ABOUT US
Carlos Espinosa
Coordinator, Street Youth Job Action
Directions Youth Services
At Family Services of Greater Vancouver, we’ve been helping people in crisis since 1928.
As a non-profit we help people develop skills and knowledge, and empower our neighbours to create positive change in their lives. More than 420 staff, including expert counsellors and support workers, help youth experiencing homelessness, families and children impacted by trauma, victims of domestic violence, and other vulnerable people from an evidence-based, trauma-informed lens — all while providing compassionate, client-centered care.
Through thoughtful partnerships and an approach that harnesses best practices in harm reduction and preventative care, we believe in building a brighter future for all British Columbians.
Our Vision
Brighter tomorrows in which all people are resilient, confident and filled with hope.
Our Mission
To ensure children are nurtured, youth find optimism, adults feel empowered, and parents make choices that build strong families.
Our Values
- Diversity: everybody matters
- Integrity: we do right by people
- Optimism: change is ever possible
- Innovation: we dream; we have courage; we respond
- Excellence: It’s where we start
OUR IMPACT AREAS
Building Stronger Families
Today’s families are more varied than ever. Our programs and services approach every family with that in mind, empowering individuals and recommending solutions that lead to impactful life choices for everyone involved.
Our programs and services:
• Counselling for individuals, children, youth, and families
• Trauma services
• Conflict mediation for parents and teens
• Financial empowerment courses and coaching
• Life skill development for children and youth with special needs
Ending Violence Against Women, Children and Seniors
Family Services provides victims of violence with support in whatever form it’s needed. Our goal is to reduce harm, provide a continuum of care, and help every client discover their voice on their journey towards a safer, healthier future.
Our programs and services:
• Advocacy, counselling, safety planning, and other essential supports
• Victim Services in partnership with municipal police services, the RCMP, and community policing centres
• Trauma services
Supporting Youth In Overcoming Homelessness
Street-involved and homeless youth face adversity at a young age. Directions Youth Services, a division of Family Services, empowers youth to acknowledge and face challenges, develop new skills, make healthier choices, and get closer to the lives they want.
Our programs and services:
• A 24/7/365, low-barrier drop-in services centre for youth on Burrard Street in Vancouver
• Voluntary detox program
• Safe, temporary housing
• Supportive housing for youth transitioning out of Ministry care
• Pre-employment programs
• Daycare and parenting supports for young parents in high school
Developing More Inclusive Communities
Engaged citizens with shared experiences are an essential component of a healthy community. We bring people together through programs and workshops so that all people across Metro Vancouver can benefit from social connection.
Our programs and services:
• Counselling for individuals, children, youth, and families
• Free workshops, community kitchens, groups, and other programs for newcomers, parents and caregivers
• Financial empowerment workshops and coaching
Emad Nizami
Volunteer Assistant, Office Admin
Family Services
OUR PARTNERS
Our Community Partners
Our Project Partners
Our Contract Service Delivery Partners
Our Foundation Partners
MEMBERSHIP | ACCREDITATION
Family Services of Greater Vancouver is accredited by CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities)—and conforms to the highest level of nationally and internationally recognized service standards.
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