Conference Schedule

Room for All Conference Schedule

A transformative housing conference aimed at fostering dialogue, collaboration, and innovative solutions for housing challenges in Northwest British Columbia.

March 4 & 5, 2024
Terrace, BC
Best Western Terrace Inn
4553 Greig Ave, Terrace, BC

Thanks to our sponsors:

PLATINUM
BC Non-Profit Housing Association (BCNPHA)
District of Kitimat
First Nations Health Authority
LNG Canada
TC Energy/Coastal Gaslink

GOLD
BC Housing
Cedar Ridge Builders
Emco Terrace
Makola Development Services

SILVER
BC Northern Real Estate Board
Planning Institute of BC (PIBC) Central North Chapter

Program Schedule

Day 1 - March 4, 2024

Best Western Terrace Inn
4553 Greig Ave, Terrace, BC

8:15 - 8:45 am	Registration and refreshments Networking opportunity, sponsor tables and refreshments available
8:45 - 9:00 am	Opening remarks and introductions Host: Councilor Sarah Zimmerman and welcome from Mayor Sean Bujtas and Sharon Bryant
9:00 - 9:15 am	Keynote guest introductions: Jill Atkey, Thom Armstrong, Margaret Pho
9:15 - 10:30 am	Lived experience panel Topics explored: Affordable housing, ending homelessnes, renters and landlord experiences, newcomers to Canada, senior’s housing, market home buyers
10:30 - 10:45 am	Morning break
10:45 am - 12:00 pm	Northwest Regional Housing Providers Presentations and discussions with: Smithers Community Services, North Coast Transition Society, Makola Housing Society, Terrace and District Community Services Society, Tamitik Status of Women, K’San Society
12:00 - 1:00 pm	Lunch
1:00 - 1:45 pm	Jill Atkey, Non-Profit Housing Association Jill brings 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit sector, having led the development of the Canadian Rental Housing Index and a 10-year Affordable Housing Plan for BC. Her work has played a crucial role in the province's $7-billion investment in affordable housing. Join us as Jill shares her insights on addressing housing affordability and homelessness crises, showcasing her dedication to building thriving communities.
1:45 - 2:30 pm	Thom Armstrong, Cooperative Housing Federation of BC With over 30 years of experience in the Canadian co-operative housing movement, Thom Armstrong has held leadership positions across the country. Currently serving as the CEO of the Co-operative Housing Federation of BC, Thom oversees a vast portfolio focused on long-term financial viability, prudent asset management, and the growth of safe, affordable housing. Be inspired by his vision for sustainable communities and innovative housing solutions.
2:30 - 2:45 pm	Afternoon break
2:45 - 3:30 pm	Regional builders and best practices Presentations and discussions with: Swift River Builders, Cedar River Builders
3:30 - 4:30 pm	Ending homelessness Presentations from Homelessness Services Association BC (Stephen D'Souza, Executive Director), End Homelessness Canada (Phillip Fredrikkson), Ksan Society (Kylie Nelson, Administrative Supervisor, and Elaine McGillivray, Director of Housing and Development) including Point in Time Homeless Counts, Tiny Shelter Initiative, and Supportive Housing.
4:30 pm	End of first day

Optional event: Community Dialogue at The Best Western Inn
7:00 - 9:00 pm
Community dialogue aimed at exploring housing experiences and generating innovative ideas to shape the Housing Conference and the ongoing work of the Housing Committee. No cost to attend, but registration is required.

Limited space is available - Reserve your spot here

Day 2 March 5, 2024