Community Market.
Looking to get connected?
Join the Hi Neighbour Sardis Facebook group, or follow them on Instagram!
South Coquitlam
South Coquitlam is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community. United Way’s Hi Neighbour Initiative helps you connect with them and works with you to create opportunities to make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you. We call these acts of local love.
It can be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street, as welcoming as holding an afternoon tea for newcomers or hosting a block party to support neighbours recovering from natural disasters to building a new community garden.
Let’s get started
Our Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 help you make it happen. See some of the exciting projects community members have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
Connect with your Community Builder and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Meet the South Coquitlam team
Erinn
Community BuilderErinn has a background in Journalism, Theatre, and teaching English. She is passionate about bringing people of all walks of life together, especially in her Como Lake neighbourhood, where she lives, grew up and is now raising two children of her own.
Sumas Prairie
Sumas Prairie is filled with talented, passionate people who care about their community. United Way’s Community Re-builder Initiative supports Sumas Prairie residents just like you to help your community rebuild and recover from the floods of 2021. We’re here to help you make a difference in the ways that matter most to you and to your community.
Let’s get started
United Way Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 are available. It might be providing hot meals for clean-up efforts, helping people refurbish flood-damaged furniture or providing essential items so people can return to their homes and farms. We call these acts of local love. And we’re here to help you make it happen.
See more exciting projects Hi Neighbour community members across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
Connect with your Community Builder and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Meet the Sumas Prairie Team
Kaileigh
Community Engagement SpecialistKaileigh is a proud mother of two who is continuously working to connect residents and bring community together in Princeton.
Sunset
Sunset in Vancouver is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community. United Way’s Hi Neighbour Initiative helps you connect with them and works with you to create opportunities to make a difference in your community in ways that matter most to you. We call these acts of local love.
It can be as simple as saying hello to someone on the street, as welcoming as holding an afternoon tea for newcomers or hosting a block party to support neighbours recovering from natural disasters to building a new community garden.
Let’s get started
Our Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 help you make it happen. See some of the exciting projects community members have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
Connect with your Community Builder and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Meet the Sunset team
Hala
CommunityEngagement
Specialist
With a background in Early Childhood Education, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and working with refugees and newcomers, Hala’s unique skills help empower others toward unity and making a positive difference. Get in touch to learn how she can support you.
Javier
Community BuilderJavier is a music lover and a passionate Sunset resident. He brings a background in community development and sustainability to helping his neighborhood be an even better place to live.
Willoughby
Willoughby is filled with talented, passionate people just like you, who care about your community.
In Fall 2024, after almost four years, Willoughby, this United Way BC Hi Neighbour community is evolving. Working together, with local residents, we have supported community leadership and ownership, and strengthened vital connections through numerous community projects, volunteerism and special events.
Engagement, mobilization, collaboration, organization and sustainability were key phases of this community’s transformation to legacy. Today, United Way BC Hi Neighbour Willoughby is a legacy neighbourhood.
As we step back, local residents are continuing positive community impact by leading initiatives and projects autonomously. United Way BC will continue to support the stɑl̓əw̓ Pow Wow in conjunction with stɑl ̓əw̓ Arts and Cultural Society of the Kwantlen First Nation. Learn more about the Stalew Pow Wow.
Want to volunteer?
Yarrow
Yarrow is filled with talented, passionate people who care about their community. United Way’s Community Re-builder Initiative supports Yarrow residents just like you to help your community rebuild and recover from the floods of 2021. We’re here to help you make a difference in the ways that matter most to you and to your community.
Let’s get started
United Way Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 are available. It might be providing hot meals for clean-up efforts, helping people refurbish flood-damaged furniture or providing essential items so people can return to their homes and farms. We call these acts of local love. And we’re here to help you make it happen.
See more exciting projects Hi Neighbour community members across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley have created to help make their neighbourhoods more caring, healthy and inclusive.
Want to volunteer, get involved, or have an idea you’d like to share?
Connect with your Community Builder and learn more about what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Alison
Community Engagement SpecialistAlison loves living and working in the Fraser Valley. She’s passionate about social justice and enjoys helping others.
Deanna
Community BuilderDeanna is a Yarrow resident and proud mom of two teenage girls. She loves small-town living, empowering young women to be the best they can be and bringing people together.
There are currently no Hi Neighbour communities in this region.
Shuswap
Since 2021, Hi Neighbour for Recovery has focused on engaging local community organizations and residents in areas of BC that have been impacted by evacuations during wildfires or floods to support ongoing recovery and resiliency work. In the Shuswap this work followed the 2023 wildfire season and has included community engagement efforts several communities including Scotch Creek, Anglemont and Celista.
Residents and local organizations are invited to connect with United Way British Columbia’s Leigh Schaffer, our local Specialist for Emergency Response and Partnerships, to discuss ideas they have for bringing together their neighbours throughout their recovery and rebuilding of their community.
Let’s get started
United Way BC Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 are available to support recovery and resiliency efforts. Funds help local champions like you to create projects and events to rebuild community and a sense of belonging. It might be hosting a community lunch, organizing an activity for neighbourhood children or organizing a holiday celebration to bring people together for healing. We call these acts of local love. We also partner with municipalities, Indigenous communities and their champions to help make it happen.
Leigh Schaffer
Specialist, Emergent Response & PartnershipsLong-time North Shuswap resident, Leigh has been actively involved in the community for many years, driven by a belief in creating a brighter future. Passionate about fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers, Leigh is committed to making a positive and sustainable impact.
West Kelowna
Since 2021, Hi Neighbour for Recovery has focused on engaging local community organizations and residents in areas of BC that have been impacted by evacuations during wildfires or floods to support ongoing recovery and resiliency work. In West Kelowna, this work followed the 2023 wildfire season. Residents and local organizations are invited to connect with United Way British Columbia’s Magda Kapp, our local Specialist for Emergency Response and Partnerships, to discuss ideas they have for bringing together their neighbours throughout their recovery and rebuilding of their community.
Let’s get started
United Way BC Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 are available to support recovery and resiliency efforts. Funds help local champions like you to create projects and events to rebuild community and a sense of belonging. It might be hosting a community lunch, organizing an activity for neighbourhood children or organizing a holiday celebration to bring people together for healing. We call these acts of local love. We also partner with municipalities, Indigenous communities and their champions to help make it happen.
Magda Kapp
Specialist, Emergent Response & PartnershipsMagda lives in West Kelowna with her husband, golden retriever and ginger cat. She has lengthy experience in the not-for-profit world and loves being part of the United Way BC team and bringing a focus on emergency response and partnerships to her community.
Fraser Canyon
Since 2021, Hi Neighbour for Recovery has focused on engaging local community organizations and residents in areas of BC that have been impacted by evacuations during wildfires or floods to support ongoing recovery and resiliency work. Lytton, Cache Creek, Ashcroft, the Stó:lō, Xwoxwela:lhp (Yale First Nation), Nlaka’pamux, and St’at’imc Peoples and the surrounding regional district have experienced a number of natural disasters and resulting hardships in the past few years, including being displaced to 17 surrounding communities and lengthy commutes for basic goods and services.
Residents and local organizations are invited to connect with United Way British Columbia’s Krista Billy, our local Specialist for Emergency Response & Partnerships, to discuss ideas they have for bringing together their neighbours throughout their recovery and rebuilding of their community.
Let’s get started
United Way BC Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 are available to support recovery and resiliency efforts. Funds help local champions like you to create projects and events to rebuild community and a sense of belonging. It might be providing low-barrier essentials, like food and personal care items, for people impacted by natural disasters, hosting a community lunch, organizing an activity for neighbourhood children or organizing a holiday celebrations to bring people together for healing. We call these acts of local love. We also partner with municipalities, Indigenous communities and their champions to help make it happen.
Krista Billy
Specialist, Emergent Response & PartnershipsKrista Billy – Wapa’a’no’asak (Morning Star) comes from the Gitxsan and Cree Nations. She is a proud wife and mother of four; two boys and two girls and lives within the beautiful St’uxwtews territory in the Secwepemc Nation.
Merritt
Since 2021, Hi Neighbour for Recovery in Merritt has focused on engaging local community organizations and residents who were impacted by evacuations during wildfires or floods to support ongoing recovery and resiliency work. United Way British Columbia is working with residents, local community champions, agencies, and organizations to foster a sense of community and resiliency.
Let’s get started
United Way Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 are available to support recovery efforts. Funds help local champions like you to create projects and events to rebuild community and a sense of belonging. It might be providing low-barrier essentials, like food and personal care items, for people impacted by natural disasters, or hosting a barbeque, disc-frisby golf tournament or holiday celebrations to bring people together for healing. We call these acts of local love. We also partner with municipalities, Indigenous communities and their champions to help make it happen.
Apply for a Local Love microgrant – United Way British Columbia (uwbc.ca) today.
Meet the Merritt team
Kaileigh
CommunityEngagement
Specialist
Kaileigh is a proud mother of two who is continuously working to connect residents and bring community together in Princeton.
Sarah
CommunityBuilder
Long-time Merritt resident, baker and volunteer, Sarah is actively involved in the community. She is excited to work with area residents to create a robust, vibrant and inclusive community.
Princeton
Princeton, located in the Similkameen Valley, experienced severe flooding in November 2021 leaving area homes flooded and residents cut off from the outside world and basic good and services. United Way British Columbia is working to build community resiliency by strengthening relationships with residents, local community champions, agencies, and organizations.
Let’s get started
United Way Local Love microgrants of up to $1,000 are available to support recovery efforts. Funds help local champions like you to create projects and events to rebuild community and a sense of belonging. It might be providing low-barrier essentials, like food and personal care items, for people impacted by natural disasters, or hosting a barbeque, disc-frisby golf tournament or holiday celebrations to bring people together for healing. We call these acts of local love. We also partner with municipalities, Indigenous communities and their champions to help make it happen.
Apply for a Local Love microgrant – United Way British Columbia (uwbc.ca) today.
Meet the Princeton team
Kaileigh
Community Engagement SpecialistKaileigh is a proud mother of two who is continuously working to connect residents and bring community together in Princeton.
Stories of change in BC neighbourhoods
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Hi Neighbour celebrates Canadian Multiculturalism Day
United Way BC Hi Neighbour celebrates multiculturalism through local projects and events in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley.
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2023 – A year of sharing and caring in the Fraser Valley
United Way BC Hi Neighbour and our Local Love Fund support dedicated Community Builders, Community Champions and volunteers from across the Fraser Valley to create and celebrate healthy, caring, inclusive communities.
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Hi Neighbour Lower Mainland builds community
