Professional Neighbour housing model

Individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as FASD, are over-represented within shelters and institutions.  Yet safe and secure housing are known determinants for improving health and well-being and sense of community inclusion for this vulnerable population.  Acquiring and maintaining housing can be challenging for individuals on low income with neurodevelopmental disorders and other complex needs.  Where housing options exist, they often are too high-density, have long wait-lists, and are unable to provide the individualized support required by this population.  In order to respond to this need, the John Howard Society has developed a unique approach, in collaboration with other community partners, called the Professional Neighbour model. 

The Professional Neighbour model is a housing model that supports those who are able to live successfully in the community with assertive outreach and community inclusion support, but have struggled elsewhere.  Each Professional Neighbour house is different, in order to support the unique needs of the person living there.  Typically Professional Neighbour models involved a two-suite house, where the individual served through John Howard lives separately in one suite and a professionally screened neighbour, familiar with the circumstances of their neighbour, lives in the other suite.  

This model is made possible as a result of key partnerships that include, but are not limited to, Community Living BC, Interior Health, BC Housing, Living Positive Resource Centre, as well as great and kind landlords and amazing professional neighbours.    

Have a rental looking for renters?

If you are a landlord with a two-suite rental house, please contact us!  

We can provide you:

• Guaranteed monthly rent for both suites, both from the same source: the John Howard Society,
• A secure rental agreement,
• A professional building administrative team to work with you and your property,
• An enduring partnership with an established charitable community organization that has operated in the Okanagan for 60+ years,
• Outreach social workers who will be checking in on your property several times a week,
• And as an agency that manages several apartments and houses, with 100+ renters, you can bet we will treat your property as we treat our own! 

Contact Information:

Elliot Penner
Director of Community Living Services
104-1456 St. Paul Street, Kelowna BC
Direct. 250-300-7814
Email: [email protected]