Fraser House Society

Fraser House Society is a Canadian nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to providing counselling and prevention services related to substance use and addiction. Established in 1967, the organization serves adults, youth, and families primarily in Mission, British Columbia, and the surrounding Fraser Valley Regional District.

History and Overview

Founded on October 13, 1967, Fraser House Society originally operated as an in-patient addiction treatment program exclusively for men. In 1987, the organization transitioned to a non-residential service model, expanding its mandate to offer counselling and prevention services to a broader demographic, including youth and adults with concerns around substance use.

The Society is governed by a voluntary board of directors representing a diverse cross-section of the local community. It operates as a registered charity under the Canadian Income Tax Act, with funding primarily provided by the Fraser Health Authority.

Mission and Values

Fraser House Society aims to promote a healthy community by supporting, developing, and implementing effective prevention and counselling strategies addressing substance use, misuse, and addiction. Its approach is inclusive and tailored to meet clients "where they are," employing bio-psycho-social-spiritual and harm reduction methodologies rather than imposing any singular treatment model.

The organization holds the following core beliefs:

• Every individual possesses inherent personal worth and deserves dignity, fairness, and compassion.
• Everyone has the potential to become a responsible, contributing member of society.
• Collaborative partnerships in accessible, quality services can foster positive change and contribute to healthier communities.

Programs and Services

Fraser House Society offers a range of programs targeting diverse community needs, including:

• Adult substance use counselling programs
• Youth counselling and prevention services
• Rural Connections Program, providing outreach services to residents between Hatzic Prairie and Harrison Mills, including communities such as Deroche
• School-based prevention programs for students from grade 4 through 12, focusing on decision-making, drug information, resilience, and self-esteem building
• Support groups for family members affected by a loved one's substance use, including groups for children aged 9–12

The Society adapts its services to meet evolving community needs, including adjustments made during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure ongoing access to care.

Service Area

Fraser House Society operates primarily within the City of Mission and the Fraser Valley Regional District. Its geographical service boundaries extend from Hayward Lake in the west, Stave Lake in the north, to Lake Errock in the east, and the Fraser River forming the southern limit. It serves residents of Mission, Silverdale, Stave Lake, McConnell Creek, Dewdney, Deroche, and Lake Errock.

Governance and Funding

The organization is led by a voluntary Board of Directors who guide its strategic direction and ensure community representation. Fraser House Society's charitable status is recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency, operating under business registration number 107403461RR0001. Its financial support largely comes from Fraser Health Authority, supplemented by community fundraising efforts.

Fraser House Society continues to be a respected and vital resource in British Columbia, addressing substance use and addiction through compassionate, evidence-based counselling and prevention services that foster healing for individuals and the broader community.