Bill Duncan, the first Executive Director of Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, brought his lifelong commitment to social justice and community building to the heart of Kitsilano. Bill’s journey to Kits House was anything but ordinary, shaped by his experiences as a U.S. Army veteran, a social worker, and a civil rights activist who worked alongside Martin Luther King, Jr.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Bill grew up during a time of racial segregation. His early activism began in high school, advocating for the rights of fellow students. After serving in World War II, where he fought in North Africa, India, and Burma, Bill pursued a degree in social work at the University of Michigan, becoming only the second African-American to graduate from its School of Social Work.
In the 1960s, Bill moved to Chicago, where he worked as a social worker in the city’s West End and South Side. It was here that he crossed paths with Dr. King during the Chicago Freedom Movement. King’s influence solidified Bill’s dedication to fighting for equality, and he mobilized his agency’s staff and students to participate in marches and community education.
In 1968, following the assassination of Dr. King, Bill moved to Quebec where he worked for community organizations. During his time in Quebec, Bill made a presentation to the Quebec National Assembly on behalf of the Montreal Greek Community.
Bill moved to Vancouver in 1976, where he became the first Executive Director of Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, creating programs for seniors, children, and the broader community. He was instrumental in bringing notable figures like Jeni LeGon, a pioneering African-American dancer, to Kits House.