Parkgate Society & the North Vancouver Recreation Commission: a quarter century of partnership

Parkgate’s Community Day is on September 13th from 10am-2pm at the Parkgate Community Centre: Fun, free, family-friendly event featuring live entertainment, community tables, food and activities for all.

For over a quarter of a century, the Parkgate Society has been a cornerstone in Seymour. The organization’s history stretches back to the 1970s. Its modern chapter began in 1999, when a forward-looking agreement with the North Vancouver Recreation Commission laid the groundwork for the Parkgate Community Centre. The vision was simple yet ambitious: to create a welcoming community space where people of all ages could gather, learn, and grow together. As the Parkgate Society’s mission statement reads, ‘create opportunities for people in our community to live life better.’ 

Much more than just a recreation centre 

From the day it opened, it was clear the Parkgate Community Centre was more than just another recreation facility. The Recreation Commission brought operational experience, programming expertise, and facility management. The  Parkgate Society delivers a diverse range of community-based programs designed with a deep understanding of neighbourhood needs. The result is high-quality, low-cost, accessible, and community-driven services that have grown steadily for more than two decades. 

Today, Parkgate Society serves thousands of people each year, offering programs for infants through to older adults, benefiting both the local community and participants from across the North Shore. 

From staff to director

My own connection to the Parkgate Society began as a staff member, working in before and after-school care, youth programs, and summer camps. Years later, I became the first former staff person to join the Board of Directors. With six years of service on the board, as Secretary, twice as Vice President, and most recently as President, I’ve seen the dedication of our Executive Directors, staff, and volunteers firsthand. The dedication of the whole organization and commitment to the society’s mission, vision, and values are genuinely inspiring. 

During this period, the organization has reached significant milestones, such as implementing the $10-a-day childcare program, expanding childcare to the Lower Lynn community, navigating the challenges of the pandemic while keeping essential supports and services running (many programs using online formats), and introducing innovative services in dementia care and social prescribing. These achievements highlight the creativity, adaptability, and strength of the collaboration between the Parkgate Society and the North Vancouver Recreation Commission.

Childcare 

For local families, the Parkgate Society provides licensed childcare for children aged 0-12. By providing safe, nurturing environments that foster learning and social development, the society has always maintained high-quality childcare programs. School break day camps keep children engaged during holidays, offering peace of mind for working parents. Family programs, including popular playgroups, help caregivers and children connect, share experiences, and build friendships. 

Youth programs

Youth programs provide teens and preteens with a positive space to socialize, learn, and take the lead. The pre-teen dances that the Parkgate Society’s youth department puts on are a much-loved North Shore tradition. The dances are well known for being safe, supervised events that encourage social confidence and community connection. 

Seniors offerings

For older adults, Parkgate’s services extend well beyond social gatherings and meals programs. The seniors’ department runs a social prescribing initiative; connecting people to activities that improve overall wellbeing, and offers specialized dementia programming, in a first-of-its-kind program on the North Shore. These efforts have reduced isolation, supported caregivers, and helped seniors stay active and connected. 

Funding sources
As a nonprofit organization, Parkgate Society accesses grants and government funding targeted to community groups. These funds have been essential for launching and sustaining many of its most impactful programs, ensuring services remain accessible and responsive to changing community needs. The District of North Vancouver has consistently been a strong supporter of the Society, providing vital core funding each year. 

A model for successful collaboration 

The Rec Commission–Parkgate Society partnership is widely regarded as a model of effective collaboration between municipal recreation services and community nonprofits. The commission provides the infrastructure, integrating the community centre into the broader network. The Parkgate Society brings grassroots expertise, program flexibility, and the ability to secure targeted funding. Together, they’ve created a community hub that has touched countless lives.

Parkgate’s Community Day is Saturday, September 13th from 10 am-2 pm at the Parkgate Community Centre: Fun, free, family-friendly event featuring live entertainment, community tables, food and activities for all.