In 2024, REACH Community Health Centre celebrated 55 years of providing high-quality, team-based healthcare to East Vancouver and Grandview Woodlands.  Since 1969, REACH CHC has remained committed to delivering accessible and inclusive healthcare services and addressing the social determinants of health.

REACH CHC brings together medical, dental, pharmacy, urgent primary care, cultural health and public health professionals to serve their community’s diverse needs. This collaborative model has been key to staying relevant in addressing the community members’ wide-ranging challenges. Nicole LeMire, REACH Executive Director, notes, « The secret is team-based care… that’s what makes REACH, we know we cannot do anything alone. » The team at REACH strives to ensure that their community’s most underserved and vulnerable members receive the care and support they deserve. « To ensure that people are being served, to take care of the health inequities; people who are not well-served by the community—frankly, it’s a humbling experience every day, » Nicole continues. This dedication to inclusivity continues to guide the daily choices of the CHC.

Photo: Jonathan Cruz

The 55^th anniversary celebration had several events and brought together a diverse array of REACH supporters, including past and present stakeholders such as the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, funders, community partners and community members. The celebration served as a commemoration of progress and innovation in programs and services and as a recognition of the individuals who have contributed to this remarkable journey. REACH’s success has been  possible with the collaboration and support of  their community partners and funders. To acknowledge and celebrate them, REACH hosted a partnership celebration event attended by Jenny Kwan, Member of Parliament, Joan Phillip, MLA for Vancouver-Strathcona and 50 key partners.

Over five decades, REACH has been proud to serve as a place for meaningful community connection offering a variety of workshops and clinics for the well-being of their residents, from chronic disease workshops to cultural and mental health support services. As Jasbir, Clinical Counsellor commented, “Just having a space for people to physically come and attend mental health workshops and clinics has been really important. »

On the impact of REACH in the community, Vivian E, President and CEO, and Yasmin J, VP Community Services – Vancouver Coastal Health shared “The dedication that REACH demonstrates to health equity has made a profound difference in the lives of those facing barriers to accessing care.”

Photo: Jonathan Cruz

Congratulations to REACH CHC on 55 years! REACH will continue to provide innovative, high-quality primary healthcare, and social and educational services to support the physical and mental health and well-being of the East Vancouver and Grandview Woodlands community for many years to come. Stay tuned for their various programs that address various social determinates of health and promote health equity.

For more information on REACH CHCs anniversary celebrations click here: https://www.reachcentre.bc.ca/reach-55th-anniversary

Community health in community hands: Interactive timeline https://www.reachcentre.bc.ca/reach-55-timeline