Stories of Place: Point Grey Neighbourhood Conversations is a three to four-part community series hosted by St Helen’s Anglican Church. This speaker series will invite neighbours to gather, learn, and reflect on the story of West Point Grey: where it has come from and where it might be going. The first two conversations (December 3 2025, and January 14 2026) explores the history of the land and neighbourhood, as presented by former City Planner Jeannette Hvalach. The following conversation (2026 dates to be determined) look toward the future of the neighbourhood and its future needs, as presented by former City Planner Christina DeMarco.
We welcome anyone in the neighbourhood whether you are a long-time resident, new homeowner, renter, and those who live within walking distance or a short driving distance from the parish. Come and learn more about the story of your geographic home, the place and history and how this neighbourhood is changing. Our neighbourhood conversations are meant to bring neighbours together for a time of storytelling and for collective conversations about our community and what it may need in the years to come.
About our speakers:
Jeannette Hvalach
Jeannette was a heritage planner at Vancouver City Hall for many years. She is a past President of the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden Society and continues to volunteer there as a docent. Other volunteer activities include the Heritage Group of the UBC Faculty Women’s Club and Friends of Point Grey Village. She has lived in Point Grey for almost 30 years.
Christina DeMarco
Christina is a retired city and regional planner and locally worked for the City of Vancouver and Metro Vancouver. Her volunteer activities include a member of Friends of Point Grey Village, advocacy on a number of community planning issues and on the boards of two non profit housing agencies.