Community-building at the Abbott Mansion

While we all benefit from the sense of belonging that comes from having a place in our communities, for people struggling with the difficult social conditions in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, connection and belonging are essential to one’s survival. Connecting with neighbours and other community members not only protects people from isolation, but helps build happier, stronger, more resilient individuals and groups.

To encourage community growth at Central City Foundation’s Abbott Mansion, building managers launched a community-building program last year to create an environment where human connection can flourish. To create a consistent space to build relationships, the program started with a weekly coffee morning facilitated by a volunteer from the building. At these casual social events, residents can connect with one another and find out what’s going on in the building and local community. There are also monthly birthday celebrations, where residents are invited to celebrate together and enjoy a piece of cake. The weekly gathering has also provided a natural opportunity for residents to come together to celebrate and honour the lives of residents who have passed.

One resident summed up the feelings of many when he noted, “The Abbott is a good place to live right now.”