About Mission Community Services

Located on the second floor of the old Recreation Centre in Mission, BC, Mission Community Services Society was launched in 1972 by Glen Barkman (Director) and Barbara Wightman (Assistant Director/Secretary). Both founding members were committed to providing more effective and relevant service programs that best serve the needs of our community.

Among the inaugural programs were vital lifelines such as Emergency Transportation, Meals on Wheels, a Workshop Activity Centre, and Family Life Groups. The spirit of giving further flourished with the establishment of the Christmas Bureau, spearheaded by Phyllis Hickson, R. Lyons, and Barbara Wightman later that same year.

A succession of programs ensued, including an Emergency Babysitting Service, Tutorial Assistance, Parents Anonymous, and Carefree—a nurturing haven for preschoolers with disabilities. Collaborating with the local library, volunteers embarked on a mission to bring the joy of reading to individuals confined by limited mobility, hospitals, and nursing homes.

Mission Community Services moved its offices to the local hospital which had been closed in 1965 and operated from this location until building its head office in 1999 where it currently sits on Second Avenue in Mission.

Since its inception, Mission Community Services has remained steadfast in its mission to extend a helping hand to those navigating life’s challenges. What began as a grassroots effort of neighbourly support has blossomed into an extensive network of programs and services. Our unwavering dedication to supporting and uplifting our community remains the cornerstone of our identity.