Inner Hope journeys alongside inner city youth, and their families, in East Vancouver.
Inner Hope Youth Ministries is a place of hope, belonging, and growth for youth and families in East Vancouver who have been impacted by intergenerational trauma. We acknowledge the painful history of colonization in Canada, including the lasting effects of residential schools, day schools, and the child welfare system, which have led to the displacement of Indigenous families and the erosion of cultural identity. As an organization rooted in faith, we feel called to be part of the healing journey—journeying alongside youth and their families with care, respect, and a commitment to reconciliation
Our founders, Carla Dickinson and Jenny Shantz, had been engaged in supporting youth in East Vancouver for over a decade before launching Inner Hope in 2007. Their vision was to create a safe and stable community where youth could experience love, acceptance, and personal growth. Over the years, Inner Hope has grown into a multi-generational, close-knit community, where Indigenous families—who make up 85% of those we journey with—find a place of belonging.
Breaking cycles of hardship—whether related to abuse, addiction, poverty, or family separation—is a challenging journey. Many of the youth and families we walk alongside have experienced significant loss, parental struggles with substance use, or time spent in the foster care system. The instability that comes with these challenges can create barriers to education, employment, and emotional well-being. At Inner Hope, we believe that through long-term, caring relationships, healing is possible.
Our programs are built on mutually transformative relationships. We are committed to treating those we journey with dignity and respect, valuing their cultural heritage, and honoring their lived experiences. We strive to provide spaces where youth can develop confidence, stability, and meaningful connections that help them navigate life’s challenges.
Our founders, Carla Dickinson and Jenny Shantz, had been engaged in supporting youth in East Vancouver for over a decade before launching Inner Hope in 2007. Their vision was to create a safe and stable community where youth could experience love, acceptance, and personal growth. Over the years, Inner Hope has grown into a multi-generational, close-knit community, where Indigenous families—who make up 85% of those we journey with—find a place of belonging.
Breaking cycles of hardship—whether related to abuse, addiction, poverty, or family separation—is a challenging journey. Many of the youth and families we walk alongside have experienced significant loss, parental struggles with substance use, or time spent in the foster care system. The instability that comes with these challenges can create barriers to education, employment, and emotional well-being. At Inner Hope, we believe that through long-term, caring relationships, healing is possible.
Our programs are built on mutually transformative relationships. We are committed to treating those we journey with dignity and respect, valuing their cultural heritage, and honoring their lived experiences. We strive to provide spaces where youth can develop confidence, stability, and meaningful connections that help them navigate life’s challenges.
Issues We Actively Address Include:
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Homelessness
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Racism
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Aging Out of Care
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Children in Care
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Addiction
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Inner Hope is primarily funded by private donors, businesses, churches, and foundations across Canada who are committed to providing hope to youth and families in East Vancouver. Their generosity makes it possible for us to continue offering stable housing, mentorship, and community support. Inner Hope is a registered Canadian charity.
Registered Canadian Charity # - 83500 4557 RR0001