Pioneer Community Living Association - PCLA

04/08/2025

💙 “Helping people—that is my culture. That is my heart.”
Meet Kebede, a longtime PCLA staff member and the recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal
for service.

From refugee camps to community mental health care, Kebede’s kindness reaches across borders.

📖 Go to https://www.pclaservices.ca/articles/kebede-abate to read his inspiring story.

11/27/2024

Celebrating Generosity: Transforming Spaces, Transforming Lives

On November 18th, 2024, Pioneer Community Living Association (PCLA) had the privilege of hosting a recognition ceremony to honour two of our most esteemed donors, the Al-Roadburg Foundation and the Y.P. Heung Foundation. Their incredible generosity towards the Serene Spaces Campaign in 2023 made an extraordinary impact, culminating in the completion of the project this year.

What Was the Serene Spaces Project?
The Serene Spaces Project aimed to transform living environments at PCLA, particularly at our 220 Sherbrooke Street site, which serves individuals navigating moderate to severe mental health challenges. With the support of our donors, PCLA refurbished 30 bedrooms at Sherbrooke and upgraded 37 additional rooms across other sites—a total of 67 spaces transformed into warm, safe, and therapeutic environments.

Improvements included:
- New beds and mattresses for enhanced comfort and accessibility.
- Updated dressers, desks, and decor elements to create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Thoughtful designs fostering dignity, self-esteem, and ownership for residents.

Research shows that serene, nurturing spaces significantly contribute to mental health recovery, reducing stress, enhancing mood, and promoting relaxation. This project seamlessly aligns with PCLA’s mission to create supportive environments where individuals can thrive on their path to wellness.

A Heartfelt Thank You
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Al-Roadburg Foundation and the Y.P. Heung Foundation. Your commitment to creating healing environments has made a lasting difference in the lives of our residents.

Together, we’ve created spaces that provide comfort, dignity, and hope. Thank you for helping us build a stronger, more supportive community.



11/20/2024

Join PCLA as a Mental Health Worker

Pioneer Community Living Association (PCLA) is looking for Mental Health Workers to join our team!

Union: Hospital Employees Union
Job Title: Mental Health Worker
Status: Casual
Starting Period: ASAP
Location: Multiple (Burnaby, New Westminster, and Coquitlam)

Summary of Job Description:
Reporting to the Manager of Care, the Mental Health Worker is responsible for assisting and supporting residents with mental health concerns to live in the community. This includes learning about life skills enhancement, housekeeping, shopping, cooking and meeting the resident’s goals in his or her Recovery Plan. This position requires administration of medications, documentation and following policies and procedures for the facility.

If interested, please submit your resume with a cover letter to hr@pclaservices.ca.

For more on the role, please visit:

Posted 11:47:17 PM. Pioneer Community Living Association (PCLA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing…See this and similar jobs on LinkedIn.

11/12/2024

Thriving Through Stress: How to Turn Challenges Into Growth

In today’s world, stress is everywhere. From work deadlines to global uncertainties, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But science shows that with the right mindset and actions, you can turn stress into an opportunity for growth.

Stress is Everywhere, But There’s a Way Through

According to recent studies, 84% of employees report high levels of stress. Gen Z feels it even more—91% are stressed, with 98% experiencing burnout. And beyond personal stress, 88% of people feel fearful about global issues, and 61% distrust leaders. While these statistics are concerning, there are ways to manage stress that can help us feel more empowered and capable in our lives.

Here are three ways to thrive despite the stress:

1. Reframe Your Perspective on Stress
Not all stress is bad. In fact, some stress can be energizing and motivating. Known as “eustress,” this positive stress helps you stay engaged and resilient. When you view challenges as opportunities for growth, your body releases chemicals that strengthen and energize you. Remind yourself that hard work and perseverance can bring fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment.

2. Build Resilience Like a Muscle
Resilience is built through practice. The more you challenge yourself, the stronger your ability to handle future stress becomes. Facing fears and stepping outside your comfort zone not only builds resilience but also increases happiness and well-being. Aim to find that sweet spot—about a 15% failure rate, which research shows is optimal for growth and motivation.

3. Connect and Care
Stress can make us focus inward, but connecting with others can be a powerful way to gain perspective and joy. Focusing on the people around us, and on the impact we can make, is linked to greater fulfillment. Self-care matters too, but it should be intentional and meaningful—say yes to the activities that energize you and no to the ones that don’t.

By reframing stress, building resilience, and staying connected, you can turn challenges into a source of strength—for yourself and those around you.

11/05/2024

Pumpkins, Positivity, and Community: A Day at the Patch with PCLA

Last weekend, residents from Pioneer Community Living Association enjoyed a fun-filled visit to the pumpkin patch. Outings like these provide more than just a day of fresh air—they play a vital role in supporting social reintegration and well-being for individuals living with mental illness.

These moments foster connection, joy, and a sense of community that’s essential to mental health recovery. We're proud to create experiences that make a positive impact on the lives of our residents!

10/22/2024

We're Hiring!

Pioneer Community Living Association (PCLA) is looking for passionate Mental Health Care Workers to join our team.

PCLA is a non-profit that provides innovative housing and support to individuals with mild to complex mental illnesses, often combined with substance use challenges. If you're ready to make a meaningful difference this is your opportunity.

Position: Mental Health Care Worker
Union: Hospital Employees Union
Salary: $27.92 - $29.60 per hour + generous benefits package & pension plan (upon eligibility)

About the Role:
As a Mental Health Care Worker, you will support residents with daily living, meal prep, medication administration, and personal growth through their Recovery Plan. Your role is vital in promoting self-reliance and well-being.

Qualifications:
- Mental Health Worker/PSR certificate or equivalent
- 1 year of relevant experience
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Food Safe & First Aid Certification
- Recent Criminal Record Check

See the full job description on our website: https://www.pclaservices.ca/join-us-details

Interested? Submit your resume to: hr@pclaservices.ca

Pioneer Community Living Association is hiring for several positions including: Mental Health Care Worker The Program:PCLA delivers residential psychosocial rehabilitation programs for adult individuals with mental illnesses. The focus is on promoting personal growth and self-reliance through life ...

10/08/2024

PCLA Assumes Operations of Rainbow Lodge

We are excited to announce that Pioneer Community Living Association (PCLA) has assumed operations of Rainbow Lodge in partnership with Fraser Health. This partnership highlights Fraser Health's commitment to providing high-priority mental health recovery services, and we are humbled by the trust they have placed in us.

Rainbow Lodge is home to 10 residents at various stages of their recovery. Through this collaboration, residents will have access to PCLA’s range of programs and services designed to support their mental health journey.

We convey a special thanks to Susie Innes, Manager of Care, for her tireless efforts in making this transition a success. Her dedication has been invaluable in ensuring quality care for our residents.

We look forward to continuing our work with Fraser Health to ensure Rainbow Lodge remains a supportive and healing environment for all.

(Depicted below: Susie Innes, Manager of Care, and Tracey Essendi, Health Care Worker)

10/01/2024

How Community Shapes Youth Mental Health: New Study

New research led by Professor Hasina Samji from the Faculty of Health Sciences explores how community- and societal-level factors shape youth mental health and well-being. Drawing from data collected in 2022, the study surveyed over 8,800 Grade 11 students in B.C. to assess the link between positive and adverse childhood experiences and mental well-being.

The findings show that positive experiences—such as family support, community belonging, and safety—are associated with better mental health, even for those who have faced adversity. On the flip side, adverse experiences increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and poor life satisfaction.

Samji emphasizes the need for proactive, systemic changes to support youth and families, advocating for upstream interventions that address both individual and structural factors. The study underscores the importance of shifting the focus from reactive mental illness care to promoting overall mental health and well-being.

The Youth Development Instrument survey has since expanded to 32 school districts in B.C., reflecting a growing commitment to understanding and supporting youth mental health.

For more on the study and its implications read here: https://shorturl.at/BLNBg

09/24/2024

What is Mental Health Assisted Living?

Mental health assisted living provides semi-independent housing for adults who are capable of making decisions on their own but need some support with day-to-day tasks due to mental health challenges, physical health issues, or while recovering from a health condition.

There are three types of assisted living residences:
1. Seniors and Persons with Disabilities: For adults requiring support primarily due to chronic or progressive conditions related to aging or a disability.
2. Mental Health: For adults receiving services primarily due to a mental health disorder.
3. Supportive Recovery: For adults receiving services primarily for substance use recovery.

PCLA proudly offers Mental Health Assisted Living Programs, which provide recovery-focused services within stable, supportive living environments. These programs help individuals with mental health challenges develop or maintain essential life and social skills, working towards the highest level of independence possible.

We offer a range of housing supports, from fully supported licensed care to assisted living environments, to services for clients living independently with support in their community.

To see if you or your loved one qualifies for assisted living, please visit the BC Assisted Living Registry: https://connect.health.gov.bc.ca/assisted-living-residence

09/12/2024

Recovery Day BC 2024: A Powerful Celebration of Hope and Healing

On September 7th, PCLA was honoured to participate in Recovery Day BC, the world’s largest mental health and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) recovery street festival. With over 40,000 people gathering in the heart of New Westminster, this event showcased the power of community and the message that recovery is not only possible but attainable and sustainable.

What is Recovery Day?
Recovery Day is an annual event dedicated to celebrating those on their recovery journeys, raising awareness about mental health and SUDs, and breaking down the stigmas that surround these issues. Attendees enjoy music, activities, and the opportunity to connect with over 100 service providers committed to creating healthier communities.

Why Does It Matter?
Events like Recovery Day shine a spotlight on the challenges many individuals face in overcoming SUDs and mental health issues. Bringing thousands of people together to celebrate recovery stories amplifies the message that no one is alone in their struggles. It also promotes the importance of access to support systems, mental health services, and community resources.

Why PCLA Supports Recovery Day
As a mental health support and housing organization, we at PCLA believe that recovery is a journey that involves the entire community. Recovery from mental illness or SUDs doesn’t happen in isolation—it requires compassionate support, safe housing, and access to resources that empower individuals to live independently. At PCLA, we provide housing and mental health services to those facing complex challenges, and events like Recovery Day are integral to raising awareness and connecting those in need to the support systems that can help them thrive.

We are proud to have been part of this impactful day and grateful to everyone who visited our booth. Together, we are building stronger, healthier communities where recovery is always possible.

Depicted: PCLA staff, board members, and residents at the PCLA Booth during Recovery Day 2024.

09/05/2024

The PCLA AGM - June 22nd 2024

On June 22nd, 2024, Pioneer Community Living Association (PCLA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at our newest property, Henderson House! This annual gathering is an essential opportunity for our board, members, and community to reflect on the year's accomplishments and chart the course for the future.

AGMs are crucial in ensuring transparency and accountability, and this year’s was no exception. We reviewed our continued efforts to provide housing and support services for individuals living with moderate to severe mental illness, reaffirming our commitment to promoting independence and mental wellness.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by our resident chef, who takes care of our community daily. It was also a great chance to connect with our dedicated staff and residents of Henderson House, who are at the heart of what we do.

Thank you to everyone who participated and for your ongoing support! Let’s continue building a strong, supportive community together.

08/27/2024

The PCLA 2023/24 Annual Report

We're thrilled to share a powerful message from our Executive Director, Michael Kierszenblat, as we unveil the 2023/24 Annual Report.

"This year has been nothing short of transformative for Pioneer Community Living Association (PCLA). With the opening of Henderson House in the Tri-Cities, we've expanded our reach, strengthened our infrastructure, and enhanced training for our dedicated team. Our partnerships with UBC and local institutions have allowed us to deliver comprehensive care, and our new employment training initiative is already making a difference, creating volunteer and paid opportunities for our clients.

Thanks to the unwavering support of our passionate board, dedicated staff, and resilient clients, we've secured the resources needed for vital infrastructure upgrades while maintaining stability in our funding. We're proud of these accomplishments and grateful for your continued support."

Read more in our 2023/24 Annual Report and join us in celebrating a year of growth, empowerment, and community. https://shorturl.at/jakEy

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