Case study

Community Hub at Capilano Mall

Creating space for community resilience

As one of their leases came to an end during the height of the pandemic, non-profit Family Services of the North Shore faced uncertainty about where to continue their community outreach and volunteer operations. At the same time, demand for their services, from mental health support to programs for vulnerable families and seniors, was surging.

Turning vacancy into a community opportunity

QuadReal saw an opportunity to activate an underused space at Capilano Mall in a way that would serve both the community and the long-term relevance of the asset. By offering the space in kind, QuadReal helped transform it into the Family Services of the North Shore Community Hub: A thriving space that now supports volunteer lead programs and an added family centre. Some of the Agency’s 60+ staff and contractors and 400+ volunteers, welcome more than 3,000 people annually.

 Key highlights

  • The Christmas Bureau, supporting 1,250 families and seniors with help from more than 600 donors
  • A Grad Shop for students who can’t afford formal wear due to financial limitations
  • Meal delivery for seniors, a clothing exchange, and bike donations for deserving families
  • Programming supporting new parents and their children

 

Having a dedicated, welcoming space has allowed the organization to significantly expand its impact and develop new services.

Delivering shared value

This partnership demonstrates how QuadReal’s intentional stewardship of real estate assets can create enduring community value — while also enhancing the social relevance, adaptability, and long-term strength of our properties.

By transforming vacancy into vibrancy, the Community Hub reduces stigma, builds connection, and strengthens QuadReal’s reputation as a trusted, community-first organization.

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