A Belonging Project
Will You Be Our Neighbour?
Everyone needs to feel like they belong in our downtown neighbourhood — residents, non-profits, businesses and unhoused community members. This project works towards a downtown New Westminster where connections are strong and support is available.
About the Project
Where the project came from.
In early 2024, New Westminster was selected to participate in Tamarack Institute’s Circle of Actions Project, supporting the foundation for a national Belonging Strategy. Representatives from 13 project teams across Canada met monthly to hear from global speakers, share best practices, and envision belonging in their communities.
Our local team included representatives from Fraser Health, the NW Homelessness Coalition Society, the Downtown BIA, City Social Planners, the Lower Mainland Purpose Society, and Community Action Network (CAN) New West leaders, with support from the Downtown Residents Association. United by concern for the downtown neighbourhood, we set out to shift the narrative from a deficit-based view to one of possibility and connection — sparking conversations about belonging, identifying diverse community connectors, and building community one story, one moment, one neighbour at a time.
We’ve also launched the Downtown New Westminster Community Asset Map.
Get Involved
The New West Community Belonging Challenge
A Will You Be Our Neighbour community initiative that encourages connection, belonging and inclusion throughout New Westminster. It invites people of all ages to take part in simple activities that strengthen community by connecting with neighbours, discovering local spaces, and taking small actions that help make our city more welcoming for everyone.
Getting started is easy — pick up a copy of the Belonging Challenge brochure at Anvil Centre, Century House, New Westminster Public Library, Queensborough Community Centre, or təməseẃtxʷ Aquatic Centre.
$600 in prizes thanks to the Uptown and Downtown Business Associations — including $25–$100 gift cards to local businesses and a Live2Live sweatshirt. Winners are announced at the New West Farmers Market during Welcoming Week.
Join the Movement
Build a Belonging Strategy with us.
Join the Tamarack Institute in advocating for a plan that puts community belonging at the heart of conversations about the economy and quality of life. Individuals and organizations are welcome to sign — our own Board unanimously supported becoming a signatory.
“Belonging isn’t just a feeling — it’s an important determinant of health. When communities are connected, they thrive, creating spaces where everyone can flourish.”
Natalie Johnston, Community Health Specialist, Fraser Health
“We are two generations away from knowing how to be a good neighbour.”
Barry Braun, Happy Communities Project, Nova Scotia
“Community Belonging and Connecting” is one of the City of New Westminster’s strategic priorities for 2023–2026. The WYBMN project supports both the City’s Homelessness Action Strategy and this priority — and possible expansion into Uptown, in partnership with the New West Neighbourhood House, is on the horizon.