Creating Hope for Lasting Change with Vets Manor

Vets Manor opened its doors in 1986 as the first residential complex of its kind, providing a home to veterans who were experiencing housing insecurity. Today, with the population of veterans decreasing, they have shifted their focus to providing a range of accommodation types to single, 55-plus men who are at risk of homelessness in the neighbourhood. With 133 units, Vets Manor employs their own staff to maintain the building and look after the safety of tenants. However, finding suitable candidates for these maintenance and security roles proved to be challenging for Dennis Wilkinson, Vets Manor's Building Administrator, as many applicants were not prepared for the reality of working in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Looking for other options, Dennis came to Mission Possible.

After speaking to our Employment Engagement Coordinator and attending a graduation lunch for our associates, Dennis decided to partner with Mission Possible and hired two of our associates for permanent positions at Vets Manor. “They're fantastic! Yeah, they're great. Both of them are hard workers, smart, diligent, professional, polite, and on time,” he shares. It is the Manor’s vision to serve their tenants with "Hope, Help, and Honour", and according to Dennis, “The guys from Mission Possible have really embraced that vision, which is great.” 

We were able to catch up with Reuben, one of the graduated associates that Vets Manor hired over six months ago. During his time at Mission Possible, Reuben was recommended for a role at Vets Manor and worked with his Employment Coach to update his resume and cover letter. He felt supported through the process, which helped make his transition out of the Employment Readiness Program smooth. Now, he works full-time as their overnight front desk attendant and enjoys his schedule, sharing, "The working environment is good." You can read more about Reuben's journey at Mission Possible in his blog. 

Dennis is happy to see that the workshops and 1-on-1 coaching sessions offered through Mission Possible's Employment Readiness Program have prepared associates for their return to the workforce. He is grateful for the partnership, sharing, “I have no interest in looking anywhere else for future employees. Mission Possible is the go to organization”.

We appreciate the support Dennis and Vets Manor have shown towards our program and associates, and look forward to continuing our partnership! If you are interested in hiring one of Mission Possible's associates, please email hire@mission-possible.ca or download our Untapped Potential e-book to learn more.